This little-known capital of Europe is an affordable summer destination

In Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, you'll get a lot more for your money than in popular cities like Paris orRome. If you're looking for a cheap vacation this summer, forget the usual European cities crowded with tourists and consider heading to the capital of Montenegro. Podgorica may not be on your list of "must-see" places, but there are many reasons why it should be.

It's important to note that you get a lot more for your money here than in other European capitals like Paris or Rome. But it's also full of fun bookstores, stylish cafes and riverside bars where you won't find crowds of tourists.

Podgorica: one of the cheapest destinations for city vacations in Europe. The capital of Montenegro is a great place for a short vacation that won't break your budget. You can eat at inexpensive restaurants, where a dinner at a simple establishment will only cost you around 6.40 euros, while a three-course meal for two in an average restaurant costs around 25 euros, according to Numbeo's global database. If you need a snack, a 0.5 liter of beer will cost just €2, a cappuccino will cost €1.49 and a bottle of water will cost around €1.29. Transportation is also inexpensive, with a one-way ticket starting at €0.90 and a monthly pass for just €30. According to Numbeo, Podgorica is 38.8% cheaper than Rome and 47.9% cheaper than Paris.

What to see in Podgorica: the center of Ottoman times.

Stara Varos is Podgorica's old town, but you might safely think you've entered a rural village. The oldest neighborhood of the town is a maze of low stone houses, some painted in pastel shades, set along overgrown alleys. From the 15th to 19th centuries, it was the center of the picturesque Ottoman city. Bombing during World War II damaged many of the buildings, but traces of its golden era are still present. The Spartan chapel in the central square used to be used for Muslim prayers during the Ottoman era.