Affordable Summer Holiday Destinations
Families still searching for their summer holiday have faced uncertainty over the past two months due to ongoing conflicts in various regions, particularly in Iran. This has led to concerns about fuel shortages and subsequent price increases, making many Britons reconsider their plans for a June or July trip.
Despite these challenges, there are still several affordable destinations available for those looking for a summer getaway. New research from flight comparison website Skyscanner highlights the cheapest spots for travel, offering fares under £125 per person, significantly lower than the average £253 expected for air tickets.
However, it may be necessary to avoid popular cities like Paris or Rome in favor of more budget-friendly alternatives.
Top Affordable Destinations
Dortmund in Germany is currently the top destination, with an average economy seat price across all airlines of £72. Known for being the home of the Borussia Dortmund football team, the city also offers green spaces and historical sites. Hotel rooms can be found for as low as £40 per night, rising to £109 during peak times.
Cork, the second-largest city in the Republic of Ireland, follows closely behind with flights starting at £83 per person. It’s an ideal spot for families seeking a relaxed yet vibrant city close to stunning natural scenery. However, hotel prices in Cork are slightly higher, with the cheapest month being November at £127 per night, increasing to £232 in September.
Luxembourg takes the bronze position, with an average flight cost of £86 to Luxembourg City. These averages are based on travel between June 31 and August 31, with figures reflecting prices from January to March 2026. While this doesn’t fully account for recent price hikes, some of the initial increases are visible in the current fares.
Other notable destinations include Castellon de la Plana in Spain at £89, Turin in Italy at £102, Baden-Baden in Germany at £89, Eindhoven in the Netherlands at £94, Cologne in Germany at £114, Jersey at £123, and Trapani in Italy at £125.
Tips for Saving on Flights
To keep costs to a minimum, experts at Skyscanner recommend flying on Fridays or during the week commencing June 29, which are typically the cheapest times to travel.
Hidden Gem Destinations
For those interested in less conventional destinations, Skyscanner has identified several hidden gems that offer affordable fares. These locations are among the least searched, making them ideal for travelers seeking unique experiences.
Turku in Finland is one such destination, offering a mix of cobblestone streets, a cathedral with a royal tomb, and reasonably priced accommodations. Return flights can be found for as little as £80, while a room at the Radisson Blu hotel starts at £178 per night.
Thunder Bay, Canada, is another unconventional choice for families looking for an affordable long-haul trip. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers opportunities for hiking and sailing. Return flights start at £305 per person, with a night at Lux Suites costing around £154.
In the bronze spot is Croton, a port city in Southern Italy, where the lowest fares are £62 per person and a room at Palazzo Foti starts at £115 per night.
Travellers avoiding overcrowded Greek islands can consider Kalymnos, Ioannina, or Astypalaia, all featuring in the top 10 under-the-radar destinations. Flights to these locations start at £181, £155, and £125 respectively.
Other hidden gems include Pico in Portugal, Clermont-Ferrand in France, Kiruna in Sweden, and Cordoba in Argentina, according to Skyscanner.
