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BEACHES – Europe

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BALTIC COAST, POLAND P5>

BODRUM, TURKEY P7>

CANNES, FRANCE P9>

HVAR, CROATIA P11>

IBIZA, SPAIN P13>

ISCHIA, ITALY P15>

ALGARVE, PORTUGAL P3>

MALAGA, SPAIN P17>

NAXOS, GREECE P19>

TORQUAY, ENGLAND P21>

3best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Algarve, Portugal P

STAY FOR LESS

ALGARVEP O R T U G A L

1. APARTHOTEL ALTO DA COLINABalaia, Apartado 866, Albufeira, 351 289 540 230 | $53 – 86

“Good pool areas, with loads of sun beds and an enthusiastic entertainment team.”

2. HERDADE DA CORTESitio da Corte, Santa Catarina Da Fonte Do Bispo, Tavira, 351 281 971 625 | $56 – 126

“A perfect place to recharge your batteries. Close to fine beaches and beautiful towns.”

3. SOLAR DE MOS HOTELRua Santa Casa da Misericórdia, Lt. 1, Sítio da Torraltinha, Lagos, 351 282 782 579 | $58 – 150

“Small hotel fitted out like a traditional Portuguese home. An oasis of calm.”

4. HOTEL RESIDENCIAL S. ALGARVERua Infante D. Henrique 52, Faro, 351 289 895 700 | $60 – 100

“Enjoy a very pleasant breakfast in the little inner courtyard with fountain.”

5. LOULE JARDIM HOTELPraça Manuel de Arriaga 25, Loule, 351 289 413 095 | $66 – 97

“The rooms with terraces have a great view of the coast and get sun all day.”

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4best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Algarve, Portugal P

1. THE COTTAGE RESTAURANTAvenida Sa Carneiro, Montechoro, Albufeira, 351 289 542 100 | $2 – 10

“Excellent food at rock bottom prices! We even printed a discount voucher from their website to get the breakfast special for $2.”

2. JK’S BAR AND RESTAURANTEstrada du Costelo, Praia de Gale, Sesmarias, Albufeira, 351 961 601 546 | $9 – 12

“Everything was fresh. They did have some local foods, but it was nice to see real roast dinners and Yorkshire pudding.”

3. RESTAURANTE ADEGA NOVARua Francisco Barreto 24, Faro, 351 289 813 433 | $10 – 15

“Serving traditional Portuguese cuisine. This favorite with locals turned out to be one of the best meals we had in Portugal!”

4. CASINHA DO PETISCORua da Oliveira 51, Lagos, 351 282 084 285 | $10 – 16

“The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed; the service is fast and friendly. The food is fresh, and the prices are so good that we wonder how they make money.”

5. CABANAS BRASSERIERua Ilha da Abobora 1, Tavira, 351 966 314 848 | $13 – 17

“You must pay attention to Fernando when he tells you the ‘Daily Specials,’ as they really are special. If you eat here once, you’ll keep coming back.”

The Algarve’s sunny shores offer perfect escapes of all

types: the hot nightlife of flashy, energetic Lagos and more sedate

stays in Loule. Portugal’s most southerly region offers historic attractions in former Moorish

ports Albufeira and Silves. Great golf and fabulous beaches from

Praia da Luz to Armacao de Pera, Faro to Loule to Vilamoura. Explore thermal springs at Caldas

de Monchique and miles of limestone caves, grottoes, cliffs

and bays along the rugged coastline.

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1. PRAIA DA FALESIAVilamoura

“Offers one of the longest stretches of golden sand beach in Portugal, overlooked by pine trees decorating the red cliff tops. The place to go for relaxing strolls. The sheer size of the beach guarantees plenty of space for everyone.”

2. PEGO DO INFERNO5 kilometers inland from Tavira

“Close to Tavira and often overlooked, this lovely waterfall has a wonderful aquamarine pool in which to take a swim. Take the country road on the west side of Rio Gilao and follow the signs to this tropical blue lagoon.”

3. FARO OLD TOWN (CIDADE VELHA)Faro

“Enter via the beautiful Arco da Vila Town Gate. Winding cobbled streets lead to the main square, Largo de Se, which is surrounded by the Cathedral, Bishop’s Palace and a former 16th-century convent which now houses the Museo Arquelogico.”

5best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Baltic Coast, Poland P

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BALTIC COASTP O L A N D

1. WILLA ALBATROSul. Leszka Bialego 12, Gdansk, 48 58 557 52 16 | $56 – 104

“A home-cooked meal after a hard day’s sightseeing was truly wonderful.”

2. GOTYK HOUSEul. Mariacka 1, Stare Miasto, Gdansk, 48 58 301 85 67 | $65 – 92

“Quirky property situated on the most beautiful street in Old Town Gdansk.”

3. DOM MUZYKA1 - 2 Lakowa St., Gdansk, 48 58 326 06 00 | $85 – 98

“Shares space with a music academy. Hearing the music makes a pleasant atmosphere.”

