Asklemmy

I think, Venice is still the only city literally charging an entrance fee. They do that, because they got more tourists, than the city could handle. But I think what you have heard might be about tourist taxes. Many cities charge those per night. But you won't notice it directly, it's just that, if you're staying in a hotel, they'll automatically add it to the price of the room.

I second Prague. It's beautiful and worth it whether you come for the history or the culture or the atmosphere.

Tallinn Estonia is amazing and for some reason not mentioned yet

Please, if you don't have any experience traveling in Europe, don't reply to my post. I don't want to reply to any asshole who tells me to use Google to search. I think these people are born with a lack of ability to communicate with others.

Dunno current status, but a few years back Croatia was a popular place to visit. I don't have the details, but it was recommended to me at the time by multiple parties of the reasonable cost range.