Autumn has long been the savvy traveller's secret, but as more people discover the 'shoulder season', prices are creeping up. Still, with careful planning, you can find significant savings compared to the summer peak. New research from the travel search engine KAYAK, based on 2026 UK flight and hotel data, reveals the best strategies for an affordable autumn escape. While the data is UK-centric, the same destinations are likely to be just as budget-friendly for travellers from elsewhere in Europe.
Double-value destinations: cheaper than last year and summer
To get the most bang for your euro, look for places that are not only cheaper than in summer but also less expensive than they were a year ago. KAYAK identified several such 'double-value' destinations.
Bilbao in Spain tops the list, with flight prices down by a fifth compared to last year and over a third lower than peak summer rates. If you're after Mediterranean warmth, Dubrovnik in Croatia offers flights 20% cheaper than in 2025 and 9% below summer prices. Further afield, Atlanta in the United States is the third best option, while closer to home, Portugal, Italy, and Cyprus all offer good value and plenty of late-season sunshine.
Timing is everything: when to fly
Not all weeks in the shoulder season are equal when it comes to flight prices. KAYAK's data shows that prices can vary dramatically depending on the week you choose to travel. If you're planning a September getaway, aim to return before the middle of the month, as return flight prices start climbing steeply after that. Alternatively, late October is a sweet spot, with average flight prices significantly lower than in late September or early October.
Skip the queues: hassle-free countries
The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) has caused long queues at airports across the continent, with non-Schengen residents sometimes missing flights. For British travellers, destinations with simpler entry requirements are increasingly appealing. KAYAK identified several non-Schengen countries where tourists face fewer bureaucratic hurdles—and where flights are far cheaper in the autumn.
Albania is the standout choice, with flight prices down 52% compared to peak summer costs. Tunisia, Türkiye, and Montenegro—all free from EES checks—also offer savings of 35%, 27%, and 26% respectively. The Dominican Republic, known for its year-round heat, is 29% cheaper in the autumn.
Don't forget accommodation
Flights aren't the only cost to consider. KAYAK's data also reveals that hotel prices fluctuate throughout the season. Early October is the cheapest window for accommodation, with prices rising again as the month progresses. So if you're flexible, booking your stay for the first half of October could yield additional savings.
For those looking to combine value with cultural immersion, consider destinations that offer both. As travellers increasingly prioritise cultural experiences, a well-chosen autumn break can be both enriching and economical. And if you're planning a longer stay, you might want to check out Europe's best cities for remote work holidays.
Ultimately, the key to a budget-friendly autumn holiday is flexibility—both in timing and destination. By choosing the right week and considering less obvious spots, you can enjoy a memorable break without breaking the bank.
