1. Galicia, Spain

Galicia, Spain, may not be as well-known as other Spanish destinations, but it is a hidden gem that should not be missed. This region in northwestern Spain offers breathtaking natural beauty, stunning beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, all at an affordable price.

Galicia has a wide range of budget-friendly accommodation options, including hostels, guesthouses, and rural cottages. These options offer the perfect opportunity to experience the region’s unique culture and hospitality. One of the best budget-friendly options is the “paradores,” which are government-run hotels located in historic buildings across the region. These hotels offer affordable prices without sacrificing quality.

Galicia’s cuisine is a foodie’s dream, offering an array of fresh seafood, local wines, and delicious tapas. One of the best places to eat is the Mercado de Abastos, a large indoor market in Santiago de Compostela, where you can find local produce, seafood, and cheeses at affordable prices.

Galicia is full of natural beauty and outdoor activities, including hiking, surfing, and swimming. The region is known for its breathtaking beaches, including Playa de las Catedrales, a stunning beach with unique rock formations. For those interested in history and culture, the region is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and the Tower of Hercules.

So why not add Galicia to your travel bucket list and discover the beauty of this hidden gem for yourself?

• The best time to visit: April – October for clear sunny days. But it’s worth bringing a brolly just in case there is a bit of rainfall)
• Average daily spend: With a coffee costing on average £1.19, you can get a three-course meal for two for £30. Including other spends and accommodation, approximately £75 a day per person.
• Free activities: Hiking along the Camino de Santiago, lazy days on As Catedrais beach, breathe in culture at the Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela and Muralla Romana de Lugo.

 

2. Turunç, Turkey Cheap holiday destinations 

Turunç is a small village situated on the southern coast of Turkey, nestled between Marmaris and Datça. Despite being a lesser-known tourist destination, Turunç boasts beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and a laid-back vibe that is perfect for those looking to unwind and relax.

The Best Beaches in Turunç

Turunç beach is undoubtedly the most popular beach in the area, with its calm waters and soft sand perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Other nearby beaches worth exploring include Kumlubük Beach, which is a quieter alternative to Turunç Beach, and Amos Beach, which is surrounded by lush greenery and has beautiful views of the Aegean Sea.

The Best Hotels in Turunç

Turunç has a variety of accommodation options that cater to all budgets, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Some of the best hotels in the area include the romantic Lale Hotel, the modern Mavi Deniz Hotel, and the family-friendly Club Ege Antique.

The Best Restaurants in Turunç

Turunç has a vibrant culinary scene, with many restaurants offering fresh seafood, Turkish cuisine, and international dishes. Some of the best restaurants in the area include Can Restaurant, which serves delicious Turkish meze, and the family-run Kaya’s Kitchen, which is known for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

The Best Activities in Turunç

• Boat trips to nearby bays and coves
• Scuba diving to explore the underwater world
• Hiking in the nearby hills and mountains
• Exploring the ancient ruins of Amos

Turunç is a hidden gem in Turkey that is worth exploring. With its beautiful beaches, affordable accommodation options, delicious food, and a range of activities to suit all interests, Turunç is the perfect destination for those looking for an affordable yet unforgettable holiday experience.

• Best time to visit: May – October
• Average daily spend: It’s possible to eat like a king in Turkey with a three-course meal costing just £7.50. We estimate approximately £50 per person with accommodation, drinks and other meals.
• Free activities: Check out the Pazari market on a Monday or visit Sahil Beach which is the best beach in the area and a great place for snorkelling.

3. Golden Sands, Bulgaria Cheap holiday destinations 

Golden Sands, Bulgaria is a popular beach destination located on the coast of the Black Sea. The resort town offers a wide range of affordable accommodations, from budget-friendly hotels to all-inclusive resorts. Visitors can enjoy the sandy beaches, take a dip in the clear waters, or explore the nearby nature park.

