May 17, 2023
Ranking the best budget summer holiday destinations for 2023
Summer is fast approaching and, with the spring season almost behind us, it's only a matter of time before we set off on a spectacular, sun-filled holiday. These breaks give us the chance to recharge while enjoying a new destination packed full of culture, cuisine, and attractions.
However, with many of us feeling the financial pressure brought on by inflation and the rising cost of living, a holiday that is kind on the purse strings will be at the forefront of many travelers' minds. So, where to go? Well, with so many unique locations dotted around the globe, it can be difficult to choose one.
That's why DiscoverCars.com have done the hard work for you, ranking the top locations for a budget summer holiday. We also completed this ranking last year, and now we're back 12 months on to find out if there are any changes to the ranking order. Also, make sure to check out the 2024 edition of the rankings.
However, with many of us feeling the financial pressure brought on by inflation and the rising cost of living, a holiday that is kind on the purse strings will be at the forefront of many travelers' minds. So, where to go? Well, with so many unique locations dotted around the globe, it can be difficult to choose one.
That's why DiscoverCars.com have done the hard work for you, ranking the top locations for a budget summer holiday. We also completed this ranking last year, and now we're back 12 months on to find out if there are any changes to the ranking order. Also, make sure to check out the 2024 edition of the rankings.
Methodology
We wanted to discover the best budget summer getaway destinations. To do this, we explored the following ranking factors:
To calculate the cost of an average flight, we used Google Flights and recorded the top 11 roundtrip prices from London Heathrow to the city's nearest airport.
Additionally, to discover the average cost of a week-long stay at the destination, we used Expedia and recorded the price of the top 15 recommended hotels in each city (not including ads) to create an average price.
To work out the average cost of rental cars, we used our internal data (DiscoverCars.com) to record the average price for each company that offered medium-sized cars in the location and created an overall average from this data.
Moreover, we found the cost of the most popular attraction the location offers by taking the most popular tourist attraction in the city according to TripAdvisor, recording the price of a ticket for adult admission or overall/standard ticket if it was not split into age ranges/concessions.
Finally, the number of affordable restaurants, attractions, and hotels was collected using TripAdvisor. To find the number of affordable restaurants and hotels, we used the 'Cheap Eats' and 'Cheap Hotels' filter options.
- Closest Airport
- Average Flight Cost (from London Heathrow to the destination's closest airport)
- Average Cost of a Week-long Hotel Stay
- Average Cost of a Rental Car
- Number of 'Cheap' Restaurants
- Number of 'Budget' Hotels
- Number of Attractions
- Most Popular Attraction
- Average Cost of Most Popular Attraction
To calculate the cost of an average flight, we used Google Flights and recorded the top 11 roundtrip prices from London Heathrow to the city's nearest airport.
Additionally, to discover the average cost of a week-long stay at the destination, we used Expedia and recorded the price of the top 15 recommended hotels in each city (not including ads) to create an average price.
To work out the average cost of rental cars, we used our internal data (DiscoverCars.com) to record the average price for each company that offered medium-sized cars in the location and created an overall average from this data.
Moreover, we found the cost of the most popular attraction the location offers by taking the most popular tourist attraction in the city according to TripAdvisor, recording the price of a ticket for adult admission or overall/standard ticket if it was not split into age ranges/concessions.
Finally, the number of affordable restaurants, attractions, and hotels was collected using TripAdvisor. To find the number of affordable restaurants and hotels, we used the 'Cheap Eats' and 'Cheap Hotels' filter options.
Free to use when crediting DiscoverCars.com using a do-follow hyperlink.
Prague, Czech Republic
Ranking as the best budget summer holiday destination for the second year in a row is Prague. The Czech Republic's capital received 65 out of 77 points. Also known as the 'Mother of Cities', on account of this location being a political, cultural, and economic hotspot, Prague is home to a host of resplendent Baroque, Romanesque, and Renaissance architecture.
Prague has the second-lowest average flight cost in the ranking at £169. The city is also home to 1,166 cheap eateries, giving visitors a wealth of choices when it comes to dinner time. The city's most popular attraction, Staromestske Namesti - or Old Town Square - is available to experience for free, making it the perfect destination for a budget summer holiday.
