The Best Budget-Friendly Tourist Destinations To Visit In The Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is an absolute dream to visit, but it can be difficult to find budget-friendly destinations along the popular sea. The small, charming towns alongside some of the most world's most vibrant water are understandably in high demand. And with popularity comes increased prices, which is why we've rounded up 14 of the best cities and towns to visit in the Mediterranean that won't break the bank. 

We've also provided suggestions beyond location to save you a few bucks. From free museums and activities to cheap eats and transportation methods, rest assured you'll have a great trip while also not spending an entire year's salary. (One note: As several seas are a part of the Med, such as the Aegean, Adriatic, and Ionian, we've interpreted smaller bodies of water such as these as being part of the Mediterranean. So you'll see a mix of towns along those smaller bodies included in this list.)

Between coastal heavy-hitters Croatia and Albania lies Montenegro, a country better known for its mountains. The town of Budva is more affordable than most coastal towns on the Med, as well as neighboring Kotor. Outside the Old Town, it's a bit of a party destination and parts can be reminiscent of college spring break. Meanwhile, the historical center itself is lovely and peaceful and there is plenty to do besides dance and drink.

You can wander the Old Town and climb the walls for cheap, according to Hotels.com. Other sites include the Podmaine Monastery, Church of Holy Trinity, and Saint Ivan Church. For a unique afternoon, stroll through the underground tunnel between Budva and nearby Becici. Once in Becici, visit St. Thomas Church. And of course, the beach never costs anything, unless you're renting a sun bed or ordering from the bar. Montenegro uses the euro and due to this, some things like accommodation can be similar to Croatian prices. However, if you stick to street eats like pizza and kebabs you should be pleasantly surprised by the affordability.

Zadar is full of ruins and history that will impress even the most jaded traveler. In fact, its defense walls are a newly designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Forum, central to life in Ancient Rome, also still exists today in the town center and is the largest remaining one in all of Croatia. Additionally, the foundations of shops are still visible as are the remains of the Capitolium temple.

According to the Hotel Mediteran, Hitchcock once said, "Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world, more beautiful than the one in Key West in Florida, applauded at every evening." Anyone who visits will be hard-pressed not to make a ritual of wandering down to the waterfront as dusk descends on the city. The pink and orange blend in striking contrast with the blue water of the ocean and the dark outlines of the islands across from Zadar, a sight that truly never gets old. And if that isn't reason enough to head down to the sea, architect Nikola Bašić's installations like the Sea Organ (underwater pipes played by sea waves) and Greeting to the Sun (a cyclical light show timed with the sun) will draw you in.

Sardinia has some of the bluest water in all of Europe, but it's also a wonderful destination for history buffs! Cagliari in particular is nice to visit year-round because there is more to see and do beyond the beach. You can stroll the historical center — don't miss the cathedral and two watchtowers, all free to enter. Additionally, the Palazzo Civico is free to visit, although if you want a guided tour, you'll need to pay for it. The town is also home to an amazing archeology museum and archeological sites like the ancient Roman amphitheater, which both charge admission fees. You may also want to splurge on a tour of Cagliari's underground city.

If you plan to stay a while it's worth it to consider the Cagliari City Pass, which costs 9.99 euros and allows entrance to most sites; just check that they're not closed for maintenance. The beaches of course are the main pull, and most beaches on the island are open and free to the public. So if you just want to sun and swim on your Sardinian vacation, it's very possible to do so on a budget. Additionally, public transportation is extensive, albeit slow, and as long as you avoid any restaurant with a "tourist menu," you should be able to eat for affordable prices.

History is the main draw for most visitors to Egypt, but Alexandria is special in that it has ancient ruins alongside the beautiful Mediterranean. And its shores aren't as crowded (or expensive) as those on the Red Sea or elsewhere along the Med. There are many free beaches in and around the city or clubs that offer access (and usually food and drink) for a reasonable price. The Corniche, a waterfront promenade, is also open to the public as are the souks, and neither cost anything to wander. The Stanley Bridge is also free to cross and provides amazing views of the city and sea. The cheapest meals in town will be found, as is most often the case in Egypt, at the markets and from street vendors.

If you're okay with spending just a bit, consider visiting the Bibliotheca of Alexandria, which costs just 70 Egyptian pounds or about $2.30 to enter. (It's a modern rendition of the library, of course, as the original has been famously lost to history.) The library is also home to the Antiquities Museum, with an admission fee of 50 Egyptian pounds or $1.60.

Cyprus is rich in history and unique as a split Turkish and Greek island. It is also a great budget-friendly alternative for a Mediterranean vacation where you'll still have access to amazing beaches and food. The town of Paphos is especially ideal for travelers who want to save on their vacation thanks to numerous affordable accommodation options, free activities, and cheap eats. The village is well-located, situated close to both Lara Beach and Antasia Beach, both of which are free to access, unless you want to splurge on a sun bed. Additionally, Akamas National Park is nearby, a great destination for hiking and enjoying clear blue waters, including that of the country's very own Blue Lagoon.

Paphos is also home to the Tomb of the Kings, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Archaeological Park of Kato Pafos (Paphos). Admission will only set you back 8.50 euros for a one-day pass. If you want to save on food, order pita and souvlaki or visit a bakery for cheap pies. As for the amazing seafood, try squid or white fish instead of lobster or other pricier options.

Spain, particularly along the coast, isn't exactly known to be affordable. However, if you're open to different places, Valencia is a great all-around destination. Some of Spain's best sandy shores are nearby and if you're keen to hike, the Sierra de Espadan Mountains aren't far either. In fact, the mountains house the famous Fuente de Los Baños, hot springs that are just 3 euros to enter. If you're more of a city person than a nature-lover, don't worry — you can do plenty on the cheap in Valencia. First, wandering the special city is a must for any visitor. The buildings are a lovely mix of brightly colored Gothic, Art Nouveau, and Roman architecture.

Valencia may be known for its proximity to the ocean and mountain peaks, but you can get your green space fix right in the city as well. Both the Turia River Gardens and Royal Gardens are wonderful respites from the urban hustle and bustle and don't cost a thing to enter. Additionally, Valencia has many free museums including the Fine Arts Museum San Pio V, Bombas Gens Art Center, Carme Contemporary Culture Centre, and the House of Las Rocas. It's also worth looking into Valencia's tourist card to save even more. The card gets you entrance to most museums and monuments including the Cathedral (where you can get some of the best views in the city) and rides on all public transportation. Additionally, you will receive discounts at numerous establishments around the city.

Visitors are often pleasantly surprised by the affordability of Montpellier, a city not directly located on the beach, but a quick jaunt away. It's a student city full of young people and truly lived in, unique for beachside towns! It's also full of free activities and places to spend the day. Start your visit in the beautiful Old Town where you could spend all day admiring the building details. Then, head to the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle, a leafy green respite in this sunny city open to the public. If you still haven't had your garden fix after that, walk a bit further to the university's plant garden and enjoy flora from around France and the globe.

The Museum of Photography and La Panacee, a contemporary art museum, both have free admission and are located close to the main train station. And the beaches of course are always a budget-friendly location. Most are a quick tram or bike ride away. For food, there are many markets throughout the week in Montpellier and you'll find some of the cheapest meals in the city here, so make sure to prioritize them on your visit! And of course, as in much of France, the bakery will be your budget's best friend with affordable sandwiches, sweets, and meal deals.