I love the smell of salt air and the feeling of warm sand between my toes. Many people think a trip to the sea in Europe must cost a fortune. I used to believe that too. However, I found out that you can enjoy the sun and waves without spending all your savings. Cheap beach vacations europe exist if you know where to look. I want to share my personal journey through some of the most beautiful and affordable beach vacations europe has to offer.
The Mediterranean is a dream for many. It has clear blue water and ancient history. First of all, you should know that prices vary a lot between countries. Some places like Ibiza or Santorini are very expensive. On the contrary, other spots offer the same beauty for a fraction of the cost. I have spent a lot of time finding these hidden gems. This guide will help you plan your next trip for 2025 and beyond.
Ksamil, Albania: The Pearl of the Ionian Sea
I remember the first time I saw the water in Ksamil. It was a bright turquoise color that you usually only see on postcards. This town sits on the Albanian Riviera. It has earned the nickname the “Ionian Pearl” for a good reason. The beaches are bright white and the atmosphere is peaceful.
A stay here is very easy on your wallet. I found a comfortable room at the Twins Hotel for under $40 a night. It was just a few steps from the sand. Additionally, eating out is simple and cheap. I tried fresh calamari at a small family spot right on the water. It cost me less than $10.
You can take boat trips to the nearby Somaly Islands. These trips are inexpensive. They give you a chance to find your own private slice of beach. Just a short drive away, you will find Dermy Beach. It has a lively scene at night between the cliffs. Plus, you can visit the Lara Pass for amazing views of the coast. Ksamil is a perfect mix of natural beauty and low prices.
Budva, Montenegro: History by the Adriatic
Montenegro is a country that many travelers overlook. However, it is an under-visited gem. The town of Budva sits right on the Adriatic Sea. It has a medieval Old Town with cobblestone streets and ancient walls. It feels like a classic European coastal town but it is much more relaxed than places like Dubrovnik.
I enjoyed the long sandy beaches here. The whole town has a great energy, especially when the sun goes down. I stayed in a cozy guest house for about $45 a night. Dinner does not have to be fancy to be good. You can get grilled fish or kebabs for less than $10 at local spots.
I highly recommend a glass of rakija at a seaside bar. Local musicians often play folk songs there. Just offshore, you can see Svi Stefan. It is a picturesque island connected to the land by a narrow strip of ground. It offers some of the best views in the area. Budva is a great reminder that you can enjoy a lively beach town with real character for a low price.
Sunny Beach, Bulgaria: The Value Champion
Bulgaria is a rising star on the map for summer travel. It offers some of the cheapest beach vacations europe can provide. Sunny Beach is the most popular resort on the Black Sea coast. It is famous for very low prices on everything from rooms to food.
I noticed that pints of beer go for around $1.75. This is a huge deal for budget travelers. Statistics show that the cost of a full three-course dinner for two with wine is about £48.25. This is much cheaper than what you would pay in Greece.
The beach has fine golden sand and clear water. There are many free or low-cost activities like beach volleyball. Additionally, you should take a quick day trip to Nessebar. It is a UNESCO World Heritage town with centuries-old churches and cobblestone streets. It is just a short drive away and adds a touch of history to your beach trip.
Chania, Crete: The Greek Island Experience
Crete is the largest island in Greece. It feels easy and laid-back. What I love most is that you get the classic Greek vibe without the steep prices of Mykonos or Santorini. You can find whitewashed villages and turquoise water everywhere.
I found that family hotels and studios in areas like Chania or Rethymno start from only €30 to €40 a night. For food, local tavernas are your best bet. They serve huge portions for under €15. I ate slow-cooked lamb and fresh satziki for less than $10.
Alphafani Beach is a must-visit spot. It has soft sand with a pink tint and shallow water. It is perfect for a relaxed swim. Later, you can take a day trip to Balos Lagoon for even clearer blue water and wild scenery. Crete is by far one of the best cheap beach destinations europe has for travelers who want variety.
Lagos, Portugal: A Dream for Adventurers
The Algarve region in Portugal is famous for its dramatic coastline. Some people think it is only for luxury travel. However, Albufeira and Lagos prove you do not need a big budget. Lagos is a dream for people who want adventure.
I saw rugged cliffs and golden sands everywhere I went. Guest houses here start from around $55 a night. You are never far from the beach or the lively Old Town. For dinner, I grabbed fresh seafood and a cold drink for just $8 at a local cafe.
If you want to try something new, surf schools offer lessons for about $35. One of my favorite moments was standing at Ponta Dapiad. I felt the Atlantic breeze as the sun set behind the cliffs. Boat tours are also affordable. They take you right into hidden sea caves. Lagos allows you to keep your budget in check while you fill your days with fun.
