Montenegro has topped a new ranking of Europe’s best beaches for 2026, with Mogren Beach in Budva outranking popular destinations in Spain, Greece, Italy and Cyprus.
Travel insurance experts at Quotezone ranked 10 European beaches across sea and air temperature, five-star reviews, accommodation, drink costs and distance from the nearest airport.
Helen Rolph, travel insurance expert at Quotezone, said the results reflected a growing traveller appetite for destinations that balanced great weather, beautiful scenery and good value.
“This year’s results show Montenegro leading the way, with Mogren Beach outperforming many of Europe’s more established destinations thanks to its warm conditions, striking Adriatic coastline and some of the lowest overall costs. In many cases, popularity could be pushing up prices, making them less desirable for a budget-friendly trip,” Ms Rolph said.
Montenegro stood out for affordability, with a three-day stay in Budva averaging just under £195 (approx. $390) and a draft beer available for under £1.50 (approx. $3). Sea temperatures average 25.5°C in July with air temperatures reaching 26.7°C.
Nissi Beach in Cyprus took second place for its turquoise waters and warm conditions, with sea temperatures averaging over 27°C, but higher costs averaging £318.85 (approx. $640) for a three-day stay pushed it behind Montenegro.
Spain’s Playa de Maspalomas in Gran Canaria placed third, scoring strongly for its review count of more than 5,000 five-star ratings and reliable sunshine.
Bulgaria’s Irakli Beach placed fourth as the most budget-friendly option in the index, with a three-day stay averaging just over £216 (approx. $430) and the cheapest beer in the ranking at £0.88 (approx. $1.75).
Greece’s Elafonissi Beach placed fifth, followed by Portugal’s Praia da Falésia, Croatia’s Zlatni Rat and Italy’s La Pelosa Beach.
France’s Plage de Palombaggia in Corsica ranked 10th, primarily due to high costs with a three-day hotel stay averaging £603 (approx. $1,200) during peak season.