4. HOTEL HAFFNERul. J.J. Haffnera 59, Sopot, 48 58 550 99 99 | $98 – 136

“Elegant, quiet and within walking distance of the sea and Sopot Promenade.”

5. WILLA LUBICZul. Orlowska 43, Gdynia-Orlowo, 48 58 668 47 40 | $109 – 127

“Walking distance to the beach. The service could not be better.”

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6best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Baltic Coast, Poland P

1. PIZZERIA ANKERPilsudskiego 50, Gdynia, 48 58 620 23 21 | $3 – 5

“Great mouthwatering pizzas at great rates.”

2. BISTRO KOSul. Piwna 9/10, Gdansk, 48 58 301 09 09 | $3 – 5

“For a lovely, local meal. They serve beautiful Polish food at very reasonable prices.”

3. GREEN WAYAleja Niepodleglosci 782, Sopot, 48 50 230 97 74 | $5

Part of a popular Polish café chain, this “small vegetarian bar sells good food at low prices.”

4. PUEBLOAntoniego Abrahama 56, Gdynia, 48 58 621 60 07 | $5 – 9

The place to get “great authentic Mexican food” on the Baltic Coast.

5. TAWERNA DOMINIKANSKAul. Targ Rybny 9, Gdansk, 48 58 301 65 75 | $6 – 12

“The food was lovely, all made-to-order. The location right near the Motlava river is ideal in the summer.”

Poland’s lovely Baltic Coast is highlighted by the Trójmiasto

(Tri-Cities) of Gdansk, Gdynia and Sopot, all lying within a 15-mile stretch along the west side of

Gdansk Bay. Of the three, Gdansk is the biggest and most historic, Gdynia is the newest and most

modern, and Sopot is the smallest and most exclusive. The towns

are linked by frequent trains, and make for a terrific trip triad. As an added bonus, both Gdansk and

Gdynia are linked by ferry service to northern neighbor Sweden.

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1. SOPOT BEACHSopot

Just one portion of miles of gorgeous Baltic beaches, the beach at Sopot is “long and wide with white sand and a lot of outdoor cafes for food and drinks. Features calm waters and the longest wooden pier in Europe.”

2. SLOWINSKI NATIONAL PARK48 59 81 17 204 | $1.20

A day trip to this natural wonder is a must. “The landscape of the park is varied, a mix of huge open fields, woods and wetlands. The thirty kilometers of shifting sand dunes are the park’s most renowned attraction.”

3. OLD TOWN Gdansk

“The famous St. Mary’s Church is here, as well as other interesting historic buildings, including a massive medieval crane. You can find shops selling amber along the river.”

7best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Bodrum, Turkey P

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BODRUMT U R K E Y

1. GULEC HOTEL PENSIONUçkuyular Cad. No: 22, 90 252 316 5222 | $30 – 53

“Tasteful simplicity. Close to everything yet calm. Friendly staff, wonderful garden.”

2. ISTANKOY HOTELAtaturk Cad. No: 59, 90 252 316 4187 | $66 – 99

“Location is excellent—just behind the main promenade where the bars spill onto the beach.”

3. AEGEAN GATE HOTELAkçabük Mevki, Kumbahçe Mh., Güvercin Sok. No: 2, 90 252 316 7853 | $106 – 133

“An intimate hotel—only six rooms, all with spectacular views. Quiet, serene surroundings.”

4. SU HOTELTurgutreis, Cad. No: 1201, 90 252 316 6906 | $112 – 119

“Wonderful escape. Sunshine all around and a pool filled with cooling water.”

5. ECE RESORT Hürriyet Caddesi No: 64, Göltürkbükü, 90 252 357 7388 | $55 - 111

“Relaxed, family-run hidden gem with focus on service, style and customer satisfaction.”

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8best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Bodrum, Turkey P

1. NAZIK ANAEski Hukumet Sok. No: 7, 90 252 313 1891 | $3 – 10

“For an authentic traditional Turkish meal. Self-service in the covered garden of an old stone house. Popular with locals. Lunch is better than dinner.”

2. SUNGER PIZZANeyzen Tevfik Cad. 218, 90 252 316 0854 | $5 – 14

“Don’t come this far and miss Sunger! It’s a central hub for many locals. Dine on the roof in the evening for a more formal experience—reservations are a must.”

3. SARAY ZETAZengin Hüseyin Cad. Tegenover Colossus Hotel No:23, Gumbet, 90 252 319 2903 | $6 – 15

“Their menu is varied, but with emphasis on traditional Turkish cuisine. And boy, is it good! The width of my hips is testament to how many times I’ve eaten here.”

4. TAMEROSYalikavak, 90 252 385 4503 | $7 – 18

“A tiny restaurant/bar in Yalikavak town center. The tables are set in a beautiful courtyard/garden, and the food is reasonably priced and very fresh.”