Prague has the second-lowest average flight cost in the ranking at £169. The city is also home to 1,166 cheap eateries, giving visitors a wealth of choices when it comes to dinner time. The city's most popular attraction, Staromestske Namesti - or Old Town Square - is available to experience for free, making it the perfect destination for a budget summer holiday.
- Closest Airport: Prague Airport (PRG)
- Average Flight Cost: £169
- Average Cost of a Week-long Hotel Stay: £632
- Average Cost of a Rental Car: £280
- Number of 'Cheap' Restaurants: 1,166
- Number of 'Budget' Hotels: 440
- Number of Attractions: 4,131
- Most Popular Attraction: Staromestske Namesti
- Average Cost of Most Popular Attraction: £0
Rome, Italy
In second place, the Italian capital city, Rome, scored 57 out of 77 points. This majestic city is a popular tourist destination all year round due to its unrivaled history, architecture, and famous Italian cuisine, meaning that it's a great option in the summer for those on a budget.
Rome is home to iconic attractions such as the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain. The city is also home to 2,542 cheap restaurants, the most of any location in this ranking. Flights from Heathrow to Rome Ciampino cost £181 on average, overall, the destination is a solid choice for a budget summer holiday.
Rome is home to iconic attractions such as the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain. The city is also home to 2,542 cheap restaurants, the most of any location in this ranking. Flights from Heathrow to Rome Ciampino cost £181 on average, overall, the destination is a solid choice for a budget summer holiday.
- Closest Airport: Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA)
- Average Flight Cost: £181
- Average Cost of a Week-long Hotel Stay: £866
- Average Cost of a Rental Car: £367
- Number of 'Cheap' Restaurants: 2,542
- Number of 'Budget' Hotels: 2,382
- Number of Attractions: 6,055
- Most Popular Attraction: Colosseum
- Average Cost of Most Popular Attraction: £14.19
Istanbul, Turkey
Next, Istanbul ranked as the third best location for a budget summer holiday with the ancient city scoring 57 out of 77 points. Often regarded as the bridge between Asia and Europe, Istanbul exists across two continents, making it an extremely unique destination. It's also home to incredible sights including the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.
Istanbul is a great location for those holidaying on a budget with over 1,000 cheap restaurants and budget hotels to choose from. Furthermore, the Hagia Sophia Mosque is free to visit due to its use as a religious site. Car rental costs in the city are also fairly cheap in comparison to other locations (£265).
Istanbul is a great location for those holidaying on a budget with over 1,000 cheap restaurants and budget hotels to choose from. Furthermore, the Hagia Sophia Mosque is free to visit due to its use as a religious site. Car rental costs in the city are also fairly cheap in comparison to other locations (£265).
- Closest Airport: Istanbul Airport (IST)
- Average Flight Cost: £264
- Average Cost of a Week-long Hotel Stay: £836
- Average Cost of a Rental Car: £265
- Number of 'Cheap' Restaurants: 1,566
- Number of 'Budget' Hotels: 1,056
- Number of Attractions: 4,665
- Most Popular Attraction: Hagia Sophia Mosque
- Average Cost of Most Popular Attraction: £0
Vienna, Austria
Placing fourth in the ranking is the Austrian capital of Vienna. The location scored 49 out of 77 points. The city is also known as the World's Capital of Music due to the number of famous composers that resided there, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig Van Beethoven.
Vienna offers travelers 2,233 attractions to experience during their visit, including the iconic Schonbrunn Palace with its adult tickets costing £35.45. Flights from Heathrow to Vienna are also fairly affordable, costing £179 on average.
Vienna offers travelers 2,233 attractions to experience during their visit, including the iconic Schonbrunn Palace with its adult tickets costing £35.45. Flights from Heathrow to Vienna are also fairly affordable, costing £179 on average.
