Europe can be frigidly cold and has really depressing weather at times, but there are some glory spots that you should definitely go to. Some of these spots are a backpacker’s haven because of the country’s cheaper costs and its easy access to some of their neighbors. Here, we list some of the best of the best based on the following criteria: cost, accessibility, easily navigable & chance to meet other travelers.
Navagio Beach, Zakynthos Island, Greece – Think virgin beach with limestone cliffs surrounding it. Not convinced yet? How about clear blue waters surrounding you and the only way to get to the beach is by boat? The town of Zakynthos has excellent connections by plane or ferry to the mainland or other European towns, and private rooms can range from 40 EUR a night. Zakynthos in itself is also a great place to explore, offering multiple beaches aside from Navagio. Plus, Greece is very affordable right now, so it could be a great time to visit.
Bacvice Beach, Split, Croatia – Because of the heavy nightclub and party scene, this area is flocked to by backpackers who want to get cheap accommodation & have the party vibe. You can get beach front accommodation and the best part is that this beach is smack dab in the middle of the city.
Las Salinas Beach, Ibiza, Spain – Ibiza has accommodations set for everyone: hostels, hotels, or even the beach if you’re that broke. This party all day island has a reputation for hosting some crazy parties and events that will literally turn your sleeping habits upside down. Note that some of these nightclubs charge exorbitant entry and drink fees, but surely you can find cheaper fun within the island. It’s easy to meet new sets of friends you can spend your vacation with too. Las Salinas beach is actually considered very hip, and is located at the southernmost tip of the island.
Algarve Beaches, Portugal – Over 200km of beaches line Algarve, giving you a lot of choices where to go to for your daily sunbathing ritual. The cleanliness of the area, combined with widely spoken English, and cheaper prices make it a popular destination for backpackers. The rock formations that line these beaches are simply stunning – don’t forget to bring your camera to share some snaps.
Blue Lagoon, Comino, Malta– Comino, a 3.5km island in the country of Malta is also surrounded by karst formations (a form of rock formation) and lovely blue seas. The selling point though is that there are no cars on the island and that it is virtually uninhabited. Snorkelers will revel at the undersea creatures that live in the area, and its reliable ferry service back to the main land. It is not recommended to stay in the island, as there is only one hotel, so best to enjoy a day trip (or two) from the mainland. Malta as a place to visit is not as expensive as other, more well-known beach havens.
Pack your sunscreen and bathing suits and book your flight to these destinations and enjoy the summer-like weather they have most days of the year. You don’t need to have a big bank account to visit them, and leave your phrase book behind: English is widely spoken. Have fun!