For thrill-seekers, the Golden Sands Water Park is a must-visit, featuring numerous water slides and attractions. The resort town also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. For a taste of local Bulgarian cuisine, there are many restaurants serving traditional dishes such as kebapcheta and banitsa.

Visitors can also explore the ancient Roman ruins located in nearby Varna. With its combination of affordable accommodations, beautiful beaches, and numerous attractions, Golden Sands is an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers looking for a fun and relaxing beach vacation.

• Best time to visit: The summer.
• Average daily spend: £60 per person. A three-course meal for two on average will cost less than £20. You can stay overnight in a decent hotel for under £60 for two. A return flight is approximately £117 per person.
• Free activities: Walk along the 4km promenade, chill out on the beach or enjoy the Golden Sands Nature Park

4. Palma, Mallorca Cheap holiday destinations 

Palma, Mallorca is a vibrant city that blends history, culture, and modernity, making it a perfect destination for a budget-friendly vacation. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s rich history, relax on stunning beaches, or indulge in delicious food, Palma has something for everyone.

With plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options such as the Hostal Pons or Hotel Joan Miro Museum, and an abundance of local cafes and restaurants serving authentic Spanish cuisine, you can explore Palma without breaking the bank. Be sure to visit the iconic Palma Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that dominates the city skyline.

Take a stroll through the charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and quaint cafes. For some fun in the sun, head to the nearby beaches of Playa de Palma or Cala Major, where you can enjoy the crystal-clear waters and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

To get a bird’s eye view of the city, head up to the Bellver Castle, a stunning Gothic-style castle that offers breathtaking views of Palma Bay. With affordable flights from all over Europe to Palma Mallorca Airport, it’s no wonder that this city is becoming a popular budget-friendly destination for travelers.

If you’re looking for a cheap, hot holiday, this is it.

• Best time to visit: May – September.
• Average daily spend: £95, which includes £35 on food, with the remainder covering drinks and accommodation.
• Daily activities: Sunbathing, snorkelling or hiking.

5. Saranda, Albania Cheap holiday destinations 

Saranda, Albania, is a coastal town on the southern end of the Albanian Riviera, and it has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. With its stunning beaches, rich history, and affordable prices, Saranda offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. When it comes to beaches, Saranda has something for everyone, from quiet coves to lively and bustling waterfronts. But that’s not all Saranda has to offer.

The city’s rich history is on display at the Saranda Castle, a well-preserved 16th-century castle that offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. Saranda is also the perfect base for exploring other nearby attractions, such as the Blue Eye, a natural spring that forms a stunning blue pool, or Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts ancient ruins and a pristine natural landscape.

In terms of accommodations, there are many hotels in Saranda to suit every budget, from luxurious resorts to affordable hostels. Travelers can also take a ferry from Saranda to the nearby Greek island of Corfu. All in all, Saranda is a destination that shouldn’t be missed for travelers looking for a unique and affordable travel experience.

• Best time to visit: April – October
• The average daily spend: £50. A good meal will cost around £5.
• Free activities: The beach, One of the first things you should do in Saranda is go for a stroll on Hasan Tahsini Boulevard. This beautiful pedestrian seaside walkway lies on the north shore of the little bay of Saranda. You can also visit  Lekuresi Castle.

6. Skopje, North Macedonia

Arguably the cheapest country in Europe, North Macedonia is emerging as a popular tourist destination for 2023.

Skopje, the capital city of North Macedonia, is a hidden gem for budget travelers looking for an affordable European destination. This vibrant city offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modernity, with a plethora of cultural and historical attractions to explore. Start your journey by wandering through the old bazaar, where you can find authentic souvenirs and traditional Macedonian food.

