They offer stunning views and culture without a hefty price tag.13:59, 26 Jun 2026Travel expert Simon Calder has shared his pick of European holiday destinations that won't break the bank. While they come with a lower price tag, the spots are still packed full with stunning scenery, culture, food and activities.‌MontenegroTravel expert Simon has championed Montenegro as a breathtakingly beautiful yet criminally overlooked European gem, boasting a spectacular coastline, sweeping national parks and enchanting medieval towns.‌The Balkan nation also happens to rank among Europe's most affordable destinations, according to a recent study by Jersey Island Holidays.‌The crown jewel of Montenegro is Kotor Bay, hailed as "a jewel of the Mediterranean," and brimming with picturesque fishing villages and jaw-dropping scenery. On Tripadvisor, one visitor declared Kotor to be one of the "nicest places" they'd ever set eyes on.Another wrote: "The bay is gorgeous with hills and mountains surrounding it. There are plenty of viewpoints to see it. The towns also look pretty with the red tiled roofs."‌A further holidaymaker gushed: "What a spectacular scene. Kotor Bay is winding and resembles a fjord. It is located in the Adriatic Sea and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site."The natural beauty is stunning, with Mediterranean landscapes, mountains, and cliffs in contrast with the historic buildings."PortugalThough better known as a summer hotspot, Portugal is a stunning destination in its own right, offering vibrant towns and a glorious stretch of coastline.‌Simon singles out Lisbon, along with the charming towns of Cascais, Estoril and Sintra as must-visit locations.He said: "I love Lisbon, one of Europe's most beautiful capital cities, and the locations on its western flanks - in particular Cascais, Estoril and Sintra."But until now I haven't strayed south to the Setubal Peninsula: much less well known, but full of surprises.Article continues below"Do try O Barbas - an amazing seafood restaurant overlooking the Atlantic in Costa da Caparica; the wild, windy and atmospheric cape of Espichel; and Setubal itself, a sleepy, friendly city."BulgariaBulgaria is yet another undiscovered treasure and a destination where "your money goes further," according to Simon.He said: "We've been telling everyone for years that Bulgaria is a great holiday destination, about how wonderful the weather is, how soft the sandy beaches are, the excellent hotels and of course the low cost of living there."