Antalya, Turkey: All-Inclusive Value
Turkey offers a unique blend of rich history and stunning coasts. Antalya is the place to go if you want “all-inclusive” without spending all your savings. Massive competition between resorts keeps the prices down.
I found that budget airlines fly here from major European cities for as little as £15 to £20 one way during the low season. The weak Turkish Lira also helps your money go much further. You can find hotels for about $40 to $90 per night.
Do not miss the Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz. It is one of the most photographed beaches in the country. The calm water and mountains create a scene that will take your breath away. Additionally, you can explore the Taurus Mountains or visit ancient ruins. Antalya is a top pick for families and solo travelers who want a bit of luxury for less.
Paphos, Cyprus: Sun and Ancient Ruins
Cyprus is one of the sunniest places in the Mediterranean. It has about 300 sunny days a year. This makes it one of the best cheap beach holidays europe september has to offer. The beach season is very long.
I started my day at the Tombs of the Kings. This is a UNESCO site. The entrance fee was under $5. I walked through ancient chambers carved into the rock. After that, I headed to Fig Tree Bay. The sand is soft and the water is clear.
Rooms in Paphos are easy on the wallet. There are many clean options for under $50 a night. I found a spot serving souvlaki and fresh halloumi for less than $10. The whole meal felt like a special treat. Cyprus gives you history, beaches, and mountain views all in one place.
Alicante, Spain: The White Coast
Spain’s Costa Blanca is built for value holidays. Alicante is a vibrant port city that many people overlook. It has a charming Old Town called Barrio de la Santa Cruz. I loved the gorgeous waterfront called the Esplanada d’Espanya.
You can find ultra-low-cost flights to Alicante for under £20. Once you arrive, life is cheap. The price of a beer can be as low as £2. A good meal costs between £6 and £9. This area has a wide range of budget hotels and vacation rentals.
Public transport is affordable too. You can easily use it to explore nearby beaches like Altea or Calpe. Whether you want to walk along the pier or play beach volleyball, Alicante delivers. It is a great choice for affordable beach vacations europe in 2025.
Varna, Bulgaria: Culture by the Black Sea
Varna is another great spot in Bulgaria. It sits right on the Black Sea. It has urban beaches like Rapangi Beach where you can relax without breaking your budget.
Hotel prices usually fall between $30 and $80 a night. It is easy to find a comfortable place to stay. However, there is more to Varna than just the sand. The archaeological museum has the Varna Necropolis Gold Treasure. These are some of the oldest gold artifacts in the world.
Local festivals fill the city with music and food during the summer. You can also take a quick trip to Nessebar to see ancient ruins. Varna proves that you can enjoy culture and relaxation without spending much money. It is a smart alternative to the high prices of the French Riviera.
Gozo, Malta: The Quiet Hidden Gem
Gozo is a hidden gem. It is much cheaper than the main island of Malta. A ferry from the main island costs under €5. Once you arrive, you will notice a very different vibe. It is peaceful and authentic.
Accommodation on Gozo is usually 30% cheaper than in cities like Valletta. This makes it perfect for a long seaside break. I enjoyed the scenic coastal walks and the quiet coves. It is also a great place for diving or hiking.
Mellieħa Bay on the main island is also good for budget travelers. It has shallow, clear water that is perfect for families. Many scenic spots are free to access. Local buses keep your transport costs low. On top of that, dining out in local tavernas is very affordable.
Sicily, Italy: Street Food and Sunsets
Sicily is the largest island in Italy. It offers the perfect mix of food, culture, and sun. You can stay in cities like Catania or Palermo for a reasonable price. Guesthouses start around €40 a night.
I loved the street food here. You can eat things like arancini for just a few euros. It is a delicious way to save money. Flights from mainland Europe can be as low as €20 one way with budget airlines.
The beaches in Sicily can be hit or miss. Many are rocky. However, my favorite spot is the Turkish Steps. It is not too crowded and the views are amazing. Cefalù is another nice beach that is easy to reach. Sicily is a safe bet for culture and scenery if you avoid the most expensive tourist towns.
Naxos, Greece: Postcard Views for Less
If you want similar views to Mykonos but at half the price, go to Naxos. This island has long sandy beaches and charming villages. It is a beautiful and budget-friendly part of the Cyclades.
I found guesthouses starting around €35 to €45 per night. You can eat at family-run tavernas for under €15. Ferries from Athens make it easy and cheap to reach.
Naxos is perfect for people who want a mix of relaxation and culture. It is less crowded than the more famous islands. This makes it much more enjoyable to explore. You can hike, swim, or just sit in a village and watch the world go by. It is an ideal spot for anyone looking for something genuine.