Visit the iconic Skopje Fortress, perched high on a hill overlooking the city, to get a glimpse into the city’s rich history. For art enthusiasts, the Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-visit destination. The city also boasts several parks and gardens, including the popular City Park, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Accommodation in Skopje is affordable, and you can find a variety of options to suit your budget, from hostels to luxury hotels. The city’s local transportation is also affordable and efficient, with a network of buses and taxis available. Indulge in the local cuisine, including delicious grilled meats, fresh salads, and pastries, without breaking the bank. Skopje is a destination worth exploring, providing an affordable and unique European experience.

You’ll get a meal for two for around £15 and a beer for £1.20.

• Best time to visit: April – September.
• Average daily spend: £45.
• Free activities: Visit the memorial house of Mother Teresa and take a trip to Fortress Kale.

7. Kotor, Montenegro

If you’re a fan of Croatia, then Montenegro should be next on your go-to list. These two countries are very similar, apart from the prices which are far lower in Montenegro.

Flights to Tivat, three miles from Kotor, are available directly from the UK at low prices.

The picturesque coastal town of Kotor is the most beautiful town in Montenegro with a real fairy-tale charm about it. The Medieval Old Town is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Explore narrow winding streets high in the hills or the beautiful bay of Kotor.

If you enjoy hiking, you’ll be in dreamland here with amazing landscapes to admire along the way including lakes, alpine forests, and ice caves.

• Best time to visit: May – September.
• Average daily spend: £75.
• Free activities: Walk around the bay of Kotor and admire the boats and cruise ships. Visit the Piazza of the arms or take a trip to the beach.

8. High Tatras, Slovakia

Fan of the great outdoors and fancy something a bit more active? Then consider the High Tatras which is very affordable and jam-packed with amazing hiking and climbing opportunities.

Located nearly entirely within the borders of Slovakia, it’s the smallest alpine mountain range in the world – but with 30 stunning peaks.

Tall mountains, low prices: in the High Tatras, alpine views are ten a penny.

It’s no cakewalk out here mind you; you’ll encounter steep climbing walls up to 900 metres high, as well as hundreds of miles of winding hiking trails bursting with wildlife. You may even spot a bear if you’re lucky!

A beer costs around £2, with a meal costing around £6.

• Best time to visit: June – September for beautiful hiking opportunities. December – April for skiing.
• Average daily spend: Trips start as low as just £40 per person per day for a four-person group.
• Free activities: Walking, hiking, climbing.

9. Warsaw, Poland

Poland’s capital is considerably cheaper to fly to – and to enjoy – than Europe’s other capital cities. Often overlooked in favour of the more touristy city of Krakow, Warsaw is ideal if you’re looking for a more edgy and complex experience.

With its cobbled streets and historical architecture and monuments, the old town looks like something out of a fairytale while in stark contrast the Praga district looks like it’s still stuck in the 1940s with bullet holes in the walls and dark, winding alleys. Another contrast is the very modern business district, with a cosmopolitan vibe.

Don’t forget to sample the famous dumplings!

• When to visit: Between June and August.
• Average daily spend: £60. You’ll get a change from £10 for a meal.
• Free activities: Visit the Warsaw Rising Museum or walk the Royal Route from Warsaw’s Old Town to the Baroque mansion of Wilanow, check out sites at the 15th-century Royal Castle, the King Zygmunt III Waza Column, and the Presidential Palace. If you don’t fancy the seven-mile route, there is a 2 mile one instead from the Charles de Gaulle roundabout to the Old Town.

10. Vienna, Austria

Consistently of the cheapest places to fly to, Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It’s a gorgeous place to walk around, so no wonder it’s previous residents include classical music pioneers Mozart and Beethoven.

As well s stunning baroque and medieval architecture to admire, you’ll find stunning outdoor spaces. Don’t miss the sprawling gardens at Belvedere Palace Gardens which are free to visit.

A city rich in culture and live music opportunities you can visit museums for free or see a show for a small fee.

Take a walk along the Danube and enjoy a coffee and a buttery pastry in one of the city’s famous coffee shops. If you fancy burning off the pastry you can rent a public bike, with the first hour available for free.

