The cheapest destinations for a holiday abroad

Sometimes you just want a sun, sand and sea break without splashing out a small fortune. While holiday prices have been on the rise, a handful of European and North African destinations still deliver holiday dreams on a budget. And a self-catering villa is a great way to keep the cost down. We’ve put together a list of the cheapest European holiday destinations you can visit this summer, where your pound stretches that bit further.

Bulgaria

Bulgaria remains one of the cheapest European holiday destinations for UK travellers. Even though recent package-holiday prices have jumped a little, it’s still fairly easy on the purse strings – especially in comparison to other European stalwarts.

Plus, once you arrive, costs remain comparatively low. Outside luxe beachfront resorts, you’ll find affordable guesthouses or simple hotels, and local restaurants where meals and drinks are far cheaper than in Western Europe. That’s what keeps Bulgaria a top-value option if you’re after a no-frills beach holiday.

Portugal

Portugal remains a good-value choice, especially if you avoid the priciest resorts. In the Algarve or coastal areas, meals out tend to cost less than in many holiday hotspots – we’re talking €10-€15 per person (even less if you stick to markets or cafés). Seafood and wine is particularly affordable.

If you want to keep costs low, try travelling in the off-season, from October to May, when flight prices are cheap and cheerful. Or, stay in Northern Portugal, rather than the major tourist hubs, like the Algarve or Lisbon. Either way, Portugal’s a top pick for those wanting to combine beaches, culture and good food on a bit of a budget.

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Croatia

Croatia remains appealing for those who want beautiful coastline and a taste of the Adriatic, but without the top-end Mediterranean price tag. While package holidays here tend to be a little pricier than in Bulgaria or Turkey, deals still come in lower than many Western European destinations.

Your pound will stretch further if you stay in guesthouses or B&Bs outside of the tourist traps (we’re looking at you, Dubrovnik!), dine away from touristy harbours and make use of the super-affordable public transport links.

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Montenegro

Montenegro’s not always the first country on people’s lips, but that works in its favour sometimes. It means it tends to be cheaper than more popular Mediterranean hotspots. But it’s a great choice for those after pretty-as-a-picture coastlines, mountain scenery and photogenic towns.

Herceg Novi and Ulcinj are two of the cheaper coastal resorts to choose from. Just steer clear of popular spots, like Budva and Kotor, if you’re on a tight budget – or just visit on a day trip, rather than forking out for a hotel in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the local food and transport costs, especially outside the major hubs, or away from the busiest squares.

Greece

Greece remains a favourite, with budget and luxury holidaymakers alike. In the last year, package holiday prices have only risen modestly, by around 2.5%, which is much less than some European favourites. If you want your funds to stretch further, stick to lesser-known islands or the mainland.

Lefkada, Andros and Tinos are some of the most budget-friendly islands. Crete and Rhodes are still cheap, too. There are affordable alternatives to hot tickets like Santorini and Mykonos, as well, like Ios. Or, base yourself on the mainland – the Peloponnese, Halkidiki and Thessaloniki are all less-visited and less pricey. What’s more, if you keep things simple – local tavernas, modest villas and public transport – Greece remains a top-value Mediterranean escape.

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Turkey

For a week of eating, drinking and sunbathing – Turkey’s a win, if you pick wisely. Thanks to the weak Turkish lira, food, transport and accommodation is still affordable. Popular coastal spots in the Marmaris and Dalaman region prove great value, especially compared to the likes of the Amalfi Coast or Majorca.

You can eat cheaply at local eateries with street food and simple meals costing less than a cup of coffee back in Blighty. Plus, if you’re prepared to haggle, you’ll be able to snap up souvenirs, spices, textiles and ceramics for a bargain price in the bazaars.

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Morocco

Morocco holidays are often among the cheapest in Europe, especially in the affordable Agadir area. This coastal resort is the nation’s favourite seaside escape, with a surf-ready Atlantic coastline and plenty of colourful markets.

For a mix of culture, sun and affordability, you can’t go wrong with Morocco. It’s a cheap holiday that doesn’t feel like everywhere else. Even popular Marrakech is considered cheap compared to most Western cities. And you can wander the medinas, souks and Jemaa el-Fnaa square without dealing out a dirham (that’s Morocco’s currency btw).

Albania

Albania remains one of Europe’s better-kept budget-holiday secrets. It can offer you much of the charm of the Adriatic – sea, sun and simplicity – but without the crowds or inflated prices. So swap Greece, Croatia or Italy for Albania’s beautiful beaches and relaxed towns and your bank balance will be pleasantly surprised.

When it comes to eating out, your pound goes a long way. Meals at a local restaurant can be as little as €4 or €5. And stick to delicious street food, like burek, and you won’t shell out more than €1. If you want to visit popular tourist attractions, like the Ancient City of Apollonia, the entrance fee is surprisingly affordable at the equivalent of €4.

Malta

Compared to other Mediterranean islands, Malta is relatively cheap. Especially if you choose to visit in off-season, between November and February, when the mild weather keeps things enjoyable. It offers a mix of historic towns and coastal scenery at modest prices.

What’s more, it’s a small island, so getting out and about is quick, easy and cheap as chips. Even the ferries to neighbouring islands, like Gozo, are affordable. And wandering the pretty streets of Mdina and Valletta is free – as is sunning yourself on the island’s petite beaches.

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Cyprus

Cyprus has always been an affordable holiday choice for Brits. Plus, Larnaca, a city on the island’s southeast coast, has seen one of the biggest drops in prices in 2025 in Europe. So now is a great time to go.

We’d recommend travelling in off-season or shoulder months, like May or October, to get the cheapest prices. And eating at local tavernas is much more affordable than the restaurants in tourist-heavy spots. But, for a chilled beach break with sun, sea and a splash of culture, Cyprus remains a cheap pick.

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