With the price of what feels like almost everything going up, people are being urged to opt for a cost-effective alternative when it comes to booking a holiday.

Travel agents at eShores suggest swapping popular tourist hotspots for less-known but equally breathtaking destinations to save some cash.

Those looking for clever ways to stretch their holiday funds may appreciate the guidance offered by the experts, who have come up with some more frugal alternatives for the most sought-after destinations for 2025.

Gavin Lapidus, founder of eShores, said: “The magic happens when you step off the beaten path. Look for locations that capture the essence of popular destinations but add their own unique character. The key is finding spots with solid infrastructure, sustainable practices, and genuine local culture.”

Venice

Anyone who fancies visiting Venice is instead advised to consider Annecy, France—a place often called the “Venice of the Alps” thanks to its quaint waterways snaking through the town against a backdrop of stunning snowy peaks. But there’s more to it than just similar views.

On price comparison, results indicate significant savings, with flights to this picturesque French town being about £25 less expensive than those to Venice; plus, you could shave off between £30 and £40 on accommodation and reduce dining costs by up to £5 per head in local restaurants.

For those crafting a money-wise travel plan, the specialists also suggest pencilling in Annecy’s vibrant weekly markets and the shimmering, crystal-clear lake.

Barcelona

If you’re looking to swap Barcelona for a more budget-friendly Spanish city, Valencia is the place to be according to the experts. It’s the third largest city in Spain and offers all the cultural richness and exciting itineraries you’d expect from Barcelona, but without the hefty price tag.

This switch could save you over £200 on a weekend getaway, with flights to Valencia being £25 cheaper, hotels averaging around £80 less per night, and local dining saving you an extra £10 compared to eating out in Barcelona.

Maldives

Once actually home to a prison, Vietnam’s Con Dao Islands now a pristine getaway with overwater villas and coral reefs similar to those in the Maldives.

Choosing the Con Dao Islands over the Maldives can cut your holiday costs by £150 just on flights alone, while accommodations are roughly £220 cheaper per night and restaurant dining is significantly more budget-friendly, saving around £43 per person and cutting holiday costs by a total of £263 each night you’re there.

Plus, the island offers a few things the Maldives don’t, such as its unique historical twist and rare sea turtles that nest on its beaches.

The Caribbean

The Caribbean is a dream destination for many, but the long-haul flight from Europe often makes it unaffordable. Travel experts suggest that The Azores in Portugal can offer a similar experience.

Each of the nine islands in The Azores has its own unique charm, making an island-hopping holiday more achievable than crossing the Atlantic. Flights are approximately £240 cheaper, accommodation about £140 less and dining saves an average of £15 per person on your holiday spend.