5. KAFEDAKI RESTAURANT & CAFÉOasis arkasi Karaburgaz Mevkii, Pedesa Villalari Alti, 90 252 317 0275 | $8 – 20

“Fantastic place, great view of Bodrum Bay. Service and food are outstanding. A real hidden gem!”

Once a cozy fishing village of only a few thousand people, Bodrum has experienced a renaissance in the last half century that has transformed this once-sleepy

community into one of Turkey’s most popular vacation hotspots. Writers, intellectuals, artists and musicians have long called this Aegean town home, or second-

home, attracting a vibrant cultural scene paralleled only by the town’s nightlife. Windswept beaches and glittering waters provide the backdrop to the

perfect beach getaway.

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1. BITEZ BEACH“Bitez is lovely—real chill out territory but within easy reach of night life. And it retains its traditional Turkish side.”

2. BODRUM MUSEUM OF UNDERWATER ARCHAEOLOGY AND CASTLE OF ST. PETER90 252 316 2516 | $5 entry fee for admission to Museum, Castle and Mausoleum of Halicarnassus

“As soon as you arrive you see the silhouette of this castle, visible from almost every angle of Bodrum. Inside, check out the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which chronicles the history of shipwrecks off the Turkish Coast.”

3. BODRUM HARBOR“The Aegean Sea is lovely all times of year, so make sure to take a walk along the coast or sit on a bench and enjoy the view. Townspeople tend to congregate here, so it’s perfect for people-watching.”

9best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Cannes, France P

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CANNESF R A N C E

1. HOTEL BLUE RIVA35 Rue Hoche, 33 4 93 38 33 67 | $77 – 119

“Service was fantastic. Breakfast in the courtyard was great after a morning swim.”

2. HOTEL IDEAL SEJOUR6 Allée Parc des Vallergues, 33 4 93 39 16 66 | $79 – 87

“Rooms and patio are stylish and neat. The Cannes heights neighborhood, pleasing and calm.”

3. HOTEL FLORIAN CANNES8 Rue du Commandant André, 33 4 93 39 24 82 | $79 – 108

“Absolutely perfect location, right in Cannes center, a short stroll from the public beach.”

4. ALNEA20 rue Jean de Riouffe, 33 4 93 68 77 77 | $79 – 116

“The owners have thought of everything. They even supply for umbrellas for the beach—free!”

5. LE MISTRAL13 Rue des Belges, 33 4 93 39 91 46 | $102 – 128

“A luxury hotel feel without the price tag, only one street from the beach.”

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10best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Cannes, France P

1. FORVILLE MARKET (MARCHÉ FORVILLE)Marché Forville | $2 – 12

“A feast of color, freshness and friendliness. These people know what fresh is, and what good food is all about. From large producers to single tables with one old lady selling honey or basil. Bon appétit!”

2. LA CRÊPERIE DE LA CROISETTE82 boulevard de la Croisette, 33 4 93 94 43 47 | $8 – 13

“A nice little crêperie on la Croisette, where you can get a very decent lunch for a very modest price. There’s a lovely beach immediately opposite—the swimming is great!”

3. XAVIER LA PIZZAIOLA10 rue Marceau, 33 4 93 99 57 99 | $10 – 20

“My favorite Cannes pizza joint—off the tourist track. Excellent pizzas, both Italian and Provençal style. Less expensive than some of the more touristy joints near the Croisette.”

4. IL TEATRO5 rue Gabres, 33 4 93 38 09 08 | $12 – 30

“Reasonably priced, polite service, wonderful food—and not touristy at all. What more could one want?”

5. MARINA CAFFE61 Rue Félix Faure, 33 4 93 39 02 41 | $15 – 22

“Good salads, burgers, pizzas, pasta, meat and fish dishes. You can sit and watch the world walk by. There’s enough variation on the large menu to make anyone happy.”

Galas, regattas, the Film Festival and an outrageously attractive and affluent set characterize Cannes. But people-watching

is free, and it’s the activity that brings most visitors to Cannes. The hotel-lined La Croisette

provides a fine promenade. First popularized by Coco Chanel, the Cannes beaches are a huge draw, including the free public strands, Plages du Midi and de la Boca. Cannes lives up to its motto,

“Life is a festival.”

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1. LA CROISETTE BEACHESBoulevard de la Croisette

“La Croisette is bordered by a beautiful sandy beach. Beyond the beach is the twinkling blue Mediterranean, with its elegant yachts moored in the bay. Some of the beaches are private, but there are public beaches, as well.”

2. BELLINI MUSEUM AND CHAPEL Parc Fiorentina, 67 bis Avenue de Vallauris, 33 4 93 38 61 80

“Built in the late 1800s, this art museum inside an ornate Italian Baroque-style chapel houses the studio and works of Emmanuel Bellini.”

