Spain Joins Poland, Italy, Lithuania, Cyprus, Montenegro, Malta and More for the Best Affordable European Getaways in 2026

Spain joins Poland, Italy, Lithuania, Cyprus, Montenegro, Malta, and more as one of the best affordable European getaways for 2026. These destinations offer the perfect balance of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures, all while remaining budget-friendly for travelers. From the sun-soaked beaches of Spain’s Costa Blanca to the charming medieval towns of Poland, each of these countries provides exceptional value, ensuring that you can experience the beauty of Europe without breaking the bank. Whether you’re seeking relaxation by the sea, exploration in ancient cities, or an adventure through breathtaking natural landscapes, these destinations are ready to offer you unforgettable experiences at unbeatable prices.

As we step into 2026, it’s an ideal time to plan an affordable European getaway. Whether you’re dreaming of a sunny beach holiday or an adventure through historic cities, Europe offers plenty of destinations that won’t strain your budget. January, in particular, presents great opportunities to book deals on flights and accommodations, thanks to seasonal discounts and holiday packages. But beyond the online sales, it’s important to choose destinations that are affordable not just to travel to but also to explore once you arrive.

Here’s a guide to ten European destinations that offer remarkable value for money, making them perfect for a budget-friendly vacation in 2026.

Budva, Montenegro
Nestled along the Adriatic coast, Montenegro is often overlooked by tourists in favor of more well-known neighbors like Croatia. Yet, its coastal town of Budva offers stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and a lively nightlife scene, all at a fraction of the cost of other Mediterranean hotspots. The town’s vibrant Old Town and beautiful beaches make it a perfect escape. Enjoy affordable meals for as low as £10, and drinks for £2-3. Budget travelers can also expect bus rides starting from £5. Flights to Montenegro begin at £37.

Wroclaw, Poland
Wroclaw, often called the “Venice of Poland,” is a charming city located on the Oder River. Known for its picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and lively Market Square, Wroclaw offers an enchanting experience without the hefty price tag. A day of sightseeing, including meals and drinks, costs approximately £20, while a stay in a luxury hotel may only set you back £100. Flights to Wroclaw begin at £29.

Tuscany, Italy
Famous for its rolling hills, historic towns, and Renaissance art, Tuscany remains one of the most affordable regions in Italy. A week’s stay, including flights and accommodations, can cost just £929 per person, making it far cheaper than more expensive areas like Sardinia. Tuscany offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from self-catering apartments to all-inclusive stays. Flights to Florence start at £42.

Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, is an underrated European treasure with a UNESCO-listed Old Town, full of stunning Gothic and Renaissance buildings. Often described as “Vienna meets Paris,” Vilnius combines charm and history with affordable prices. A daily budget of around £43, including meals, transport, and accommodation, is more than enough to explore the city. Flights to Vilnius begin at £30.

Alicante, Costa Blanca
Alicante, located on Spain’s Costa Blanca, is a sunny and vibrant city that won’t break the bank. Known for its long stretches of white-sand beaches, Alicante boasts a delightful Old Town, bustling port, and a welcoming atmosphere. The city offers reasonably priced meals ranging from £6-9 and drinks starting from £2. Flights to Alicante are available from £27.

Karpas Peninsula, Cyprus
The Karpas Peninsula, situated in Northern Cyprus, is an unspoiled paradise offering peaceful beaches and lush natural beauty. Perfect for those looking for a tranquil retreat, Karpas remains relatively undiscovered by mass tourism. Accommodation is affordable, and the region offers natural beauty without the crowds. Flights to Larnaca, the nearest airport, start at £62.

Cadiz, Spain
Cadiz, one of the most affordable Spanish cities along the Mediterranean coast, offers a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a warm climate year-round. Known for its historic landmarks, including the Castle of Santa Catalina and Torre Tavira, Cadiz also offers low-cost dining options with a bottle of wine priced around £3.63. A night in a hotel costs around £103 on average. Flights to Jerez (XRY) are available from £69.

Antalya, Turkey
The city of Antalya, located along Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coast, offers a perfect mix of golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and ancient ruins. It’s an excellent choice for a budget-friendly beach getaway with plenty of resorts and activities. With flights starting at £40, Antalya is ideal for those looking to unwind in a sun-drenched location with a rich cultural backdrop.

Valletta, Malta
Valletta, the capital of Malta, may be small, but it’s packed with history and charm. With its UNESCO-listed architecture, cobblestone streets, and impressive Baroque buildings, Valletta is a must-visit for history lovers. The city is known for its sunny weather and reasonable prices, with a traditional Pastizzi pastry costing just 90p and wraps from £4. Flights to Malta International (MLA) start at £34.

Krakow, Poland
Krakow, with its rich history and medieval charm, is one of Europe’s most budget-friendly city breaks. Its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, which includes Europe’s largest market square, is full of culture and attractions. Krakow offers incredible value with meals for under £10, four-star hotels from £57, and flights from £26.

Spain joins Poland, Italy, Lithuania, Cyprus, Montenegro, Malta, and more as top affordable European getaways in 2026, offering a mix of history, stunning landscapes, and rich cultures at budget-friendly prices.

These destinations not only offer affordable travel options but also provide enriching experiences, from exploring historic cities to unwinding on pristine beaches. Whether you’re enjoying the Mediterranean sun or wandering through charming streets, these European spots promise unforgettable vacations at budget-friendly prices.

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