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Whether you’re a Game of Thrones fan or a culture buff who fantasizes about visiting a faraway land with centuries-old castles, a timeless townscape, and what have you, Dubrovnik is probably on your Europe bucket list.

Croatia’s top tourist destination, and the real-life Kings Landing, for those who are familiar with the HBO hit series, it is truly something straight out of a movie.

Gorgeous as it may be, however, it’s far from being the idyllic fairytale scene you envision, especially during summer, when millions of people flock into its narrow, uphill streets, and a city center hotel can run you up between an already-costly $199-a-night, and a whopping $675.

Not even kidding.

The good thing is, Dubrovnik is not Croatia’s only medieval wonder by the Adriatic Sea, and whether you’re here for the Old World allure, or simply the GoT vibes, there are 3 alternative destinations that tick all of the boxes, and are more offbeat and cheaper to visit.

Ready to beat the crowds?

Ston

We’re sure you’ve heard of the Great Wall of China, the largest defensive system in the world, but did you know Croatia has its own Great Wall, a short one-hour drive north of Dubrovnik?

When exploring the idyllic Dalmatian Coast, it’s easy to bypass Ston altogether: it doesn’t commonly feature on mainstream travel brochures, and on top of that, it’s a tiny village of around 2,500 inhabitants—that being said, its fortified Old Town puts Dubrovnik’s to shame.

Not only is it criss-cobbled with stone-paved streets, and filled with the typical red-roofed stone houses, it is home to a 4.3 mile-long wall, erected in the Middle Ages to protect not only Ston itself, but the entire region, including the city of Dubrovnik.

Like in China, you can walk this wall (not all of it, but at least half of its length). It’s a moderately challenging hike that takes roughly an hour and offers views of historical salt pans, the scenic Mali Ston bay, and vineyards.

Now, if you’re used to Dubrovnik prices, you’re likely to let out a big sigh of relief here:

Local restaurants usually serve main courses ranging from €10 to €15 per person (roughly $11.40—$17) and if staying the night, a double room for 2 adults will cost you $41.50 each.

For moderately-priced seafood, a cozy ambiance, and unmatched bay views, add Bota Sare Restaurant & Oyster Bar to your list.

Korčula Town

Next up, we’re taking a 1h40—2h ferry from Dubrovnik to Korčula Island, which lies just off the Croatian mainland, or more specifically, its small capital Korčula Town.

Often dubbed a ‘Little Dubrovnik‘, it too is guarded by walls, which almost completely encircle the small peninsula it sits on, and it’s primarily renowned for having a preserved 15th-century architecture, and a quieter, more laid-back feel compared to its famous sibling.

You can stroll the picture-perfect cobbled streets, which are lined with centuries-old dwellings and merchant shops, as well as family-owned eateries serving  ćevapi, and other Croatian delicacies for around $10.

If you fancy trying a ćevapi burger, head to Curioso, a well-rated restaurant in the Old Town that’s been amassing rave reviews lately.

As you will notice when exploring, crowding is less intense here, considering Korčula’s geographical location, and the longer ferry journey from Dubrovnik, and most of the tourist attractions can be visited without long lines.

Think St. Mark’s Cathedral, in the heart of the Old Town, and a landmark church bearing Gothic and Renaissance elements, or the Marco Polo House—according to local tradition, the famous Venetian explorer was born here.

Trogir

As you journey onward up the coast, 161 miles north of the Dubrovnik-Neretva tourism hotspot, and past the bustling resort city of Split, you’ll hit the tiny, medieval town of Trogir.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, much like its southern counterpart, Trogir is fortified by medieval walls, and if we’re looking for the easiest way to describe it, picture a cobbled maze flanked by skinny, ocher-colored edifices, whose twists and turns always seem to lead to a central plaza.

This central plaza is bordered by terrace cafes, where Mediterranean food is served at reasonable prices—Franka, in particular, has delicious beetroot and truffle risotto and homegrown wine—and is dominated by a Romanesque cathedral.

The belfry resembles St. Mark’s Campanile in Venice, and that’s not merely incidental: like much of Dalmatia, Trogir was once under the control of the floating city.

As you stroll around town, which can get moderately busy in the summer months, though nowhere as busy as the neighboring Split, much less the infamous ‘King’s Landing’, don’t miss out on Riva, or the ‘Trogir Promenade’:

This loop walk along the ancient walls is lined with palm trees and cafes, and there’s never a dull moment if one of your favorite pastimes is people-watching, especially with the Russian-owned hyper-yachts moored along its extension.

