Welcome to our guide on affordable beach holiday options that promise a taste of indulgence without the hefty price tag.
This time we’re looking at affordable vacation ideas that won’t break the bank, but still offer a first class Mediterranean holiday experience.
- Albania Riviera: a serene and unspoiled coastal experience
- Thessaloniki: where history meets lively beach life
- Malta: an unforgettable island getaway
- Split: an azure Adriatic escape
Albania Riviera
A serene and unspoiled coastal experience
Possibly the last enigma of the Adriatic coast, the Albanian Riviera doesn’t get as much attention as Croatia, Greece, and Montenegro, which all share the same sea. But that’s exactly why you should consider this Balkan country for your upcoming holiday.
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The countless beaches with turquoise waters can’t wait to be discovered, the Roman ruins are scattered across the olive grove-covered landscapes, and the seaside towns tempt visitors with low prices, energetic nightlife, and mouthwatering food.
Photo source: Unsplash
Albania may be rougher around the edges than polished Greece and less international than Croatia, but authenticity and an underdog mentality give it a certain charm.
And your price tag will be much lower here, too, with a four-star hotel in Sarandë with sea vistas going for under 50 euros a night and a two-course meal with generous portions costing under ten euros.
Here are some great things to see and do on the Albania Riviera:
Soak up the Albanian Riviera’s laid-back vibe
The Albanian Riviera is diverse and spectacular. Start your day with a cup of coffee overlooking the idyllic beaches of Ksamil (Greek Corfu is right across the water) and then take a stroll among the ancient Greek and Roman ruins in the UNESCO-protected Butrint National Archaeological Park.
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Alternatively, find wild bliss at Gjipe Beach or lounge in a trendy beach bar in Dhërmi. There’s something here for everyone.
Indulge in Albanian food
Low-key Albania may have one of the tastiest and most underrated cuisines in Europe. It’s an enticing mix of the freshness of the Mediterranean diet, Balkan devotion to grilled meats, and Ottoman influences.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Try the heavenly djathë i bardhë (white cheese), feast on tavë kosi (yogurt-baked lamb), and have as much sweet baklava as you can.
Go beach-hopping
Beach-wise, you’re spoilt for choice on the Albanian Riviera. You’ll find the largest concentration of picturesque coves between Dhërmi and Himarë.
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Pulëbardha is famous for its astonishing cliffside setting. The Ksamil Islands feature the Albanian coastline at its most turquoise. And the beach at Borsh stretches for a whopping seven kilometres.
Visit the castles
Almost every important port along the Albanian Riviera has an epic castle. That’s also where you’ll usually have the best vantage point over the superb coast.
The Ottoman-era Lëkurësi Castle towering over Sarandë is unmissable, the Porto Palermo fortress is a sight to behold, and the ancient Kaninë Castle ruins are as romantic as they get.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Discover the national parks
Outdoor aficionados will find paradise on the Albanian coast.
The magnificent scenery of high mountains meeting the blue sea awaits you at Llogara National Park, which is famous for its dramatic hiking trails.
Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park is a shipwreck-diving mecca. And Divjaka-Karavasta National Park is a gift that keeps on giving for birdwatchers, who can witness the nesting Dalmatian pelicans here.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Thessaloniki
Where history meets lively beach life
One-of-a-kind Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros are irresistible, but their prices can be through the roof, especially in the summer months. The Greek islands can also be a hassle logistically.
So why not consider an underdog for your upcoming Hellenic adventure? Thessaloniki fits the bill. Apart from its ‘second city’ charms, it’s also a gateway to the Halkidiki peninsula, which boasts endless beach enjoyment opportunities minus the astronomical island prices.
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The Thermaic Gulf gently hugs the city, gifting residents and visitors with views of the sea from nearly every avenue.
There’s a breezy boardwalk, too, that’s filled with numerous tavernas, bars, and seafood restaurants for some terrace joie-de-vivre.
And the whole scene is crowned by the White Tower, an Ottoman-era prison-turned-city-icon greeting all who pass by with its whitewashed glory.
