Key Dates for Your Summer Travel
As spring draws to a close and the warmth of summer approaches, it’s time to start planning your dream holiday. With the travel season in full swing, Skyscanner has released its Smarter Summer Report, offering valuable insights for British travelers.
The report highlights the best times to book your summer getaway. According to Skyscanner’s data, the cheapest week for summer travel in 2026 falls between 29 June and 5 July. This is the ideal window for securing the best deals on flights and accommodations.
Skyscanner advises travelers not to wait until the last minute. The platform emphasizes that the best time to travel is often closer than you think. Additionally, they note that Fridays are typically the cheapest days to travel, making it essential to plan your trips around this day.
Top Destinations for Your Summer Break
If you’re planning to take some time off between 29 June and 5 July, it’s time to decide where to go. Skyscanner’s list of popular destinations for British travelers is dominated by European cities.
Málaga, a southern port city in Spain and the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, tops the list. A trip to Málaga can cost around £178 (€205.46) for flights, with accommodation starting at approximately £200 (€230.96). The cheapest week for a Málaga getaway was found to be 31 August to 6 September, with Tuesday being the most affordable day to travel.
Faro in Portugal takes the second spot. Although flights and board are slightly more expensive compared to Málaga at £193 (€222.87) and £204 (€235.58), respectively, Faro is an excellent choice for those looking for a summer destination in August. The cheapest time to fly to Faro is also 31 August to 6 September.
Ibiza ranks just below Bangkok and Orlando in the top five. Flights to Ibiza start at around £181 (€209.01), with hotel prices averaging £316 (€365) per day.
Other European destinations in the top 10 include Corfu (6th), Milan (7th), Rome (8th), Split in Croatia (9th), and Lisbon (10th).
Spain also features prominently in Tripadvisor’s Trending Destinations for Summer 2026 rankings, with Alicante, Playa de Palma in Majorca, Malaga, and Sitges ranking first, third, fourth, and seventh respectively in the top 10 European Trending Destinations list.
Budget-Friendly Travel Options
For travelers looking to save money, Skyscanner’s report offers some great options. June and September are highlighted as the quieter months of summer, offering sunshine with lower prices, shorter queues, and easier access to dinner reservations.
If you’re looking for cheap flights from the UK in June, Poprad in Slovakia is recommended. The average ticket price is around £55 (€63.50). Other budget-friendly options in Europe include Szczecin and Lublin in Poland, with flights expected to cost £59 (€68.12) and £62 (€71.59) respectively.
In September, which is slightly cheaper than June, a flight to Poprad will cost an average of £54 (€62.35). Tickets to Dortmund in Germany will be around £58 (€66.97), while Lodz and Szczecin in Poland are priced at £65 (€75) and £69 (€79.68) respectively.
Conclusion
With the right planning and timing, your summer holidays can be both affordable and unforgettable. Whether you’re heading to a bustling European city or a quieter destination, there are plenty of options to suit every traveler’s budget and preferences. Start planning early, keep an eye on the dates, and make the most of the summer season.