For museums, check out Cipiko Palace, a Gothic-Renaissance gem just facing the cathedral, and on the outer edge of the fortifications, there’s a 15th-century Venetian stronghold, Kamerlengo, that’s open to the public.

Staying overnight in Trogir?

Rates for double rooms (with balcony), outside the citadel, start at an acceptable $91 for 2 adults, and an Old Town guest room, stone-walls, Old World allure and all, is not that much more expensive, costing you $59 each in summer.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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World-famous for its turquoise seas, paradisaical islands where white sands run along the ocean for miles on end, and incredible weather, the Caribbean is the number one destination for many Americans when they crave a little sunny getaway.

There are just two small ‘buts’ that you’re probably familiar with if you’ve ever vacationed in Cancun, Tulum, Punta Cana, and the like:

When you’re at a public beach packed with your fellow tourists and holidaying local families, it doesn’t exactly give deserted island vibes, and if it’s exclusivity you seek, be prepared to pay upwards of $600-a-night on a luxurious all-inclusive.

But hey, there’s always a middle ground: these 4 Caribbean islands may be unheard-of, but they boast equally beautiful scenery, smaller crowds, and on top of that, cheaper prices:

Caye Caulker, Belize

Lying off the coast of Belize, a tiny Central American country just south of Mexico, Caye Caulker is an unspoiled Eden most beach bums and Instagrammers have failed to discover.

For starters, its landmass is cut through by a winding canal called Split, and on both sides, you’ll find stretches of virgin-white sands and lush nature: the southern half is home to the only settlement, Caye Caulker Village, whereas the north is densely forested and home to diverse wildlife.

The village has brightly-painted wooden houses, colored in coral, lime, and sunshine-yellow tones, and it’s peppered with family-run eateries: for fresh ceviche and Belize’s signature barbecue mango, add Reina’s to your list.

For the water babies out there, you can swim with sharks and sting rays at the Shark Ray Alley, or if you’re an experienced diver, snorkel around the iconic Great Blue Hole.

This is a sinkhole in the middle of the ocean surrounded by the turquoise waters.

The best part is, for Caribbean standards, Caye Caulker is definitely on the cheaper end, with entire-bungalow stays for 2 adults costing $143-a-night, and takeout food averaging $3-7 (meals are slightly pricier, costing around $33 in mid-range restaurants).

Little Corn Island, Nicaragua

Nicaragua is best known for its towering volcanoes and thriving rainforest, but something most visitors fail to acknowledge is that it, too, has a coast on the Caribbean, and countless small islands yet to be ruined by the masses.

One of those is Little Corn Island, some 43.5 miles from the mainland, and a car-free community of 7,747 people offering jungle trails, pristine beaches, and bays filled with translucent waters.

For many, it is a reminiscent of the Caribbean’s undeveloped past, before the big brands and resorts cornered local communities, and though getting there is no easy feat, involving at least 2 flights, and a small boat transfer, the final destination couldn’t be more rewarding.

Think of Otto Beach, an idyllic patch of beach with multicolored seas, the Tarpon Channel, where you can spot hammerhead sharks, or a tranquil Cocal Beach, with the typical white sands and crystalline waters, except none of Punta Cana’s crowds.

You won’t find larger-than-life resorts here—in fact, there is a single 5-star property in the vicinity—but rather rustic guesthouses and bungalows right on the beachfront, with double rooms (with shared bathrooms) costing as cheap as $12.

Food is just as inexpensive: a full lobster meal at the budget-friendly Rosa’s Restaurant will run you up a mere $8-10, while less elaborate seafood platters are an even more economical $5.

Roatán, Honduras

Who would have known these oftentimes-overlooked Central American countries would have this much to offer?

Up next, we’re taking a look at Roatán, the trendiest and offbeat nonetheless island off the Honduras coast: at 40 miles long and 5 miles wide (at its widest point), it has no shortage of amazing sights and natural wonders.

The main town, Coxen Hole, is where most of the action is centered, and where you’ll find a plethora of hotels and street markets, but in order to truly bask in the island’s tropical charm, you need to go further out to places like West Bay Beach:

Bordering the Mesoamerican Reef, it is a highly sought-after spot for snorkeling, due to the various fish species and sea turtles that congregate there, as well as a swimming site.

If you’re taking a day trip out, it should definitely be scuba diving in the Reef, the second-largest in the world: picture shipwrecks, underwater ridges, and if you’re lucky to cross their path, whale sharks.

For a comfortable-enough stay that won’t break the bank, we recommend you look at Victoria’s Beach House:

It is set on the waterfront and equipped with an open-air bath ($45-a-night for 2 adults), and when you’re craving street food, La Placita boasts a number of food stalls serving baleadas (flour tortillas filled with beans and cheese) for around $1-2.

