5 Budget Beach Destinations In Europe To Visit This Summer
Let’s face it, heading to Europe for a beach vacation can be an expensive proposition. However, while the most popular European beach destinations don’t exactly come cheap, there are some other worthy countries that offer the same benefits at a more affordable price. Read on to find out more about five countries in Europe worth considering in summer 2023.
Head to the beach in Albania
Since the pandemic, travelers have finally discovered how beautiful Albania is and the country is now growing in popularity. This affordable destination has beautiful mountains and a gorgeous coastline, with the Albanian Riviera a choice place to be. In fact, both the Adriatic and Ionian coastlines of Albania offer idyllic beaches and clean, clear and beautiful water.
The most popular beach towns are Ksamil and Saranda, but both tend to get pricy and crowded once summer gets started. Budget travelers should rather choose the smaller villages on the coast, including Dhermi and Himare. Meanwhile, travelers don’t have to just choose one of these coastal villages as they are only around 30 minutes drive apart.
Budget-Priced Bulgaria
Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast has been enjoying a tourism boom recently and it is easy to see why. Among the most popular towns to visit are Sozopol, Sunny Beach and Varna with excellent beaches and cheap beers. In fact, for those who like to party, these are the ideal locations. For a more upmarket experience, Nessebar and Sveti Vlas are a tad more expensive, but there’s a chiller vibe for those who want to relax.
Anyone seeking peace and quiet can drive down the coast where wild beaches have so far avoided development, like Irakli Beach. Meanwhile, Silistar Beach is a favorite with locals and offers wild camping along its rocky coast.
Head to the beach in Croatia, Europe
Beautiful Croatia has become popular in the last few years for its gorgeous coastline and beaches. Meanwhile, the Balkan country has more than 700 islands along its coastline to choose from. However, popular towns like Split and Dubrovnik have become expensive, but there are plenty of less expensive and more budget-friendly places to go.
One perfect example is Brac Island with its idyllic sand and pebble beaches and it’s only a short ferry ride from Split. One recommended Instagrammable place here is Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), but there are many tiny, tourist-friendly villages lining the island’s shores.
Montenegro on the Adriatic Sea
This Balkan country may be small, but Montenegro still boasts around 294 km (183 mi) of gorgeous coastline on the Adriatic Sea. Among the most popular beach destinations are Budva, Stari Bar, Sveti Stefn and Ulcinj. However, while the beaches are great, they tend to get crowded and expensive in the high season.
Travelers looking for a budget-priced beach destination in Montenegro should try the stunning Bay of Kotor and the beautiful coast surrounding it. While the bigger locations can get pricey, it’s worth trying out Fashion Beach in Risan in the northern part of the bay. Alternatively, Radovici is another great suggestion. However, with 100 km (62 mi) of coastline surrounding the bay to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect spot.
A different beach in North Macedonia
While North Macedonia is a landlocked country, it does have more than 90 km (56 mi) of shoreline on its beautiful Lake Ohrid. This vast and gorgeous lake has many small beaches to relax and swim in crystal-clear water. Meanwhile, the town of Ohrid is a fascinating location to visit with its Ottoman architecture and quaint tavernas. However, the beach in the town gets busy in the high season, so it’s best to head out of town when looking for somewhere to relax. Meanwhile, an excellent choice is the tiny village of Trpejca, which has a great beach and many restaurants to choose from.
Enjoy a budget beach vacation in Europe this year, exploring areas well away from the tourist-packed locations.