The summer of 2024 will be marked by price increases, but will it cost more to go to the seaside or to the mountains? Altroconsumo, through a series of field surveys, analyzed the costs of the major expenditure items for those who go on holiday, including hotels, B&Bs, beach establishments, transport (such as motorway tolls and fuel) and flights. The data collected comes from various tourist locations and have been compared with the previous year’s prices to provide a comprehensive overview of summer 2024 price increases.
Let’s see what the situation is.
Beaches, prices increase by 4%
Those who choose the sea will have to prepare to pay more to enjoy the sun under the umbrella. The Altroconsumo survey, which analyzed the price trend in 211 beach establishments in 10 different locations, in fact shows a 4% increase in the prices of sunbeds and umbrellas compared to 2023.
An upward trend which, as experts point out, in fact follows a 5% increase already recorded in the previous yearbringing the cost of the service, for a week at the seaside, to almost 400 euros in some locations.
Hotels and B&Bs more expensive in the mountains: up to 27% more than in 2023
Since Altrconsumo’s revelation, an increasing trend has also emerged in hotel and B&B prices, both sea and mountain. So much so that in some places a week for two people can cost around 1,000 euros this summer. However, for those who prefer the mountain, accommodation costs have increased significantly.
In detail, hotels in the mountains are particularly expensive, with prices up to 55% higher than B&Bs. Reaching, in some cases, 165 euros per night.
Overall, the price increases compared to 2023 are higher also with regards to other services. In fact, if in seaside resorts prices have increased on average by 23% compared to last year, in mountain resorts the percentage is even higher, with average increases of 27%.
Where is the cheapest place to go in summer?
With the rising costs of summer vacations in 2024, finding economical destinations becomes a priority for many travellers. We therefore tried to do several simulations using the most used travel portals and, based on the results, we tried to identify which are the seaside and mountain locations that allow you to enjoy a pleasant holiday without spending too much.
Cheap seaside resorts
Durres and Vlora: These coastal cities offer beautiful beaches and hospitality at very competitive prices compared to the more famous Mediterranean resorts. Accommodation and restaurants are affordable, and the cost of living in general is lower than in Italy and other European destinations.
Lesser known islands such as Karpathos and Milos: These islands offer beautiful beaches and more affordable prices than more touristy destinations like Mykonos or Santorini. In addition, Greece has a wide range of budget accommodation options, from B&Bs to apartments.
Pinewood and Rose Garden of Abruzzi: These locations offer clean, quiet beaches that are ideal for families and couples. Accommodation and restaurants are generally cheaper than other more popular destinations.
Senigallia and Porto Recanati: In addition to quality beaches, these locations offer great cuisine and affordable accommodation. The Marche is less crowded than neighboring regions, but no less beautiful.
Tropea and Scalea: Although Tropea has become more popular in recent years, it still offers affordable accommodation and dining options. Scalea, on the other hand, is less known and offers beautiful beaches at reasonable costs.
Vieste and Peschici (Gargano)These locations in Gargano are known for their beaches and natural beauty, but maintain more affordable prices than destinations such as Salento.
Cheap mountain resorts
Carpathians: The Carpathians offer breathtaking scenery, hiking trails and a very low cost of living. Prices for accommodation and meals are significantly lower than in the Alps or other better-known mountain destinations.
Julian Alps (Bovec and Kranjska Gora): These locations are ideal for lovers of nature and outdoor activities. Prices for accommodation and services are lower than in many Alpine resorts in Italy or Austria.
Monti Rodopi: Less known but with beautiful landscapes, these mountains offer an authentic experience and very low costs. Perfect for hiking and nature, accommodation and meal prices are very affordable.
Majella National Park: It offers numerous hiking routes and uncontaminated nature. Costs for accommodation and food are lower than in the Alps.
Non Valley: Less famous than Val Gardena or Val di Fassa, it still offers enchanting landscapes and numerous outdoor activities at reasonable prices.
Tarvisio and Sappada: These mountain resorts are ideal for excursions and relaxing holidays, with more affordable prices than other Alpine resorts.
Valle Maira: One of the lesser-known but most beautiful valleys in the Western Alps. It offers tranquility, nature and competitive prices.
Summer 2024, when to book
Book your summer holidays early can make a big difference in terms of costs and availability. Usually, from November to February it’s the best time to book flights and accommodation for the summer. Many tour operators and airlines offer early booking discounts. There is also a wide choice of accommodation and timetables available.
In June and Septemberfor those who can afford to travel outside the typical high season (July and August), there are also significantly lower prices. And we are still talking about perfect months to enjoy the sea and the mountains with less crowds.
Monitoring prices using price monitoring tools (websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights and Hopper) and setting up alerts for the destinations you are interested in can also make a difference. This way, you will be notified whenever a lowering costs or whenever offers are launched on the places in question. Tour operators often offer vacation packages that include flights, accommodation and sometimes even meals and activities. These packages can be very convenient.
Finally, several studies have shown that Book flights and accommodation mid-week can be cheaper than weekends. Prices tend to be lower on these days. Be sure to always check the local calendar to avoid booking during events or holidays that can increase prices and reduce the availability of accommodation in the chosen period.
A certain flexibility with departure dates and times can guarantee several significant advantages, especially in terms of savings and convenience.