Here are some great things to see and do in Thessaloniki:
Enjoy Thessaloniki’s relaxed atmosphere
Easygoingness is a part of Thessaloniki’s ethos. The city doesn’t have the rush of Athens, time goes slower here, and, most importantly, prices are lower, too.
Ancient history is highlighted in the local archaeological museum, the best harbour views are captured from the ruins of Trigoniou Tower uphill, and the 2nd-century Roman Forum rubs shoulders with modern apartment blocks in the city centre.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
It’s an eclectic mix, and you’ll love it.
Discover Aegean bliss in Halkidiki
If you’re coming for sea and sun, spend most of your Thessaloniki time in Halkidiki, an underrated three-legged peninsula south of the city.
For pristine beaches, head to Koviou, Kavourotrypes, and Siviri. Admire the beauty of the traditional village of Afitos perched on the coast.
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And definitely try the trademark local specialty, the filling bougatsa custard pie. Preferably overlooking the azure Aegean Sea.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Dance the night away
Nightlife is a forte of Greece. This country knows how to party from sunset until way past sunrise.
The Ladadika neighbourhood, which buzzes with life in the evenings, is the prime nightlife area in Thessaloniki.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
And while the Halkidiki region is mostly a peaceful, family-friendly paradise, Kassandra is responsible for the clubbing scene on the peninsula.
Also, get the party started at the numerous beach bars dotting the sandy stretch at Kallithea.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Get a cultural fix
Successful revitalisation efforts and the vibrant presence of many students have turned Thessaloniki into a cultural hub of Greece.
Set in a former warehouse and showcasing local and international talent, the Museum of Photography is a great place to immerse yourself in the local cultural scene.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
MOMus is a must for contemporary art. There’s also the Cinema Museum & Cinematheque showcasing Greek movie history.
Enjoy sunset at a stunning cape
Cape Possidi is not celebrated enough. Located on the Kassandra peninsula in Halkidiki, it’s a sandbar that stretches into the Aegean Sea and serves as a perfect sunset viewpoint. Bordered by a pine forest, it’s a piece of untouched Mediterranean perfection.
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Check out the lighthouse dating back to 1864 and have souvlaki (traditional Greek grilled meat skewers) at Restaurant Sidera nearby.
Malta
An unforgettable island getaway
Although only 316 square kilometres in size, the Malta archipelago has an incredible diversity of terrain and things to do.
Its beaches are among the most scenic in Europe, the walled cities boast centuries of history, the nightlife is on par with Ibiza and Pattaya, and the food is a flavourful revelation influenced by various cultures.
It’s not the cheapest beach destination on the continent, but if you’re smart with planning, you can get great deals.
Photo by ollygaspar and hayleabrown (Visit Malta)
When it comes to costs, keep in mind that accommodation prices almost double in summer. All other seasons are more budget-friendly…and remember, the temperature averages around 17°C in winter.
Hotel and rental costs are highest in Valletta. The more tranquil resort town of Marsaskala on St. Paul’s Bay, as well as Gozo Island, are great wallet-friendly alternatives.
Photo by ollygaspar and hayleabrown (Visit Malta)
Here are some great things to see and do in Malta:
Enjoy stunning sea views
Everything starts in Valletta, the smallest capital in the European Union and a city with cinematic panoramas.
You’ll find sea views everywhere you look, the concentration of historic sights is impressive, and the vibe is very welcoming.
Photo source: Visit Malta
Just grab a pastizz (a pastry with various fillings that’s a cheap and cheerful local street food) and take a stroll around the capital’s picturesque streets. St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grandmaster’s Palace are among the absolute musts.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Slow down in Gozo
Hilly terrain, fantastic coved beaches, pastoral landscapes, ancient temples, and the uber-scenic local capital Victoria make Gozo a great idea for a laid-back vacation destination.
Photo by Janis Jekabsons
This, the second-biggest island of the Malta archipelago, is affordable and quiet. Sunbathe on the red sands of Ramla Beach, dive in the Blue Hole in Dwejra, and explore the enigmatic megalithic glory of the Ġgantija temples.