There are two very different vibes to the city, from the calming quintessential summer atmosphere to the busy, festive season.

• Best time to visit: May – October for beautiful skies however Christmas time is also very special.
• Average daily spend: £90.
• Free activities: Visit St Stephen’s Cathedral and its magnificent and snazzy tiled roof. Climb 136m to the top of the spire and take in the incredible city from above.. The Summer Night Concert is a special occasion indeed, performed annually – for free – at the Unesco World Heritage site Schönbrunn Palace. You’ll also find the free Rathaus film festival in July.

Moreover, at Christmas, the Festive Market at Karlsplatz is one of the best in the world.

11. Berlin, Germany

If you’re looking for a hot metropolis at a budget price, the German capital is your best bet. Start your day with an expedition to the fabled boutiques and bars of Torstrasse in Mitte, then use your pocket change for a quick lunch in the street food jungles of Friedrichshain, Neukölln, or Kreuzberg. Later on, you can visit one of the city’s many famed techno clubs. Our tips: Club der Visionaere, Zur Wilde Renate, Griessmuehle, Klunkerkranich or Katerblau.

In Berlin, anything is possible, and it’s often free as well. A walk along the well-marked Berlin Wall path won’t cost you a thing.

Eating out is much more affordable than in other European cities such as Amsterdam or Rome.

• Best time to visit: The summer for outdoor drinking, boat trips, and walks Berlin has more bridges than Venice so it’s an interesting place to wander around.
• Average daily spend: £70. A sit-down meal will cost around £30 for two, but you can spend much less if you chose to eat from one of the many fast food stands.
• Free activities: Check out amazing views from the top of the Reichstadt, visit the iconic Brandenburg Gate, and the Unesco-protected Museum Island or join a free walking tour. You can even join a free karaoke session at the amphitheater in the city’s Mauerpark.

12. Hurghada, Egypt

When you say Egypt, everyone automatically thinks of pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Valley of the Kings. What you might not know is that the land of the Pharaohs is also home to some of the most colourful diving sites on Earth –  with the beach town of Hurghada, on the Red Sea, chief amongst them. As well as an abundance of marine life you can see Hurghada’s legendary wreck graveyard of Sha’ab Abu Nuhas

As temperatures stay balmy even during winter months, there’s never been a better time to seize your chance. Red Sea diving packages start at 20 Euros per dive (packages for five days/ten dives).

A boat ride away is The Ras Mohammed National Park (there is a small entrance fee of £4) which is considered one of the most spectacular places to view coral reefs in the world.

Red Sea diving is a magical experience. A kaleidoscopic array of marine life awaits you just beneath the surface.

13. Dominican Republic, The Caribbean

Take a moment to imagine yourself walking barefoot through powdery white sand. You dip your toes into the turquoise blue water and relax in the shade of the tropical palms… as evening falls, you relax with a fruity cocktail, followed by a cigar… a true Caribbean delight. Yes really.

The Caribbean CAN be an option. Airfare aside you can get by on relatively little when you arrive.

The Dominican Republic is known mainly as an all-inclusive holiday package destination. But if you’re willing to plan your trip individually, you can save big and make your island dreams come true.

Surprisingly, it doesn’t have to be — not if you know where to go at least. For example the Dominican Republic, specifically the eastern half of the island of Hispaniola. The island is shared between the Dominican Republic and Haiti and was one of the first European settlements in the Americas.

• Best time to visit: From November to April, when temperatures and humidity levels are good.
• Average daily spend: £100. An average meal for two will cost £30, with a hotel weighing in at roughly £50.
• Free activities: It’s all about the beaches really; try the family-friendly sands of Playa Dorada or the less well-known Macao beach.

14. Riga, Latvia

Latvia used to be associated with grey, gloomy, post-Soviet decay, but in recent years, its capital Riga has shed its dubious reputation and is starting to be recognised as the beautiful and classy city it’s always been at heart.