For casual dining in Roatán, we love the Typical Buffet (that’s what it’s called), on the aptly-named Coconut Tree Plaza, where a wide range of seafood and local delicacies are served, with prices ranging from $5-10.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Paris may well be Europe’s most sought-after destination, home to a plethora of iconic landmarks: the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and its adjacent Champs-Élysées, Montmartre with the buskers and cobbled lanes… 

Do we really have to go through the list again?

There are many reasons why we love Paris, from the romantic cafe culture to the elegant architecture, but there are also many reasons why it can get on our nerves at times.

Crowds, hectic traffic, beret-clad Instagrammers whose sole purpose in life seems to be to take selfies by hand be Seine, and oh, the staggeringly high prices for accommodation…

But hey, it’s not like Paris alone is fully representative of French culture.

If you’re flying all this way for the beautiful sights, the Old World allure, and delicious cuisine, you should make sure you try Lyon next:

Could Lyon Be The Next Paris?

One of the oldest cities in France, founded as early as the Roman period, and boasting cultural wealth like no other, Lyon is perhaps the best-equipped French city to rival the capital in terms of beautiful sights.

Its Old Town, locally known as Vieux Lyon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering an area of 427 hectares, 4 districts, and comprising over 2,000 years of a fascinating history—it’s also one of France’s most landmark-packed downtown areas.

It is split between three main areas: the medieval quarter, or Old Lyon, proper, the Croix-Rousse, and the hilly Fourvière.

Old Lyon is where you will find all of the city’s most notable edifices from the Middle Ages, including the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, a Gothic ensemble best known for its vaulted ceilings and astronomical clock that gives Prague’s a run for its money.

Getting lost in its uphill, narrow cobbled streets, you will find Renaissance-era villas and hidden courtyards, and the higher you go, the more stunning is the view of the terracotta roofs and church spires at your feet

Croix-Rousse is the heart of Bohemian Lyon and an equally beautiful maze-like grid of stone-paved streets, just about wide enough for cars to drive slowly by.

It lines the Saône, a river cutting through the heart of Lyon, much like the Seine in Paris, and the promenade is particularly pleasant to stroll, as you admire the ornate architecture of the riverfront buildings.

Going up Croix-Rousse, you’ll see that its pathways are lined with bars, selling Lyon’s signature Beaujolais wines, traditional French brasseries, and bakeries where you can get fresh-out-the-oven pastries from only 1 euro—for the best croissant in town, check out Boulangerie du Palais.

For the third and final historic district, you’ll want to take the funicular, which rattles up overground rails, offering scenic vistas of the picture-perfect downtown.

Fourvière is home to the famous Notre Dame Basilica, a neo-Gothic gem often compared to Paris’ Sacre-Coeur: they’re both on a hilltop, overlooking their respective urban sprawls, and they were built around the same time.

In this area, you will also find Lyon’s very own Eiffel Tower, La Tour Métallique, a prominent feature of Des Hauteurs Park, except it even predates Eiffel’s masterpiece by three years.

If you’re wondering whether there’s anything left from Roman-era Lyon, you’ll be thrilled to learn that Fourvière has an ancient theater, built in the year 15 BC, and still hosting open-air concerts in summer.

Lyon Is Way Cheaper Than Paris!

Lyon is not only just as pretty as Paris, with several uncannily-similar attractions, it can be considerably cheaper and less crowded.

Paris has become a tourism playground in recent years, particularly after the popularity of TV shows like Emily in Paris, and the start of the beret-clad, ‘hold my giant €32 stunt croissant’ Instagrammer phenomenon.

Don’t get us wrong, it is very touristy—France remains the most visited country in the world, after all—but it’s definitely not on that Paris level of fame, for its own sake.

As we pointed out before, croissants here will cost you between €1 and €1.30, while a three-course meal in a local restaurant (let’s say you get some roasted camembert for starter, aligot for main, creme brulée for dessert, and a bottle of red wine) will cost you €38-40.

If you’re only going for the main dish and a glass of wine, then that’s a much-cheaper €18-21.

When it comes to accommodation, the average overnight rate in Lyon is a reasonable €106, or roughly $115, as per Budget Your Trip estimates.

If you’re wondering how Paris compares, that’s a wallet-wiping $326 on average.

Before we leave you, in case you’re planning a trip to France soon, don’t forget to check out this other charming medieval city only an hour away from Paris—it has a monumental Notre Dame cathedral that rivals Paris’ in beauty, it has a mind-blowing history, and prices are on the cheaper end, too.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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A small island lying off the Amalfi Coast, Capri is known worldwide for its crystal-clear seas, luxury villas, and lush gardens.

