Riga

Riga is an absolute steal for backpackers looking for European charm without the Scandinavian or Western European price tags. In February and March, the vibe is cozy and intimate; while it's cold outside, the bars in the Old Town (Vecrīga) are roaring with life. Hostels here are some of the highest-rated in the Baltics, offering social atmospheres and organized pub crawls that make meeting people effortless. You can spend your days wandering the Art Nouveau district for free or taking a cheap train to the frozen beaches of Jūrmala. Street food is less common than in Asia, but the Riga Central Market—housed in massive old Zeppelin hangars—is a budget traveler's haven where you can grab smoked meats, cheeses, and rye bread for just a few Euros. A daily budget of $38 covers a solid hostel dorm, a few local beers (Black Balsam is a must-try), and two hearty meals. To save more, stick to the 'Lido' cafeteria chain for high-quality, authentic Latvian food at fixed low prices. Staying just outside the very center in the Quiet Centre or near the Central Market will keep your accommodation costs even lower.