Tips for Saving Even More Money
Selecting a cheap destination is just the first step. You can squeeze even more value out of your trip if you are smart. First of all, travel in the “shoulder season”. This means visiting in May, June, September, or October. Prices for rooms and flights drop a lot immediately after the high summer season.
I suggest you avoid peak months like July and August. The heat is intense and the crowds are huge. Additionally, you should use low-cost carriers like Ryanair or Wizz Air. They often have flash sales with big discounts.
Another great tip is to stay somewhere with a kitchen. This will save you money because you can avoid expensive restaurants. Plus, you can shop at local supermarkets. Eating where the locals eat is always a good idea. Set-menu lunches and street food are usually delicious and cheap in places like Greece and Cyprus.
Be Smart with Transport
Airport buses are much cheaper than taxis. If you must rent a car, choose a small manual model to keep costs down. In countries like Albania, be careful with taxis. Drivers often inflate prices for tourists. It is better to research reputable services before you arrive.
In the Balkans, bus schedules can be vague. I always verify timetables with my hotel or guest house. Traveling by bus is usually the most economical way to see different towns. You can get passes or discount cards in many Mediterranean countries to save more.
Safe and Enjoyable Travel
Europe is generally safe for travelers. However, you should always be aware of your surroundings. Albania is a hidden gem with high safety levels. Petty crimes like pickpocketing are almost non-existent there.
For solo female travelers, some areas can be a bit uncomfortable. I had some persistent men bother me in Sarandë and Ksamil. However, in the rest of the Riviera, I felt completely safe. Reading reviews is a must. They are like gospel! Always check what other travelers say about a hotel or restaurant before you go.
FAQ
Where is the cheapest beach holiday in Europe?
Marmaris in Turkey is the top spot for value right now. I found that a basket of ten holiday items there costs just £128.99.
Where is the cheapest sun holiday in Europe?
Sunny Beach in Bulgaria is a fantastic choice for a sun-filled trip. It costs about £129.47 for a standard group of holiday items.
What is the cheapest European vacation destination?
Wroclaw in Poland is a great bargain for a vacation. You can eat and drink for under £20 a day in this city.
Which beach vacation is the cheapest?
I recommend Marmaris in Turkey for the best prices. Finally, the Eurozone champion is the Algarve in Portugal at £143.56 for a basic holiday basket.
What is the prettiest beach in Europe?
Ksamil in Albania is very famous because people call it the “Ionian Pearl”. Also, Praia da Marinha in the Algarve is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Where in Europe is most like the Caribbean?
Salento in Puglia, Italy has white sand and glass-clear water that feels like a desert island. Additionally, some people say the Albanian Riviera is the “Maldives of Europe”.
Is $100 a day enough in Europe?
Yes, $100 is plenty of money in many budget spots. In Vilnius, you only need about £43 for a full day. Plus, a day in Paros costs between €80 and €130.
Where to go for 3 days in Europe?
Alicante in Spain is a perfect port city for a short break. Similarly, you could visit Wroclaw to see its 12 islands.
What time of year is cheapest for beach trips?
You should travel in the shoulder seasons to save money. May, June, September, and October have the lowest prices.
Where to go for 4 nights in Europe?
I spent four nights near Chania in Crete for a very good price. Therefore, Crete is a top pick for a quick four-night trip.
Where is still cheap in Europe?
Montenegro and Albania are still much more affordable than Western Europe. Prices for food and drinks there are about half of what you would spend in other countries.
Which country is best for travel in low budget?
Bulgaria and Albania offer some of the best budget beaches in the world. You can find hotel rooms for $30 to $80 a night in Bulgaria.
What is the cheapest but safest country to visit?
Albania is a hidden gem with exceptional safety levels. Petty crimes like pickpocketing do not really happen there.
Which place is best for a beach vacation?
The Algarve in Portugal is the reigning value champ. It has golden-sand coves and clear water that you can enjoy for free.
What is the most inexpensive island vacation?
Naxos is a very cheap Greek island where guesthouses start at €35 a night. On top of that, Sazan Island in Albania is a great low-cost escape.
I hope these answers help you plan your next trip without any stress. Gradually, you will see that a beautiful vacation is within your reach.
Concluding words
I found that you can enjoy the most beautiful shores without a huge budget. From the £128.99 basket in Marmaris to the €35 rooms in Naxos, Europe is full of deals. First of all, Albania and Bulgaria are the top champions for low prices. However, Portugal and Turkey also offer amazing value for families.
On the contrary, you do not need to visit expensive islands like Mykonos to have a perfect time. Finally, remember to travel in May or September to get the best rates. Plus, always read reviews from users like ** Sophie ** or ** Lox_Bagel ** to find the best local spots. The sea is calling you!
