Best Affordable Beach Towns in Europe for Summer 2025

Europe is dotted with coastal gems — sun-soaked villages and vibrant seaside towns that don’t break the bank. If you’re dreaming of a European beach escape this summer but want to skip the tourist traps (and sky-high prices), you’re in luck. We’ve rounded up the best affordable beach towns in Europe for summer 2025 where you can swim, sunbathe, and sip cocktails — all on a budget.

These towns offer stunning scenery, delicious food, local charm, and plenty of bang for your euro. Best of all, they’re easy to reach and pair beautifully with our flight + hotel booking tools so you can plan your trip fast and save big.

1. Albufeira, Portugal

  • Why Go: A former fishing village turned beach haven, Albufeira offers golden cliffs, turquoise waters, and affordable beach resorts.
  • What to Do: Praia da Marinha, boat tours to sea caves, historic Old Town walks
  • Average Hotel Rate: €40–€60/night for budget hotels near the beach
  • Flight Tip: Fly into Faro Airport (FAO) from most major European cities

2. Sperlonga, Italy

  • Why Go: A charming seaside escape between Rome and Naples, Sperlonga features whitewashed homes and soft-sand beaches.
  • What to Do: Lido Grotta dei Delfini, ancient Roman ruins, seafood by the sea
  • Hotel Range: From €50–€70 per night in family-run B&Bs
  • Travel Tip: Take a train from Rome, or fly into Rome and rent a car

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3. Costa Brava, Spain (Tossa de Mar)

  • Why Go: Stunning cliffs, medieval walls, and budget-friendly beach stays. Tossa de Mar is a less touristy alternative to Barcelona’s coast.
  • What to Do: Kayaking, castle hikes, tapas bars in the old town
  • Hotel Cost: Hostels and 2-star hotels from €35–€60/night
  • How to Get There: Fly to Girona (GRO) or Barcelona (BCN), then bus/train

4. Piran, Slovenia

  • Why Go: A picturesque coastal town on the Adriatic with Venetian architecture and calm, clean beaches.
  • What to Do: Climb the bell tower, dine at seaside cafes, swim in the bay
  • Accommodation: Small hotels and guesthouses from €40
  • Travel Tip: Fly to Trieste (Italy) or Ljubljana, then take a bus

5. Lagos, Portugal

  • Why Go: Rock formations, caves, and soft sand beaches. A backpacker favorite with great nightlife and budget stays.
  • What to Do: Boat tours to Benagil Cave, cliff hikes, Praia do Camilo
  • Stay Price: Hostels from €25, hotels from €50
  • Best Route: Fly to Faro, take a train or shuttle to Lagos

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6. Paros, Greece

  • Why Go: An underrated Cycladic island with whitewashed villages and laid-back beaches, quieter than Mykonos.
  • What to Do: Golden Beach, Naoussa town, rent a scooter
  • Hotel Range: Budget stays from €45/night
  • How to Go: Ferry from Athens or flight to nearby Naxos

7. Ksamil, Albania

  • Why Go: Caribbean-blue water without the price tag. Super popular with budget travelers.
  • What to Do: Beach lounging, paddleboarding, day trip to Butrint ruins
  • Price Point: Hotels from €30–€50/night
  • Travel Tip: Fly to Corfu, take a boat across the channel (when applicable)

8. Sète, France

  • Why Go: A local favorite on the southern coast of France with canals, beaches, and fresh seafood.
  • What to Do: Explore the old port, eat oysters, bike along the coast
  • Accommodation: Guesthouses from €50/night
  • Getting There: Fly into Montpellier, short train ride

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9. Korčula, Croatia

  • Why Go: Like a smaller Dubrovnik but with fewer crowds and great local wine
  • What to Do: Snorkel, bike around the island, tour Marco Polo’s house
  • Stay Options: From €40/night in local apartments
  • Arrival Tip: Fly to Split or Dubrovnik, then take a ferry

Bonus: Tools to Book Flights + Stays for Less

Use our affiliate-powered tools to lock in your summer escape:

✈️ Flight Search Tool

  • Search low-cost carriers and flexible dates
  • Try “Everywhere” search to find hidden gems

🏨 Hotel Deals Finder

  • Sort by rating, location, and nightly rate
  • Compare across platforms to get the best price

💸 Budget Tip:

  • Book mid-week for lower rates
  • Use filters like “free breakfast” or “no prepayment required”
  • Sign up for email alerts and price drops

Final Thoughts

A beach vacation in Europe doesn’t have to cost a fortune. These affordable beach towns are beautiful, accessible, and packed with character — perfect for travelers who want sun without the splurge.

Whether you’re planning a last-minute escape or mapping out your summer in advance, use Travelupo’s tools to find unbeatable flight and hotel deals. Book now, pack your swimsuit, and get ready to soak up the European summer sun.

Where will you go first? Check the latest prices with our Flight Search Tool and Hotel Deals Finder to plan your sunny escape today!