A travel expert has highlighted a destination in Eastern Europe that he believes everyone will be soon talking about as a cheaper version of Barcelona, but for now remains a ‘hidden gem’
The location has been described as the ‘Barcelona of Eastern Europe’ (stock)(Image: Patryk_Kosmider via Getty Images)
If you’ve yet to book a summer getaway abroad, a travel expert is championing what he calls the “best hidden gem beach holiday” in Europe, insisting it offers exceptional value compared to the continent’s most sought-after destinations. Rob Brooks, who works for travel agent On The Beach, shared his recommendation on TikTok for those seeking all the draws of Barcelona without the hefty price tag.
“I’ve just found Eastern Europe’s Barcelona, and you’ve definitely never heard of it,” he announced in a video. “So here’s some clues – it’s half the price, around a two-hour flight from the UK, it’s brilliant for families and it can even feel like proper luxury if you book smart.”
For those curious about Rob’s mystery destination, he clarified that it’s not located in Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Italy or France.
“One destination has suddenly landed on my desk after a sudden explosion in holiday searches,” he explained. “So I went away and did my research, crunched the numbers and dug through the data – and now I’m genuinely convinced this could be one of Europe’s biggest hotspots in a few years.”
Rob confessed that he’d previously dismissed the destination as a “rogue place” for a beach holiday, but his perspective shifted dramatically upon viewing photographs of the location.
“It’s got a huge, golden sandy beach, it’s got loads of beachfront bars and restaurants… colourful streets, beautiful architecture and there’s loads of luxury hotels and a massive pier that stretches out right into the sea,” he enthused.
Rob explained he then understood why the destination is being likened to Barcelona – except this spot is “nowhere near as busy or expensive”, and remains largely under the radar.
Direct flights from UK airports take as little as two hours and five minutes, with Rob discovering one for as little as £36.
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“It sounds much further away than it actually is, but what really caught my eye is how much variety there is there,” he continued. “You can spend the morning on the beach, wander around beautiful old streets in the afternoon, eat ridiculously well and eat gorgeous food without spending a fortune – and because spending money goes such a long way here, it feels way more luxury than it probably should.”
So which destination is Rob referring to? “Summer temperatures are sitting at up to 26 degrees… I really don’t think this place will stay a secret for much longer,” he said. “The more I looked into it, the more I realised that this location is only going to get bigger and bigger over the next few years.
“It’s Sopot – a gorgeous seaside town on Poland’s Baltic coast. I even found a deal here I genuinely might book myself.”
Rob concluded by drawing attention to one particular offer – five nights at the Hotel Aqua beside the beach for just £265 per person – which includes flights from London Stansted Airport this September. “You’re getting Barcelona’s beach culture, but for Poland’s prices,” he stated.
Sopot’s official tourism website proudly declares: “Sopot is one of the most charming places in Poland and a hugely popular Baltic resort. Here you’ll find not only abundant greenery, beautiful sandy beaches, and the soothing sound of waves, but also a rich history, spa architecture, and top-class hotels and restaurants.”
Responding to Rob’s video, one TikTok user remarked: “It’s a beautiful place, I was there in May. Gdansk is just along the way which is even better. Definitely worth a visit.”
Another commenter observed: “Sopot is a beautiful town and so is neighbouring Gdynia. Both towns are within a short commute of the larger city of Gdansk, which is also a marvel. Very clean environment, moderate prices to eat out and drink and very well worth a visit.”
While a third shared: “Sopot is stunning, we had a great time earlier this year. We stayed in Gdansk which is about 15 minutes by train. I couldn’t recommend both places enough.”
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