It’s never too late to think about a dreamy last-minute summer escape. And for some in Europe, especially the Mediterranean, summer feels like it continues long into October, sometimes even November on a good week.
And don’t worry if you’re not summer body ready; most of us aren’t. These holidays aren’t for looking in the mirror and self-judgement (unless you’ve got some nice tan lines); they’re for treating yourself to what you truly deserve: a last-minute dreamy summer getaway.
Read on for our top locations and tips for booking a last-minute dreamy summer getaway.
Why Last Minute is Sometimes Better Than In Advance
Holidays are expensive; there’s no denying that. It feels almost impossible to find a cheap one-week all-inclusive 3*+ deal for a couple of hundred, like the good ol’ days. Every year, they’re getting more expensive. We’re already seeing a 4.2% rise in package holidays compared to 2024. We don’t want to go back further in the research archives to find out how much it’s changed over the last 10 years.
And before, it used to be the case that if you booked in advance, you might find yourself a good deal or at least have the luxury of paying it off month by month. Now, you’re more likely to find a more affordable last-minute deal. Package holiday companies, airlines, and hotels, especially in the week or two before the travel, sometimes drop the prices dramatically to sell the tickets. Well, not necessarily airlines if you book everything individually, but package holidays definitely do drop in price.
Even if it’s only fractionally cheaper, the buzz of booking a last-minute holiday is enough to get anyone clicking ‘book now’.
The Top Locations for a Last-Minute Summer Getaway
The location is essential. If you’re looking for a last-minute summer getaway, especially if you’re from the UK, we guarantee you’re looking for sun. We know just the places for you:
Portugal – Comporta
Don’t go for the expensive tourist trap areas. Go for areas like Comporta, a beautiful and tranquil village with golden sand beaches, restaurants serving freshly caught seafood from that day, and luxury hotel Comporta deals that won’t break the bank. You can actually enjoy your holiday here without fighting for a restaurant reservation.
Italy – Portofino
You deserve to sit at a bar on the Italian Riviera sipping a refreshing Aperol Spritz – don’t let anyone tell you differently. Portofino is the epitome of a picture-perfect postcard location. The colourful apartments and houses climbing into the cliffs leave you in awe. Life is slow, the food is obviously incredible, and the waters are perfect for a swim.
Tips For Getting The Best Deals
Last-minute deals aren’t as lucrative as they once were; we can’t deny that. But there are a few ways to get the best deals:
- Use Skyscanner: Skyscanner is the best for finding the cheapest flights. Sometimes, the airline doesn’t offer the best deals; it’s a third-party website advertising flight deals through Skyscanner.
- Book hotels separately: Package holidays are becoming expensive, as we mentioned. Check hotel websites directly to find the best deals.
- Leave it until a week or two before you want to go: You’re more likely to find the best deals in a week or two before you want to go!
Have we inspired you to book a last-minute summer escape? There are so many incredible places you can pick from; some are cheaper than others. Start looking and book the holiday you deserve this summer.
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