12 Cheap Beach Destinations in Europe

You want a beach getaway but don’t want to break the bank. We feel you. Sun, sand, and surf shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. Luckily, Europe has many charming and budget-friendly beach towns if you know where to look. Forget overpriced resorts and check out these hidden gems dotting the Mediterranean and beyond.

In this post, we’ll spill on 12 of the cheapest beach destinations in Europe for your next vacation. We’re talking seaside villages and cities where you can soak up the summer vibes without draining your wallet. Keep reading for the inside scoop on these under-the-radar coastal escapes.

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Corfu, Greece

Corfu is a beach lover’s paradise with sheltered bays, sandy beaches, and a charming Mediterranean vibe. Corfu Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with winding alleys, an Old Fortress, and stunning Venetian architecture.

Here, you can spend sunny days at Issos Beach, a long stretch of golden sand and clean water. For seclusion or water sports activities like kitesurfing, visit Halikounas Beach. If you want to go beach hopping, other amazing Corfu beaches include Paleokastritsa, Agios Gordios, Glyfada, Myrtiotissa, and Nissaki.

Corfu also charms tourists with its olive groves, vineyards, and quiet coves waiting to be discovered.

Lastly, this island offers many budget-friendly accommodations, ranging from cozy family-run establishments to modern beachside hotels.

Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

Bulgaria’s most popular seaside resort, Sunny Beach, offers scenic beaches and exciting nightlife at budget-friendly prices.

There’s no shortage of things to do along Sunny Beach’s Black Sea coastline. You can rent jet skis, sail, or sign up for windsurfing or parasailing lessons. For a day by the beach, you can choose between Central Beach, popular among young adults, or the family-friendly South Beach.

As the sun sets, partying heats up at the massive open-air clubs lining the beaches. It is an excellent destination for beach lovers and nightlife enthusiasts.

Sunny Beach offers inexpensive lodging to suit any budget. Choose from smaller hotels, apartment rentals, or all-inclusive resorts.

Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve has a Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine annually, so you’re almost guaranteed beach weather whenever you visit. This is your go-to destination for a charming yet cheap beach getaway under the southern Portuguese sun.

Its coastline has secluded coves, sandy stretches, and scenic seaside cliffs. The small beach towns in this region have a relaxed vibe and lower living costs compared to other European destinations. One of the top spots to visit in the Algarve includes Praia da Rocha, a lively beach with golden sandstone cliffs and beach bars open late into the night.

Puglia, Italy

For an authentic Italian beach getaway on a budget, consider visiting Puglia. It is an excellent destination for budget travelers and those seeking a luxury getaway without breaking the bank. Besides, Puglia offers an authentic beach experience at a fraction of the cost of other European destinations. Puglia’s Mediterranean coastline remains largely undeveloped, with miles of white sand beaches and turquoise waters.

Ostuni, known as the “White City,” is a picturesque hill town in this region famous for its white-painted architecture. Nearby beaches like Lido Morelli and Pilone Beach have soft sand, shallow waters perfect for kids, loungers, and umbrellas for rent. Make your beach holiday here more exciting by dining on fresh seafood and pasta at local eateries.

Accommodations in Puglia are also budget-friendly, with beachfront hotels and vacation rentals at a fraction of the cost of comparable destinations like the Amalfi Coast.

Kos, Greece

With an easygoing vibe, natural scenery, and lower prices than neighboring Greek islands like Mykonos or Santorini, Kos is an affordable slice of paradise in the Mediterranean.

Spend your days exploring Kos Town, a historic city centered around a medieval castle and the ancient Agora. Outside the town are several archaeological sites, like the Asclepieion, an ancient healing sanctuary, and the Neratzia Castle. When you’re ready to relax, head to one of Kos’ many beaches, such as Lambi Beach or Kamari Beach, where you can swim in the turquoise Aegean Sea or soak in the sun. In the evening, dine on traditional Greek cuisine like souvlaki and moussaka at one of the cafes along the harbor promenade.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

A volcanic paradise, Lanzarote offers unique landscapes with dramatic cliffs, black sand beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Despite its small size, this Canary Island has several volcanoes in its Timanfaya National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

You can take camel rides around the park’s volcanic scenery or see a spectacular geyser demonstration. The island also has charming white-washed villages, secluded coves for sunbathing, and world-class windsurfing spots. Wine enthusiasts will love the island’s wine made from Malvasia grapes grown in the volcanic soil.

