Μake us preferred on Google Traveling outside the peak summer months can still save you a lot of money, as long as you plan the trip well.
Now, research from the online travel search engine KAYAK has revealed how you can save the most on your fall trips.
Although the research is based on flight and hotel search data in the United Kingdom for 2026, the same destinations are likely to be just as affordable for travelers from other parts of the continent.
And for our readers from the United Kingdom, KAYAK also offered tips on how to avoid the long lines caused by the EES rollout chaos.
Look for “double value” destinations
To feel like you’re winning twice, look for destinations that aren’t just cheaper than summer, but also more affordable than the same trip cost last year.
KAYAK found that Bilbao in Spain meets both criteria, with flight prices down a fifth compared to last year and more than a third lower than summer peak prices.
If you want to travel to Croatia for a dose of warmth, flight prices to Dubrovnik are 20% lower than in 2025, and 9% lower than in summer.
A bit farther afield, Atlanta in the United States ranks as the third best “double value” destination, while closer to home, Portugal, Italy, and Cyprus all offer good value for money, along with plenty of late season sun.
A view of Dubrovnik. Source: Shutterstock
Return before mid-September or postpone your trip to late October
According to euronews, one of the most important things to know when booking a shoulder season trip is that not all periods of the season are equal when it comes to flight prices.
KAYAK found that prices can vary significantly depending on which week you choose to travel.
If you want to travel in September, make sure to return before mid month, since return flight prices start climbing sharply after that date.
Late October is also a good time to choose, with average flight prices notably lower than in late September or early October.
Factor in accommodation prices too
Beyond flights, KAYAK’s data also revealed that accommodation prices vary significantly throughout the season.
Early October turned out to be the cheapest period, while accommodation prices climb again as the month goes on.
Although flight prices are fairly high early in the month, sometimes cheaper accommodation can more than make up the difference, making the trip a better overall deal, but it’s worth checking before you book.
Source: Euronews
