If Amalfi Coast vibes are your mood board—but your budget says otherwise—this is for you. We’ve rounded up 10 dream-worthy destinations that give you the same pastel buildings, cliffside cafés, and wine-fuelled wanderlust without the crowds or cost of Positano.
Whether you want to dance barefoot in a beach bar or sip espresso with sea views, these lesser-known spots serve coastal chic with a side of affordability.
Looking for affordable alternatives to the Amalfi Coast or wondering where to travel this summer 2025 in Europe without draining your bank account? This is your list.
1. Rovinj, Croatia
Why it’s like Amalfi: Romantic architecture, coastal cliffs, and Adriatic charm
Why it’s better: Affordable seafood, fewer influencers, and sunsets over the Old Town
Stephi tip: Stay in a sea-view apartment for under £70 and rent a bike to explore forest trails.
2. Kotor, Montenegro
Why it’s like Amalfi: Dramatic bay views, winding roads, historic town squares
Why it’s better: It’s like the fjords of Italy—with way cheaper cocktails
Hot in 2025: Luxury hostels are popping up everywhere—perfect for digital nomads on a budget.
3. Cefalù, Sicily
Why it’s like Amalfi: Terracotta rooftops and candy-colored beaches
Why it’s better: You’ll eat like royalty without breaking the bank
Insider pick: Try granita + brioche on the promenade after a swim. A gem for Italy travel on a budget 2025.
4. Colònia de Sant Jordi, Mallorca
Why it’s like Amalfi: Crystalline beaches and chilled Mediterranean pace
Why it’s better: Totally walkable, fewer crowds than Palma, and unreal natural salt flats
Reel idea: Shoot golden hour clips at Es Trenc Beach with vintage filters.
5. Ischia, Italy
Why it’s like Amalfi: It’s literally near Amalfi—with a more local vibe
Why it’s better: Known for thermal spas and volcanic beaches at half the Amalfi price
Stephi style: Pack a film camera for that Wes Anderson energy.
6. Sitges, Spain
Why it’s like Amalfi: Ocean views, hilltop villas, and bohemian colour
Why it’s better: LGBTQ+ friendly, full of artsy beach clubs, and only 30 mins from Barcelona
Don’t miss: The July Festa Major with fireworks over the sea.
7. Parga, Greece
Why it’s like Amalfi: Green cliffsides, clear water, and quaint cobbled alleys
Why it’s better: It’s barely on the radar—so still full of Greek authenticity
Secret shot: Rent a paddleboat to see the Venetian castle from the water.
8. Aljezur, Portugal
Why it’s like Amalfi: Sun-soaked coastal views and slow living
Why it’s better: It’s a surf town at heart—with less glitz, more grounding
Moodboard: Think linen dresses, beach bonfires, and pastel sunsets.
9. Ksamil, Albania
Why it’s like Amalfi: Azure waters, fresh seafood, Mediterranean light
Why it’s better: It’s wildly affordable—like Amalfi on 2005 prices
Stephi shout: Stay near Butrint National Park for the best nature-meets-beach combo.
10. Polignano a Mare, Puglia
Why it’s like Amalfi: Cliff-hugging homes, ancient architecture, iconic sea caves
Why it’s better: More laid-back, less luxury—but just as jaw-dropping
Local love: Sing along to “Volare” where it was born.
FAQ – Amalfi Alternatives, Hidden Gems & Budget Travel in 2025
Destinations like Ksamil, Ischia, Cefalù, and Parga offer similar coastal beauty with far lower prices.
Try Polignano a Mare in Italy or Colònia de Sant Jordi in Mallorca—they offer that chic cliffside charm without the expense.
Ischia is a great low-cost Amalfi alternative with thermal spas and budget-friendly stays.
Look out for Kotor, Sitges, and Aljezur—they’re hot on TikTok and Pinterest right now.
Rovinj, Parga, and Ksamil are rising stars with unspoiled vibes and major aesthetic appeal.
Pack This Energy
If you want Amalfi vibes on a budget, the secret isn’t compromise—it’s curiosity. These under-the-radar spots give you the sun-drenched glam, sea-kissed skin, and postcard views without the tourist price tag. Perfect for cool girls, solo travellers, or content creators looking for their next muse.