Holiday season is coming, and with travel now back to normal following years of disruption in the pandemic, many of us will be looking forward to getting some summer sun this year.

But with the cost of living crisis continuing to bite, we’re all looking for ways to save the pennies, and some may be wondering if that trip abroad they’ve been planning might just be too expensive.

Well, the good news is that there are cheaper destinations out there for those looking to arrange a break on a budget – and while it might mean you forego some of the usual destinations you can still have a great holiday – albeit one that’s more cost-effective.

Many places in Eastern or Southern Europe, for example, are cheaper than other parts of the continent – and in some cases, if you prioritise a city break over a beach holiday, it could be cheaper still.

If you’re looking to keep costs down this year but don’t want to miss out on your well-earned vacation, consider one of these destinations…

Podgorica, Montenegro

Montenegro is growing in popularity as a tourist destination, being just as picturesque as neighbouring Croatia but even cheaper.

Podgrica, its capital city, was recently named the most affordable European city for a short break, combining historic sights – such as the historical site of Skaline and the Orthodox Temple of Christ’s Resurrection – with the likes of the Moraca River and the stunning Niagara Waterfall just outside the city.

Return flights to Podgorica start from around £194 from Luton, while travellers tend to spend just £5 on taxis for the two days.

Meanwhile, a three-course meal for two will set you back a mere £22, and a pint of the local beer costs around £1.75.

Skopje, North Macedonia

One of the cheapest countries in Europe, North Macedonia is also gaining popularity as a tourist hotspot, with its historic capital – which dates back to 4000 BC – well worth a visit.

And while it might not be suitable for those looking for a relaxing beach holiday, there’s plenty to keep city break fans happy – with the Stone Bridge, the Mountain of Vodno and the stunning Lake Matka among the highlights.

You can even pop over the border to Kosovo for a day trip if you want to explore even more of the region.

What’s more, a three-course dinner there even comes in at slightly cheaper than in Podgorica at £21, while flights start from just £82 from London Luton.

Sarande, Albania

Looking for a beach break that won’t break the bank? Give Albania a go, with the town of Sarande.

Situated on what’s known as the ‘Albanian Riviera’ between the Ionian Sea and hills of Olive Groves, you’re spoiled for choice with beaches, with Mirror Beach, Mango Beach and Monastery Beach (Plazhi i Manastirit) among the most popular.

And if you fancy a trip to Corfu you can do that too, as it’s less than an hour away by ferry.

None of this will break the bank either – as a meal for two in an inexpensive restaurant here will cost you just £5. Flights start from around £165 from Stansted.

Prague, Czechia

The capital of Czechia – split into two parts, divided by the Vlatava River – is steeped in history, with some of the most famous attractions in Eastern Europe.

As well as Prague Castle – a must-visit on any trip – the Charles Bridge, the Old Town Square and the famous Astronomical Clock should be high on your list.

And if you get tired from all the walking – as it’s a compact place and easy to navigate on foot – well, Prague does have a beach of sorts, the Smichov – an artificial beach built along the banks of the Vlatava that’s a great spot to catch some sun.

Currently, you can get a flight there from London Stansted for just £68. Meanwhile, a meal for two will cost around £35 and a pint of beer will set you back around £1.60.

Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

Tourists have been flocking to resorts in Bulgaria in recent years, and this one, located on the country’s Black Sea coast, is a good bet for a sun-soaked break.

A purpose-built holiday town, it’s known for its spotlessly clean, 8km long Blue Flag beach, as well as modern bars and restaurants and lively nightlife. And if you’re after a bit of culture you can drive 8km up the road to Nessebar, a 3,000 year-old site founded by the Thracian people.

On average, a meal for two will cost around £20-£25, while a beer will set you back the impossibly low price of £1-£1.1.50. And flights to nearby Varna Airport from Luton will cost you a mere £75.

Cape Town, South Africa

This one requires a little more outlay when it comes to getting there – it is long haul after all – but the bustling South African city won’t distress your wallet too much once you’re there.

There’s more than enough to keep you busy here, from a trip up the famous Table Mountain to visiting nearby Robben Island, and heading off on safari – and if wine-tasting is your thing, check out the excursions available around the Stellenbosch region where you can visit multiple wine-producing estates.

Flights will set you back around a grand in this instance from Gatwick or Heathrow – but Cape Town itself offers reasonable prices, with a meal for two costing around £25, a beer around £1.80 and a coffee around £1.30.

Madeira, Portugal

If it’s cheap prices and decent weather you’re after Madeira – an autonomous region of Portugal consisting of four islands – will give you both in abundance.

The capital city, Funchal, offers everything from its famous cable car and gorgeous botanical gardens through to whale watching and the chance to swim with dolphins. And definitely don’t leave without trying the island’s traditional drink, poncha.

A meal for two here will cost you around £42, while a domestic beer will set you back around £2. Flights from Heathrow, meanwhile, currently start at around £167.

Other places to consider

Warsaw, Poland – flights cost just £39 from Luton, while a meal for two costs around £28, a domestic beer around £2.70.

Marmaris, Turkey – flights start from around £66 from Gatwick. A meal for two in Marmaris will cost you around £35, while a glass of local wine will be around £3.65.

Galicia, Spain – flights to the autonomous Spanish region are currently around £134 from Gatwick. You can expect to pay around £21 for a meal for two, while the cost of a beer can be as little as £1.

Sliema, Malta – flights cost around £100 from Stansted Airport, while a meal for two is slightly more expensive at £40.

Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Share your views in the comments below

Source: Read Full Article