3. PLAGE DU MIDIBoulevard du Midi

“Going west around the corner from the Old Port is a lovely long stretch of sand with great views, continuing all the way to Mandelieu la Napoule. It starts off as a mixture of public and private beaches, but the private sections and facilities quickly peter out.”

11best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Hvar, Croatia P

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HVARC R O A T I A

1. VILLA PETRICICSamoretov dol bb, 385 21 742 481, $32 – 71

“Mr. Petricic is a charming host and gave us many good tips on beaches to visit.”

2. HOUSE GORDANAGlavica bb, 385 21 742 182 | $45 – 60

“Our room was a fabulous size, immaculately clean and had a beautiful sea view.”

3. PHARIA APARTHOTELMajerovica bb, Hvar, 385 21 778 080 | $80 – 160

“Clean, new rooms near two stretches of beach with deck chairs and facilities.”

4. PODSTINE HOTELPodstine bb, 385 21 740 400 | $87 – 245

“An excellent hotel with an incredible beach, views, location and exceptional food.”

5. HOTEL DALMACIJADolac bb, 385 21 741 120

“Spectacular views over the bay and islands from sea-facing rooms or terrace.”

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12best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Hvar, Croatia P

1. PIZZERIA KOGOIvan Novak, 385 21 742 136 |$10

“Grab a fresh pie and grab a seat at this local street café, looking out on a charming old town plaza.”

2. KONOBA VRISNIK vl. Andro Grgicevic, Vrisnik| $10

“There’s a lot to do outside of Hvar Town, and the food is less expensive. Try the local food and wine in Vrisnik for a real taste of Croatia.”

3. GARIFULRiva 21, 385 21 742 999 | $10 – 20

“A nice little restaurant at the end of the quayside. A friendly place, with good honest food and a quirky floor—an aquarium with lobsters and fish!”

4. KONOBA MENEGOGroda bb, 385 21 742 036 | $27

“This traditional Croatian restaurant sells food similar to tapas. A really fun place with small plates of great cheese, olives, etc.”

5. LUNA1 Petar Hektorovica, 385 21 741 400 | $35

“Offers more than the traditional seafood dishes you seem to find everywhere on the Croatian coast. Their gazpacho was among the best we’ve ever had.”

Claiming to be the sunniest spot in all of Europe, the Croatian

island of Hvar is the perfect destination for anyone seeking the beauty of Mediterranean beaches

without the crowds associated with better-known destinations.

Pathways lined with lavender vines lead to secluded coves, small fishing villages and local vineyards, and ferries and catamarans carry

visitors across the calm, blue waters to the surrounding islands,

all worthy of exploration.

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1. MILNABrac

On the nearby island of Brac, the beautiful town of Milna has a beach that features “clear blue waters, pine trees for shade and great warm weather. In the dark, the stars shone like jewels on a black blanket.”

2. PALMIZANAPalmiziana

Catch a water taxi out to this small island, which is “absolutely beautiful, with pine forests, rocky shores and crystal clear seas all around. The beach is one of the few in Croatia with actual sand, and you can walk around the cove to quieter spots on the rocks.”

3. HVAR OLD TOWNHvar

“The old town of Hvar is filled with historic hidden gems, ranging from the beautiful cathedral on the town square to a Franciscan monastery. Take the hike up to the old fortress. It’s tough, but the view is to die for.”

13best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Ibiza, Spain P

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IBIZAS P A I N

1. HOSTAL FERRERC/ Obispo Torres 5, Sant Antoni de Portmany, 34 971 340 176 | $30 – 105

“Lovely roof terrace and swimming pool with great views over San Antonio.”

2. ROSAMAR APARTHOTELC/ Huelva 14 – 18, Cala de Bou, Sant Antoni de Portmany, 34 971 347 442 | $40 – 122

“Pool tables and game rooms and two-for-one happy hour every day!”

3. CORAL BEACH HOTELC/ Cala Nova, Playa Es Cana, Es Canar, 34 971 330 177 | $40 – 175

“Pool, darts, archery, aqua aerobics, dance lessons—ALL FREE to hotel guests.”

4. HOTEL OROSOLCami General 1, Sant Antoni de Portmany, 34 971 340 712 | $45 – 108

“Located just a few hundred meters from the sea and all the bars. Excellent value!”

5. HOTEL LA CIGUENAS’Arenal Petit 36, Portinatx, 34 971 320 614 | $62 – 90

“Spotless, friendly, wonderful location and FANTASTIC food. What a lovely hotel!”

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14best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Ibiza, Spain P

1. TRATTORIA METRO PIZZAC/ Jose Maria Cuadrado 10, Ibiza, 34 971 314 571 | $10 – 16

“Pizza as good as any I’ve ever tasted. The people are friendly and offer excellent cuisine at reasonable prices.”

2. RESTAURANTE LA PAELLASiesta, Santa Eulalia del Rio, 34 971 330 902 | $13

“Serving a variety of excellent food, including delicious paella, on a green terrace.”

