A lesser-known European resort boasting white sandy beaches, a UNESCO-listed old town and beer that typically costs less than £2 has clinched the top spot in a new 'Cheap Beach Index'. In the relentless search for a new, affordable beach resort to explore, Nessebar, a quaint peninsula in Bulgaria, has been crowned as the best value.

EasyJet has compiled an index aimed at enticing sunseekers to lesser-visited beach spots during the shoulder season. Dubbed by some as the Pearl of the Black Sea, Nessebar is one of Bulgaria's most extraordinary destinations, offering a mix of history, culture, and seaside allure, along with charming cobblestone streets and a renowned seafood scene. The natural beauty of the Strandzha Mountains looms over the coastal town, which is enveloped by the verdant landscapes of the Ropotamo Nature Reserve.

These provide excellent opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring Bulgaria's Strandzha villages.

The site of Nessebar, more than 3,000 years old, was originally a Thracian settlement. In the early 6th century BC, the city became a Greek colony, with the surviving parts of Nessebar today echoing that Hellenistic period, including the acropolis, a temple of Apollo, an agora and a wall from the Thracian fortifications, reportsthe Mirror.

Houses built in the 19th century are typical of the Black Sea architecture of the period. Together, these historical gems have made Nessebar a must-visit destination.

Nessebar isn't just about culture and high-end experiences. It's a fantastic location for water sports, with jet skiing, windsurfing, and diving all on offer.

Numerous rental outlets along its picturesque beaches are ready to supply equipment. For family entertainment, Aqua Paradise Park boasts thrilling water slides and pools.

As the sun goes down, the town buzzes with bars, clubs and nightlife that won't empty your wallet. According to research by easyJet, Nessebar is astonishingly affordable.

Beers can be found for £1.60, ice cream for £1.20, a family meal for £28 and a night's hotel stay for merely £45.

The seafront is teeming with around 20 bars and clubs, with Caramel, Kiko Beach Bar and Bar Che being local favourites.

The most straightforward way to reach Nessebar from the UK is to fly into Bourgas Airport, which is a brief transfer from the beach resort. Flights are currently available from UK airports including Manchester, Bristol, Edinburgh, Nottingham and London Luton from £19 one-way in October.

Not far behind on the easyJet Cheap Beach list is the Budva Riviera in Montenegro, boasting a variety of idyllic beaches along a 35-kilometre stretch of the Adriatic coast in western Montenegro, and Spain's Costa de Almeria, renowned for the unique Tabernas Desert and its golden beaches.

Kevin Doyle, easyJet's UK country manager, said: "With summer behind us, there is plenty of opportunity to still find great weather throughout the early autumn across Europe. With thousands of flights across hundreds of routes from the UK throughout September, great value beach breaks are still available across Europe. Our unrivalled network of flights across the continent provides direct links from many UK airports to a whole host of great value, sun-friendly beach breaks on a budget. Our Cheap Beach Index offers a brilliant variety of value choices for passengers looking for one last dose of summer sun and fun."

The top 20 ranking was assembled by examining destinations within convenient reach of airports that provide budget-friendly direct connections to the UK, with each location evaluated based on a standard holiday 'basket' incorporating factors such as the cost of beer, an ice cream and a family meal out.