In fact the city has the finest and largest collection of Art Nouveau buildings in the world, with over 800 stunning houses.

But the one thing stuck in the past? Its prices, make a holiday in this Hanseatic city more appealing than ever. Stroll through the old town to admire the details of its art nouveau facades. When you get hungry, we suggest a visit to the Central Market, a UNESCO heritage site built inside a complex of former WWI-era zeppelin hangars, where you can sample some local Baltic specialties. Take a walk along the Riga canal which divides the Old Town and the rest of the city.

The nightlife is considered amongst the best in Eastern Europe, with sophisticated bars, restaurants and clubs that are open all through the night.

• Best time to visit: April – October
• Average daily spend: £71, for a hotel, meals and transport. An average beer is £2.65.
• Free activities: Visit Orthodox Cathedral or try The Latvian War Museum. Riga also offers a handful of free walking tours.

15. Kerala, India

When planning to visit a faraway destination like India, your flight is always the biggest expense. But the good thing is, once you arrive, you can survive on next to nothing. This means, if time constraints aren’t a factor, it pays to stay! On the Kerala coast, in northern India, you can eat like a sultan, travel first class on the railways and spend your nights in comfortable lodgings, all for just a couple of quid.

Often considered one of the ten paradises of the world, we highly recommend staying on a houseboat to soak up the real atmosphere of Kerala. Cruising through the narrow lush green canals from Aleppy, Kochi or Kovalam is a real experience

There are lots of beaches to explore and also visit the tea plantation at Munnar and Wayanad.

• Best time to visit: October – February when the weather is cooler.
• Average daily spend: You’ll probably get change from £20 for meals, transport and accommodation
• Free activities: Visit Kovalam and the stunning Marari beach. Explore Mattupetty Dam or check out some of the many temples including Sree Padmanabhaswamy.

16. Phnom Penh, Cambodia

First, taste a mouth-watering Kampot Pepper Crab cooked by a street vendor just steps away from the banks of the Mekong. What’s next? A boat trip or a cocktail? Why not both? Later, you can mosey around the markets of Phnom Penh and find a few souvenirs. You can afford it! Cambodia is even cheaper than its neighbors Thailand and Vietnam.

• Best time to visit: November – May.
• Average daily spend: £30 for meals, drinks, activities, and accommodation.
• Free activities: Feast your eyes on delights at the Phnom Penh night market. Visit the temples of Wat Langka, Wat Kean, Kleang. Stroll along the river and enjoy the Riverside parks.

17. Fiji, South Pacific

Have you got a lot of time, a little money, and a deep-seated wish to leave the winter as far behind you as possible? Then you may just be ready for a trip to the Fiji Islands. They are about as remote as it gets, but it’s worth it: pristine beaches, eternal summer, and diving and snorkelling without end.

Most people think you have to be an oil baron to enjoy this kind of paradise, but that’s just a myth. The real barrier is the flight; if you can endure 30 hours on a plane and afford to pay the roughly £1200 it will cost to get you from London to Nadi and back, you’ve already financed over half of your two-week South Sea adventure in paradise.

A meal will set you back around £8, while it’s £1.90 for beer and £2.15 for a coffee.

• Best time to visit: February – March for the cheapest travel and accommodation prices.
• Average daily spend: We estimate a minimum of £72.
• Free activities: Snorkelling; the best spots are Split Rock in Vanua Levu, the Waitabu Marine Park in Taveuni, and the Blue Lagoon in the Yasawa Islands. You’ll also find walking trails at the Bouma National Heritage Park or take part in a Fijian cooking class. If you’re lucky you might also get the chance to experience a Kava ceremony – when someone is welcomed into a village for the first time. The concept is replicated at many of the island’s resorts where a drink of ground-up kava roots and water is shared. There’s no alcohol in it but it does leave a numbing effect.

