If you are looking for a sunny escape without breaking the bank, here are some of the best budget beach holidays in Europe and beyond that you can book for 2023. We have included the average costs for accommodation, food and activities for each destination, based on the data from Budget Your Trip, Expatistan and other sources.
1. Southern Montenegro
Montenegro is a hidden gem on the Adriatic coast, with stunning scenery, rich culture and affordable prices. You can camp by the blue-flag beach at MCM Camping, which has pitches under the pines, bungalows with sea views, an outdoor pool and a beach club restaurant. The campsite is close to Ulcinj, a charming town with a walled old town and several beaches. You can also explore the nearby Skadar Lake National Park, the largest lake in the Balkans.
Average costs:
- Accommodation: €43 per person per night for a bungalow or €65 per person per week for camping
- Food: €20 per person per day for meals and drinks
- Activities: €10 per person per day for entrance fees, tours and rentals
2. Black Sea, Bulgaria
Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast offers miles of sandy beaches, natural reserves and lively resorts. You can stay at Camping Krapec, which is backed by woodland and part of a nature reserve. The site has tent pitches, campervan places and bungalows, as well as a bar that hosts live music, arts festivals and cinema screenings. You can also enjoy fresh fish, homegrown produce and homemade brandy. You can also visit the nearby Cape Kaliakra, a scenic cliff with a medieval fortress and a dolphin colony.
Average costs:
- Accommodation: €48 per person per week for camping or €15 per person per night for a bungalow
- Food: €15 per person per day for meals and drinks
- Activities: €5 per person per day for entrance fees, tours and rentals
3. Aran Islands, Ireland
For a rugged and scenic getaway, head to the Aran Islands in Galway Bay. You can camp or glamp at Aran Islands Camping and Glamping, which overlooks Frenchman’s Beach on Inis Mór, the largest of the three islands. The site has camping fields and glamping pods inspired by ancient stone huts. You can explore the island’s heritage, culture and wildlife by bike or on foot. You can also visit the famous Dun Aonghasa fort, which dates back to the Iron Age and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Average costs:
- Accommodation: €93 per person per week for camping or €35 per person per night for a glamping pod
- Food: €25 per person per day for meals and drinks
- Activities: €15 per person per day for bike rental, ferry tickets and entrance fees
4. Northern Greece
Greece is a classic destination for beach lovers, but you can avoid the crowds and high prices by going to the Sithonia peninsula in Halkidiki. You can stay at Areti Camping & Bungalows, which has tent pitches and cottages next to two private white-sand beaches. You can swim to three small islands nearby, or try watersports, tennis, volleyball and hiking. You can also visit the Unesco-listed rock formations and monasteries of Meteora.
Average costs:
- Accommodation: €10 per person per night for camping or €25 per person per night for a cottage
- Food: €20 per person per day for meals and drinks
- Activities: €10 per person per day for watersports, tours and rentals
5. Turkey
Turkey is our cheapest destination overall for wining and dining, according to Which?. You can enjoy a three-course meal for just £7.50 (€8.75) per person in Marmaris, a popular beach resort on the Turquoise Coast. You can also find cheap accommodation at Granada Luxury Belek Hotel, which has an amazing Wonderland Aqua Park, spa facilities and entertainment options. You can also visit the nearby ancient city of Aspendos, which has a well-preserved Roman theatre.
Average costs:
- Accommodation: €25 per person per night for a double room at the hotel
- Food: €15 per person per day for meals and drinks
- Activities: €10 per person per day for entrance fees, tours and rentals
Adrenaline junkie with a passion for exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations and finding unique ways to stay active. Expect stunning scenery, challenging workouts, awesome travel tips and a whole lot of fun. Let’s get sweaty and explore the world together!
