Prague

If you’re after an affordable holiday, then you’re in luck

The Yuletide season can often leave your purse feeling a tad empty. But, being a bit skint doesn’t mean you have to forego a delightful holiday.

If you’re yearning for a break but need to keep the costs down, then we’ve got good news for you. Skyscanner has put together a list of 10 of the most budget-friendly countries to visit this year, featuring destinations such as the vibrant Czech Republic, Italy’s romantic nooks and crannies, and Norway’s rugged coastlines.

All these spots won’t break the bank, with average return flight prices coming in at £136 or less, reports the Express.

10 of the cheapest places to go in 2026

10. Tromsø, Norway

Average return flight price: £136

It’s famous for the midnight sun and the Northern Lights but Norway has plenty more to offer visitors. From reindeer feeding to arctic fishing trips and more, this stunning Scandinavian country is well worth a visit.

9. Venice, Italy

Average return flight price: £134

The Floating City is famous across the world. Its labyrinthine passages of canals and islands are truly wondrous to behold but it also boasts some amazing architecture and art.

8. Agadir, Morocco

Average return flight price: £130

Built on the shores of a long stretch of golden sand with the Atlantic ocean lapping at the shores, this resort town has it all. From bustling souks to surfing lessons and amazing natural beauty, Agadir is the perfect place to explore. Plus, the average temperature even in January is 20C.

7. Bucharest, Romania

Average return flight price: £128

Sometimes known as ‘little Paris’ due to its elegant architecture, Bucharest is a great place to get away for the weekend. Wander the city’s many parks and snack on delicious street food. If you want to get further afield, then Transylvania is on the city’s doorstep.

6. Berlin, Germany

Average return flight price: £128

This buzzing city is jam packed with history from Brandenburg Gate to the Berlin Wall – but it’s also an amazing place to explore.

Sample coffee and pastries from one of the millions of cafes, wander along the canals or explore the famous nightlife.

5. Prague, Czech Republic

Average return flight price: £122

Prague looks like something that is straight from the pages of a fairytale. It’s fabulously well preserved architecture lines the river, offering some truly stunning views.

Why not visit the famous Old Town or wander across the Charles Bridge before stopping in for a drink at one of the city’s many bars?

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

Average return flight price: £117

The capital of cool, Copenhagen is at the forefront of fashion and perfect for a cultured weekend away. Cycle along the canals like locals do, enjoy a coffee in one of the trendy cafes and enjoy the world class food scene.

3. Madrid, Spain

Average return flight price: £114

Less touristy than Barcelona, this Spanish city is rich in art and history. Madrid is home to three prestigious art museums and a vibrant food scene. Sample tapas, dine al fresco and then wander through the verdant green spaces of this cool little city.

2. Milan, Italy

Average return flight price: £111

When you hear Milan, you think luxury but this city is actually the second cheapest to fly to. It’s a hub of fashion, art and history but it’s also a perfect starting point to explore some of Italy’s most magical scenery like the Dolomites.

1. Lyon, France

Average return flight price: £105

This walkable city has Roman ruins, UNESCO World Heritage sites and plenty more to explore. Try some of the local delicacies at a traditional bouchon (restaurant) and browse the markets.

These cities have all tried to crack down on drunken Brits but are still seeing an increase in stag and hen do bookings.

Despite efforts to curb drunken British tourists and prevent alcohol-fuelled stag parties, three European destinations are witnessing a surge in bookings.

Amsterdam in the Netherlands, Albufeira in Portugal and Prague in the Czech Republic have all tried to deter boozy visitors from overwhelming their streets but, according to stag and hen do organiser Last Night of Freedom, these measures have had little impact.

Matt Mavir, managing director at the Tyneside-based company said: “Rules, fines and huge publicity campaigns – authorities in each of these cities have thrown everything at trying to discourage revellers from choosing their city to party, but it hasn’t done a fantastic job.

“Our customers aren’t being scared off and the numbers prove it. In fact, these destinations are becoming more popular than ever.”

Amsterdam led the charge in 2023, becoming the first of the three cities to launch a campaign targeting rowdy tourists.

The Dutch capital banned drinking on the streets and cannabis consumption in public, restricted access to the Red Light District and launched an online warning campaign specifically aimed at British men.

Prague followed suit by attempting to prohibit fancy dress and pub crawls throughout the city centre, whilst earlier this year Albufeira joined the crackdown.

The Portuguese resort town introduced a new code of conduct imposing on-the-spot fines for drunkenness, excessive noise and anti-social behaviour.

Yet, despite these measures, large numbers of British men and women are still booking their stag and hen parties in these destinations.

In reality, all three locations have seen a surge in reservations, reports the Express.

Prague has climbed from fifth to third most sought-after destination, Amsterdam has risen from ninth to seventh, and Albufeira has made its debut this year at number six.

Matt suggested this demonstrates that Brits remain undeterred. “The headlines can make it sound as though stag dos are being pushed out, but that just isn’t happening,” he said.

He added: “Each city is trying to change its image and attract a different type of tourist – more couples and families and fewer big groups heading straight to the bars and nightclubs.

“But I think what the authorities forget is that they’re often the same people. Our stags aren’t some fringe group – they’re just normal people with jobs, relationships and children who are looking for somewhere to celebrate with their mates.”