Europe in summer is pure magic. Warm sunshine, long days, and endless places to explore. Some spots are all about sunny beaches and turquoise water. Others offer mountains, hiking, and quiet villages away from the noise. This guide takes you through 13 cheap summer getaways in Europe that are easy to reach from the UK. Each one gives excellent value for money without cutting down on beauty or experience.
Why Choose a Summer Getaway in Europe?
Europe in summer is full of choices: golden beaches, snow-capped mountains, historic cities, and remote countryside. Flights from the UK are often short and affordable, making it easy to escape for a few days or even a couple of weeks.
Cheap summer getaways in Europe let you enjoy amazing views, local food, and unique cultures without breaking your budget. Additionally, some countries are naturally more affordable, while others require thoughtful planning to stay within limits.
Top 13 Cheap Summer Getaways in Europe
Europe is full of destinations that offer sunshine, scenery, and culture without draining your budget. These 13 cheap summer spots deliver unforgettable experiences at a fraction of the cost.
1. Croatian Coastline
Croatia’s coastline is famous for a reason. It’s long, packed with pretty towns, clear water, and small islands that look straight out of a postcard. Here ‘s the best part: you can explore it in different ways: Pick one seaside town and relax for a week, or rent a car and road trip from the north to the south.
Popular stops include:
- Dubrovnik: Old city walls, historic streets.
- Split: Lively atmosphere, Roman history.
- Hvar: Trendy island, nightlife.
- Korčula: Quieter island, charming alleys.
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If you want to save money, consider staying in smaller towns like Šibenik or Trogir and taking day trips.
2. Greek Islands
The Greek islands are the picture-perfect idea of summer. White houses. Blue domes. Bougainvillea flowers are climbing the walls. The Cyclades, Santorini, Mykonos, and Milos are well-known, but they can eat into your budget quickly.
For something more affordable:
- Naxos and Paros have the same charm but fewer crowds.
- Ferries connect the islands so that you can hop between them easily.
If you want green landscapes and quieter beaches, try Corfu in the Ionian Sea. Crete is huge and has everything from ancient ruins to pink-sand beaches like Elafonissi. Ferries in Greece are easy to use. You can book online, but in summer, it’s safer to book early, and routes fill up fast.
3. French Riviera
The French Riviera is often associated with luxury, such as yachts and expensive champagne.
But you can still enjoy it without a millionaire ‘s wallet.
Base yourself in Nice.
From here, you can take cheap trains or buses to Cannes, Antibes, or even Monaco.
Public beaches are free, and the Mediterranean Sea is warm in summer. Skip pricey beachfront restaurants and eat at local bakeries or small cafes. A fresh baguette, some cheese, and a spot by the water make for a perfect picnic.
4. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy ‘s most photogenic spots. Colourful villages cling to cliffs above the sea. Boats bob in small harbours. But it’s not cheap. Hotels and restaurants here are expensive, especially in Positano and Amalfi.
Ways to save:
- Stay in Salerno or Sorrento and use ferries or buses.
- Visit in June or September when it’s still warm but less crowded.
The beaches are small and often covered in paid sunbeds. Some charge entry fees, so be ready for that. And yes, there are a lot of stairs, so pack comfortable shoes.
5. Turkish Riviera
The Turkish Riviera stretches along the southwest coast of Turkey. It ‘s sometimes called the “Turquoise Coast” because of the water colour. It offers what many Mediterranean spots do: sandy beaches, sunny weather, and boat trips, but at a much lower price. Top picks:
- Fethiye: Gateway to the Blue Lagoon at Ölüdeniz.
- Kaş: Relaxed and great for diving.
- Antalya: A Big city with ancient ruins nearby.
Food is another bonus. Fresh fish, grilled meats, and sweet baklava cost much less than in France or Italy.
6. Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve is Portugal ‘s southern coastline, full of golden beaches between tall cliffs.
Lagos is a favourite for many travellers. It ‘s small enough to walk everywhere but big enough for nightlife. Additionally, Albufeira is busier and known for its party scene.
Buses and trains make it easy to visit multiple towns in one trip. Boat tours to sea caves, like the famous Benagil Cave, are worth the cost.
7. Albania
Albania is still a hidden gem for most UK travellers. The beaches along the Albanian Riviera rival those in Greece, but prices are much lower. Eating out is cheap here. A full seafood meal can cost the same as a takeaway coffee in London.
- Ksamil has white sand and bright turquoise water.
- Mountains surround Dhermi, and it feels remote.
8. Malta
Malta is a small island nation in the Mediterranean, south of Italy. It ‘s warm almost all year, but summer is when the island truly shines. The capital, Valletta, is packed with golden stone buildings, narrow streets, and sea views at every corner. Ferries can take you to the smaller islands of Gozo and Comino. Comino ‘s Blue Lagoon is famous for its bright turquoise water.
Why it’s budget-friendly:
- Public buses connect most parts of the island.
