The Cheapest European Summer Destinations Where Paradise Costs Less

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Looking for the best cheap European summer destinations?

Baska. Idyllic pebble beach with high waves in town of Baska, Is

From the pristine beaches of Albania to the charming coastal towns of Croatia, mountain lakes of Slovenia, and hidden gems, we’ve curated the perfect list of budget-friendly European summer escapes.

Explore our comprehensive guides to incredible summer routes in the cheapest European countries below.

Central Dalmatian Coast Summer Route

Šibenik in Croatia

This stunning stretch of Croatian coastline represents one of the cheapest European summer holiday destinations in the region, with daily costs ranging from $95-125.

Suggested summer route: Begin at Krka National Park, explore the historic cities of Šibenik, Primošten, and Trogir, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Split, then island-hop to Šolta and finish in Vis.

Find more information on each of these destinations below:

1. Krka National Park

Krka National Park Croatia

Though entrance fees apply, this remains one of the cheapest summer destinations in Europe for nature lovers.

The park features stunning waterfalls, swimming opportunities, and hiking trails.

Staying in nearby towns like Skradin offers affordable access to the park while providing authentic Croatian experiences.


2. Šibenik

Šibenik Croatia

Šibenik stands as a historic coastal city and is one of the cheaper European summer holiday destinations.

The city’s stunning UNESCO-listed cathedral and ancient fortresses complement its beautiful beaches and nearby islands.

The city provides excellent value for cultural experiences and beach activities.


3. Primošten

Primošten Croatia

A picturesque peninsula town with a medieval town center that sits on a small island connected to the mainland, surrounded by beautiful beaches and famous vineyards.

Visitors can enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring traditional stone streets, and experiencing local wine culture while finding reasonable accommodation options.


4. Trogir

Trogir Croatia

A UNESCO-listed town in Croatia with remarkable history. This medieval island town features stunning architecture, nearby beaches, and a vibrant waterfront.

The town provides better value than nearby Split, with affordable guesthouses and authentic restaurants in the historic center.


5. Split

Split Croatia

Though a major tourist destination, Split remains one of the cheaper summer European destinations when compared to similar Mediterranean cities.

The UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace forms the city center, while beaches and hiking trails provide outdoor activities.

The city offers numerous budget accommodation options and serves as an affordable base for exploring nearby islands.


6. Šolta Island

Maslinica, Solta Island, Croatia

Less visited than neighboring islands, Šolta offers authentic village life, beautiful bays, and excellent olive oil production.

Visitors can enjoy quiet beaches, traditional fishing villages, and local cuisine at prices lower than more popular Croatian islands.


7. Vis Island

Vis Island Croatia

Despite its growing popularity, Vis remains one of the more affordable Croatian islands.

The island features historic towns, military tunnels, and some of the clearest waters in the Adriatic.


Northern Croatia Summer Destination Route

Baška Beach Krk Island in Croatia

This coastal stretch offers affordable European holiday destinations with a perfect blend of islands, historic towns, and beaches.

Daily costs range from $100-125, significantly less than southern Croatia, while providing similar beauty and activities.

Suggested summer route: Begin in Opatija, explore Rijeka, Crikvenica, discover Krk Island’s diverse landscapes, enjoy Rab Island’s sandy beaches, explore historic Senj, Karlobag, and finish in Zadar.

Find more information on each of these destinations below:

1. Opatija

Opatija Croatia

Once a favorite Habsburg resort, now offers elegant architecture and beautiful beaches at reasonable prices.

The famous Lungomare promenade connects multiple beaches and swimming spots.

Visitors can explore grand villas, enjoy swimming at organized beaches, and experience a more refined coastal atmosphere while finding good value in local apartments and restaurants.


2. Rijeka

Rijeka Croatia

A vibrant port city which combines beach life with cultural attractions, including Trsat Castle and historic markets.

The area provides excellent value with urban beaches, museums, and a strong local food scene, making it perfect for travelers seeking city amenities with coastal benefits.


3. Crikvenica

Crikvenica Croatia

One of the cheapest European summer destinations along Croatia’s northern coast.

The town offers a long riviera with beautiful beaches, a historic promenade, and excellent swimming conditions.

The area features affordable wellness centers, family-friendly beaches, and various water sports facilities, all at prices lower than more famous Croatian destinations.