- Closest Airport: Vienna Airport (VIE)
- Average Flight Cost: £179
- Average Cost of a Week-long Hotel Stay: £806
- Average Cost of a Rental Car: £355
- Number of 'Cheap' Restaurants: 637
- Number of 'Budget' Hotels: 158
- Number of Attractions: 2,233
- Most Popular Attraction: Schonbrunn Palace
- Average Cost of Most Popular Attraction: £35.45
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Rounding off the top five is Plovdiv. The Bulgarian city scored 48 out of 77 points. Plovdiv has something for everyone as it's home to both unique architecture - found in the Old Town - and natural wonders such as the Maritsa River.
Plovdiv is much more remote than some of the cities in this ranking and is only home to around 347,000 people. Still, with 76 cheap eateries and 48 budget hotels, it remains a sensible option for those on a budget this summer. The picturesque Plovdiv Old Town is also completely free to experience.
Plovdiv is much more remote than some of the cities in this ranking and is only home to around 347,000 people. Still, with 76 cheap eateries and 48 budget hotels, it remains a sensible option for those on a budget this summer. The picturesque Plovdiv Old Town is also completely free to experience.
- Closest Airport: Sofia Airport (SOF)
- Average Flight Cost: £209
- Average Cost of a Week-long Hotel Stay: £502
- Average Cost of a Rental Car: £236
- Number of 'Cheap' Restaurants: 76
- Number of 'Budget' Hotels: 48
- Number of Attractions: 218
- Most Popular Attraction: Plovdiv Old Town
- Average Cost of Most Popular Attraction: £0
Athens, Greece
In sixth place, the beautiful city of Athens scored 46 out of 77 points. Athens, which is the capital city of Greece, is a popular summer destination due to its warm weather and sandy beaches but is also a great choice for a budget trip.
Athens, known for being the birthplace of democracy, is a must-visit destination for any traveler this summer. The city is full of history that shaped the world we live in today such as the Acropolis, which is available to experience for £17.73. Overall, there are 2,563 attractions dotted around Athens for visitors to sample.
Athens, known for being the birthplace of democracy, is a must-visit destination for any traveler this summer. The city is full of history that shaped the world we live in today such as the Acropolis, which is available to experience for £17.73. Overall, there are 2,563 attractions dotted around Athens for visitors to sample.
- Closest Airport: Athens Airport (ATH)
- Average Flight Cost: £235
- Average Cost of a Week-long Hotel Stay: £771
- Average Cost of a Rental Car: £360
- Number of 'Cheap' Restaurants: 763
- Number of 'Budget' Hotels: 160
- Number of Attractions: 2,563
- Most Popular Attraction: Acropolis
- Average Cost of Most Popular Attraction: £17.73
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Placing seventh in the ranking is Ljubljana. The Slovenian capital scored 46 out of 77 points. Although the city's ranking result has dropped from fourth in 2022, it remains a solid option for travelers on a budget.
Ljubljana is a city that's rich in culture and is home to attractions such as Tivoli Park, the Old Town, and Preseren Square, which are all available to visit for free. Overall, there are 700 attractions and a flight from Heathrow to Ljubljana will set travelers back by £191 on average.
Ljubljana is a city that's rich in culture and is home to attractions such as Tivoli Park, the Old Town, and Preseren Square, which are all available to visit for free. Overall, there are 700 attractions and a flight from Heathrow to Ljubljana will set travelers back by £191 on average.
- Closest Airport: Ljubljana Airport (LJU)
- Average Flight Cost: £191
- Average Cost of a Week-long Hotel Stay: £973
- Average Cost of a Rental Car: £317
- Number of 'Cheap' Restaurants: 140
- Number of 'Budget' Hotels: 76
- Number of Attractions: 700
- Most Popular Attraction: Ljubljana Old Town
- Average Cost of Most Popular Attraction: £0
Marbella, Spain
Next, Marbella ranked in eighth place scoring 41 out of 77 points. The Spanish city is found on the south coast in the Malaga province and is known for its party atmosphere, bustling beaches, and lively nightlife. While it is often seen as a luxurious, hedonistic destination, it can also be a great option for those on a budget.