3. ROYALTY RESTAURANTC/ San Vicente, Santa Eulalia del Rio, 34 971 331 819 | $16

“Choose from three different set menus—all of which are excellent and less than 14 euros per person.”

4. DAFFER’SC/ San Vicente 51, Santa Eulalia Del Rio, 34 971 336 709 | $16 – 20

“Prix-fixe three-course meals with a fantastic range of dishes. After eight, it gets very busy, a testament to its quality and value.”

5. MOOREA RESTAURANTJet Apartments, Playa d’en Bossa, 34 971 305 972 | $25

“Highly recommended for its giant charcoal grill, great fish and very nice service. The terrace overlooking the sea is fantastic.”

Ibiza’s reputation as club central has earned it the title of Europe’s

party capital. But those disinclined to dance ‘til dawn need only look beyond the superclub strobes to discover this chameleon island’s

other sides. Ibiza has been touted as “the new Provence,” as word

gets out about its stunning scenery, secluded beaches,

fine restaurants and UNESCO-designated old town. Ibiza is

indeed paradise, but there’s space for everyone on its beaches.

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1. DALT VILA (IBIZA OLD TOWN)Ibiza

“Make the steep ascent into the Old Town. There’s a lovely old fortress with stunning views of Ibiza and the marina once you reach the top! Good exercise and lots of history.”

2. CALA BASSASant Antoni de Portmany | Admission free, fees for chair rentals

“Accessible by car or ferry from San Antonio, this beautiful beach is approximately 300 meters long, surrounded by pine trees. The water is clear blue and really refreshing on a hot day.”

3. CALA MOLISouth of Cala Tarida

“I personally prefer the sound of the sea when I’m on a beach, so I head for Cala Moli—no music, no noisy bars, just the sound of the sea over pebbles. The rocky seabed makes it “great for snorkeling.”

15best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Ischia, Italy P

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1. HOTEL ANTARESVia Litoranea 45, Lacco Ameno, 39 081 900 750 | $65 – 95

“Breathtaking views of the sea, beautiful rooms and gorgeous sunrises and sunsets.”

2. HOTEL APE REGINAVia Cretaio, 129, Casamicciola Terme, 39 081 994 813 | $93 – 132

“The views over the beautiful marina and surrounding woodlands were breathtaking.”

3. HOTEL EUROPAVia A. Sogliuzzo 25, Ischia Ponte, 39 081 991 427 | $98 – 156

“We enjoyed the thermal pool, the dinner and, especially, the pleasant staff.”

4. HOTEL GEMMA Via Castiglione, 3, Casamicciola Terme, 39 081 994 045 | $105 – 159

“Huge balcony overlooking the sea, with Naples and Vesuvius in the distance.”

5. HOTEL CITARASpiaggia Di Citara, Forio, 39 081 907 098 | $121 – 190

“Great rooftop terrace with a pool. Walking distance to the beach.”

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ISCHIAI T A LY

16best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Ischia, Italy P

1. RISTORANTE PIZZERIA DA GAETANOVia M. Mazzella 33, Ischia, 39 081 991 807 | $4 – 6

“I was advised to taste ‘the real pizza Napoletana’ here, and it was truly one of the best pizzas I’ve ever eaten!”

2. RISTORANTE PIZZERIA ACQUASALATACorso Luigi Manzi 107, Casamicciola Terme, 39 081 995 481 | $7 – $16

“One of the best pizza places on the island. A great place for families with children. Nice garden inside and very friendly personnel.”

3. PIZZERIA DA PASQUALEVia Sant’Angelo 79, Sant’Angelo, 39 081 904 208 | $10 – 20

For more than thirty years, this restaurant has served “tip-top pizza,” made with fresh ingredients in a wood-burning oven.

4. DA CICCIOVia Luigi Mazella 32, Ischia Ponte, 39 081 991 686 | $33

“The perfect place to eat on a warm evening, when the historic streets of Ischia Ponte are closed to traffic, allowing the tables to spill out into the street.”

5. LO SCOGLIOVia Cava Ruffano 58, Sant’Angelo, 39 081 999 529 | $25 – 35

“We had an excellent lunch that wasn’t too expensive. It’s just a few meters from the bus stop, situated right over a nice little beach, overlooking wonderful scenery.”

The largest and many say most beautiful island in the Bay of

Naples, Ischia is renowned for its curative spas. Ferries and

hydrofoils connect Naples to Ischia Porto, the main town. Nearby at Ischia Ponte (connected to the main island by a foot bridge) are the magnificent Castello

Aragonese and Guevara Tower. Forio on the island’s west coast, Lacco Ameno in the northwest and Sant’Angelo in the south are the liveliest resort towns.

Casamicciola Terme in the north is one of Europe’s oldest spas.

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1. SANT’ANGELOSant’Angelo

“Bounded on one side by soaring cliffs and crystal clear Mediterranean waters and on the other, by a wide expanse of fine sand. This tiny fishing village is an idyllic treasure unlike any you’ve seen but may have dreamed about.”