4. Krk Island

Baška Beach Krk Island Croatia

The island of Krk features diverse beaches, from sandy Baška to hidden pebble coves, alongside medieval towns and wine regions.

Visitors can explore historic Krk town, enjoy numerous beaches, and experience island life without the expensive ferry connections typical of other Croatian islands.


5. Rab Island

Rab Island Croatia

Known for its rare sandy beaches, it is an affordable European destinations for beach lovers.

The island offers excellent value with affordable accommodation options, pristine nature parks, a medieval town and numerous swimming spots.


6. Senj

Senj Croatia

This historic coastal town features the impressive Nehaj Fortress that overlooks numerous beaches.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking in the nearby Velebit mountains, and exploring historical sites while benefiting from lower prices than more touristy areas.


7. Karlobag

Karlobag Croatia

This authentic quiet coastal town is situated between the sea and the Velebit mountains. It offers both beach activities and mountain adventures.

The town provides budget-friendly accommodation and dining options while serving as an excellent base for exploring both coastal and mountain areas.


8. Zadar

Zadar Croatia

A historic coastal city where ancient Roman ruins and innovative modern attractions like the Sea Organ and Sun Salutation create an enchanting atmosphere.

The city balances urban and beach life perfectly, with beautiful swimming spots at Kolovare Beach and Borik, while nearby islands beckon for day trips.


Albanian Riviera Summer Route

Pasqyra Beach (Mirror Beach), Albania

Albania’s stunning coastline offers some of the cheapest European summer holiday destinations, with daily costs ranging from $105-115 per day including accommodation, food, and activities.

Suggested summer route: Begin in Ksamil, explore Saranda, continue to Himara and its beautiful surrounding beaches, enjoy the stunning beaches of Dhërmi, and finish in Vlore.

Find more information on each of these destinations below:

1. Ksamil

Ksamil Beach - Butrint NP, Albania

A small beach village offering some of the cheapest summer destinations in Europe with Caribbean-like waters.

The town offers secluded beaches, crystal clear waters, and nearby Butrint National Park, all while maintaining budget-friendly prices for accommodation and seaside dining.


2. Saranda

Saranda Albania

Saranda winds around a stunning horseshoe-shaped bay, where a vibrant promenade connects multiple city beaches and waterfront restaurants.

The city serves as a perfect base for exploring hidden coves by boat and nearby attractions, offering affordable accommodation and dining options that make extended stays easy on the wallet.


3. Himara

Jale Beach Himara Albania

An affordable coastal town with access to some of Albania’s best beaches such as Jale Beach, and numerous hidden coves.

Himara combines a traditional Albanian atmosphere with beautiful beaches, offering excellent value for accommodation and authentic seafood restaurants.


3. Dhërmi

Dhërmi Albania

One of the most scenic stops along the Albanian coast, where mountains dramatically meet pristine beaches.

The village sits perched above several stunning beaches, including the spectacular Drymades and Gjipe Beach coves.

Visitors can enjoy crystal-clear waters, lively beach bars, boat trips to secluded coves, and spectacular sunsets over the Ionian Sea.


5. Vlore

Vlore, Albania

Vlore combines city amenities with beautiful beaches at budget-friendly prices.

The city features a long stretch of beach along the coast, while the nearby Narta Lagoon offers excellent nature experiences.

The Karaburun Peninsula provides hiking opportunities and secluded beaches (some accessible by boat only).


Montenegro-Bosnia Summer Destination Route

Kotor, Montenegro

This route includes some of the cheapest Europe summer destinations in the Adriatic, with daily costs ranging from $89-117.

Stretching from Montenegro’s southern beaches through the Bay of Kotor and into Bosnia’s historic towns and waterfalls.

Find more information on each of these destinations below:

1. Ulcinj, Montenegro

Ulcinj, Montenegro

Montenegro’s southernmost coastal town delivers beautiful beaches and rich history at competitive prices.

The 12km Long Beach offers plenty of space for sunbathing and swimming, while the atmospheric old town provides cultural experiences.

Visitors can enjoy water sports, explore the old fortress, or take day trips to nearby Lake Skadar.


3. Petrovac, Montenegro

Petrovac, Montenegro

A charming coastal town offering the perfect balance of beach life and local atmosphere at budget-friendly prices.

The town centers around a picturesque bay with a sandy beach flanked by two fortresses, while the smaller hidden Lučice Beach provides a perfect escape from summer crowds.


