
Britons planning a summer getaway don’t need to spend a fortune, as new research shows Europe’s best-value beach destinations, with hotel stays starting from as little as £36 per night.Greece proved a scenic yet affordable option, with parts of the country claiming four spots in the top 10.The study, carried out by airport transfer experts Hoppa, analysed popular coastal hotspots across Europe, ranking them based on factors including average three-star hotel prices, transfer times from the airport and overall traveller ratings. The results found easy, affordable beach escapes across the continent, perfect for booking a sunny break without the huge price tag. Faliraki beach, in Rhodes, topped the list of affordable beach breaks | GETTYEurope’s most affordable beach breaksFaliraki Beach, Faliraki, Rhodes – GreeceKašjuni Beach, Split – CroatiaBačvice Beach, Split – CroatiaPraia de Faro, Faro (Algarve) – PortugalPraia da Rocha, Portimão (Algarve) – PortugalKolovare Beach, Zadar – CroatiaAgia Marina Beach, Chania (Crete) – GreecePlatanias Beach, Chania (Crete) – GreeceMyrtos Beach, Kefalonia – GreecePraia da Falésia, Albufeira (Algarve) – PortugalTamariz Beach, Estoril, Cascais – PortugalTopping the list is Faliraki Beach, where average hotel prices come in at just £36 per night, according to the research. Located on the island of Rhodes, the resort is known for its long stretch of golden sand and reliable summer weather, with virtually no rainfall and average temperatures of around 25.7°C. Looking for something different? Croatia is a top choice, with both Kašjuni Beach and Bačvice Beach sharing second place. Both in Split, these beaches mix stunning coastline and vibrant local culture, with hotel stays averaging £56 per night. With nearly 13 hours of sunshine a day during summer, they are ideal for long, laid-back beach days.Portugal’s Algarve region also dominates the rankings, with Praia de Faro and Praia da Rocha both ranking highly at £59 per night. Praia de Faro stands out as it is easy to get to with very little rainfall, while Praia da Rocha is one of the most popular beaches in the region, boasting high review scores and dramatic cliff-backed scenery.Beaches in Split ranked highly, pairing stunning views with gorgeous beaches | GETTYA beach near the Algarve was named as an affordable option this summer | GETTY Further down the list, Kolovare Beach in Croatia was the another top choice for hours of sunshine, with an impressive 12.9 hours per day on average.Greek destinations continue to feature further down the list, including beaches in Crete and Kefalonia, while Portugal rounds things off with more Algarve favourites and coastal spots near Lisbon.With affordable accommodation, reliable weather and easy access from the UK, these destinations give plenty of inspiration for 2026’s summer getaway.