Looking to squeeze in one last flight before the year comes to an end? Take a look at our picks for last-minute destinations you can fly to before the end of the year without breaking the bank.
The year’s not quite over yet, meaning there’s still some time to tick a country or two off your travel list. Maybe you haven’t used up all of your annual leave days, or maybe you just want to get one last weekend trip in before Christmas. Either way, why not start the celebration early by finding a last-minute flight to one of these eight affordable destinations on KAYAK.co.uk.
Fez, Morocco
If you’re looking to end the year with a sensory overload, jump on a flight to Fez. Take in the sights, sounds and tastes of markets filled with sweet mint tea, dates, almonds, olives, spices and more – Fez is the ultimate feast for the senses. Equally as impressive is the ornate history of Fez, with its mosaics, trademark colours and intricate courtyards.
Luqa, Malta
Hop on a last-minute flight to Luqa and enjoy the idyllic Mediterranean island of Malta. The whole coast is lined with beautiful harbours, postcard-perfect bathing beaches (there’s even a place called Pretty Bay) and tiny villages and towns filled with Mediterranean charm. History buffs will especially want to explore the island’s ancient temples and ruins, like the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, during their visit.
Vienna, Austria
Ah, Vienna – the city of culture that sits on the Danube. Home to the likes of Sigmund Freud, Mozart and the artist Egon Schiele, Vienna is a thriving centre of art, music and thought. The city has many cultural attractions like the Musikverein or the Staatsoper and a massive art history museum with masterpieces by Vermeer and Velázquez. But Vienna isn’t only about music and art. There’s shopping in the Goldenes Quartier and a vibrant night scene with bars and clubs including Donau Techno.
Lisbon, Portugal
Part of the fun of visiting Lisbon is exploring the ancient neighbourhoods by foot. Sure, some areas may be hilly, but venture into the dense networks of cobbled streets and you’ll be rewarded with hidden restaurants, stores and lively bars, which are frequented by locals. One of the many great things about Lisbon is that after a long day exploring the hills and streets, you can quickly escape to the beach. Resort towns like Estoril and Cascais can be reached by train in just 20 minutes.
Venice, Italy
Wander through a labyrinth of streets, canals and medieval bridges to take in scenes of a city steeped in culture. Made up of hundreds of islands in the Venetian Lagoon, the city can only really be navigated on foot or by boat. Motor vehicles are rare, giving Venice a peaceful atmosphere, which allows visitors to focus on enjoying the sights and tastes of the city. If you want the full Venetian experience, book a gondolier tour through the Grand Canal.
Reykjavik, Iceland
It might be cold in Reykjavik, but not to worry – all of its public geothermal pools stay open even in winter (Laugardalslaug, Vesturbæjarlaug and Sundhöll Reykjavíkur are all easy to get to from the city centre). Savour soaking in the warm pools, hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms as the outside world stays frosty. This time of year is also perfect if you want to go slightly outside the city and chase the dazzling green, pink, purple and white rays of the northern lights.
Naples, Italy
From Naples, you can explore the nearby beautiful islands and grottos (like the Blue Grotto), visit the ruins of Pompeii, or take in the beautiful beaches along the Amalfi coast. But the city itself is a Neopolitan dream, with a plethora of archaeological wonders, exquisite art, beautiful chapels, sandy beaches and, of course, Italian cuisine. Make sure to visit the Duomo di San Gennaro, the city’s famous fresco-filled Cathedral.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Looking to find a destination full of cafes, coffee shops and bars? Look no further than Amsterdam, a city crisscrossed with canal streets and packed with venues that are filled with all sorts of treats. While you’re there, visit spacious parks like Vondelpark in the centre of the city or the area’s many famous museums and art galleries.
Note: These rates are based on the most recent data pulled from KAYAK.co.uk, the cheapest prices are always displayed first, regardless of specific dates mentioned. The prices are quoted in GBP. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy, are per night and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available.
