Sunny Beach, Bulgaria
Family of four for a week, all-inclusive, from around £1,300 in May or September. Long sandy beach, kid-friendly resorts and prices that make Spain look expensive.
Sarandë, Albania
Less developed than Croatia, with similar Adriatic coastline. A week in a beach apartment for a family of four can come in under £1,500 including flights.
Algarve (eastern end), Portugal
Skip the Vilamoura strip and head east to Tavira or Cabanas. Same Atlantic coastline, half the price, and far fewer tourists in shoulder season.
Croatia (Pag, Brač or Korčula)
Skip Dubrovnik and Split, head to the smaller islands. Apartment plus rental car comes in well under big-resort prices and the swimming is incredible.
Krakow and Zakopane, Poland
A city plus mountains combo at remarkably low prices. Great for families with older kids and tweens who want something more interesting than a pool week.