The cost of travel seems to climb higher every year, but that doesn’t mean a summer getaway is out of reach.
There are some destinations that offer surprisingly cheap holidays, with meals that cost less than your morning coffee back home and memorable days out that are completely free.
All you need to do is choose somewhere that lets your money stretch further.
Costa Blanca, Spain
The Costa Blanca gives you everything you want from a Spanish summer without the high prices of Barcelona or Marbella.
Towns like Benidorm and Alicante offer miles of sandy beaches, but if you move slightly away from the busiest areas, you’ll find less expensive accommodation and local restaurants. Buses and trams connect coastal towns for just a few euros, meaning you can stay somewhere cheaper and still explore.
If you enjoy walking, you’ll love the trails around Montgó Natural Park or the coastal paths leading to secluded spots where you can swim in crystal-clear water.
Dalaman, Turkey
Dalaman is often seen as just an airport hub, but it’s also the gateway to some of Turkey’s most affordable beach towns. Places like Dalyan and Fethiye have spectacular coastlines and amazing food, all at a fraction of the price of Mediterranean hotspots such as Italy or France.
Eating out is surprisingly economical; a full meal in a local lokanta often costs less than a takeaway coffee in London. Markets sell fragrant spices, juicy figs and fresh seafood, so self-catering is a great option.
Boat trips along the Dalyan River or to the Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz cost very little, and they give you a full day of adventure, from spotting sea turtles to swimming in turquoise waters.
Corfu, Greece
Corfu is one of Greece’s most affordable islands, especially if you avoid the high-end resorts and stay in smaller villages like Benitses or Paleokastritsa. If you’re happy with simple accommodation, you can find rooms for half the price of more famous Greek islands.
You don’t need to spend a lot to make the most of the island – you can visit Corfu Old Town for its historic charm, then escape to quiet beaches such as Agios Georgios or Glyfada.
Agadir, Morocco
If you’re open to travelling outside Europe, Agadir in Morocco is a great choice. With year-round sunshine, long sandy beaches and a relaxed vibe, it’s a brilliant place to bask in warm weather without spending a fortune.
Eating out is inexpensive compared to European cities. You can sit in a traditional café and drink a mint tea for pennies, or grab a steaming bowl of harira soup and fresh bread for just a couple of pounds.
Local buses and taxis make it easy to explore, whether you want to visit Paradise Valley’s waterfalls or wander through the lively souks.
Final thoughts
Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing fun or missing out. With a little planning, you can still experience the best of golden beaches, warm sunshine and delicious local food without breaking the bank.
The key is choosing places where your money goes further, so you can focus on making the most of the experience.
