Budget-Friendly Hacks For An Amazing European Vacation | Travel News

Last Updated:June 19, 2025, 17:31 IST

If you are eyeing a European getaway this summer, check out these corners where you can enjoy sunshine and culture without burning a hole in your pocket.

Summer holidays in Europe often mean soaring prices, particularly in the top tourist hotspots like Italy, France, and Greece. But if you’re looking for a memorable trip that won’t break the bank, there are still many corners of Europe where you can enjoy sunshine, culture and stunning scenery without splurging.

Here’s a round-up of some of Europe’s best budget-friendly destinations to consider for June 2025.

The Algarve, Portugal

Portugal’s sun-drenched southern coast continues to be a great value destination. Beyond the beautiful beaches, the Algarve offers affordable activities such as beginner-friendly surf lessons in Albufeira or peaceful walks among the rice terraces of the Monchique mountains. If you’re watching your spending, consider basing yourself in Faro or Portimão, where prices are often more reasonable. Keep an eye out for the excellent-value prato do dia (dish of the day) menus – often served at lunch. And with car rental prices on the rise, using public transport like trains, buses or even Uber can help stretch your budget further.

Don’t miss: Snap a photo of the striking red-capped lighthouse at Cabo de São Vicente near Sagres.

Prague, Czech Republic

Though no longer the ultra-cheap destination it once was, Prague remains a cost-effective choice for solo travellers, couples and families alike. Budget-friendly accommodation can be found if you look beyond the main tourist spots – consider staying in trendy districts like Karlín or Holešovice. Affordable pints of pilsner, cheap and efficient public transport, and hearty lunchtime set menus all help keep costs low. Plus, simply wandering Prague’s medieval streets, marvelling at its architecture, gardens, and street art, doesn’t cost a thing.

Don’t miss: A stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge – head there at sunrise or sunset to beat the crowds.

Poreč, Croatia

While Dubrovnik, Split and the islands of Hvar and Korčula grab most of the headlines, Poreč offers a quieter, more budget-conscious alternative on Croatia’s Istrian coast. This seaside town blends historic charm, including a 6th-century basilica and a maze-like old town, with easy beach access and natural attractions like nearby caves. Local hotel chains such as Valamar and Plava Laguna help keep accommodation prices competitive, and there are plenty of affordable apartments for rent. With scenic coastal cycling routes, you can explore without relying on taxis.

Don’t miss: Sample traditional Istrian pljukanci, hand-rolled pasta that pairs beautifully with local sauces.

Costa del Sol, Spain

Spain’s southern coastline is famous for its sunshine and beaches, and it can still offer good value if you choose your base carefully. While Marbella and Estepona are pricier options, resorts like Torremolinos provide affordable stays with lively nightlife and a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ travellers. All Spanish beaches are free to access by law, which helps stretch your holiday budget further. Nearby Malaga is not only one of the cheapest airports to fly into but also a city rich in history, art and culture that won’t cost a fortune to explore.

Don’t miss: Enjoy free walking tours or visit Malaga’s Alcazaba fortress and Gibralfaro Castle – both are free to enter at certain times on Sundays.

Madeira, Portugal

This beautiful Portuguese island offers a great value-for-money escape thanks to competitive airfares and reasonably priced restaurants, especially in and around Funchal. While getting around the island can be pricey due to limited public transport and the absence of ride-shares like Uber, many travellers save money by staying near Funchal and booking group tours that often include hotel pick-up. These tours can take you on unforgettable hikes along levadas or out to volcanic swimming pools. Ferries to Porto Santo island, famous for its golden sandy beaches, are also affordable at around £50 (Rs 5,844) return per person.

Don’t miss: Book a dolphin-watching cruise – sightings are common, and tours are conducted responsibly.

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Delhi, India, India

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