The average cost of a week-long hotel stay in Marbella costs £3,499. There are, however, 32 budget hotels that travelers can take advantage of to keep costs down. Additionally, there are 138 cheap food establishments, and the most popular attraction - Marbella Old Town - is available to experience for free.
The average cost of a week-long hotel stay in Marbella costs £3,499. There are, however, 32 budget hotels that travelers can take advantage of to keep costs down. Additionally, there are 138 cheap food establishments, and the most popular attraction - Marbella Old Town - is available to experience for free.
- Closest Airport: Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP)
- Average Flight Cost: £234
- Average Cost of a Week-long Hotel Stay: £3,499
- Average Cost of a Rental Car: £233
- Number of 'Cheap' Restaurants: 138
- Number of 'Budget' Hotels: 32
- Number of Attractions: 454
- Most Popular Attraction: Marbella Old Town
- Average Cost of Most Popular Attraction: £0
Graz, Austria
Placing ninth in the ranking is Graz, with the Austrian city scoring 36 out of 77 points. Graz, the second Austrian city to feature in our list, is known for being home to a large number of students due to its four universities dotted around the city.
With so many attractions available to access for free, such as the Schlossberg or 'Castle Hill' - sightseeing in Graz makes perfect sense for those on a budget this summer. The average cost for a week-long hotel stay is £731 - which is the fourth cheapest out of all 11 cities. With 24 budget hotels, this price could be even lower depending on where you book.
With so many attractions available to access for free, such as the Schlossberg or 'Castle Hill' - sightseeing in Graz makes perfect sense for those on a budget this summer. The average cost for a week-long hotel stay is £731 - which is the fourth cheapest out of all 11 cities. With 24 budget hotels, this price could be even lower depending on where you book.
- Closest Airport: Graz Airport (GRZ)
- Average Flight Cost: £210
- Average Cost of a Week-long Hotel Stay: £731
- Average Cost of a Rental Car: £603
- Number of 'Cheap' Restaurants: 106
- Number of 'Budget' Hotels: 24
- Number of Attractions: 365
- Most Popular Attraction: Schlossberg
- Average Cost of Most Popular Attraction: £0
Lahti, Finland
In 10th place, the Finnish city of Lahti scored 31 out of 77 points. Lahti is known globally for its winter sports that take place on Salpaus Ridge. The city is also home to a number of museums where visitors can take in the history of the city.
The most popular attraction in Lahti is by far the Motorcycle Museum of Finland, known locally as 'Suomen Moottoripyörämuseo'. The city is only home to two budget hotels, so book in advance to avoid disappointment. There are also 26 cheap restaurants for travelers to choose from.
The most popular attraction in Lahti is by far the Motorcycle Museum of Finland, known locally as 'Suomen Moottoripyörämuseo'. The city is only home to two budget hotels, so book in advance to avoid disappointment. There are also 26 cheap restaurants for travelers to choose from.
- Closest Airport: Helsinki Airport (HEL)
- Average Flight Cost: £136
- Average Cost of a Week-long Hotel Stay: £980
- Average Cost of a Rental Car: £356
- Number of 'Cheap' Restaurants: 26
- Number of 'Budget' Hotels: 2
- Number of Attractions: 74
- Most Popular Attraction: Motorcycle Museum of Finland
- Average Cost of Most Popular Attraction: £10.64
Oradea, Romania
Finalizing the ranking and finishing in 11th place is the Romanian city of Oradea which scored 31 out of 77 points. The city, situated in the northwest of Romania, is known for its thermal springs and has ranked 11th for the second consecutive year.
With 152 attractions to experience, travelers will be kept busy taking in the culture of Oradea. The Moon Church is a must-visit site due to its unique architecture and picturesque artwork. Despite having the most expensive flight costs in the ranking, Oradea is actually the cheapest place to stay for a week, costing visitors £344 on average for a hotel stay.
With 152 attractions to experience, travelers will be kept busy taking in the culture of Oradea. The Moon Church is a must-visit site due to its unique architecture and picturesque artwork. Despite having the most expensive flight costs in the ranking, Oradea is actually the cheapest place to stay for a week, costing visitors £344 on average for a hotel stay.