2. THE BEACHES OF ISCHIAVarious locations | Fees vary by beach

“The nicest beaches on the island are Maronti near Barano and Citara near Forio,” both featuring some of the islands famous thermal pools. “We found a couple of nice free beaches between Ischia Ponte and Ischia Porto.”

3. MONTE EPOMEOSerrara Fontana

“The best place to hike on Ischia. In the village of Serrara Fontana, you’ll find a path that leads you to the top of the mountain that sits at the center of the island. The surrounding scenery is breathtaking.”

17best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Malaga, Spain P

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MALAGAS P A I N

1. HOTEL CARLOS VCister 10, 34 95 221 5120 | $66 – 84

“The location can’t be beat: 50 meters to Alcazaba, 250 meters from the beach.”

2. ROOM MATE LOLACalle Casas de Campos 17, 34 95 257 9300 | $89 – 112

“Charming and chic, discreet, laid-back and comfortable. Impeccably clean and designed.”

3. MOLINA LARIOMolina Lario 20 – 22, 34 95 206 2002 | $133

“Friendly, stylish and central. Great views from the small pool and top-floor deck.”

4. HOTEL SILKEN PUERTA MALAGAHeroe de Sostoa 17, 34 95 101 0150 | $93 – 112

“A cool and classy world where your every need is met by friendly staff.”

5. HOTEL MONTE VICTORIACalle Conde de Ureña 58, 34 95 265 6525 | $93 – 115

“Beautiful old villa with modern facilities. Idyllic terrace with a great view of Malaga.”

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18best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Malaga, Spain P

1. CANADUPlaza de la Merced 21, 34 95 222 9056 | $7 – 17

“Simple but amazing foods such as salads, meat-free lasagnas, veggie burgers, etc. I have not found another vegetarian restaurant in the same league. Always busy with locals—a very good sign.”

2. EL TINTEROCarretera de Almeria 99, 34 95 220 4464 | $7 – 20

“The fish is lovely, the atmosphere is electric, family-friendly. All those plates of fish makes your mouth water. And the wine is very tasty, as well.”

3. COMOLOCOJosé Denis Belgrano, 17, 34 95 221 6571 | $7 – 20

“Comoloco is loco good! There is such a wide variety of good and interesting dishes, it takes a while to decide what to order. We even ordered seconds!”

4. EL CAFÉ DE BOLSAHotel Molina Lario, Bolsa 14, 34 95 206 2002 | $8 – 22

“This very quiet restaurant serves excellent food. And the service is among the best in the city.”

5. EL PIMPICalle Granada 62, 34 95 222 8990 | $15 – 20

“Very quirky and atmospheric with lots of plants, old posters, old barrels signed by various famous people. The wine and olives were great.”

Malaga, Pablo Picasso’s birthplace and the gateway to the Costa del Sol, is a hectic, sometimes

unruly city. An impressive number of museums and monuments,

including the 11th-century Alcazaba fort and Museu Picasso

Malaga, provide plenty of diversions for those who opt not

to spend all their time on the coast’s famed beaches—or in their accompanying bars. The old city bustles with taverns and bistros. The generous Paseo del Parque

offers a delightful stroll past banana trees and fountains.

FREE ATTRACTIONS

DINE FOR LESS

1. ALCAZABACalle Alcazabilla s/n, 34 95 221 7646

“The combination of stone, jasmine and water fountains is stunning. You can simply sit and enjoy the majesty. The beauty and tranquility of this citadel is unforgettable.”

2. LA MALAGUETA BEACHLa Malagueta

“If you just want to relax, head for Malaga’s longest stretch of beach, right in the city. Great beachside cafés and views of the coast and, perhaps, a beautiful cruise ship docked in the bay. Life’s a beach!”

3. CENTRO DE ARTE CONTEMPORANEO DE MALAGA (CAC)Calle Alemania s/n, 34 95 212 0055

“Promoting 20th and 21st century visual art, the collection consists of 400 pieces. You can talk to and interact with the artists, many of whom are famous internationally.”

19best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Naxos, Greece P

STAY FOR LESS

NAXOSG R E E C E

1. WINDMILL NAXOSChora, Naxos City, 30 22850 24594 | $40 – 73

“Our room was lovely—good size, with a double bed and a balcony with chairs and table.”

2. PLAKA BEACH HOTELPlaka Beach, Plaka, 30 22850 42700 | $40 – 99

“Situated in the most peaceful part of Plaka Beach, where you can experience the original scenery.”

3. IKAROS STUDIOSChora, Naxos City, 30 22850 23542 | $64 – 85

“Peaceful and tranquil—set back from main road, in the countryside and with a view to the mountains.”

4. AGHIA ANNA HOTELAgia Anna, 30 22850 42576 | $54 – 107

“Friendly staff, practically on the little harbor beach between Agia Anna and Plaka.”