3. Budva, Montenegro

Budva, Montenegro

A vibrant coastal town combining historical charm with beautiful beaches and nightlife.

The medieval walled city sits on a peninsula surrounded by several beaches, including the famous Mogren Beach.

The area offers water sports, island trips, and cultural exploration opportunities.


4. Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

Old town of Kotor - Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

One of Montenegro’s most stunning locations remains surprisingly affordable for budget travelers.

The UNESCO-listed bay features medieval towns, dramatic mountains, and beautiful swimming spots.

Visitors can explore Kotor’s old town, hike the city walls, take boat trips to Our Lady of the Rocks, and enjoy swimming at numerous small beaches around the bay.


5. Herceg Novi, Montenegro

Herceg Novi, Montenegro

Herceg Novi features a mixture of medieval, Ottoman, and Venetian architecture, alongside several beaches and a vibrant waterfront promenade.

Visitors can explore several fortresses, enjoy water sports, or relax at nearby Igalo’s healing mud facilities.


6. Durmitor National Park

Durmitor National Park Montenegro

Durmitor National Park offers dramatic mountain landscapes and outdoor adventures at budget-friendly prices.

The stunning Black Lake offers perfect summer swimming and hiking trails for all levels, while the Tara River beckons rafting enthusiasts.

Visitors can stay in affordable mountain huts or in the nearby town of Žabljak.


7. Blagaj, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina

A historic town centered around a stunning 16th-century Dervish monastery built into a 200m cliff face.

Visitors can explore the ancient monastery and enjoy traditional meals at riverside restaurants built on wooden platforms above the water.

The area offers authentic accommodation options in traditional stone houses at prices far below coastal averages.


8. Mostar & Kravice Falls

Most Underrated Countries in Europe to Visit

Mostar’s famous Old Bridge rises above its Ottoman old town as Bosnia’s most striking destination.

Visitors can explore the old bazaar, watch bridge divers, and take day trips to surrounding attractions including the beautiful Kravice waterfalls, all while enjoying some of Bosnia’s most reasonable prices.


Northern Slovenia Summer Destination Route

Lake Bohinj in Slovenia

This Alpine region offers exceptional value compared to similar mountain destinations in Austria or Switzerland, with daily costs ranging from $105-125.

Suggested summer route: Start at the iconic Lake Bled, continue to the more serene Lake Bohinj, explore the mountain resort of Kranjska Gora, with an optional trip to Tarvisio on the Italian border.

Find more information on each of these destinations below:

1. Lake Bled

Lake Bled Slovenia

Lake Bled in Slovenia offers good value compared to similar Alpine locations.

The iconic lake features a church-topped island, a medieval castle, and swimming opportunities.

You can find reasonably priced accommodation in the surrounding villages.


2. Lake Bohinj

Lake Bohinj Slovenia

Larger and less visited than Bled, Lake Bohinj offers cheap European summer experiences in the Julian Alps.

Lake Bohinj’s pristine waters offer excellent swimming spots, while its surrounding valleys provide scenic hiking trails and access to stunning waterfalls.

The area features affordable mountain huts and guesthouses, making it perfect for budget-conscious nature lovers.


3. Kranjska Gora

lake jasna kranjska gora slovenia

A mountain resort town with affordable summer activities in the Alps. The area offers hiking trails, mountain lakes, and excellent cycling opportunities.

Kranjska Gora in the Julian Alps, Slovenia

Despite its popularity in winter, summer prices remain reasonable with many budget-friendly outdoor activities available.


4. Tarvisio (Italy Side Trip)

Fusine Lakes, Italy

Why not add on a side trip into Italy, to complete your summer lake hopping vacation.

Tarvisio provides access to beautiful mountain lakes (such as Lake Fusine) and hiking trails.

The area offers better value than many Italian mountain destinations while providing easy access to three countries.


Final Thoughts On the Best Cheap Summer European Destinations

Discovered your perfect cheap European destinations for summer? This is just the beginning of your budget-friendly travel adventures.

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out:

Visit our Europe travel blog for fresh destinations, local tips, and budget-friendly guides to make your travel dreams a reality.

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Jolene Ejmont

Originally from South Africa, now living in Australia, Jolene is a wife and a mother to three beautiful daughters. Together with her family, she is embarking on a journey towards changing her current stress-filled life to one focusing on her dreams and her passion for travel. She wants to share her stories in the hope to inspire you to chase your own dreams!