18. Prague, Czech Republic

While a popular destination for stag parties due to its lively and cheap nightlife, Prague has managed to keep its prices low which is brilliant news for anyone looking for a break just a few hours away from the UK. Flights are usually always reasonable and prices in Prague are generally 50% cheaper than in the UK. The city is steeped in history, and with a multitude of architectural masterpieces and being easily walkable there is a lot to see without spending a penny. Plus you have the bonus of being able to eat hearty Czech food and drink well too. Dumplings anyone?

• When to visit: June – September. Or December for the Christmas markets.
• Average daily spend: Around £45. Expect to pay around £15 for a meal.
• Free activities: Most museums and art galleries have free admission all year round, plus there are walking tours. You can visit the grounds of Prague Castle for free too.

19. Lisbon, Portugal

Watching the sunset with a £1 bottle of Sagres or a glass of wine, you’ll fall in love with Lisbon.  Situated on the coast the city is really fun to explore by tram (definitely try tram 28!) as you travel up and down the hills, admiring the colourful architecture and sea views as you go.  The nightlife is epic and as a bonus, it’s pretty inexpensive too. Make sure you check out the Almalfa district and eat a custard tart! You’re welcome. Cheap holiday destinations 

There are frequent flights from the UK and they are usually always on the low side.

• Best time to visit: May – October
• Average daily spend: £80. Expect to pay an average of £36 for a meal for two and £90 for a hotel room.
• Free activities: Admire work by Picasso and Walhol at Lisbon’s Museu Coleção Berardo. Many of the city’s museums have free entry on the first Sunday of every month. Watch street performers along Rua Augusta which links Rossio Square and the riverfront Praça do Comércio. In the summer there are free festivals across the city. In the summer you can also head to nearby beaches of Estoril and Cascais.

20. Budapest, Hungary

Commonly referred to as the Spa Capital of the World, Budapest is the only remaining capital in the world that is rich in naturally warm thermal waters with healing qualities. Relax after a day of sightseeing or a night of partying – or both! – at one of the whopping 118 springs in the city which are generally inexpensive.

There is a subterranean world of caves under the streets to check out too. The ones under Buda Castle – a World Heritage Site – are a real adventure.

Up above, enjoy a leisurely stroll and admire the huge Hungarian Parliament Building on the banks of the Danube River, the imposing Great Synagogue, St Stephen’s Basilica, and Vajdahunyad Castle. Also make time to visit Margaret Island, a picturesque tranquil, green oasis in the middle of the Danube, with its very own Japanese garden which is free to visit.

Also, be sure to try the national dish of Hungary – goulash.

• When to visit: The summer or Christmas. The city is always beautiful.
• Average daily spend: £55. A beer will set you back around £1.97 while a glass of white wine is roughly £1.41.
• Free activities: See ancient Roman remains scattered across the city or hike Gellért Hill for amazing views. Chill out with a book at Ervin Szabó Central Library. Take a walk in City Park, stroll around the gardens of the Royal Palace or enjoy free live music at many bars across the city.

21. Le Touquet, France

Located just three hours from London, you can be in charge of your own destiny by packing up your car and driving to Northern France. If you book the Eurotunnel in advance – and don’t mind travelling early morning or later in the evening – you can pick up a great deal. Drive an electric vehicle and you don’t even need to worry about fuel prices.

You can grab accommodation fairly cheaply in the seaside town which is often referred to as Le Touquet Paris-Plage. Parisiennes flock here on the weekends during the milder months because it’s a great place to switch off and relax. It’s home to the largest beach in Europe, with 7km of white sand, but also a great place to go walking in the extensive forests that surround the town. There is a great equestrian and tennis scene if that’s of interest to you and kids will love the play parks on the beach.

Grab a delicious crepe and watch the world go by. Cheap holiday destinations 

• Best time to visit: April – October
• Average daily spend: £100 for food, accommodation and some activities.
• Free activities: Spend time on the beach, paddle in the sea, or explore the surrounding forests.

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