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Brits looking for a city break with gorgeous beaches, amazing food and budget-friendly accommodation may want to check out one underrated gem that travel experts love

Greece is a firm favourite with Brits looking for sun-soaked holidays including gorgeous beaches, swim-friendly waters and amazing food; but its popularity can mean that getaways can be crowded and expensive.

However, there’s one lesser-known spot on the mainland that travel insiders have praised for offering all the above, “without tourist price hikes” that you’d find at hotspots like Athens, or islands like Rhodes, Crete and Mykonos.

The experts at Ski Vertigo have named Nafplio as one of their go-to underrated spots, adding that while most tourists will miss it, it remains a firm favourite with locals thanks to its beautiful coastal views and lack of larger crowds.

“Often overshadowed by island resorts, Nafplio on the mainland is a favourite among Greeks themselves,” they explained. “Expect great food, romantic alleyways, and sea views – without tourist price hikes”.

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Nafplio has everything you could want for a mix of city break and beach holiday. The city’s cobbled streets are home to heaps of shops, hotels and of course restaurants where you can tuck into some of that world-famous Greek cuisine. (In fact, you can also find some brilliant bakeries serving up some classic Greek pastries that are sure to appeal to anyone with a sweet tooth!).

It’s also worth a stroll to the marina and harbour from which you can take in some gorgeous coastal views, or you can go exploring thanks to the plethora of historic castles, churches and neoclassical architecture, as well as a range of museums where you can learn more about Greece’s fascinating history.

Meanwhile, sun-seekers who’d like to spend a day on the beach won’t be disappointed. For a start there’s Nafplio’s city beach, a small pebbled bay right on the edge of the city, and by the crystalline waters. However if it’s sand you’re after, then you may want to head over to Karathona beach which is always a hit with visitors thanks to its eucalyptus tree-lined sandy shores and amenities including watersports facilities.

It’s also worth leaving space on the itinerary to visit the nearby fishing village of Tolo, which boasts a postcard-worthy golden sandy beach that’s ideal for families thanks to the swim-friendly waters, and a few eateries where you can pick up a snack or use the loos. Tolo also has plenty of hotels and campsites right by the beach for those wanting to spend a bit more time exploring the area.

Although there are no direct flights to Nafplio from the UK, it’s still fairly easy for Brits to visit. One of the easiest routes is to fly to Athens – for which there are plenty of direct flights with the likes of Jet2, easyJet, British Airways and Ryanair – and then to get the ferry across, which takes just over two hours. The ferry between the two cities runs multiple times a day, so there’s plenty of opportunity to either explore Athens and travel on a later day, or grab an early flight and be at Nafplio in time for some sunset cocktails overlooking the harbour!

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Scarborough, a charming seaside town located in North Yorkshire, has been named one of the top destinations in the UK to visit and is known for its stunning coastline and rich history

With summer on the horizon, holidaymakers are busy planning their getaways, and for those favouring a staycation, there’s no need to look further than a delightful beach escape right on your doorstep. Scarborough, a charming coastal gem in North Yorkshire, is famed for its breathtaking shoreline that offers spectacular views of the North Sea.

The area is a haven for nature lovers, boasting proximity to the North York Moors National Park, dramatic cliffs, shimmering sandy beaches, and the majestic Scarborough Castle perched high above the sea. The town has been lauded as one of the top UK destinations to visit by Time Out magazine in 2023, and CN Traveller hailed it as the “most beautiful seaside resort in England” for its historical charm.

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They remarked: “The dramatic castle occupies the headland which separates the two main bays steep cliffs stretching away in both directions. The old town ascends the slope to the castle in a maze of crooked streets, with buildings dating back to Tudor times.”

Scarborough’s allure is heightened by the promise of a fresh adventure with each visit.

A perfect start to any trip could be the colourful Scarborough Fair Collection, home to Europe’s most extensive collection of classic fairground rides and historic vehicles.

This museum provides a unique historical lens, complete with bumper cars, penny arcades, a merry-go-round and the opportunity to enjoy afternoon tea whilst watching a stage show.

Another must-visit is the Scarborough Rotunda Museum, a Jurassic geology museum that delves into 65 million years of history, showcasing thousands of fossils, dinosaur footprints and even a Speeton Plesiosaur skeleton.

Entry is free for under 18s, and adults can explore the Rotunda Museum for just £5, which also includes admission to the Scarborough Art Gallery.

But no seaside getaway would be complete without a trip to the beach, and Scarborough boasts two stunning beaches: North and South Bay.

