Dreaming of a summer getaway without breaking the bank? You’re in luck! These stunning destinations are not only packed with culture, adventure, and jaw-dropping scenery but also come with return flights for under £50.

Please note that flights are based on London departure and some prices may have changed since publishing. To see the best prices, search by month using the flexible dates option on Sky Scanner.

Bologna, Italy

If you love good food, historic charm, and a lively atmosphere, Bologna is the perfect summer escape! Known as Italy’s foodie capital, it’s the birthplace of rich ragù (Bolognese sauce) and fresh handmade pasta. Stroll through the picturesque streets, admire the iconic Two Towers, and soak up the city’s buzzing café culture. With cheap return flights under £50, you can indulge in authentic Italian cuisine without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re sipping Aperol Spritz in the vibrant Piazza Maggiore or enjoying a sunset view from San Luca, Bologna is a budget-friendly dream for foodies and culture lovers alike.

Flights to Bologna in July are from £18 and August £24 return. Check Sky Scanner to have a look.

Slovenia

Slovenia is Europe’s best-kept secret, where Alpine beauty meets Mediterranean charm. Fly in for under £50 and discover Lake Bled, a picture-perfect paradise with its iconic island church. Wander the fairytale streets of Ljubljana, hike through Triglav National Park, or explore the breathtaking Postojna Caves. This small but stunning country is packed with adventure – whether you’re into kayaking, hiking, or just relaxing with a glass of local wine. Plus, Slovenia’s budget-friendly prices mean your money stretches further. For nature lovers and culture seekers alike, Slovenia is an unforgettable (and affordable!) summer destination.

Trieste airport is less than 30km from the Slovenian border and it is the most cost-effective way to access this stunning country. There are also really cheap direct trains to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital. Flights to Trieste in July are from £35 and August £28 return. Check Sky Scanner to have a look.

Bosnia & Herzegovina

Looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure? Bosnia and Herzegovina is a budget traveler’s paradise, offering breathtaking landscapes and a fascinating history. Fly in for under £50 and explore the stunning Mostar, where the iconic Stari Most bridge arches over turquoise waters. Wander through Sarajevo’s cobbled streets, visit historic Ottoman markets, and enjoy a mix of East-meets-West culture. Nature lovers will adore the Kravice Waterfalls and the wild beauty of Una National Park. Bosnia is also one of the most affordable places in Europe, meaning you can enjoy delicious local dishes, scenic train rides, and historic sites without overspending.

The best-connected airports to allow you to explore this gem of a country are Sarajevo, the capital and Dubrovnik which is 5km from the border of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Flights to Sarajevo in July are from £37 and August £27 return. For Dubrovnik they are from £30 in July and from £36 in August. Check Sky Scanner to have a look.

Montenegro

With cheap flights and postcard-perfect views, Montenegro is an ideal summer escape. The Bay of Kotor is like a mini fjord, with medieval towns and crystal-clear waters. Visit Budva for sandy beaches and buzzing nightlife, or explore Durmitor National Park for dramatic mountains and breathtaking hikes. Montenegro is still relatively undiscovered, meaning you’ll get all the beauty of the Mediterranean without the sky-high prices. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, this small but stunning country offers incredible experiences at a fraction of the cost of other European hotspots.

Flights to Podgorica in July are from £38 and August £29 return. Check Sky Scanner to have a look. It’s also worth noting you can fly to Tivat and even access Montenegro via Dubrovnik Airport which is 20km from the Montenegrin border.

Romania

Romania is a land of fairytale castles, vibrant cities, and unspoiled nature – all for an incredibly low price. With return flights under £50, you can explore the medieval streets of Brașov, visit Dracula’s Castle in Bran, or soak up the energy of Bucharest. The stunning Carpathian Mountains offer incredible hiking, while the Danube Delta is a wildlife lover’s dream. If you’re after a unique mix of history, nature, and lively culture, Romania is the perfect budget-friendly summer getaway. Plus, the cost of food, accommodation, and activities is some of the lowest in Europe – so your money goes further!

Flights to Bucharest in July are from £51 and August £30 return. Check Sky Scanner to have a look.

Turkey

Turkey is a summer paradise where you get sun, sea, history, and vibrant culture—all for an unbeatable price. With return flights under £50, you can explore the lively streets of Istanbul, where East meets West, and visit iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar. For beach lovers, Antalya and Dalaman offer golden sands, turquoise waters, and luxurious resorts at budget-friendly prices. Explore ancient ruins, take a boat trip along the coast, or simply relax with delicious Turkish cuisine. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, Turkey is an affordable, sun-soaked dream for summer travellers!

Flights to Dalaman, Antalya and Istanbul in July are from £36, £45 and £63 return respectively. In August they are from £36, £37 & £36 return respectively again. Check Sky Scanner to have a look.

If you’re interested in travelling to any of these destinations using any of the airports listed then please don’t hesitate to get in touch and we’ll be more than happy to assist with the logistics or answer any questions you might have so you can hopefully get your summer adventure booked up!

Written by James Chisnall