Considering how many times it’s been featured on mainstream media, it’s no wonder it seems to be at the top of the bucket list for everyone visiting South Italy.

However, it’s far from being the be-all, end-all Italian vacation hotspot:

Yes, it’s stunning, and yes, it’s the quintessential Mediterranean escape, but it can be extremely expensive to visit, with the average 3-night stay setting you back by a whopping $801, not to mention the high levels of mass tourism.

But hey, not all hope is lost if you’re dreaming of a laid-back island adventure in Italy!

There are 5 other Capri-like islands that are way cheaper, and that by virtue of not being overtouristed, can feel much more authentic:

Procida

We’re starting with Procida, an even-smaller island in the Gulf of Naples, not far from Capri, famous for its picturesque harbor lined with colorful houses, and its relaxed atmosphere of a traditional fishing village that’s not crumbling under the weight of tourism.

Other than the postcard-ready main settlement, tourists are free to wander around the largely-walkable island on foot, and explore many more sights, from Palazzo D’Avalos, a castle-like, medieval prison perched atop a coastal cliff, to the secret coves of Chiaiolella.

If you’re wondering how much dining out in Procida will cost you, seafood linguini and local red wine is around $15, and as for staying overnight, there are affordable accommodation providers, such as Piccolo Tirreno Hotel, where entire studios are listed from only $51.

Lipari

A much-overlooked island lying off the northeastern coast of Sicily, Lipari is characterized by its volcanic terrain, with rugged peaks traversing a compact landmass, and hugged by the turquoise-most seas you’ll ever see.

Between the myriad of volcanic beaches and fine-pebble strips, and the man-made wonders—think a monumental Lipari Castle, built onto a volcanic rock face, or the quaint harbor towns of Canneto or Marina Corta—this is a Mediterranean diamond-in-the-rough that’s hardly been spoiled.

While Sicily is probably one of Europe’s busiest summer destinations, Lipari continues to exist in its own microcosm of calm, hosting only tens of thousands of guests yearly (it’s no wonder room rates start at $47 on Booking.com, and food is so inexpensive).

Elba

A fairly sizable island part of the Tuscan archipelago, Elba is known historically for serving as Napoleon Bonaparte’s place of exile between 1814 and 1815, and let’s face it, there are worst open-air prisons to be in:

It has a rich history comprising periods of Etruscan and Roman rule, its lively port capital, Portoferraio, is still protected by medieval fortifications and dotted with beautifully-decorated Baroque churches, and surrounded by fine white-sand strips, like Spiaggia Bianca, that feel almost Caribbean-like.

The best part is, as idyllic as it may be, Elba is nowhere as popular for international tourism as Capri: think Margherita pizzas costing as little as $10, sparkling spritz for roughly $4, and studio-style accommodation arrangements for $43.

Ponza

A remote territory in the middle of the Tyrrhenian, only accessible by boat from the Italian mainland, including from Naples, Ponza has captived many a curious visitor due to its natural beauty, with the dramatic coastline, blue grottoes, and unique geological formations.

Other than swimming off hidden coves, and floating in crystalline natural pools, Ponza revolves around its main port settlement, Ponza Town, peppered with your typical, pastel-hue buildings and family-owned trattorie.

A seafood platter in a local restaurant should set you back by between $18-21, and staying near the center of town, in a privately-managed guesthouse such as Maridea, only 600 meters from the harbor, you’ll be paying only $69-a-night.

Pantelleria

Closer to Tunisia than it is, in fact, to Italy, Pantelleria is highly sought-after by Italians themselves for its remoteness, and distinctive nature: it’s filled with natural landmarks of volcanic origin, and some of its wineries date back centuries.

The main attractions in Pantelleria are Venus’ Mirror, a volcanic crater filled with naturally warm waters; its dammusi, stone dwellings topped with white domes that are a direct influence from North Africa, which is only a short boat ride away; and charming Pantelleria Town.

As far as pricing goes, a main dish and glass-of-wine order at a downtown restaurant averages $21-22 (make sure you try some of their Moscato, made from homegrown, sweet Zibibbo grape), and beachfront hotels can be as cheap as $56 to book in the off-season (see Hotel Bue Marino).

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

Ready For Your Trip? Check The Latest Entry Requirements For Your Destination Here

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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We all know Milan for its grandiose edifices and art galleries, high fashion, and ornate Duomo––is there truly a more beautiful Gothic cathedral?––but there’s no denying it’s a bit out of the budget for the average traveler.

