Europe on a Budget: Hotspots for Summer 2013

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This is a photo of Bled, Slovenia, one of the destinations on our list

Summer is now upon us, so if you haven’t already got plans it’s time to start thinking about where to go and what to do for the summer holidays 2013. Here are five great yet inexpensive places to visit – and it’s not too late to book!

1. Bled, Slovenia

Stunning views and a crystal-clear lake make Bled one of the hottest summer destinations. Surrounded by a quaint town, this is the ideal location to reconnect with nature and catch some fresh air. In the heart of the Julian Alps, Bled is ideal for hiking in the mountains, renting a kayak to paddle around the lake, or exploring the ancient Bled Castle, perched on a cliff overlooking the lake. To make the trip even cheaper, it’s possible to bring a tent and camp only metres away from the shore.

2. Mamaia, Romania

Dubbed as the new Ibiza, this Black Sea beach town has it all for the party animals this summer. What attracts most people is the great electronic music scene. Clubbing until the early morning, hordes of young people enjoy the care-free atmosphere in Mamaia. Venues to look out for in 2013 include the EGO Club, which kicks off the season on the 14th of June with big-name Ibiza vocalist Patrizze, and the Fratelli Beach & Club, while the International Clubs Festival attracts talent from some of the biggest party cities around the world, including Miami! For those who want to enjoy the beach as well, there are countless water sports on offer allowing you to practice windsurfing, kayaking and snorkeling, just for starters.

3. Riga, Latvia

Riga is the most cosmopolitan of the Baltic capitals, and its medieval charm is something to take note of. With churches and houses dating back to the 13th century, walking through the Old Town can be quite the architectural experience. The tour won’t be complete without a stop at the many bars and cafes that litter the area, where the best local beers are served at ridiculously affordable prices. Highlights this summer include the Latvian Song and Dance Festival, the Riga Cathedral Organ Festival and the tall ships event.

4. Split, Croatia

Beautiful beaches on the sunny Adriatic coast, centuries of Roman history, busy nightclubs and cheap restaurants: Split has it all. But most importantly, Split is the point of entry for some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, like Solta, Brac, Vis and Har. Worth recommending is the last one, Vis, which only opened up to tourism in 1989 and has unspoiled beaches and pine forests waiting to be discovered. Flights to Croatia this summer will cost you very little if you book soon – less than £200 for a return even at the height of the season in August.

5. Krakow, Poland

Once the home of the Polish monarchy, the city still retains most of its former glory. A walk around Wawel Castle (built in the 14th century), or a stroll through the Jewish Quarter (the best place in town for an inexpensive meal) are enough to make anyone feel like they’re travelling back in time. Enjoy open-air concerts amid beautiful buildings and why not visit the Forever Young exhibition of Polish art this summer?

Cheap flights and reasonably priced accommodation mean that any of the above would be great for a holiday in 2013.

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Photo by veni markovski