This year’s travel trends point firmly towards more of us seeking thrills over fly-and-flop breaks.
A report named Travel’s New Age of Influence Report, by The Future Laboratory and IHG Hotels & Resorts, stated that for 2025, travellers are looking for the “rurality” and “luxe simplicity” provided by lesser-trodden locations. In other words, it’s all about off-the-beaten-track travel this summer.
It also stated that 68 per cent of Gen Z and Millennials are looking for new ways to explore and are seeking outdoor activities.
Though the cost of living crisis means many of us have stalled booking our next big adventure.
But if you are on a strict budget, new research by sports travel insurance provider, SportsCover, has revealed which under-the-radar destinations in Europe offer the best value for money for an adrenaline-fuelled holiday.
By picking a lesser-touristed location you’re able to escape from the crowds and the premium price tags that go with being in a hotspot. Plus you can soak in epic views while feeling as though you’re the only one around.
With remote islands, national parks and mountain ranges all making the list, SportsCover collated its data by comparing 65 of its users’ most visited locations. The company then used flight and accommodation costs for July, as well as meal prices and activity prices to find the cheapest places to visit this summer.
These are Europe’s 10 most affordable destinations for adventurous travellers.
Tatra Mountains, Poland
If you’re a fan of rock climbing or mountaineering, it doesn’t get much better than that Poland’s Tatra Mountains. Ranked as the most affordable destination for an adventure holiday this summer, it’s a rugged range which borders Poland and Slovakia, offering the chance to see endangered species including Tatra chamois and the Tatra marmot, as well as lynx.
Low-cost flights from the UK to Krakow (from £32), plus cost-effective buses and trains available to connect you to your final destination leave you with more to spend on arrival.
Tara National Park, Serbia
In Western Serbia, near the border with Bosnia-Hercegovina, Tara National Park offers 220 square kilometres to explore, including canyons, cliffs and the Tara river. It’s ideal for mountain biking, kayaking and you can even try white water rafting.
You’ll be rewarded with affordable accommodation once you arrive.
The Albanian Alps, Albania
Albania’s coast has garnered comparisons to Amalfi, and its Alps aren’t to be overlooked if you’re an adventure lover. Rugged terrain and meadows will reward hikers who make the trip. While friendly locals and low priced restaurants make it an ideal budget-friendly option for those looking for a new challenge.
The Theth-Valbona trek is the most common route and can be completed in a day. It connects the mountain villages of Theth and Valbona, and takes you through the iconic Valbona Pass.
Read more: A foodie guide to Albania
Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia might be known for the millionaire’s playground of Costa Smerelda on its northeast coast, but for the less languid crowd it can be an affordable option. There are purse-friendly flights, plus affordable accommodation options in Cagliari, with the opportunity to try everything scuba diving to surfing on the island.
Carpathian Mountains, Romania
Move over Swiss Alps, Transylvania’s offer charming villages, ample opportunity for challenging treks and the chance to spot everything from wild cats to deer and lynxes.
This one is a great all-rounder, offering low priced flights, plenty of low-cost accommodation options and cheap eats.
Corfu Trail, Greece
If you’re planning to have a Greek summer, the Corfu Trail will add a dose of adventurous spirit, with the opportunity for everything from hiking and paragliding, to water sports and scuba diving.
You’ll save on both accommodation and restaurants versus other destinations in the Med.
Gozo Island, Malta
If you take an affordable flight to Malta and a low-cost ferry to Gozo you’ll be rewarded with ample opportunity for both land and water sports on this remote and compact isle, which forms part of the Maltese archipelago.
The Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
Activities from cycling to water sports are super affordable in this rugged Balkan bay. Framed by imposing mountains and the Adriatic Sea it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers the opportunity for everything from 4x4 rides to paragliding at affordable rates. Flights cost from just £30, so you’ll make major savings on travel.
Costa Daurada, Spain
This strip of Spanish coast southwest of Barcelona, couldn’t be further from the bustling city in terms of affordability. It offers varied coastal trails, hidden coves and hiking routes, as well as excellent diving spots, with low cost flights and food keeping costs down.
Galicia, Spain
Another hotspot for surfers on a budget is Galicia. The northwestern region is often compared to Ireland for its wild, green landscape, but naturally, it benefits from warmer climes. Kayakers, hikers and cyclists will also be in luck with stunning routes to explore along the Camino de Santiago way.
