September 6th 2024.
Europe has no shortage of beautiful port destinations, but one that stands out among the rest is Kotor. With its charming vibe and stunning scenery, it's no wonder why this city is a popular choice for tourists. However, as the summer season comes to an end and the weather cools down, many may be looking for one last dose of sunshine before autumn fully sets in. If you're considering a trip to Europe, it's important to do your research and choose a destination that suits your preferences, especially if you're not a fan of large crowds.
The reason for this is because some ports, like Kotor, are frequented by cruise ships, which can bring in thousands of additional tourists each day. In fact, up to five cruise ships can dock in Kotor daily, with some of the larger ships carrying over 6,000 passengers. This influx of people can be overwhelming and frustrating, especially if you're trying to navigate through the city's old town. To avoid this chaos, travel experts recommend choosing a location just outside of the main port town or city.
Melanie Fish, a spokesperson for Expedia Group brands, suggests exploring areas like Dobrota in Montenegro instead of Kotor. In Spain, you could opt for the smaller village of Consell instead of the popular cruise port of Palma. These alternatives allow you to still visit the main attractions while also experiencing local life and hidden gems off the beaten path. According to Expedia's summer travel searches, many Brits are seeking to escape the crowds, with stays in the port town of Marseille increasing by 25%. However, nearby Cassis saw a 130% increase in visitors, offering a more tranquil and authentic experience.
Aside from Kotor, other popular cruise destinations include Corfu, Dubrovnik, Civitavecchia, Naples, Amsterdam, Lisbon, and Barcelona. If you're unsure about how often cruise ships stop at a certain port, you can always check using a site like CruiseMapper. This allows you to track ships from all major cruise lines and view port schedules.
Have you ever accidentally booked a holiday spot during cruise ship season? Share your experience in the comments below.
For those still in search of their next holiday destination, you may be interested to learn about a lesser-known spot that offers one of Europe's most affordable beaches. Plaża Jastarnia in Poland, located on a peninsula jutting into the Gulf of Gdansk, has been recently named as one of the top 10 cheapest beaches in Europe. A day's worth of sunbathing on a lounger will only cost you £11.16, while a delicious ice cream treat is a steal at £1.81. And when it comes to drinks, a pint of beer will set you back £3, an Aperol Spritz £4.89, and a bottle of water a mere 45p. Who says holidays have to be expensive?
According to data from Omio, the top spot for affordability goes to Playa de Las Canteras in Gran Canaria, Spain, where a lounger costs just £2.57 per day and an ice cream £1.80. Kleopatra Beach in Alanya, Turkey, and Playa de la Concha in San Sebastián, Spain, also made the list. Surprisingly, Warnemünde Beach in Germany's Mecklenburg-Vorpommern region on the Baltic Sea was also recognized as one of the most affordable beaches in Europe.
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