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Accommodation and dining in Lanzarote are affordable, especially if you travel outside the April to September peak season. It’s a true volcanic paradise that won’t hurt your pockets.

Sarandë, Albania

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If you want to experience the Albanian coast without paying a premium, Sarande is a perfect choice. You’ll get amazing beaches, Mediterranean scenery, and a charming town that won’t break the bank. With miles of coastline along the Ionian Sea and average summer highs around 93°F (34°C), Sarande is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach activities.

Moreover, you’ll find scenic beaches with soft white sand and translucent turquoise waters, such as Mirror Beach and Ksamil Beach. For some history, visit the ruins of the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site just south of Sarande.

Sarande’s accommodation and food are generally more budget-friendly than other European beach destinations.

Paphos, Cyprus

Whether traveling solo, with friends, or with family, Paphos has something to suit all interests and budgets. Here, you can easily spend days lounging on the soft sand beaches edging the turquoise Mediterranean Sea.

Check out SODAP Beach, a sandy shore with beautiful sunsets. For more options, sample Blue Lagoon, Lara Beach, Argaka Beach, Coral Bay Beach, Baths of Aphrodite Beach, Laourou Beach, and Paphos Municipal Beach, all of which come with different personalities.

With flights under 5 hours from major European cities and budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet offering direct routes, Paphos is an accessible and affordable beach escape. Good-value accommodation is available, especially outside of the busy summer season from June to October.

Ulcinj, Montenegro

The mix of pretty beaches, historic sights, and affordable prices make Ulcinj an ideal spot for a cheap summer getaway in Europe. You’ll be delighted by its picturesque setting and charmed by the laid-back Mediterranean vibe.

This town’s longest and most popular beach is Velika Plaza (Long Beach), which offers activities like sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. You can rent lounge chairs and umbrellas for a few euros on the beach. For a quieter vibe, head to the clothing-optional beach at Ada Bojana.

Consider also exploring Ulcinj Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a maze of cobblestone streets, cafes, and Ottoman-era architecture. Climb the winding path to the top of the fortress for panoramic views of the sea and mountains.

Pula, Croatia

Nestled on Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula, Pula is a charming beach town with a long history. Once a Roman outpost, this seafront city is home to many well-preserved Roman ruins, including Pula Arena, an amphitheater that still hosts events today.

Beyond its architectural wonders, Pula offers lovely beaches and natural scenery along the Adriatic coast. If you’re looking for an affordable beach getaway in Europe, Pula is an excellent place to consider, especially over Dubrovnik. The summer season from June to August sees the biggest crowds, so aim for the shoulder months of May and September to save money and enjoy smaller crowds.

Verudela Beach is a famous pebble beach in the city and features modern resorts, restaurants, and bars. On the other hand, the verdant Ambrela Beach is a perfect place for a quieter day by the sea.

Gozo, Malta

Gozo is a laid-back island in the Mediterranean Sea that promises a fun yet cheap beach getaway. Malta’s second-largest island, Gozo, has scenic beaches, historic sites, and outdoor activities galore.

Rent a car or scooter and explore Gozo’s rugged coastline, with secluded coves and sandy beaches surrounded by azure waters. Ramla Bay and Hondoq Bay are popular spots to soak in the sun.

Gozo’s history spans over 6,000 years, making it an excellent spot for history enthusiasts. For insights into the island’s history, visit the Megalithic Temples of Malta, which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands off Spain’s eastern coast, is a beach lover’s paradise. With over 200 beaches on its coastline, you’ll never run out of shores to explore. The turquoise waters and soft white sands of Mallorca’s beaches attract tourists each summer, but the island retains its charm and offers secluded coves if you’re willing to venture off the beaten path.

Some of the most popular beaches include Playa de Palma, a bustling beach in the island’s capital with souvenir shops and nightclubs. For a quieter scene, head to Es Trenc in the south, a protected natural area with pristine waters and powdery sand.

Accommodations and amenities on the island are generally affordable, especially compared to other island destinations like Ibiza.