Topping the list as an alternative place to visit for 2025 is Skopje in North Macedonia.

According to experts, who compiled the data, in Skopje “you can get a cappuccino, a pint of domestic beer, and [a soft drink] for less than €2 [£1.66] each”.

Must-see attractions include the National Gallery of Macedonia, Čaršija – the old town – and the Tvrdina Kale Fortress.

In the old town, you’re bound to find teahouses, mosques and artisan independent shops.

For the best choice of eateries and bars, the best neighbourhood to visit is Debar Maalo, Lonely Planet pointed out.

Next on the list is picturesque Tbilisi in Georgia, the cosmopolitan city where you can take a cable car to admire the mountainous backdrop.

Dominating the Old Town skyline is the Narikala Fortress, which dates all the way back to the 4th century.

And the landmark Metekhi Church is a must-see for history buffs who like to venture into the past.

Third on the list is Sarajevo, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is a divided city with a potent history.

There’s the War Childhood Museum, gallery 11/07/95 – an exhibition space to preserve the memory of the Srebrenica tragedy – and the Tunnel of Hope.

For more lightness, the Balkan city allows visitors to indulge in traditional Bosnian coffee and local dishes.

Five unique and budget-friendly hotspots

1. Skopje, North Macedonia
2. Tbilisi, Georgia
3. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
4. Istanbul, Türkiye
5. Sofia, Bulgaria

To make it in the top five list of most budget-friendly city getaways, the team at Prime Casino compiled the list based on activities to do, luxury hotels, restaurants, sights, landmarks and the cost of living.