The underrated beach holidays where you can beat the crowds - including the 'Maldives of Europe'

Sarra Gray
Fri, 20 Mar 2026 09:48:56 +0000

European destinations such as Spain and Portugal are incredibly popular among tourists, but there are still some quieter parts where you can relax without the crowds.

These promise scenic beaches, proximity to the UK and affordable prices.

Laura Evans-Fisk at eurochange spoke on the "hidden gem" destinations holidaymakers should visit before they get overcrowded.

The expert, speaking to home and furniture brand Laura James, suggested destinations worth visiting in Spain, Albania and Portugal.

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La Gomera - Canary Islands

This is a quieter alternative to the Canary Islands' most popular tourist spots, with gorgeous beaches to relax on and great walks for activity-lovers.

Evans-Fisk said: “Whilst La Gomera isn’t as well-known as other Canary Islands such as Tenerife and Lanzarote, it has so much to offer.

"It’s the perfect tranquil, peaceful alternative to the more popular islands. You could stay here for a restful few days or make a day trip from Tenerife by hopping on the ferry.

“La Gomera is also a great spot for hikers and nature lovers, home to the lush UNESCO-listed Garajonay National Park. Its beaches are much more secluded than the ones you’ll find on the other islands, and you’ll encounter no large-scale resorts or nightlife.

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"Like other islands in the region, La Gomera benefits from pleasant temperatures throughout the year, too. And, it's low light pollution means it’s an excellent spot for stargazing.”

Ksamil and Porto Palermo (Bregu) – Albania

Albania is an underrated option for a sunny and affordable holiday. The expert recommended two parts of the country for your next getaway - including the 'Maldives of Europe'.

She continued: “The ‘Albanian Riviera’ (Bregu) is a rapidly emerging, budget-friendly destination in southwestern Albania. The latest figures show 11.7 million tourists visited in 2024 - a 15 per cent increase on the previous year - and it’s easy to see why.

"Here, you’ll find vivid turquoise waters, white pebble beaches, and stunning mountain backdrops.

“Ksamil, an area often coined the ‘Maldives of Europe’, is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches, with white sands and strikingly clear waters.

“For a more relaxed vibe, visit Porto Palermo - this stunning bay has a small peninsula connecting it to the mainland, and an impressive 19th-century castle, Ali Pasha.”

Alentejo - Portugal

Alentejo is less than three hours from the UK, with both sandy beaches and open countryside. Evans-Fisk said: “Unlike the popular Algarve region, Alentejo offers beautiful coastal landscapes and sandy beaches, without the crowds.

"Further north than the Algarve, this coastline surrounds the city of Lisbon, making charming towns like Cascais, Estoril and Azenhas do Mar perfect day excursions from the capital.”