The best cheap beach holidays in Europe

Best for: A curious seaside adventure marrying modern magic with 20th-century neurosis

For the perfect mix of everything that makes Albania so inviting, head to Durrës. Sure, the beaches might not be as picturesque as those to the south, but the combination of coastal scenery with the country’s curious history is difficult to resist. Durrës is Albania’s second-largest city but arguably its most underrated, with gorgeous panoramic views, unusual architecture, some of Albania’s best cafes, and more than a whisper of the country’s tumultuous 20th century (King Zog’s royal villa is a must, with a standard concrete bunker nearby). The beaches more than hold their own.

Stay here: No shortage of options, but the traditional hammam and stunning rooms of Hotel Epidamn Boutique and Spa put it at the top of the list.

📍 Discover more of the best places to visit in Albania

Best for: Affordable wellness amenities and a slice of the Adriatic (without the need for a loan)

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s 12 miles of coast have long been the butt of jokes on the internet, but real ones know that there’s magic in the miniature. Surrounded by Croatia’s world-famous coastal destinations, Neum (the only town of note on the BiH coast) has quietly carved itself a niche as an affordable alternative, one packed with sweeping vistas, peaceful beaches, and top-tier hotels. It also makes a tremendous base for exploring the region’s jaw-dropping culture and nature, from the vast Popovo Polje to the abundant stećci (medieval Bosnian tombstones) necropolises. Still, if you just want to laze on a serene beach in Neum, that is always an option.

Stay here: Marea Hotel and Spa offers exquisite sea views and excellent wellness options, along with free parking for guests (not to be sniffed at in this part of the world).

Best for: A classic coastal stay with nearby flamingoes and fortresses

Cyprus isn’t the most affordable destination in the European travel sphere, but Larnaca offers more bang for your buck than most. The third-largest city in the country, Larnaca is Cyprus at its best, marrying long stretches of sumptuous sand with fascinating history, curious culture, and a buzzing people-watching scene. Finikoudes Beach is the fulcrum of it all, although there are also some achingly peaceful beach spots to be found on the shores of the vast salt lakes. You might have to share the scene with the odd flamboyance of flamingoes, but that doesn’t sound too bad at all, right?

Stay here: Sometimes the big-name brands get it right. The Radisson Blu Hotel in Larnaca houses the highest bar in Cyprus, has fantastic amenities, and some of the best hotel staff you’ll ever find.

Best for: Unbeatable Welsh charm, pier adventures, and sweeping views

For Blue Flag beaches at affordable prices, look no further than the wild west coast of Wales. Aberystwyth has long been a popular seaside spot, and it doesn’t take much to understand the appeal. The beaches are idyllic, framed by dramatic cliffs and culture that echoes across the land. The students run Aberystwyth, which means an abundance of wallet-friendly food and drink options, and it is also the perfect place to bed down before embarking on a hike across the Ceredigion Coast Path (free of charge, of course). The spectacular National Library of Wales (Llyfrgell Genedlaethol Cymru) also offers free entry to its exhibitions and archives.

Stay here: Sat just to the north of the promenade, the Queensbridge Hotel offers history and heritage at a more than acceptable price.

Best for: Greek island bliss mixed with cross-civilisational history

Crete might not immediately jump out as a cheap European beach destination, but there are plenty of bargains to be found on the Mediterranean’s fifth-largest island. The island’s capital and culture centre, Heraklion is tremendous value for money across the board, with plenty of affordable hotels, restaurants, bars, and cafes waiting for the moments between sunbathing and beach lounging. The city’s Venetian-era fortifications are a keen reminder of the island’s tumultuous history, and the Blue Flag sands of Ammoudara are just a short bus ride away.

Stay here: Galaxy Hotel Iraklio has everything you need, just a short walk from the city centre (the steam room is particularly excellent).

Best for: Ancient history, warm waters, and unbelievable food

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe (the oldest in Western Europe, according to some), charming Cádiz is gaining more and more visitor attention with every passing year. For the time being, it remains an affordable alternative to more vaunted destinations like Sevilla, Malaga, and the rest. The narrow streets of the old town hide traditional tabernas and inexpensive drinking holes packed with characters, while the Atlantic beaches are all golden sands and cerulean waters. If you’re willing to go a little further (and save some pennies in the process), Cádiz is an Andalucian city that does it all.

Stay here: The rooms at Plaza de la Luz are perfectly placed for exploration, and the rooftop terrace is an added bonus.

Best for: Romantic windswept walks along uncrowded Baltic beaches

The wild winds of the Baltic make for one of the chilliest beach destinations in Europe, but there is something about Latvia’s lovely Liepāja (too much alliteration? Impossible!) that really tugs at the heartstrings. Located on the country’s west coast, the city is known for rugged seas and vibrant creativity, creating a unique mix unlike anything found in the more celebrated sandy spots to the south. Liepāja’s miles of golden beaches remain beautifully quiet (for the time being), and you can’t put a price on a romantic, windswept stroll down on the sand. You can, however, put a price on hotels, restaurants, and bars, and the practical side of things is delightfully wallet-friendly in Liepāja.

Stay here: The Promenade Hotel is an affordable five-star option housed in a renovated 18th-century warehouse. Fabulous.

Best for: Montenegro’s most picturesque old town and its most fascinating cultural combination

The days of Montenegro’s magnificent coast being underrated and affordable are long gone, with popular spots like Budva, Kotor, and Tivat now lined with glitz, glamour, and billionaire-friendly yachts. However, those missing the halcyon days of Montenegrin seaside adventure can find respite and reward in the south. Set close to the Albanian border, Ulcinj remains fabulous value for money. Its old town might just be the most picturesque in the country (quite the claim, but we stand by it), the beaches cover everything from sweeping to secret, and the city offers tremendous hotels at more than amenable prices. The mix of Albanian and Montenegrin cultures also offers something different to the increasingly globalised spots to the north.

Stay here: If you’re okay with a short uphill walk, Hotel Senator has a prime location near the World War II monument, with stunning views of the old town and the sea.