As the new year begins, thoughts turn to planning the perfect escape. The good news for British travellers is that a dream European holiday in 2026 need not drain your savings. A host of stunning destinations across the continent offer incredible value, combining rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and sunny climes with budget-friendly prices.
January is a prime time to book, with major airline sales and discounted rates on hotel booking websites. Holiday packages are also frequently discounted this month. Beyond the initial booking, knowing which destinations offer the best value on the ground is key to a truly affordable trip. Here are ten of the cheapest European gems to consider for your 2026 travels.
Coastal Gems & Sun-Soaked Retreats
For those craving sea and sunshine, several affordable coastal destinations stand out. Budva in Montenegro is an Adriatic treasure often overshadowed by its neighbour, Croatia. This seaside resort boasts golden sand beaches, turquoise waters, a vibrant nightlife, and a historic Old Town. It's significantly cheaper than Western Europe, with local beers like Nikšićko costing around £2-3 and hearty meals from £10. Flights can be found from just £37.
Spain's Costa Blanca remains a perennial favourite for value. The port city of Alicante offers charming old quarters, a gorgeous waterfront, and pristine beaches. A beer here costs between £2 and £3.50, with meals ranging from £6 to £9. Flights start from a remarkably low £27.
Seeking untouched beauty? The Karpas Peninsula in Cyprus is a serene, unspoiled region of Northern Cyprus, home to deserted beaches and natural parks. It's an ideal, affordable spot for a tranquil retreat, with flights to Larnaca from £62.
On Turkey's 'Riviera', Antalya delivers golden beaches, ancient ruins, and the Taurus Mountains at budget-friendly prices. Flights to this turquoise coast hotspot start from £40.
Historic City Breaks with Charm
For culture enthusiasts, Europe's cities need not be expensive. Wrocław, Poland, known as the 'Venice of Poland' for its network of islands and bridges, offers a fairy-tale Gothic Old Town. Which? found a day's eating and drinking here costs under £20, with flights from £29.
Fellow Polish city Krakow is consistently ranked one of Europe's most affordable city breaks. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town and vast market square are accessible on a tight budget, with four-star hotels from £57, meals under £10, and flights from just £26.
The Lithuanian capital, Vilnius, is a hidden gem with a stunning medieval Old Town. Travellers report a daily budget of around £43 covers food, accommodation, and transport. Flights start from £30.
Malta's fortress capital, Valletta, is a sun-drenched UNESCO site with Baroque palaces and cobbled streets. Local savoury pastries (Pastizzi) cost about 90p, and flights to Luqa start from £34.
Regional Wonders & Overlooked Hotspots
Beyond single cities, entire regions offer outstanding value. Tuscany, Italy, famous for Florence, Siena, and its rolling hills, is surprisingly affordable. Which? notes a week's stay with flights and accommodation averages £929 per person, far less than Sardinia (£1,508), thanks to diverse lodging options. Flights to Florence start from £42.
In southern Spain, the historic city of Cádiz is one of the country's warmest and most overlooked affordable spots. It was recently named the cheapest Spanish city break, with average hotel rooms at £103 per night, wine for £3.63 a bottle, and beer around £2.48. Flights to nearby Jerez start from £69.
With careful planning and by targeting these value-rich destinations, British travellers can enjoy an unforgettable European holiday in 2026 that is light on the wallet but rich in experience.