South Bay Beach is ideal for a family day out, having been a hit during the Victorian era, it still offers similar attractions like donkey rides and a lively promenade brimming with activities.

North Bay Beach, on the other hand, is much quieter and the perfect spot for relaxation or a leisurely stroll with a camera in hand. With numerous rock pools and charming vintage beach huts set against a backdrop of stunning hills and cliffs, there’s plenty to explore.

The two beaches are divided by the remnants of the grand Scarborough Castle, a 12th-century fortress that has withstood Viking invasions and served as a significant royalist stronghold during the Civil War.

After a day of sightseeing, it’s essential to visit the Scarborough Castle Great Tea Room, which offers stunning views of both beaches and an array of homemade cakes, jams, and other comforting treats.

No matter your itinerary, Scarborough is the perfect spot for a peaceful beach getaway, offering magnificent views, a rich history, and a host of entertaining attractions at one of England’s most beautiful seaside resorts.

Holidaymakers have heaped praise on an award-winning apartment with ‘stunning sea views’

UK tourists seeking a coastal getaway love escaping it all in Weymouth. Found in Dorset, the picturesque town boasts a charming harbour and golden sands. It’s no surprise that it’s a popular destination for families.

Holidaymakers looking for accommodation love Wessex View, an award-winning apartment listed on Sykes Holiday Cottages. It was the gold winner of ‘Best for Beaches’ in the Sykes Gems 2023 Awards. The well-reviewed property has received lots of praise for its “perfect location” and “fantastic sea views.”

However, while it is in “a prime position on the esplanade”, guests said it’s on “a very busy road,” with some reviewers commenting on “traffic noise.” Another option for visitors could be Lavender House Weymouth, a five-bedroom house found on Booking.com.

There’s also The Yellow One, an apartment that accommodates two guests, found on holidaycottages.co.uk, and Outlook Lodge, which sleeps four guests, found on Dream Cottages.

Wessex View sleeps four guests and offers off-road parking for one car. However, pets are not allowed at the property. The accommodation listing says: “Experience stunning sea views from this beautifully presented ground-floor apartment, Wessex View, located in the popular seaside resort of Weymouth in Dorset. It enjoys a prime position on the esplanade, just a few moments from the golden, sandy beach.

“The accommodation lies all on one level, aside from some steps leading down into the twin bedroom, and is suited best to a family of four or perhaps a couples break.” While there’s only limited availability for this summer, you could book four nights from May 31 for £630, three nights from September 6 for £636, or seven nights from September 27 for £630.

Reviewers loved the views from the apartment, though some raised issues with the accommodation. A guest praised: “Beautiful flat. Enjoyed watching the sunrise every morning from the big windows with an uninterrupted view of the sea. Beds were also comfortable. Plenty of toys and board games available to keep the kids happy.”

Someone else wrote: “Absolutely lovely apartment. It was so thoughtfully furnished and such a breath of fresh air to have so many items that are suitable for families. Perfect location for the beach and for looking out to sea over a morning coffee. Totally gorgeous.”

However, a different reviewer commented: “We had a lovely week. The flat was very clean and had everything we needed and plenty of space for the two of us. The seaview is a big plus. The only disappointments were that it stands on a very busy road, though maybe we shouldn’t have been surprised, given its location, and that we couldn’t get wifi in the twin bedroom, neither of which would stop us staying again as we loved being so close to the sea for our morning dips.”

Someone else with mixed feedback replied: “Excellent location, just across the road from the beach and short walk to the town/harbour. So many beautiful walking routes close by. The view of the sea from the lounge was amazing.

“The apartment was comfortable with good facilities. Off road car parking was definitely a bonus. The only negative for us was the lack of windows in the bedrooms, having said that, this would not prevent us from booking here again as the positives far out way this negative.”

Meanwhile, a reviewer thought: “Superb property, exactly as listed and in a perfect location on esplanade with beach and all amenities on doorstep. Very practical layout and star attraction being front room with huge windows overlooking sea. Had a perfect stay and one of our family’s favourite UK breaks ever.

“If there’s an observation, it’s the double bedroom – a little on the small side with minimal storage and a seemingly worn and uncomfortable mattress. Nothing some shelving in wardrobe and a new mattress wouldn’t resolve. Overall, an amazing property for our holiday.”

A similar response read: “Wessex View is a beautiful property with period features and an amazing view. The road is busy and obviously there was traffic noise but we expected this. There was everything we could need in the flat & it’s just a short walk into town. The only issue for us was the mattress which wasn’t the most comfortable if you have back problems.”