October is here, and it’s the perfect time to squeeze in one more quick getaway before winter fully kicks in. The best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to escape for a few days.
Travel metasearch engine KAYAK has crunched the numbers and found a bunch of last-minute flights from London to some fantastic destinations—all for under £100 return.
Rachel Mumford, KAYAK Travel Expert said: “As the nights draw in and the colder temperature comes, it’s tempting to try and squeeze in one last trip.
We understand the importance of making every penny count when planning a holiday, last-minute or not. For those up for being spontaneous this October, our data suggests there are plenty of good deals to be found.
If you are not sure on where you’d like to go, sticking with a search engine like KAYAK is perfect as it does all the hard work for you, comparing hundreds of travel providers with just one click.”
KAYAK’s data shows that popular European destinations such as Milan, Prague and Paris all currently come in significantly under £100 on average for a round-trip flight when travelling during October.
If you want to stay a little closer to home, round-trip flights to both Scotland and Northern Ireland can also be bagged for under £70 on average.
From European city breaks to off-beat adventures, here are the top places you can fly to without breaking the bank this month.
Tirana, Albania – from £50
If you’re up for exploring somewhere different this October, head to Tirana. Albania’s capital might not be the most famous city in Europe, but it’s packed with charm, fascinating history, and plenty of character.
Start your trip at Skanderbeg Square, the city’s heart, surrounded by museums, galleries, and impressive communist-era architecture.
For a taste of local life, stroll through Blloku, a neighbourhood once reserved for Communist Party elites but now buzzing with cafes and bars. If you fancy a bit of nature, take the Dajti Express cable car to the top of Mount Dajti for incredible views over the city and beyond.
Edinburgh, Scotland – from £60
A short hop from London, Edinburgh is a fantastic city at any time of year, but there’s something magical about it in autumn. Wander down the Royal Mile, where you’ll find the imposing Edinburgh Castle perched on its ancient volcanic rock, or stroll through the beautiful Princes Street Gardens with the crisp autumn leaves crunching underfoot.
Fancy a bit of a climb? Arthur’s Seat offers unbeatable views of the city and coastline. After all that walking, cosy up in a traditional pub with some hearty Scottish dishes and perhaps a dram of whisky.
Belfast, Northern Ireland – from £68
Belfast is a rich historical city, and a trip to Titanic Belfast is a must. This award-winning museum, where the ill-fated ship was built, offers an interactive journey through the Titanic’s story.
But it’s not all about the past—Belfast is a modern, thriving city with a lively food scene. Check out St George’s Market, one of the best in the UK, for artisan food, local crafts, and live music.
And if you fancy a memorable day trip, the Giant’s Causeway is just over an hour away, offering one of the UK’s most iconic natural landmarks.
Dublin, Ireland – from £69
Rock out to live music and drink traditional Irish ales on a fun trip to Dublin, Ireland’s dynamic capital. Dive into the city’s literary history with a visit to the Book of Kells at Trinity College, or stroll through the beautiful St Stephen’s Green Park.
The pub scene is legendary, and a pint of Guinness in Temple Bar is a rite of passage. If you love history, Kilmainham Gaol is an essential stop to explore the stories of Ireland’s struggle for independence.
If you want a longer trip, you can rent a car in Dublin and explore Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. This 1,600-mile coastal route, running from the southern reaches of Cork to the northern tip of Donegal, is not just a drive; it’s an unforgettable journey into the wild, rugged beauty of Ireland’s western coastline.
Podgorica, Montenegro – from £70
Montenegro’s capital, Podgorica, might not be as famous as other Balkan cities, but it’s the perfect base for exploring the country’s impressive landscapes.
Start by visiting the Millennium Bridge and wandering through King’s Park. If you’ve got a day to spare, head out to Lake Skadar, just a short drive away, where you can take a boat tour and spot some incredible wildlife. Or, if you’re in the mood for a beach day, Budva and its charming old town are an easy day trip from Podgorica.
Milan, Italy – from £74
Milan might be known for fashion, but it’s also a fantastic spot for a short city break. Art lovers can feast their eyes on Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie, while architecture buffs will be awestruck by the Duomo di Milano—one of the largest and most intricate cathedrals in the world.
Stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, for some retail therapy. And don’t leave Milan without indulging in gelato or a perfectly brewed espresso.
If you have more time, hop on a train to Lake Como. Here, Italian grandeur meets deep blue lake waters and spectacular alpine vista, with dreamy views best enjoyed while sipping a classic Aperol Spritz and feasting on Cicchetti (small snacks or side dishes).
Glasgow, Scotland – from £77
Glasgow might be known for its vibrant music scene, but it’s also home to some of the UK’s best museums and galleries. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a must-visit, with everything from Dali’s Christ of Saint John of the Cross to a Spitfire hanging from the ceiling.
Explore the cool West End, home to Ashton Lane—a cobbled street lined with independent bars and restaurants. If you’ve got some extra time, head out to Loch Lomond for a scenic day trip less than an hour from the city.
Oslo, Norway – from £80
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more Nordic, Oslo is a fantastic option. The city combines nature with culture seamlessly, offering world-class museums like the Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Munch Museum, dedicated to the artist behind The Scream.
You can also walk along the Aker Brygge waterfront, dotted with cafes and restaurants. For a truly unique experience, visit the Oslo Opera House, where you can walk on the roof and see the Oslofjord.
Prague, Czech Republic – from £82
Prague is a fairytale city that always impresses, no matter how often you visit. Start with a walk across the Charles Bridge, which dates back to the 14th century, before heading to Prague Castle for panoramic city views.
The Old Town Square is a great place to people-watch, with the Astronomical Clock putting on a show every hour. In the evening, dive into the city’s vibrant nightlife scene or enjoy a glass of Czech beer at one of the many cosy bars.
Paris, France – from £84
Ah, Paris! Even on a budget, the City of Light always delivers. Start with a morning croissant in a local café before ticking off the classics: the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and a stroll or bike ride along the Seine.
The Montmartre district is perfect for an afternoon wander, with its narrow streets, artists, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. And if you’ve still got energy, head to Le Marais for some boutique shopping or enjoy a coffee in one of the neighbourhood’s charming cafes.
Why not add an extra day and explore Disneyland Paris for a little extra magic on your city break. If you visit outside of the half-term holiday, you’ll save even more money.