5. NAXOS ROYAL BEACH HOTELChora, Naxos City, 30 22850 26650 | $110 – 160

“Handsomely decorated and modern. Rooms have little balconies. Friendly, accommodating staff.”

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20best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Naxos, Greece P

1. CEDAR CAFÉPlaka Beach, Plaka, 30 22850 41005 | $5 – 12

“More than just a café—nice music, excellent service and tasteful food! It is the best place to have some magic moments in the summer.”

2. MARO’S RESTAURANT GRILL HOUSEPaparrigopoulou, Naxos City, 30 22850 25113 | $10 – 20

“Delicious, traditional Greek dishes at excellent prices. You can afford to order a feast of Mezedes washed down with excellent carafes of wine.”

3. MEZENaxos Port, Naxos City, 30 22850 26401 | $10 – 25

“We enjoyed everything—cucumber salad, Greek salad, calamari, mussels with risotto —and were more than satisfied with every dish.”

4. SCIROCCOChora, Naxos City, 30 22850 25931 | $10 – 25

“Excellent, varied and good value—good home cooking. Great place to meet up with old friends of all nations every year. Always a lovely welcome!”

5. YAZOO SUMMER BLISSPlaka Beach, Plaka, 30 22850 41233 | $15 – 20

“The service is excellent, the food delicious and fresh, the cocktails so yummy! And the location is on one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever been to. Definitely the best place on Plaka Beach.”

A spot of white in the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, the

island of Naxos is a unique blend of ancient ruins and

beach culture. The largest of the Cyclades Islands, Naxos is the childhood home of none other

than Zeus, king of the gods. Upon arrival in Naxos, hike over

a causeway to Palatia, where the Portara, a stone gateway to an ancient temple that no longer

exists, stands alone, the symbol of the island. At sunset, the views of the island, and the sea beyond,

are breathtaking.

FREE ATTRACTIONS

DINE FOR LESS

1. PLAKA BEACHPlaka

“Plaka is my ideal beach—wide and sandy, with dunes behind in parts. The sea is calm and shelves slowly to deep water. Clothes-optional, very relaxed.”

2. OUR LADY OF REFRESHMENT CHURCH (PANAYIA DROSIANI)Moni

“You can see the layers of various wall paintings and worship the ancient icons that come from the old monastery ruins. The courtyard of the church is very nice; the village cemetery is there.”

3. AGIA ANNA BEACHAgia Anna

“The beach was wonderful, very laid-back with friendly people. Lovely golden sand with crystal clear water—you could see the fish nibbling at your feet!”

21best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Torquay, England P

1. ELMDENE HOTELRathmore Road, 44 1803 294940 | $78 – 100

“Absolutely spot on! They should open a hospitality school to show how it’s done.”

2. CRIMDON DENE HOTELFalkland Road, 44 1803 294651 | $82 – 95

“Spacious, clean, warm, quiet and with all facilities I need—like staying at home.”

3. CHARTERHOUSE HOTELCockington Lane, 44 1803 605804 | $89 – 103

“Close enough to Torquay to walk. Far enough out to feel like you’re in the country!”

4. SOMERVILLE HOTEL515 Babbacombe Road, 44 1803 294755 | $89 – 110

“Beautifully decorated, top-notch facilities and little touches like fresh cookies.”

5. RIVIERA LODGE HOTEL26 Croft Road, 44 1803 209309 | $102 – 115

“Lovely rooms, very comfortable. Didn’t want to get out of bed, it was so comfy!”

STAY FOR LESS

TORQUAYE N G L A N D

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22best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Torquay, England P

1. STEPS BISTRO1a Fleet St., 44 1803 200770 | $6 – 20

“Menu is extensive, but not overwhelming, and very good value for good quality, home-cooked, fresh food. Something on the menu to suit all tastes, from more traditional to more modern!”

2. MAHA BHARAT52 Torwood St., 44 1803 215541 | $7 – 17

“Excellent, traditional Indian food—hot, nicely spiced and blooming tasty. By miles, the best value and tastiest meal we had in Torquay.”

3. ANGELS49 Babbacombe Downs Road, 44 1803 342477 | $7 – 20

“My birthday treat is high tea at Angels. It takes a year to build up the stamina to munch your way through the delicious meal. Everything is home-made and fresh.”

4. NUMBER 7 FISH BISTROBeacon Terrace, 44 1803 295055 | $11 – 25

“Absolutely fantastic atmosphere, fresh delicacies of fish and flawless presentation. Flexible menus vary from the fixed menu to the variety of choices listed on chalkboards on the wall.”

5. BAY BRASSERIEChestnut Ave., 44 1803 206337 | $12 – 20

“Great food at very reasonable prices. The menu is varied and interesting. Plus, the staff is so friendly. Always a pleasure!”