- Closest Airport: Oradea International Airport (OMR)
- Average Flight Cost: £429
- Average Cost of a Week-long Hotel Stay: £344
- Average Cost of a Rental Car: £539
- Number of 'Cheap' Restaurants: 34
- Number of 'Budget' Hotels: 16
- Number of Attractions: 152
- Most Popular Attraction: Black Hawk Palace Arcade
- Average Cost of Most Popular Attraction: £0
The comparison
Now that we've reviewed the best budget summer destinations for 2023, let's take a look at how the ranking has changed in the past 12 months.
It was interesting to see no change in the top three cities and, for the second year running, Prague has claimed the number one spot as the best location for a budget summer holiday.
Prague saw a massive decrease of £541 over the past 12 months for the average cost of a week-long hotel stay. Athens saw a similarly huge drop in hotel costs, with this year's average proving £1,117 cheaper than in 2022.
Good news for travelers, as every destination apart from Graz, recorded a higher number of attractions in 2023 than they did last year. The biggest increase was in Istanbul, which has 371 more attractions than last year.
This year, the number of restaurants categorized as 'Cheap Eateries' in Rome increased by 1,585, meaning there's bound to be something to suit all tastes in the Italian capital. Prague was the only city not to increase its number of cheap eats. In fact, the Czech city recorded just one less than in 2022.
Lastly, the average price of a rental car in Vienna decreased by £342 and £293 in Marbella, this could be due to the large spike in fuel prices throughout 2022, which are slowly returning to more normal rates.
Overall, we hope that our collated ranking of the best budget-friendly summer getaways has helped you choose your perfect destination. With so many unique options, there is something for everyone this summer which won't break the bank.
If you're looking to rent a car for your summer trip, please consider choosing us as we are a leader in online car rental bookings. This is because we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose the best deal for your individual family's needs.
We also operate in more than 145 countries and 10,000 locations, so we're sure to have the car rental deal for you, no matter where your next road trip happens to be.
Prague saw a massive decrease of £541 over the past 12 months for the average cost of a week-long hotel stay. Athens saw a similarly huge drop in hotel costs, with this year's average proving £1,117 cheaper than in 2022.
Good news for travelers, as every destination apart from Graz, recorded a higher number of attractions in 2023 than they did last year. The biggest increase was in Istanbul, which has 371 more attractions than last year.
This year, the number of restaurants categorized as 'Cheap Eateries' in Rome increased by 1,585, meaning there's bound to be something to suit all tastes in the Italian capital. Prague was the only city not to increase its number of cheap eats. In fact, the Czech city recorded just one less than in 2022.
Lastly, the average price of a rental car in Vienna decreased by £342 and £293 in Marbella, this could be due to the large spike in fuel prices throughout 2022, which are slowly returning to more normal rates.
Overall, we hope that our collated ranking of the best budget-friendly summer getaways has helped you choose your perfect destination. With so many unique options, there is something for everyone this summer which won't break the bank.
If you're looking to rent a car for your summer trip, please consider choosing us as we are a leader in online car rental bookings. This is because we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose the best deal for your individual family's needs.
We also operate in more than 145 countries and 10,000 locations, so we're sure to have the car rental deal for you, no matter where your next road trip happens to be.
Sources
https://www.forbes.com/sites/ceciliarodriguez/2022/02/13/ready-for-europe-the-20-best-and-safest-places-for-travel-and-tourism--in-2022-according-to-european-best-destinations/?sh=277e47505be5
https://www.google.com/travel/flights
Expedia
https://www.discovercars.com/
TripAdvisor
https://www.google.com/travel/flights
Expedia
https://www.discovercars.com/
TripAdvisor
Aleksandrs Buraks
Head of Growth at DiscoverCars.com
Aleksandrs has over 10 years of experience in marketing with a focus on creating stellar content that provides topical insights using data. Having taken five road trips across Europe and one in the U.S., he is passionate about traveling by car. His favorite countries to visit are Denmark and Thailand. You can find him on Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter.