Sun, Sand And Savings: 10 Affordable European Destinations

Whether you're on the hunt for the ultimate beach break or looking to tick some adrenaline-inducing activities off your bucket list, when it comes to getting away, your trip should be as budget-friendly as possible – so you can use the money saved to make the most of every minute of your break. The following 10 fantastic European destinations are ideal for an affordable holiday. With these recommendations, getting away with friends or family for a fun-filled holiday doesn't have to cost the Earth.

If you love nothing more than sun, sea and sand, this should tick all the boxes. Flights to Greece are generally reasonably priced if you book well in advance, and camping beachside will not only keep the cost of accommodation down, but also provide plenty of entertainment for younger members of your party. From watersports on the beach to extensive on-site facilities and must-see cultural sights and attractions close-by, you'll have plenty of exciting items to add to your holiday itinerary.

A popular holiday destination no matter the time of year is the Canary Islands. This volcanic archipelago has numerous islands to visit, including Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria, which are all bursting with awe-inspiring natural beauty, superb beaches and watersports. Whether you want an action-packed holiday or a relaxing beach vacation at a homely, self-catering Lanzarote villa, there's ample opportunity to explore these breathtaking islands without going over budget.

Glamping in the Algarve is a safe bet for holidaymakers who love the great outdoors but want a few home comforts along the way. Portugal's southernmost region, the Algarve is a popular coastal holiday spot – thanks in no small part to its dramatic cliffs and gorgeous, golden beaches. Learn to surf, get acquainted with the local wildlife or simply head to the beach for some sun, sea and sand – the choice is yours.

You may think a vacation in Tuscany is out of your price range, but it doesn't have to be. Here, you can enjoy great food, wine and stunning scenery beside the pool, without having to take out a second mortgage. Agrotourism-style holidays are great for all the family and, with historic cities like Pisa and Florence never far away by train or car, you can mix things up with a cultural city break, too.

If you want to go off grid and steer clear of the crowds, head to Slovenia for a budget-friendly trip. Bordered by Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, this small country in central Europe offers an abundance of opportunities to go off the beaten track. Kids will love sleeping in a treehouse or glamping in tents after a day of adventure in the forest or on the lake – and, famed for its aquamarine rivers and snow-covered mountain peaks, Slovenia will provide a peaceful and picturesque haven from home.

A quick trip over the Channel by ferry, train, car or airplane will land you in Brittany – a beautiful part of France. On the most easterly point of France's coast, you can enjoy picture-perfect scenery, sea air and the freedom to explore. Surrounded by fields yet close to the beach, it's an ideal place for relaxation and family time, as you get to know the local area.

Scottish Highlands is often used as a synonym with Scotland, even though there is a Lowlands region. That's how famous the mountain range, one of the most beautiful on Earth, is. Explore the spectacular unspoiled nature with rugged massifs, deep blue creeks and empty valleys where Red Deer rule the hills, and see what the fuss is all about. Also, the Northern Highlands are among the best places to see the stunning Northern Lights. After all, Northern Scotland lies at the same latitude as Stavanger in Norway and Nunivak Island in Alaska.

It's also called The King's Trail. You'll cover the 275-route in about a month. Summer is the time to go because it's very cold the rest of the year. The trail is in extreme northern Sweden, well inside the Arctic Circle. The trail cuts through the heart of this expansive landscape of big Arctic valleys, birch forests, hidden glaciers, powerful rivers, the highest pass on the trail, Tjaktjapasset, and the highest mountain in Sweden, Mt. Kebne. You'll pass four national parks and a nature reserve.

The 177-mile long-distance hiking path from Pforzheim to Basel is one of Germany's top hiking routes. Get the chance to appreciate the region's landscape and cuisine from the peaks of the Black Forest. You'll cross historic wooden bridges built over fast-flowing streams, hike through vast spruce forests on narrow mountain paths, and hike along Lake Titisee, a popular destination among tourists, according Germany Travel.

Formed by the remnants of glaciers, the picturesque fjords of Norway are some of the most beautiful and easily accessible on Earth. Head to Bergen for easy access to some of the best views and spend some time hiking. Though the majority of tourists come in the summer, it's easy to find your way off the beaten path and catch some unbelievable views.