- Street food like pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas) costs less than £1.
- Many attractions, like historic forts and coastal walks, are free.
Because Malta is small, you can explore a lot without spending much on transport.
9. Dolomites, Italy
The Dolomites are mountains in northern Italy, renowned for their hiking trails and breathtaking scenery. The views are incredible, and you will witness jagged peaks, green meadows, and crystal-clear lakes like Lago di Braies. If you’re not a big hiker, there are still cable cars that take you to panoramic viewpoints.
Two ways to visit:
- Stay in one spot and do day hikes.
- Take a road trip between villages.
10. Norway Road Trip
Norway is famous for fjords: long sea inlets between cliffs. Summer is the best time to see them. Driving is the easiest way to explore. Renting a campervan can save you money on hotel stays.
Additionally, Norway has a “right to roam” law, meaning you can camp on public land (with some rules). The weather is mild in summer. In the far north, you can even see the midnight sun, where it stays light all night.
11. Slovenia
Slovenia is often overlooked, but it ‘s one of the most beautiful and affordable countries in Europe. It has a bit of everything: lakes, mountains, caves, and a slight stretch of coastline. The star attraction is Lake Bled. It is a deep blue lake with a tiny island in the middle, topped by a church. You can row a boat there or just walk around the shore for amazing views.
Nearby is Lake Bohinj, which is quieter and surrounded by the Julian Alps.
Slovenia is easy to travel around. Buses and trains connect most places, and the capital Ljubljana is small, friendly, and full of colourful streetside cafes. Prices for food, hotels, and transport are generally lower than in Italy or Austria.
12. Switzerland
Switzerland is often seen as expensive, but its nature is free. Zurich and Geneva have lakes you can swim in during summer. Interlaken is a hub for hiking and adventure sports. In addition, the public transportation system is first-rate, and picturesque rail excursions like the Glacier Express are unique experiences.
13. Poland
Poland has a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. All at prices much lower than those in Western Europe. Here’s what you must aim for:
- Kraków’s old town is charming, and Auschwitz is a sobering but essential day trip.
- Wroclaw is famous for small bronze dwarf statues hidden around the city.
- Zakopane offers mountain hikes and wooden chalet-style houses.
How to Pick the Right Destination for You
Choosing where to go depends on what you want most from your summer holiday.
Beach Lovers
If the goal is sunbathing, swimming, and sea views, look at:
- Croatia’s Coast
- Greek Islands
- Algarve, Portugal
- Albanian Riviera
Mountain & Nature Fans
If fresh air, hiking, and dramatic landscapes appeal more:
- Dolomites, Italy
- Norway Road Trip
- Switzerland
- Scotland
City & Culture Seekers
For museums, nightlife, and history-rich streets:
- Budapest, Hungary
- Prague, Czechia
- Barcelona, Spain
- Kraków, Poland
Money-Saving Travel Tips for Europe
Europe can be affordable if you plan well. Here are key strategies:
- Last-minute deals exist, but they are less predictable in summer.
- June and September often have better prices than July and August.
- Trains and buses are dependable and far less expensive than renting a car.
- Incorporate affordable lodging options, including guesthouses, hostels, and short-term rentals, alongside hotels.
- Eat where locals eat: bakeries, food markets, and small family-run cafes.
- Most cities are connected by airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air for less than £50 if you book in advance.
- The Eurail/Interrail Pass allows unlimited train travel in set periods.
- FlixBus connects many major cities at a low cost.
Packing Tips for a European Summer Trip
Take a screenshot to keep these safe!
Clothing
- Lightweight, breathable clothes for hot destinations.
- A light jacket or hoodie for cooler evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes; even in cities, you ‘ll walk a lot.
Essentials
- Refillable water bottle (many cities have free fountains).
- Sunscreen, especially for southern Europe.
- Power adapter for EU plugs.
Special Items
- Swimsuit and quick-dry towel for coastal spots.
- Small backpack for day trips and hikes.
- Travel insurance covering medical needs and cancellations.
Note: In case your phone’s battery runs out, keep a printed copy of your most critical reservations with you.
Conclusion
Summer in Europe is never one-size-fits-all. The key is planning early, travelling smart, and mixing popular spots with hidden gems. This way, you enjoy the best experiences without overspending.
If beaches call to you, head south.
If mountains are your happy place, go north.
And if cities spark your curiosity, explore Europe ‘s capitals and historic towns.
FAQs
How far in advance should I book flights from the UK?
At least 2-4 months before summer for the best deals.
Are these destinations family-friendly?
Yes. Many, like Portugal ‘s Algarve and Greece ‘s islands, have activities for both adults and children.
Can I travel to multiple destinations on a tight budget?
Yes. Use budget airlines, night buses, or regional trains to cut travel costs.
Is it safe to travel solo to these places?
Most destinations listed are safe for solo travellers. Still, follow basic precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure.