Between $202-a-night on hotels, and $107 on meals and transportation every day, a one-week city break in Italy’s elegant Northern metropolis does not come cheap, and that’s without factoring in the long wait to get into museums and hordes of tourists.

Luckily, there is this off-path gem a short 55-minute train ride from Milan that’s both comparatively cheaper and less crowded:

What Is Turin Famous For?

The capital and largest city of Piedmont, an alpine region in northwestern Italy, Turin is everything tourists wish Milan would be:

A different side of Italy than that you might be hoping to find if it’s Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast you’ve got your heart set on, it’s not exactly a maze of pastel-colored houses and cobblestones––in fact, it’s oftentimes called Paris of the East due to its Belle époque cityscape.

It has Milan’s grandiose architecture, with beautiful wide avenues lined by stately buildings, and the unrivaled food scene, except it’s not exactly overpriced nor crumbling under the weight of mass tourism as its sisterly metropolis.

It is best characterized by its plethora of Savoyard monuments, most notably Palazzo Reale and Palazzo Madama, and public squares so magnificent they look like palace courtyards, bordered by cafes that exude Old World charm.

Turin Is One Of Italy’s Most Historically-Significant Cities

Turin is also incredibly rich in history, having served as the first capital of Italy when the country was unified in the 19th century, and prior to that, it was the seat of the House of Savoy, one of Europe’s wealthiest royal houses.

A visit to Turin can be summarized in people-watching alfresco as you sip some cappuccino at Piazza Castello, exploring palaces, browsing the shops at Via Roma (Turin’s liveliest thoroughfare and its response to Paris’ Champs-Élysées), and strolling the scenic Po riverside.

Of course, there are some attractions you shouldn’t miss out on, like the soaring spire that dominates the skyline: Mole Antonelliana. Upon its completion, it was the tallest masonry building in Europe and now a permanent home to the National Museum of Cinema.

If you’re not a cinephile, you can still take a lift to the top of the Mole for around $9.41 (the views of Turin’s grid-like design backed by snow-capped mountains are breathtaking).

To our fellow museum geeks, the local Museo Egizio, opened as early as 1824, is one of Europe’s greatest collections of Egyptian artifacts, and when visiting the richly-decorated, marble-domed Chapel of the Holy Shroud, look for the Holy Shroud itself.

Yes, according to ancient tradition, the linen cloth used in Jesus’ burial is right here in Turin––some archeologists will dispute that, but in the very least, it’s a beautiful Baroque church worth checking out.

Unique Things To Do In Turin In 2025

Looking for unique activities to make your time in Turin even more memorable?

There’s no visiting Turin without sampling its world-class cocoa products:

Chocolate-making is a long-standing Torinese tradition, so much so it is considered one of Europe’s chocolate capitals.

It’s no wonder the Turin Chocolate Tasting Experience is a best-seller on GetYourGuide, combining sightseeing with visits to local chocolatiers, for only $39.77.

All that talk of food making you hungry yet?

You should definitely add this market tour, guided by a cesarina (an Italian female home cook) and topped with lunch back at hers, for $145.47.

This Is How Affordable Turin Is

On that note, Turin is surprisingly affordable by Northern Italy standards.

Considering it is so close to Milan, being under an hour away by train, you’d expect it to be as expensive as the Capital of Fashion––in reality, hotels here average a much-cheaper $165, and tourists will find themselves spending $77 on meals per day.

In reality, prices can be way lower, even:

The cheapest private room in Turin in summer, with an external bathroom, will set you back by $40 per night, at Hotel Serenella, while the 3-star Green Class Hotel Astoria, in the heart of the historic center, costs $80 to book.

Don’t mind splurging a little?

The luxurious Grand Hotel Sitea, on the well-frequented Via Carlo Alberto, and just behind Piazza San Carlo, has overnight rates starting from $196 for single rooms, a superb breakfast included.

You could always treat yourself to dinner with a view at an upscale restaurant, though we’d argue finding an affordable, locally-run trattoria where dinner seems to have been prepared by someone’s nonna is much more satisfying.

Try Pizzeria e Panozzeria La Sarda for delicious $8 pizzas, or the highly-rated Monegato Primi Secondi a Nessuno for excellent homemade pasta (and A+ service that won’t break the bank).

You get the gist of it:

Turin is relatively cheap, it has beautiful architecture, and it’s the perfect alternative to Milan if you can’t stand the Instagrammer crowds.

Are we really surprised, then, Europe-based travel agency TUI has named it best European getaway this February?

