Budget-Friendly Vegetarian Eats in Europe

Europe is a continent known for its culinary heritage, but for travellers seeking plant-based meals, it hasn’t always had the friendliest reputation—especially on a budget. However, that narrative has shifted dramatically. From Mediterranean markets to Baltic bistros, vegetarian food in Europe on a budget is not only accessible, but also exciting, satisfying, and affordable.

Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian, a flexitarian, or simply someone who appreciates a good chickpea stew over another schnitzel, this guide will lead you to some of the continent’s most delicious cheap eats in Europe—without compromising your dietary preferences or financial flexibility.

Why Travelling Europe as a Vegetarian Is Now Easier Than Ever

Plant-Based Popularity Is Rising

The last decade has witnessed a substantial surge in vegetarian and vegan offerings across the continent. Even traditionally meat-heavy countries now boast creative, flavourful plant-forward options.

Markets and Street Food Are Your Allies

With a bit of awareness, Europe’s food markets, bakeries, and street vendors can yield a bounty of affordable veggie travel food that’s both culturally authentic and economically savvy.

Southern Europe: Sun-Drenched Simplicity

1. Italy – Pizza Bianca and Pasta al Pomodoro

Italy is a vegetarian’s dream, thanks to its deep-rooted respect for simple, high-quality ingredients.

Budget Veggie Eats:

• Pizza al taglio (by the slice): Often comes in cheese-free options like zucchini, tomato, or mushroom
• Pasta al pomodoro or aglio e olio: Available in even the humblest trattorias
• Caponata: A sweet-sour Sicilian aubergine stew, usually under €5 at local markets

Where to Try: Rome’s Testaccio Market or Florence’s Mercato Centrale

Approximate Cost: €3–€8 per meal

2. Spain – Tortilla Española and Pintxos Veggie Style

While known for jamón, Spain offers excellent vegetarian small plates, especially in regions like Catalonia and the Basque Country.

Budget Veggie Eats:

• Tortilla Española: Egg and potato omelette, filling and inexpensive
• Pan con tomate: Toasted bread with tomato, garlic, and olive oil
• Veggie pintxos: Look for options like grilled peppers or cheese-topped toasts

Where to Try: La Boqueria in Barcelona or local pintxos bars in San Sebastián

Approximate Cost: €1.50–€5 per item

3. Greece – Souvlaki… Sans the Meat

Greek cuisine offers some of the tastiest and most affordable vegetarian fare in Europe.

Budget Veggie Eats:

• Spanakopita (spinach pie): Widely available from bakeries
• Gemista (stuffed tomatoes or peppers): Found in local tavernas
• Fava and lentil soups: Hearty, protein-rich, and budget-friendly

Where to Try: Athens’ Central Market or a local bakery in any village

Approximate Cost: €2–€6 per dish

Central Europe: Comfort Food Meets Green Innovation

4. Germany – Vegetarian Currywurst and Falafel

Germany’s cities, especially Berlin, are home to some of the best cheap eats in Europe, many of them vegetarian by default.

Budget Veggie Eats:

• Falafel and halloumi wraps: Available at nearly every kebab shop
• Vegetarian currywurst or bratwurst: Found in major cities like Berlin or Hamburg
• Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes): Served with applesauce or sour cream

Where to Try: Berlin’s Markthalle Neun or food stalls across Kreuzberg

Approximate Cost: €3–€7

5. Poland – Pierogi and Milk Bars

Poland might not scream vegetarian at first glance, but its traditional pierogi ruskie (cheese and potato dumplings) are not to be missed.

Budget Veggie Eats:

• Pierogi: Served boiled or fried, often topped with onions or sour cream
• Placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes): Crunchy and comforting
• Zupa pomidorowa (tomato soup): A creamy staple available in most milk bars

Where to Try: Milk bars (bary mleczne) in Kraków or Warsaw

Approximate Cost: €2–€5 per item

6. Hungary – Langos and Paprika-Rich Stews

Hungarian cuisine is more veg-friendly than its reputation suggests—especially when it comes to deep-fried dough and seasonal vegetables.

