Britons looking to cut the cost of a summer getaway may want to swap Europe’s biggest tourist hotspots for some lesser-known cities.The most affordable places for three-star hotel stays have been named as searches for “cheap holidays” have risen by 22 per cent over the past three months.The research, by airport transfer company hoppa, analysed dozens of European destinations using hotel prices alongside the cost of food, drink and attractions to identify the best-value summer breaks for budget-conscious holidaymakers.Tirana topped the rankings, with the average three-star hotel costing just £41.72 a night.Tirana is a hidden gem with the most affordable 3-star hotel rooms | GETTYCheapest European destinations for 3-star hotel (price per night)Tirana, Albania (£41.72)Skopje, North Macedonia (£42.01) Riga, Latvia (£43.61)Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina (£48.25)Belgrade, Serbia (£48.92)Antalya, Turkey (£50.15)Tallinn, Estonia (£54.82)Rhodes, Greece (£55.45)Vilnius, Lithuania (£57.36)Sofia, Bulgaria (£58.99)The average 3-star hotel in Tirana was found to be less than half the overall average of £99.50. For a four-night stay, that could save travellers more than £230 on accommodation alone.Albania’s colourful capital is growing in popularity thanks to its café culture, lively squares, museums and easy access to beaches along the Albanian Riviera, making it an affordable base for a summer break.Skopje came a close second at £42.01 per night. The North Macedonian capital was also found to be one of the cheapest places in Europe for everyday holiday spending, with a pint of beer costing around £2.11, meals from £5.61 and public transport from just 56p. Visitors can explore the city’s striking bridges, Ottoman Old Bazaar and mountaintop Millennium Cross without breaking the bank.Riga has rooms from around £43 | PASarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, made the top five, with rooms for less than £48 | GETTYRiga completed the top three, with average hotel prices of £43.61 per night. Latvia’s capital combines a picturesque UNESCO-listed Old Town with Art Nouveau architecture, riverside walks, lively markets and a thriving food scene, offering plenty to see and do over a long weekend.Sarajevo and Belgrade also made the top five, with average hotel prices below £50 per night, while Antalya, Rhodes and Tallinn all featured in the top 10 for travellers looking to balance affordability with sunshine, beaches or historic city sights.