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

↓ Elevate Your Travel↓

Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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We all know Spain for its scenic Mediterranean coast, interspersed with vibrant resort cities and hugged by crystal-clear seas, but if you’ve been to the Iberian country in the past three or four years, you’ve probably noticed how shockingly expensive and busy it’s become.

From an average overnight rate of $201 in Barcelona to unsustainable levels of overtourism in the trendy vacation island of Mallorca, where anti-tourist sentiment has been dangerously brewing, we wouldn’t be the first in line to board that flight.

Luckily, there’s an exciting Spain dupe tucked away in the much more offbeat, lesser-known Southeastern corner of Europe causing quite the commotion lately, and if we must add, it’s way cheaper and less crowded:

Bulgaria Is All The Rage This Year!

When you think of Bulgaria, you probably conjure up images of wintry landscapes, Soviet-style concrete blocks, and Orthodox piousness.

While there is some truth to that, something most people don’t know is that it turns into a summer paradise in the warmer months.

Were you even aware that Bulgaria’s coastline on the Black Sea extends for an uninterrupted 235 miles and is lined with quaint beach towns that just couldn’t be further apart from the stereotypical grayed-out, war-torn version of Eastern Europe?

Or that, for instance, it’s about as warm as the Mediterranean, if not warmer?

We kid you not:

Some cities along the coast have an average daily maximum of 84.2°F and lows of 66.2°F, and if you’re pondering whether to pack an extra jumper or two ‘just in case’ it gets chilly, baby, you better save space in your carry-on for some more swim shorts instead.

Not to brag, but no other travel news website stays on top of travel trends like Travel Off Path, and we reported a couple of years ago on how the Black Sea is a new Mediterranean in the making, and we’re glad to see others are finally catching on:

Why This Lesser-Known Country Is So Trendy Right Now

• It’s cheaper
• It’s beautiful
• It’s not as crowded

This year, The New York Times featured this part of the world in their list of ‘best places to travel’ in 2025, while CEO for Europe-based travel agency TUI was recorded stating Bulgaria ‘could rival holiday hotspots such as Mallory and Menorca’ in summer.

Newcomers are also taking to social media in droves to showcase Bulgaria’s beauty: on TikTok alone, the hashtag #bulgaria alone has racked up over 2.5 million posts.

Users will share their captures of sandy beaches, sleepy coastal villages that seem frozen in time, and stunning nature yet to meet the spoils of mass tourism.

Some of the most popular TikTok’s, however, refer to Bulgaria’s affordability as a beach destination, compared to Spain, Italy or Greece.

This post by TikTok user @heroiisa in particular highlights Varna as an inexpensive summer getaway, where accommodation prices range from only $8 to $30-a-night, meals cost between $5 and $12 in local restaurants, and the beaches look untarnished, with crystal-clear waters:

@heroiisa

BUDGET TRAVEL GUIDE TO VARNA, BULGARIA✈️ Varna is one of the best places to visit when you are young and on a budget!✨ All prices are in USD and based on a realistic budget for BUDGET travelers in Varna, Bulgaria💸 🏨Accommodation: $8 to $30/night per person if you stay in a hostel dorm or share an apartment or a double room in a cheap guesthouse/hotel with someone. This depends on the season, the lower end of the prices is for shoulder season (April-June or September-October) and the higher end for high season (July-August). 🍛Food: there are plenty of options for $5 to $12/meal. If you cook, you can do it even cheaper than this! ☀️Activities: $0-20 depending on what you want to do! I didn’t spend much money on activities in Varna because there are many free things to do but there are also some paid activities you can do depending on your budget. 🚌Getting there: You can get to Varna by bus or train from other popular Bulgarian destinations and cities like Sofia, Burgas, or Plovdiv. Bus and train tickets depend on the route but are usually very affordable ($2-12). ✈️Flights: When it comes to flights, you can fly into Burgas, Sofia, Plovdiv, or Varna from many European cities with Ryanair or Wizz Air and then take public transportation to Varna. It’s also an option to fly somewhere else in the Balkans and take public transportation from there if you have time for a longer trip.

♬ boom clap speed up – 𝟑𝟎𝟑 rostaaa🪐

That’s an account by a single traveler, but Budget Your Trip, our own preferred platform for tracking prices across different countries, corroborates that Bulgaria is indeed on the cheaper end when it comes to summer destinations.

More specifically, tourists will spend an average $27 on meals per day, unless they’re traveling luxuriously (in that case, they should budget $73), and $72 on hotels, for total week-long travel expenses of $1,076 for two people (or the equivalent in Bulgarian lev).

Where To Go In Bulgaria In Summer?

