Handpicked Affordable Summer Getaways You Can’t Miss

A recent survey of 32,000 travelers worldwide conducted by Booking.com reveals that over half of respondents plan to keep their summer holiday spending in check compared to last year. If you are among those looking for budget-friendly escapes, this article presents some exciting late deals on summer vacations including destinations like Durham, the Douro Valley, Mexico, and the Maldives. There are travel options suitable for families, solo adventurers, hikers, bikers, cruisers, and beach lovers alike.

For those who can travel in June, Yorkshire Hideaways has slashed prices on a variety of its accommodations throughout the month. One standout is California Cottage, an ideal spot to discover the scenic Durham Dales on foot. This dog-friendly two-bedroom rental is situated near Middleton-in-Teesdale, along both the Pennine and Teesdale Ways close to the stunning High Force waterfall. After a day of activities, guests can relax in a chic open-plan living area that contrasts with the traditional stone exterior. Enjoy a 20 percent reduction with prices starting at just £484 for a week’s stay, accommodating three guests (yorkshirehideaways.co.uk).

Family Camper Van Adventure

Have you considered a motorhome journey with your family? Traveling in a camper van allows for spontaneous stops for barbecues, bike rides, or beach exploration, making it a fun bonding experience. Roadsurfer, a camper van rental company, is currently offering £65 off bookings of five nights or more for trips before July 31. With pickup locations in Bristol, Edinburgh, London, and Manchester, you can choose from a classic Volkswagen California Ocean featuring an integrated kitchen, outdoor shower, and pop-up roof. A week of self-catering for four starts from £1,172 with the promo code SUMMER2025 (roadsurfer.com).

Discover Londonderry

The Peace Bridge in Derry-Londonderry, with the Guildhall in the background.

The Ebrington Hotel, formerly an army barracks, now offers refined Irish cuisine, stylish rooms, and relaxing spa services in central Londonderry, Northern Ireland’s second city. Located near the iconic Peace Bridge and within walking distance to the historic Derry Walls, it’s also a stone’s throw from the famous mural on Orchard Street, beloved by fans of Derry Girls. This summer, enjoy up to 26 percent off midweek short breaks, with three nights of bed and breakfast starting from £249 per person, inclusive of spa access and a three-course dinner (travelzoo.com).

Europe

New Hotel Opening in Prague

Hotel bedroom with a large bed, armchair, and patterned rug.

Act quickly to secure a 30 percent discount for stays in July and August at the newly opened Sir Hotels in various cities, including Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Berlin. Particularly notable is Sir Prague, a 76-room hotel located near the old town and within a five-minute stroll to the stunning Vltava River. Launched in March, it features a lush courtyard, cozy library adorned with Murano chandeliers, and an inviting Mediterranean restaurant. Room rates now start from £167 (sirhotels.com). Fly to Prague.

Italian Lakes Group Tour

Seeking a leisurely escape? Travelsphere offers a group tour around the breathtaking shores of Lake Maggiore, with views of its 17th-century island palace on Isola Bella and picturesque red-roofed towns. Book by August 17 to take advantage of a £200 discount per person, which also includes a day trip to glitzy Lake Como and dining on Isola dei Pescatori. Optional excursions to Lake Orta and the Swiss Alps are available. Seven nights’ half-board starts from £1,349 per person, including flights and transfers (travelsphere.co.uk).

Douro River Cruise in Portugal

Porto, Portugal cityscape at dusk with Rabelo boats on the Douro River.

The enchanting Douro Valley in Portugal boasts medieval towns and terraced vineyards that appear timeless. Experience a luxurious cruise with Riviera Travel aboard the 88-cabin MS Douro Elegance, starting in the historic city of Porto and visiting beautiful lakes and villages. You will also cross into Spain to discover Salamanca, known for its stunning city square. Departing on July 17, the seven-night full-board package is available from £2,149 per person, including flights, ten excursions, and a drink package (rivieratravel.co.uk).

Active Holidays in Turkey

Book by June 9 for a 10 percent discount on summer holidays at Mark Warner’s activity-focused resorts in Greece and Turkey. At the Phokaia Beach Resort in Turkey, enjoy amenities like swimming pools, tennis, pickleball, and a long beach, with a packed watersports schedule. During school summer holidays, a seven-night half-board stay for a family of four starts from £1,416 per person, inclusive of flights, transfers, activities, and selected meals (markwarner.co.uk).

Long-Haul Destinations

Maldives Diving Experience

Aerial view of Mukunudu Island Resort in the Maldives.

Dive Worldwide is currently promoting a 30 percent discount on trips to the exclusive Makunudu Island Resort in the Maldives, featuring 36 thatched bungalows surrounded by pristine beaches and crystal waters. September marks the manta ray season; indulge in scuba diving, paddleboarding, and kayaking while enjoying the natural landscape. Seven nights all-inclusive starts from £2,995 per person, including flights, speedboat transfers, and nine guided dives—book by June 30 (diveworldwide.com).

Florida’s Summer Sunshine

St. Petersburg, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, enjoys an abundance of sunshine with an average of 361 sunny days each year. The family-friendly RumFish Beach Resort is perfectly situated on the sandy beach and features a heated pool, kids’ club, and an onsite restaurant designed as an aquarium. Guests can access a larger nearby resort with a three-storey water slide for a daily resort fee. Book by Monday for a 20 percent discount; seven nights’ room-only for a family of four in August starts from £899 per person, including flights (ocean-florida.co.uk).

Solo Journey to Thailand

Traditional longtail boat on Railay Beach, Krabi, Thailand.

If you’re planning a solo getaway, First Choice is offering up to £150 off solo holidays, including trips with children. One destination worth considering is the Apasari Krabi hotel, located just a short walk from Ao Nang’s sandy beach and vibrant main street. The hotel features a spacious pool and airy rooms, each with a balcony. For one adult, seven nights’ bed and breakfast starts from £899, including flights (firstchoice.co.uk).

Luxury Family Vacation in Mexico

For a more private escape away from crowded resorts, Hotel Esencia offers a luxurious experience with 48 rooms nestled in a tranquil jungle setting south of Playa del Carmen. Once a holiday retreat for an Italian duchess, the hotel boasts three ocean-view restaurants, a spa, and serene yoga pavilions. If you’re willing to risk a few summer rain showers, a seven-night bed and breakfast for a family of four starts at £3,990 per person, including flights and private transfers; booking must be completed by June 30 (scottdunn.com).

Cycling Adventure in Japan

Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan.

Join one of the many small-group tours offered by Intrepid Travel during their World Sale, which includes discounts of up to 20 percent. A cycling tour in Japan covers the route between Kyoto, famous for its historic temples, and the vibrant city of Tokyo. This moderate adventure takes you through the peaceful Gifu Prefecture, renowned hot-spring towns, and bustling food markets. The tour starts on June 21, with ten nights’ bed and breakfast costing from £2,708 per person, including transport and some meals (intrepidtravel.com). Fly to Osaka.

• Check out our comprehensive guide to Japan

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