Costa del Sol still among cheapest European holiday destinations, survey shows

The Costa del Sol is 3% cheaper this year compared to last, and 14% cheaper than in 2012, the survey found.

The annual Post Office Travel Money survey is a handy tool for holidaymakers and would-be homebuyers looking to see where their money stretches the furthest…

Over the past few years, the emergence of Bulgaria as a viable holiday destination for western Europeans has propelled the country to the top of the charts. What Bulgaria may lack in historical charm, excellent cuisine and family-friendly attractions it makes up for with reliable weather, good beaches and extremely low prices.

However, despite many parts of Spain now up to 25% more expensive than they were in 2012 when Bulgaria was first added to the Post Office survey, the Costa del Sol has actually become cheaper during that period.

According to the survey, the average cost of holiday essentials is 14% lower this year on the Costa del Sol than it was in 2012. Indeed, in the past year alone, costs are believed to have fallen by 3%.

Allied to property prices that are still 40% below the peak values seen in 2008 and the Costa del Sol region appears a very financially attractive place in which to holiday and invest.

The lower cost of daily essentials is linked to Spain’s own economic performance. While the Spanish economy is now strengthening and one of the fastest-growing in the Eurozone, there is a natural ‘lag’ in pricing of goods, meaning that the Costa del Sol and other regions along the coast will likely remain relatively cheap for at least two more years, experts believe.