Finding a good deal for your upcoming holiday is a priority for most people. We all want to save money without sacrificing on quality. The good news is that we’ve compiled the 5 cheapest destinations in Europe in 2014 with the help of Post Office Travel Money, to help you identify where you can get the most for your money this year. Also make sure you check out our tips on how to avoid extortionate bank charges whilst you are abroad.
1. Algarve, Portugal
The sun baked stretch of southern coastline otherwise known as the Algarve always proves popular with holidaymakers of different ages. Whether you have a second home here, want a relaxing self-catered villa break or fun with family and friends, the selection of resorts and accommodation will be sure to deliver just what you’re after. What makes it even more of a prime pick for 2014 however is the facts that prices will see an 18% fall here this year. That means it comes out on top as Europe’s cheapest destination, the first time it’s taken the lead since 2010. When it comes to holiday necessities, you can guzzle a coffee or a coke for as little as 86p while a local beer will only set you back £1.29. Enjoy a three course meal for less than £20.00 on average and finish the evening with a glass of wine for less than £2.00!
2. Prague, Czech Republic
The king of Eastern Europe, Prague will make a fine choice for that spring time city break your subconscious has been pondering during the dark winter days. This is the perfect setting for days spent exploring the nooks and crannies of impressive buildings and cobbled streets of the enchanting Old Town. Although part of the EU, the Czech Republic has yet to introduce the Euro as the official currency which means that the Czech Koruna is still in use. At around 33CZK to 1GBP, the exchange rate certainly works in your favour as a visitor. It means a local beer, coffee or coke can all be bought for the equivalent of around £1.17. Sun cream might not be an essential purchase here but if it is, you can pick a bottle up for around £6.50 and if you’re a smoker, a 20 pack of cigarettes can be bought with loose change for around £2.61. All in all, this is a great option for an affordable adventure in 2014.
3. Sunny Beach, Bulgaria
Bulgaria has long been an underdog when it comes to sunny holidays in Europe. Its offerings are just as good as those found both in Spain and Portugal which often top popularity polls. Because it’s located just that little bit further away however, it remained ‘off the beaten path’ for some years. Recently, the rise of this destination is becoming more and more evident but luckily it remains of the cheaper destinations in Europe. A theoretical basket of holiday items, including beer, coffee, coke, a three course meal, cigarettes, sun cream and a 1.5l bottle of water would cost you around £38.46 in the resort of Sunny Beach which can only be considered good value for money by anyone’s standards.
4. Costa del Sol, Spain
Spain is of course an unsurprising entry on this list, despite general costs having risen around 22% over the last year. This means a coffee or a coke will now cost you £1.03 on average, while suncream will set you back £4.26 and a local beer will be £1.72 or a glass of wine, £1.51. According to the Post Office Travel Money report, eating out costs less than it did last year at more than 30 popular Spanish resorts with those in the Costa del Sol included, so over all a holiday here is still good value for money. With its golden beaches and family tailored attractions aplenty, the Costa del Sol continues to prove a wallet friendly option for this year’s summer break.
5. Marmaris, Turkey
Turkey also comes up top trumps this year. The exchange rate will work to our favour with the Turkish Lira currently experiencing a five year low. This means us holidaymakers can enjoy a 19% reduction in holiday costs if you choose to travel here in 2014. Boasting bustling cities, historic ruins and fun filled coastal resorts, take your pick on where you visit. Why not hire a car here instead and include a little bit of it all in your plans? A glass of wine or a local beer will cost you £3.00 or £2.40 on average respectively, while a packet of cigarettes is just over £3.00. Overall holidays here are said to be almost 30% cheaper than this time two years ago. However you look at it, Turkey looks to provide great value for your 2014 holiday and with the added bonus of great weather!
So, there you have it. These are the 5 cheapest destinations in Europe in 2014 so book your trip now and don’t forget to secure your summer car hire in advance too for even more savings. If you are after more useful travel tips be sure to read our guide of common travel scams to be aware of.
