Travel expert Laura Carden-Lovell, head of operations at Transfer Travel, suggests that the autumn shoulder season in September and October is an opportune time for European city breaks. She notes that visitor numbers typically decrease, which can lead to significant savings on flights and hotels.
Carden-Lovell recommends five budget-friendly destinations. These include Tirana in Albania, with Wizz Air offering return flights from London Gatwick and Luton from around £34. Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina is another option, with Wizz Air return flights from London Luton starting at approximately £78.98.
Sofia in Bulgaria is also highlighted, with Ryanair offering return flights from Bristol from around £40.99. Tallinn in Estonia is suggested, with Wizz Air return flights from London Luton available from about £58.53. Finally, Riga in Latvia is recommended, with Ryanair return flights from London Stansted starting at approximately £60.99.
Carden-Lovell advises travellers to consider additional costs like in-city transportation, noting that car rental prices may also fall during the shoulder season. She also points out that walkable cities can help reduce transport expenses.