The prices for accommodation and food on these islands will delight even the most frugal tourists.
Most travel influencers overlook the fact that many ideal vacation spots or historical centers are impossible to visit without encountering crowds of tourists.
But, as Traveloffpath writes, there are several European destinations that have successfully avoided this trend. The publication pointed out that this includes Greece’s fifth-largest island, Chios, which remains largely unexplored by tourists. Similarly, El Hierro, one of the lesser-known Spanish Canary Islands, has managed to avoid this trend.
Chios is a part of Greece that most tourists don’t know exists. The island borders Turkey and is known for its pristine golden sandy beaches, beautiful bays, turquoise sea, and ancient monuments that have stood the test of time.
Chios does not have an international airport, and the only way to get there is by ferry or plane from Athens or Thessaloniki, which makes it difficult for mass tourism to flourish.
Some of the must-visit places include the three towns with cobblestone streets and medieval charm, the UNESCO-protected Byzantine monastery of Nea Moni, and the city of Chios with its famous windmills and picturesque waterfront.
In addition, Chios is significantly cheaper than other islands in the Aegean Sea, such as Santorini or Mykonos: during peak season, rooms start at $54 per adult, and a meal with gyros at a family-run tavern costs a maximum of $12.
El Hierro is the complete opposite of Chios: there is less lush vegetation, more wildlife, and the attractions are mostly natural.
El Hierro is home to hiking trails that lead to volcanic rocks, natural pools surrounded by lava cliffs, and unusual agricultural lands that make up a UNESCO-protected biosphere reserve.
Tourists come here mainly for the walks, the sun, and the hustle and bustle of the modern world.
This is the most sparsely populated island in Spain, with only 1,000 guest rooms located in modest townhouses, guesthouses, and country houses, so it is never crowded, regardless of the season.
The only way to get to El Hierro is to fly to Tenerife North or Gran Canaria first.
A night in a local guesthouse, such as Casa Trudo, costs only $22.50 per night for an adult, and if you go out for dinner in Valverde, the colorful main town, a seafood main course and some wine will cost you around $11 to $16.
Konstantin is an acclaimed travel writer, celebrated for transforming ordinary journeys into extraordinary narratives. With years of experience exploring diverse destinations across the globe, his work blends vivid storytelling, cultural insights, and practical advice to inspire wanderlust and guide readers toward unforgettable adventures.
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