Photo by ollygaspar and hayleabrown (Visit Malta)
Walk between the Three Cities
Malta’s urban coastlines are made for long panoramic walks. When the route goes through the legendary Three Cities, it becomes even more scenic.
Photo source: Visit Malta
Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua have an important place in Maltese history and boast numerous sights to keep you busy exploring for a whole day.
You’ll pass epic Fort St. Angelo, be amazed by the architecture of old churches, and take countless pictures of the colourful balconies along the way.
Photo by scroll_theglobe (Visit Malta)
Explore ancient Mdina for free
Some of the best attractions in Malta are completely free. Like Mdina, the country’s former capital, which mesmerises with well-preserved fortifications and an abundance of sights. Nicknamed the Silent City, it’s among the best day trips and an amazing place to discover more about the history of Malta.
Photo by Janis Jekabsons
And don’t miss Is-Serkin (also known as Crystal Palace Bar) next to the entrance gate; it serves arguably the best pastizzi on the island.
Use public transport
The size of Malta makes it easy to get around. Buses are the primary mode of transportation here. They’re the cheapest option, too.
Photo source: Visit Malta
To save even more, be sure to buy the 25-euro Explore Card, which gives you unlimited travel for seven days. Purchase it at the card-dispensing machine at Malta International Airport as well as at various other locations around the country.
Split
An azure Adriatic escape
An Adriatic jewel, Split has been charming travellers for centuries. The fascination with this region began in the 3rd century CE, when the Roman emperor Diocletian decided to set up his retirement residence here.
Today, this vast and spectacular palatial complex is a trademark of Split and an important part of the city fabric.
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Split is a busy place. The majority of ferries to the Dalmatian islands depart from here, and so do large cruise ships, yachts, and tour boats.
Accommodation prices fluctuate depending on the season. If you’re coming in summer, book beforehand. Compare prices using the Hotels feature on Google Maps and check rental platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo to get the best deal. Choose hotels outside of the walled Old Town for lower prices.
Here are some great things to see and do in Split:
Explore the ancient beauty of the Old Town
Split is made for wandering, and its narrow streets can’t wait for you to get photogenically lost.
The Old Town here is contained within the walls of the palace, with restaurants, shops, and cafés occupying the historic buildings. And then there’s the Adriatic Sea just steps away from all the Old Town action.
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Head to the Riva boardwalk to get up close to the azure waters; this palm-lined promenade is the epicentre of urban life in Croatia’s second-largest city.
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Another great free local pastime is going all the way up to Telegrin Peak in Marjan Forest Park for the best vistas in the city.
Go for the best beaches
Split is a large port. Fantastic sea views await you in the city centre, but for good beaches, you’ll have to venture a bit further.
The Bene and Kasjuni beaches on the other side of Marjan Forest Park are scenic stretches with pine trees that are easily reachable on foot.
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Trstenik and Žnjan are both laid-back beaches in the southern part of the city.
Find a retreat in Šolta
Peaceful olive groves as far as the eye can see, coved beaches with no one else in sight, and sleepy fishing villages with whitewashed stone houses.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Welcome to Šolta, an idyllic Dalmatian island 30 minutes from central Split by ferry (EUR 4.25 one way)!
It’s a great place to recharge and get inspired by Adriatic beauty.
Have a Croatian sandwich
With nothing on the menu costing more than five euros, Sandwich Bar Rizzo is a go-to spot for budget travellers in Split.
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It’s also a long-running local institution supplying locals with freshly prepared sandwiches since 1992. It specialises in sandwiches with buđola (cured dried meat) and pršut (mouthwatering Croatian dry-cured ham).
Take a day trip to Trogir
With bus tickets starting at EUR 2 on GetByBus and a comfortable time of only 45 minutes en route, don’t miss taking a day trip to the UNESCO-protected town of Trogir.
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Renowned for its Venetian architecture, picturesque narrow streets, and beautiful seaside promenade, it’s is a must when in Split.
Read more about authentic travel experiences in Baltic Outlook.