It’s never too early to start planning your summer holidays. And for those of you looking to bag yourself a deal in the sun, look no further. We’ve combed through our data to find the top beach towns with the lowest-average hotel prices – perfect for budget holiday planning.
Whether you fancy dips in the sea in Bulgaria, romantic sunset walks in Greece or a slice of Arabian culture in Morocco, check out our top 15 budget beach destinations for your next holiday.
Varna: A hidden gem on Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast
One of Bulgaria’s most cosmopolitan cities, Varna is found on the Black Sea and boasts a variety of impressive tourist attractions including the country’s largest roman baths as well as the superb Varna Archaeological Museum. Besides all this, there’s also miles of pristine beaches to enjoy.
Bugibba: Enjoying superb sea views in Malta
Malta’s most popular tourist resort, Bugibba has long been a favourite amongst visitors to the Mediterranean island. Situated in the North East, this coastal town offers excellent views across St Paul’s Bay and Salina Bay and is the ideal spot for romantic walks along the beach’s promenade.
Sunny Beach: Soaking up the sun in Bulgaria
It’s unsurprising that Bulgaria features twice in the top five, with miles of budget-luxury accommodation and exceptional weather, Sunny Beach allows visitors to relax in stunning surroundings. Besides lounging by the pool, there’s plenty of activities on offer from boat tours, water skiing, go-karting to spending a day at the Turkish baths.
Boulogne-sur-Mer: Strolling along France’s largest fishing port
A short drive from Calais, Boulogne-sur-Mer is the ideal place to begin your coastal road trip along France’s famed Côte d’Opale. This romantic town is home to unique architecture and charming Châteaus and prides itself on its various hiking and biking trails, which are a treat for any outdoor enthusiast.
Faro: A charming old town in southern Portugal
Offering the British traveller both culture and clear blue skies, the Algarve’s main city is the prime location for exploring Portugal’s sunny south coast. With some of the world’s top beaches and golf courses, as well as a bustling student population, Faro is a great option for those interested in a budget break. With lots of budget airline connections from the UK and Ireland, there’s no excuse not to book.
Dunkirk: Exploring France’s miracle port
Familiar to anyone who’s taken the ferry to France, Dunkirk offers more than just long walks along the town’s glorious beach. History buffs ought to pay a visit to the excellent World War ll museum – Memorial Du Souvenir – where you can learn all about the infamous Battle of Dunkirk.
Puerto de la Cruz: A cosmopolitan city with colonial charm on the Canary Islands
The glorious Canary Islands boast year round sunshine and are a haven for anyone looking to top-up on their tan. Puerto de la Cruz is found in the north of Tenerife and is home to the famous Playa Jardín which is one of the most popular beaches on the island.
Thessaloniki: History and modernity in Greece
Thessaloniki’s rich and varied history, ensures Greece’s second city is full of character. Visitors to Thessaloniki are spoilt for choice with lots of things to see and do, but if the nightlife is more your scene, then drinks by the waterfront are a must with numerous bars, clubs and cocktail bars to enjoy. A stone’s throw from the city centre you’ll also find lots of white sandy beaches to enjoy.
Izmir: A metropolitan summer paradise in Turkey
The only Turkish resort to make it to the top 15, Izmir has to be seen to be believed. A slice of paradise on the Aegean Sea, it boasts beautiful turquoise waters, soft white sand and lush green scenery. A top tip for visitors to the city is to watch the sun set from the Kordonboyu promenade – simply breathtaking.
Heraklion: The place to go for sun, sea and sand in Greece
Surrounded by unspoiled beaches, Heraklion is the ultimate location for a sun holiday and with temperatures known to reach the high 30’s in summer, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular with British tourists. Besides the beach and raucous nightlife, there’s plenty of options to keep you entertained. For the culture-vulture in your life, why not check out the impressive Koules Fortress or the Heraklion Archaeological Museum?
Essaouira: Enjoying Arabian atmosphere in Morocco
Morocco’s Windy City, Essaouira lies on the western coast and has long been a hit with surfers. The city’s imposing 18th century walls and golden sandy beaches offer the perfect backdrop for water sports and with plenty of surf schools based in the city, visitors have no excuse not to try their hand at conquering the waves.
Alicante: White sandy beaches and medieval culture in eastern Spain
Ideally positioned along the Costa Blanca, Alicante boasts year-round sunshine and a rich cultural heritage. Families holidaying here will have lots to keep them entertained as the city offers good transport links to the neighbouring resort cities of Benidorm, Calp and Valencia.
Kyrenia (Girne): Visiting the jewel of Cyprus
Kyrenia’s impressive harbour and adjacent castle provide the perfect setting for sunset walks. Situated in the north of Cyprus, the city is home to many examples of Byzantine architecture and art and is the perfect holiday destination for the art lover in your life.
Chania: Beautiful beaches and impressive gorges in Greece
One of the most picturesque places in Crete, Chania is a warm and inviting coastal resort with a charming Old Town. A stroll through the city’s historic centre is a great way to soak up the enchanting atmosphere. This postcard-perfect location is also a haven for any foodie, with lots of fresh seafood to enjoy.
Valencia: Combining city, sun and beaches on the Spanish east coast
Valencia has it all, the bustling metropolis offers tourists everything on a plate, with close proximity to beaches and an endless list of things to see and do. Valencia also has many unspoiled and family-friendly beaches nearby, the most popular being Playa de la Malvarrosa and Playa de El Saler.