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With the peak of the summer travel season fast approaching, many people are looking to finalize their travel plans.
But if you didn’t think you could afford a vacation this year, it might be time to think again.
It is possible to travel and explore Europe, even if you’re on a tight budget.
According to a new report from travel company Kayak, these are the six cheapest destinations in Europe.
Many are in Eastern Europe, which is usually considered the cheapest area in Europe to travel and spend time. But you may be surprised to discover that two of the destinations are in the heart of popular Spain.
There’s so much for budget travelers to enjoy.
Here is the full list:
Galicia, Spain
Located in the northwest of Spain, along the Atlantic coast, Galicia has all the charm of the country’s more popular destinations such as Andalusia and the Costa Brava, but on a more attractive budget.
With a population of over 2.5 million, Galicia is a vast region famous for its wild beaches, lighthouses, and verdant green landscapes.
Coffee and beer prices are similar to those found in wider Spain in the 1990s, and the region is famous for its abundant seafood, which travels quickly from net to plate.
Galicia boasts a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy free or low-cost days out to attractions such as the Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela and Muralla Romana de Lugo.
During the summer months the beaches are bustling with people, but not uncomfortably overcrowded in the way you might find in Southern Spain.
Expect to spend just $1.50 for a cup of coffee in the sun, or just over $37 for a three-course meal for two.
Turunc, Turkey
Turkey is a popular destination for tourists hoping to make their money go further, and in a nation blessed with affordable resorts, Turunc stands out as particularly attractive.
Turunc is just 20km south of the popular tourist resort of Marmaris. It is a small coastal area with a population of less than 2,000. The village itself is just 1km in size, meaning you can walk from one end to the other in less than 30 minutes.
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Once a sleepy fishing village, this hidden gem boasts crystal clear seas and a white sand beach which has been awarded a Blue Flag. The beach itself is nestled between green-coated mountains.
Culture vultures can take a trip to Ephesus, which is a three-hour bus ride away but is well worth the journey. Entry will cost $11.
Back in the calm and relaxed atmosphere of the village, a three-course meal here will cost just $9.50 per person.
Golden Sands, Bulgaria
Golden Sands is a large and popular beach resort set on Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast.
It is a vacation destination that offers two different and distinct experiences to its visitors. For a traditional sun, sea, and sand vacation you can stay in Golden Sands itself.
Here tourists can spend time on the beach and enjoy watersports during the day, and enjoy the loud and lively nightlife in the evening.
History buffs can visit the historic city of Varna, just 17km to the south. The third largest city in Bulgaria, and lovingly referred to as the pearl of the Black Sea, this is a busy and bustling port city.
The symbol of the city is the Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral, a huge structure that dominates the skyline, and is free to enjoy.
In Golden Sands a beer will cost just 70 cents, a bottle of water just 50 cents. You can expect to spend around $25 on a three-course meal for two.
Palma, Mallorca
The small Spanish island of Mallorca has long been a popular destination for tourists, and Palma tends to attract a youthful, party crowd.
Mallorca is known for the high quality of its beautiful beaches and its sheltered coves perfect for swimming. It also boasts an abundance of Roman and Moorish remains.
Whether you’re looking for quaint villages with an authentic Spanish feel, beaches to enjoy watersports such as kayaking and snorkeling, or a vibrant dynamic nightlife, you’ll find both in and around Mallorca.
According to the report conducted by Kayak, the average visitor to Palma will spend just $44 a day on food and drink.
Saranda, Albania
In the heart of the lesser-known Albanian Riviera, Saranda is a beautiful and picturesque seaside resort that was once a sleepy fishing village.
Saranda boasts a favorable climate with an incredible 300 days of sunshine each year. Its location close to Corfu means you will find plenty of Greek influences here in the architecture, the attitudes and the food.
The main attraction for visitors here is the white sand beach, but if you’re looking to explore beyond the sun and sand, you could also visit Lekuresi Castle, which is in the area. Entrance to the castle is free, which is ideal for travelers on a budget.
A decent meal in Saranda will cost visitors just $6.
Skopje, North Macedonia
While North Macedonia may not be your first pick when thinking of European vacation destinations, this country is rapidly growing in popularity.
Skopje is the capital city of Macedonia, and it boasts a huge number of archeological sites and historic attractions.
Budget travelers looking for free activities in the city can head to the memorial house of Mother Teresa, who was born in the city, or explore Fortress Kale.
North Macedonia is widely considered to be the cheapest country in Europe, meaning that your money will go further here.
Dinner for two will cost just $18, while you can expect to pay $1.50 for a beer.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
David Golber
Sunday 28th of May 2023
Ohrid, North Macedonia, is the place. Espresso overlooking the beautiful is one dollar.
TT
Saturday 6th of May 2023
A coffee from Starbucks costs like $5+ in China, does that mean China is more expensive to visit than Spain or Mallorca?
Z
Saturday 6th of May 2023
The prices for Turkey are a bit outdated. As of 2023, Ephesus costs 400tl (a little over $20, not $11). $9.5 for a 3 course meal is now quite low. At a sit down restaurant, a Coke will cost about $2 and a beer will run $4-5, soup about $2-3, and a meat based main dish will run $7+. You can still visit affordably but inflation has hit hard and it’s not as cheap any more.
T
Saturday 6th of May 2023
You've misquoted the report - it's "cheap" not the cheapEST destinations in Europe, not that that justifies their content. Was wondering what was going on when I saw Palma mallorca on the list ha. Vienna also made their list lol. Terrible post by Kayak, don't do them the service of reposting.
James II
Saturday 6th of May 2023
Saranda' beaches have more cigarette butts than sand.