For those who thrive on spontaneity, a last-minute getaway can be the perfect antidote to a stressful week—or simply an excuse to explore. A new report from lastminute.com, based on traveller departures from the UK, Italy, France, Germany, and Spain, highlights the European destinations with the biggest booking increases in 2025 compared to 2024. Eastern Europe dominates the top five, with the Baltics and Balkans also well represented.
Gdansk, Poland: A Baltic Gem
Gdansk saw the sharpest rise in bookings, up 97% year-on-year. This historic Baltic port city was a key member of the Hanseatic League, and its Main City district retains much of its medieval and Renaissance character. Visitors can climb the Main Town Hall for panoramic views over the Motława riverfront, then wander the cobbled streets lined with colourful townhouses. The city’s maritime museum and the nearby beach at Sopot offer further diversions.
Bucharest, Romania: Architecture and History
Romania’s capital recorded a 71% increase in last-minute visitors. Bucharest is a treasure trove of architectural styles, from Art Deco and Art Nouveau to the monumental blocks of the communist era. The Palace of the Parliament, the world’s largest parliament building, is a must-see; guided tours are available, and the building also houses the National Museum of Contemporary Art. The city’s Old Town, with its lively cafés and clubs, provides a vibrant contrast.
Kraków, Poland: UNESCO Heritage and Culture
Kraków saw a 58% uptick in bookings. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town, one of the first 12 sites inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1978, centres on the Main Market Square—the largest medieval square in Europe. Highlights include St. Mary’s Church, Wawel Royal Castle, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine just outside the city. For those wanting to combine two Polish destinations, a sleeper train connects Kraków with Gdansk.
Albanian Coastline: The ‘Maldives of Europe’
Trips to the Albanian coast rose 53% in 2025, driven by social media buzz dubbing it the “Maldives of Europe.” Key spots include Ksamil on the Albanian Riviera, Sarandë near the UNESCO site of Butrint, and Dhërmi, known for its nightlife. A visit to the capital Tirana offers insight into the country’s complex history, from Ottoman rule to communist isolation and its recent transformation.
Riga, Latvia: Art Nouveau and Hanseatic Heritage
Riga, the Latvian capital, rounded out the top five with a 40% booking increase. Situated on the Daugava River, Riga was another Hanseatic League city and boasts a UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town. Beyond the cobblestones, the city is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture—roughly a third of buildings in the centre are decorated in this style. The Central Market, housed in former Zeppelin hangars, is a vibrant spot for local produce.
These destinations reflect a growing appetite for cultural depth, architectural diversity, and coastal relaxation—all within easy reach for European travellers. For those planning a last-minute escape, the data suggests that Eastern Europe and the Balkans offer compelling options that combine history, affordability, and authenticity.
