With summer on the horizon and millions of Brits set to head abroad, a new study has revealed which European beaches offer sun, sea – and space for a prime spot on the sand.
While iconic destinations like Ibiza, the Algarve, and Barcelona continue to attact huge crowds, new research from Wizz Air highlights a growing divide between Europe’s packed tourist hotspots and its quieter coastal gems.
By analysing over 50 European countries, and calculating the average number of daily visitors and how much towel space each person typically gets, the study ranked the most and least crowded beaches across the continent.
András Rado, Head of Communications, said ‘While most of us are familiar with Europe’s iconic beach destinations like Ibiza, Tenerife, or the Algarve, there are countless coastal gems that often go unnoticed by travellers.
‘From a secluded, pristine cove in Croatia to a hidden sandy stretch in Albania, there are plenty of lesser-known beach spots where you can unwind, away from the bustling crowds.’
So, whether you’re in search of serenity or preparing to brave the bustle, here’s where to head – and where to avoid – for your next beach getaway.
The top 5 least overcrowded beaches in Europe
Beach of Durrës, Durrës, Albania
Towel space: 64.5
The Beach of Durrës in the historic city of Durrës in Albania, is the least overcrowded beach out of all beaches researched
The study places the Beach of Durrës in the historic city of Durrës in Albania, as the least overcrowded beach out of all beaches researched.
Despite being one of the most popular beaches in Albania, it still provides a laid-back charm.
Wizz Air’s calculations reveal that each visitor has ample space, with room for just under 65 beach towels per person, making it the perfect spot for families and sunbathers alike.
Albania is quickly becoming a top destination for travellers in 2024 as more people uncover this hidden gem.
Boasting pristine, natural landscapes and budget-friendly prices, it’s the ideal choice for adventurers looking for something unique and off the beaten path.
Camber Sands, East Sussex, England
Towel space: 61.1
Known for its expansive sandy beach that extends nearly five miles along the English Channel, Camber Sands offers plenty of room to spread out
Next on the list at in second place is Camber Sands, situated in East Sussex, England.
Known for its expansive sandy beach that extends nearly five miles along the English Channel, Camber Sands offers plenty of room to spread out, with space for as many as 61 beach towels per person.
Camber Sands has grown increasingly popular with both locals and tourists, especially those from London looking for a quick escape from the city, thanks in part to its exposure and popularity on TikTok.
Zlatni Rat Beach (Golden Horn), Bol/Brac, Croatia
Towel space: 54.1
Located in Bol on the island of Brač, Croatia, this iconic beach is renowned for its distinctive, horn-shaped spit of golden pebbles that extends into the turquoise Adriatic sea
Taking third place is Zlatni Rat Beach in Croatia, commonly known as the Golden Horn.
Located in Bol on the island of Brač, this iconic beach is renowned for its distinctive, horn-shaped spit of golden pebbles that extends into the turquoise Adriatic sea.
Although it’s a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world, its considerable size and expansive shoreline help maintain a sense of space, making it feel less crowded compared to smaller, busier beaches in Croatia.
Borsh Beach, Borsh, Albania
Towel space: 43.0
Borsh Beach, one of the Albania’s longest and most picturesque beaches with calculations showing there to be enough room for 43 beach towels per person
In fourth place is another gem from Albania: Borsh Beach, one of the country’s longest and most picturesque beaches with calculations showing there to be enough room for 43 beach towels per person.
Surrounded by green hills and olive groves, its size and relative anonymity mean fewer tourists and more room to sprawl. It’s rustic, raw, and ideal for travellers chasing quiet over cocktails
Plage de Pampelonne, Ramatuelle, France
Towel space: 33.8
Pampelonne Beach offers surprising space for sun worshipper, perfect for those seeking a blend of luxury and leisure without the bustle
Plage de Pampelonne, Ramatuelle, on the French Riviera came in fifth place offering enough room for just under 34 beach towels per person.
Despite its fame and the nearby buzz of Saint-Tropez, Pampelonne Beach offers surprising space for sun worshipper, perfect for those seeking a blend of luxury and leisure without the bustle.
The top five most crowded beaches in Europe
Playa Sa Caleta, Ibiza, Spain
Towel space: 0.5
Its dramatic cliffs and red sands might look aesthetically pleasing in an Instagram post – but prepare to get up close and personal with your beach neighbours at Playa Sa Caleta
With just half a towel’s worth of space per person, Playa Sa Caleta in Ibiza tops the most crowded list.
Its dramatic cliffs and red sands might look aesthetically pleasing in an Instagram post – but prepare to get up close and personal with your beach neighbours.
Cala Macarella, Menorca, Spain
Towel space: 0.6
In second place is Cala Macarella – but this postcard-perfect cove in Menorca is far from a hidden gem.
In second place is Cala Macarella – and this postcard-perfect cove in Menorca is far from a hidden gem.
Its turquoise waters and pine-lined cliffs draw in large crowds of tourists – and with less than one towel per person, you’ll soon understand why it’s one of the most popular beaches on the Spanish island.
Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona, Spain
Towel space: 0.7
Between volleyball matches and beachfront bars, it’s a non-stop buzz from sunrise to sunset at Barceloneta
A city beach as bustling as the city itself, Barceloneta is beloved by tourists and locals alike – but don’t expect personal space here.
Between volleyball matches and beachfront bars, it’s a non-stop buzz from sunrise to sunset.
Mellieħa Bay, Mellieha, Malta
Towel space: 0.9
Malta’s largest sandy beach makes for a perfect family day out – but be prepared to have little space to spread out
Malta’s largest sandy beach makes for a perfect family day out – with calm waters and shallow waves – but be warned, it’s an almost-guarantee you’ll be sharing the sand.
Cala Goloritzé, Sardinia, Italy
Towel space: 1.2
Famous for its limestone cliffs and snorkeling spots, Cala Goloritzé’s limited size means it fills up quickly
This secluded beach in Sardinia is reachable only by boat or a challenging hike – but even that doesn’t stop the crowds.
Famous for its limestone cliffs and snorkeling spots, its limited size means it fills up quickly.