• Sunny Beach
• Nessebar
• Varna
• Burgas
• Sveti Vlas

There are countless world-class destinations to pick from if you’re skipping Spain and heading to Bulgaria this year.

If you seek Old World charm and culture, visit the picture-perfect, cobbled Nessebar. This walled city occupies the end of a narrow peninsula and has a rich history dating back several millennia and comprising periods of Thracian, Greek, and Roman rule.

Its ensemble of Byzantine churches and fortifications are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the hotel-lined South Beach, a short drive from the Old Town, has been awarded Blue Flag status, owing it to its cleanliness.

Looking for a traditional beach getaway instead, Mallorca-style?

Sunny Beach is not an island, though it is, as the name indicates, a sun-drenched resort development unfolding along an azure Black Sea packed with beach bars, where beer costs as cheap as $2, and a waterfront 3-star Hotel Zaara will only set you back by $35-a-night.

Keen on an all-inclusive deal instead?

HI Hotels Imperial Resort has nightly rates from a shockingly affordable $80 this June, all meals included, and access to all resort areas, including the pool and fitness center.

We’re not going to lie to you: Sunny Beach can get a bit crowded in summer, not due to an influx of foreign tourists but due to its popularity with Bulgarians (and the neighboring Romanians) themselves. So, for some peace and quiet and more exclusivity, there’s Sveti Vlas to the northeast.

A laid-back yacht marina boasting a plethora of dining options, and several long miles of untouched fine, golden sands, it has 5-star hotels from $66 per night––check out the Garden of Eden Complex.

For a city break, our top picks are Burgas and Varna, the largest conurbations on the Bulgarian coast, and two bustling Black Sea ports famous for their ancient heritage––even the Starbucks in Varna is built on top of Roman relics!––and thriving nightlife.

They’re also the gateway to the coast, hosting low-cost flights from numerous European destinations in the high season, starting in May.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Ever been to Europe?

There’s something almost indescribable in regard to wandering timeless streets mesmerized by centuries-old architecture and simplistic lifestyles.

Then we come back home dying to be first in line for the latest cell phone, video games, and whatever that whole NFT craze was.

Well, unlike the U.S., which is generally depicted as just wide open spaces, bougie beaches, and sky-high modernized metropolises, there are still plenty of timeless cities to enjoy, especially during the holiday season.

Perhaps the best area for such places is the South from New Orleans, Charleston, and one of America’s most charming cities, Savannah, Georgia.

This winter, discover cheaper stays and festive streets perfect for a winter escape in a city known for ‘southern hospitality’, old-timey plazas, and a springboard to a blissful side of the Atlantic coastline.

Winter In Savannah: Enjoy Less Crowds & Cheaper Costs

There’s many reasons to visit Savannah, but this historic city was just crowned #1 on Southern Living’s new ’10 Winter Vacation Ideas’ list primarily due to crowd-free streets and the affordability factor this time of year.

There’s really not a bad time to visit Savannah unless you’d like to avoid the humidity. In that case, a summer trip may not be for you.

Wintertime brings more splendid weather, consistently in the 60s, great for venturing out to nearby islands, perusing cobbled streets, or hopping aboard a scenic river cruise like Savannah Riverboat Cruises (where they ‘guarantee the lowest prices’!).

Savannah is a popular getaway year-round, but winter is the best time to take advantage of the least of amount of crowds for easier navigation and better photo-ops.

Perhaps more importantly, you can typically score cheaper stays and even airfare on occasion, according to Southern Living.

If you prefer luxury over boutique stays, check out the following 3 hotels with great rates in December and January (including Christmas!):

• Hotel Indigo Savannah Historic District – $99
• Aloft Savannah Downtown Historic District – $136
• The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa – $155

For comparison, the above hotels are all deep into the $200’s in summer, proving your bank account will thank you this winter.

Savannah’s architecture is to die for with well-preserved rows of a variety of styles from Georgian (of course!) and Greek Revival, among others.

There’s plenty of vacation rentals and converted hotels too, like the Olde Harbour Inn for true Savannah stay.

Savannah’s Festive Streets

There’s definitely a European vibe in Savannah and even more so come winter when the popular Savannah Christmas Market arrives (Nov. 21 – Dec. 31)

It’s not only the market that’s festive, however. The main parts of the city, such as always bustling River Street, are decked to the gills with holiday decor to set the mood for the ‘most wonderful time of the year’.

The Historic District is already teeming with charming streets, historic homes, and the unmissable Gothic-style Cathedral Basilica of Saint John the Baptist, which of course, is even more incredible to visit with the magical ambiance of Christmas.