Mild ocean breezes, sandy beaches and swaying Torbay Palms give the small English

town of Torquay a distinctively Mediterranean feel. More than just

a beach spot, Torquay boasts an enormous coastal aviary and the famous Kents Cavern Prehistoric

Caves. Agatha Christie spent most of her life here, and the city is now home to multiple film companies. With such a rich literary history,

Torquay may be the perfect place to finish writing that novel or

screenplay, or just to relax with a good mystery.

FREE ATTRACTIONS

DINE FOR LESS

1. COCKINGTON COURTCockington, 1803 606035

“This courthouse in the picturesque thatched village of Cockington houses a number of craft studios with demonstrations such as glass-blowing, blacksmithing, stained glass and rocking horse construction.”

2. TORQUAY AREA BEACHES“Look further than just Torre Abbey Sands. North of Torquay, you have Meadfoot, Babbacombe and Oddicombe Beaches. Going south, Hollacombe Beach, Preston Sands, Paignton Sands, Goodrington Sands, Broadsands and Brixham Breakwater Beach—and these are just the main ones!”

3. AGATHA CHRISTIE MILETourist Information Centre, Vaughan Parade, 44 1803 211211

For fabulous views and some local history, take “the Agatha Christie Walk. Go to the Tourist Information Centre to pick up your Agatha Mile Walk leaflet with information about places of interest.”

23best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | Dos and Don'ts P

DOs and DON’Ts

ALGARVE, PORTUGAL“Unfortunately, you are going to be in all likelihood accosted by the dreaded timeshare brigade. Be warned, they masquerade as the local tourist board doing surveys. Ignore their scratch cards and promised vouchers or they’ll waste your whole vacation.”

BALTIC COAST, POLAND “There is no need to rent a car. The public transportation system in the Tri-Cities (Gdansk, Gdynia and Sopot) is excellent, and there are many frequent train connections to nearby areas along the Baltic Coast.”

BODRUM, TURKEY “Bus services in Bodrum are easy to follow. Different color buses for different routes. Stick your hand out anywhere at the side of the road and they will stop for you. Two lira to anywhere you’re going.”

CANNES, FRANCE“There are ways of saving money—don’t buy cans or bottles of water or soft drinks from corner shops or snack bars. Buy them from supermarkets for a fraction of the price. They won’t be chilled though—you have to pay a premium for that.”

HVAR, CROATIA“Consider renting a scooter for a day, if you don’t have a car. This way, you can ride out through the lavender fields and see much of the island on your own.”

IBIZA, SPAIN“If you want to see another side of the island, come during the off-season (November through April). It’s very peaceful and less chaotic. The major clubs may not be open, but the weather can still be wonderful!”

ISCHIA, ITALY“The best way to get around is by bus. The bus system is extensive and covers all the towns of the island, with the main terminal in the city of Ischia Porto. The service is frequent, and the buses all show the destination on the front.”

MALAGA, SPAIN“Take time to explore the Old Town and you’ll find plenty of museums, galleries and historic sites, fantastic dining as well as great boutique shopping.”

NAXOS, GREECE“Many businesses shut down from the hours of 2:00 to 6:00pm. A welcome respite and good time for a siesta. But it’s also a great time to have the streets almost entirely to yourself before the mad crush of tourists hit the harbor for dinner.”

TORQUAY, ENGLAND“Torquay has lots of hidden nooks and crannies, so get out the walking shoes and make the effort to walk up and down the many hills. The cliff path from the marina towards Babbacombe is fantastic.”

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24best for less guide | BEACHES | Europe | P

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All quotes by TripAdvisor Members Edited and compiled by Sheila Koenig and Michelle Schwartz

COVER PHOTOS Large: Bodrum by JarekH

Small: Hvar by CAStrawberryGirl, Torquay by Urbanhymn, Algarve by craftytraveller and Naxos by greek-traveller

TABLE OF CONTENTS PHOTOS Algarve by priest99, Baltic Coast by tgarrigu, Bodrum by ZaferKustu, Cannes by ceirela, Hvar by Worldtraveller080, Ibiza by piratamalo, Ischia by Bryan1701, Malaga by IOWtravelbabes, Naxos by greek-traveller, Torquay by sam_mughal

INTERIOR PHOTOS Algarve by LagosTV and Inas_Palma, Baltic Coast by Holtyboy, Bodrum by anuvenk and elsieMUC, Cannes by Francophile67 and Fife_Flyer, Hvar by CAStrawberryGirl and vivoenvalencia, Ibiza by Laura3883 and tamerlano77, Ischia by Mark_Kent and Bryan1701, Malaga by hearsay6864 and Meyley, Naxos by ju-jubes and wotuno, Torquay by LeicesterChestnuts and Urbanhymn

Accommodation rates based on double occupancy except where noted.

Restaurant prices based on entrée cost per person, excluding drinks, tax and tip, except where noted.

Top Value indicates a great deal for the price, as judged by millions of TripAdvisor travelers

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