Budget Veggie Eats:

• Langos: A fried bread base topped with sour cream, cheese, or garlic
• Lecso: A ratatouille-like stew of peppers, tomatoes, and onions
• Stuffed cabbage rolls (meatless versions available in markets)

Where to Try: Budapest’s Great Market Hall

Approximate Cost: €3–€6 per meal

Northern Europe: Seasonal Veg, Simple Luxury

7. United Kingdom – Jacket Potatoes and Indian Vegetarian Fare

The UK may be known for meat pies, but it also leads Europe in vegetarian accessibility—especially in multicultural hubs.

Budget Veggie Eats:

• Jacket potatoes: Topped with baked beans, cheese, or coleslaw
• Vegetarian curries and samosas: Widely available in markets
• Pub grub: Many offer “meat-free Monday” specials

Where to Try: Borough Market in London or student hubs like Manchester

Approximate Cost: €4–€8

8. The Netherlands – Stroopwafels and Vegetarian Broodjes

Amsterdam and beyond offer a surprising variety of vegetarian meals, often in grab-and-go format.

Budget Veggie Eats:

• Vegetarian broodjes (sandwiches): Available at convenience stores and bakeries
• Vegan bitterballen: A twist on the traditional Dutch snack
• Stroopwafels: While not a meal, they’re essential (and cheap)

Where to Try: De Hallen in Amsterdam or local food trucks

Approximate Cost: €3–€6

9. Sweden – Veggie Meatballs and Smörgåsbord Options

In Sweden, even IKEA gets vegetarianism right.

Budget Veggie Eats:

• Vegetarian köttbullar (meatballs): Available in cafeterias and supermarkets
• Smörgås (open-faced sandwiches): Often come with cheese, egg, or avocado
• Root vegetable soups: Served warm in cafés or buffet-style cafés

Where to Try: Stockholm’s Hötorgshallen market or café chains like Espresso House

Approximate Cost: €5–€9

Balkans and Beyond: Unexpected Vegetarian Havens

10. Bosnia & Herzegovina – Pita and Cevapi Alternatives

Though grilled meats are popular, the Balkans offer surprising vegetarian treasures.

Budget Veggie Eats:

• Zeljanica: Spinach and cheese-filled filo pastry
• Ajvar and bread: A smoky red pepper spread served with crusty bread
• Grilled vegetables: Especially aubergines and courgettes in summer

Where to Try: Sarajevo’s Baščaršija Market or local pekaras (bakeries)

Approximate Cost: €2–€4

11. Romania – Mămăligă and Fasting Foods

Orthodox fasting traditions have given rise to a large array of meat-free (and often dairy-free) dishes.

Budget Veggie Eats:

• Mămăligă: Cornmeal polenta served with sour cream and cheese
• Stuffed vine leaves (sarmale de post)
• Vegetable ciorbă (sour soup)

Where to Try: Local markets in Bucharest or Sibiu

Approximate Cost: €3–€5 per dish

Bonus Tips for Budget Veggie Travellers

1. Stay in Hostels or Rentals with Kitchens

Cooking simple meals from fresh produce can dramatically lower your costs.

2. Visit Markets Just Before Closing

Vendors often reduce prices for produce, bread, and even ready-to-eat meals.

3. Learn Key Food Terms in Local Languages

Know how to ask for “no meat” or identify dairy, eggs, and other ingredients if you’re vegan or have dietary restrictions.

4. Download Apps like HappyCow or Vanilla Bean

These apps help locate vegetarian and vegan eateries—many of which offer budget-friendly lunch menus.

Key Takeaway

Travelling as a vegetarian in Europe no longer means surviving on bread and salad. Across the continent, traditional dishes and modern innovations offer diverse, flavourful, and affordable plant-based meals. From the simplicity of Spanish tortillas to the richness of Balkan pitas, vegetarian food in Europe on a budget can be as varied and vibrant as any culinary tour.

Eat Green, Travel Far

With a little research and a dash of adventurous spirit, cheap eats in Europe can easily align with a vegetarian lifestyle. These meals not only honour local culture but also help keep your travel costs down—proof that conscious eating and smart budgeting can go hand in hand.

So dig in, try something new, and let your appetite lead the way—because Europe’s best vegetarian eats are waiting at every turn.