One unique event that’s a must-see is the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (November 30th) showcasing a dazzling display of synchronized lights.

While the Christmas Market takes a page out of Europe’s playbook, the Boat Parade is true Savannah through and through along the Savannah River. and always draws a crowd.

A Multi-State Coastal Escape: Seaside Bliss Is In Close Reach

Even though Georgia borders Florida, it’s actually the Georgia-South Carolina line that’s one of the best beach spots.

While you won’t find Caribbean-esque sun this time of year, walks on the beach, kayaking, surfing, and simply finding a nice beachfront restaurant is always enjoyable.

One such place to check off all these boxes this winter is Georgia’s Tybee Island, roughly 25 minutes from Savannah.

Across the Savannah River, however, is the South Carolina state line with its own set of beautiful islands like the hidden gem of Daufuskie Island, popular vacation spot Hilton Head, and one of our Editor, Tyler’s favorite beach getaways, Fripp Island.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Ready to plan your next winter thrills? Look no further than Iceland’s new “it” destination!

Surprisingly, Iceland is one of the easiest European countries to reach despite seeming like a fairytale land in the middle of nowhere.

With 2 Icelandic airlines serving the U.S. as well as a pair of America’s own, your bucket list dreams await.

But if you’ve held off scratching Iceland off your list, you may be late to the party since Reykavjaik, as well as some other former hidden gems, have spiked in popularity.

One city on the northern side is all the rage right now, especially as more airlines trickle in, making for convenient connections.

With frigid weather full steam ahead, Iceland may not seem like an ideal escape, but with some awe-inspiring natural phenomenons and cheap thermal spas to combat the cold, don’t sleep on visiting Iceland’s new tourism hotspot this winter.

Reykjavik Is Old News! More Travelers Are Scoping Out Akureyri

Reykjavik is a cool little city. The word “city” is a stretch since it feels more like a charming town, yet it’s Iceland’s largest “metropolis” at just a smidge under 140,000 in a nation of only 394,000 people.

More often than not, Keflavik, followed by Reykjavik, are the most common gateways into one of the world’s most otherworldly destinations to explore indescribable landscapes, stunning waterfalls, active volcanos, and possible elf sightings – well, at least to some locals who swear by it.

While spotting Will Ferrell in an open field would surely make lasting memories, in reality, more travelers are discovering the charms and wonders of Iceland’s fourth biggest city, Akureyri.

Offering more of an authentic feel than, say, Reykjavik’s Hard Rock Cafe and touristy shops, this vibrant community has so far welcomed visitors with open arms.

Honestly, that’s partly because locals know much of a trek their beloved hometown is to reach, even with easyJet set to launch a new flight from the U.K. on November 12th.

Secondly, Reykjavik isn’t a common place to witness the Northern Lights, given the light pollution, but Akureyri is more remote and a great entry point this time of year to see the skies dance green.

Akureyri’s Fabulous Northern Lights Display

Colder months = more Northern Lights. At least that’s the case for Akureyri.

Tour operators rake in the dough this time of year taking you to the best spots away from light pollution to witness Aurora Borealis put on a show.

According to Arctic Adventures, one of Akureyri’s top tour guides, the best time of year to witness this natural phenomenon is from ‘mid-September until March’.

All you have to do is pack some extra layers and let the experts do the rest.

The bad news being tour guides don’t control the weather, so you will need a bit a good fortune with a clear night.

While Arctic Adventures offers a great price at $123, it’s best to do your due diligence since Northern Light Tours is their own industry here.

For a full list of options, check Akureyri’s official tourism page.

Forget The Blue Lagoon! Visit Akureyri’s Cheaper Spas

Popular belief is Iceland is best explored by road trip.

That’s why you’ll see so many awesome photos or videos of travelers’ adventures across the country on Instagram and TikTok.

Of course, one of the most common and photo-worthy places to visit is the world-famous Blue Lagoon, often a highlight on many travelers’ road trip itineraries.

That said, the experience of relaxing in this spa’s natural thermal springs is expensive.

The cost of visiting the Blue Lagoon varies by package, but even the most affordable option doesn’t compare to what Akureyri offers.

Spas galore in Akureyri. Arguably the most popular is Forest Lagoon, holding an impressive 4.7 Google rating and only costs $50 to enter, while the Blue Lagoon is roughly $75 – $105 for the low-end Comfort option.

Another great choice is the Beer Spa, where yes, you can take a beer bath!

Or opt for another thermal bath away from the charming town’s delights.

Set along a black beach overlooking astounding open scenery, a day pass at Hauganes Hot Tubs only costs $14!

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.