A quick getaway doesn’t have to mean long hours in transit. With numerous short-haul flights from the UK, you can explore stunning destinations across Europe and beyond in just a couple of hours.
Whether you’re craving a cultural city break, a sunny beach retreat, or a foodie adventure, these short-flight destinations allow you to maximize your holiday time. Here’s a list of the top destinations with the shortest flight times from the UK to help you plan your next escape.
Top Shortest Flights from the UK to Explore Our Holiday Destinations
If you’re looking for a quick getaway without long hours of travel, the UK offers easy access to some of the best holiday destinations in just a couple of hours or less. Whether you want to explore vibrant cities, relax on sunny beaches, or indulge in world-class cuisine, short-haul flights make it possible to maximize your holiday time.
From Paris and Amsterdam to Barcelona and Porto, these destinations provide the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation all just a short flight away from the UK.
1. France – Paris (Approx. 1h 15m)
Why visit? Paris is the perfect city for a romantic weekend or cultural exploration, with world-famous landmarks, fashion, and fine dining.
- Best things to do:
- Take in the view from the Eiffel Tower.
- Visit the Louvre Museum and see the Mona Lisa.
- Enjoy a scenic Seine River cruise.
- Savor authentic French pastries in Montmartre.
- Places to stay in Paris: Popular areas include Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Champs-Élysées, and Montmartre, offering luxury hotels, boutique stays, and budget-friendly options.
- Places to eat in Paris: Must-visit spots include Le Comptoir du Relais, L’Ambroisie, Bouillon Pigalle, and Café de Flore for classic French cuisine and pastries.
- Ideal time to spend in Paris: A 4 to 7-day trip is ideal to explore major attractions, enjoy local culture, and take day trips to nearby destinations like Versailles.
- Currency: The official currency of Paris (France) is the Euro (€).
Related: Air France Flight Status
2. Belgium – Brussels (Approx. 1h 10m)
Why visit? Known for its stunning architecture, chocolate, and beer, Brussels is a charming yet compact city perfect for a short break.
- Best things to do:
- Explore the Grand Place, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares.
- Try Belgian chocolates and waffles.
- Visit the Atomium and enjoy panoramic city views.
- Discover the European Quarter and the EU Parliament.
- Places to stay in Belgium: Popular places to stay include Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, and Ghent, with options ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels.
- Places to eat in Belgium: Must-visit restaurants include Comme Chez Soi (Brussels), De Jonkman (Bruges), The Jane (Antwerp), and Pakhuis (Ghent) for delicious Belgian cuisine.
- Ideal time to spend in Belgium: 4 to 7 days is ideal to explore major cities, and historical sites, and experience Belgian food and culture.
- Currency: The official currency of Belgium is the Euro (€).
3. Netherlands – Amsterdam (Approx. 1h 20m)
Why visit? With its scenic canals, world-class museums, and lively nightlife, Amsterdam is a favorite for quick getaways.
- Best things to do:
- Visit the Anne Frank House for a historical experience.
- Explore the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum.
- Take a canal cruise to get a different perspective of the city.
- Cycle through Vondelpark, like a local.
- Places to stay in Amsterdam: Luxury hotels like The Dylan and Waldorf Astoria, boutique canal-side stays, and budget-friendly hostels.
- Places to eat in Amsterdam: Dutch pancake houses, Michelin-star restaurants, cozy brown cafés, and vibrant food markets.
- Ideal time to spend in Amsterdam: Three to five days to explore museums, canals, and local culture.
- Currency: Euro (EUR).
READ: What is The Best Day Trip From Amsterdam?
4. Ireland – Dublin (Approx. 1h 15m)
Why visit? Dublin is a vibrant mix of history, culture, and nightlife, making it perfect for a weekend escape.
- Best things to do:
- Sip a pint at the Guinness Storehouse.
- Walk through the historic Trinity College and see the Book of Kells.
- Experience the nightlife in Temple Bar.
- Take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher.
- Places to stay in Dublin: Options range from luxury hotels like The Shelbourne Dublin and The Merrion Hotel, boutique accommodations such as Number 31 and The Wilder, to budget-friendly choices like Jacobs Inn Hostel and Generator Dublin.
- Places to eat in Dublin: Dublin’s culinary scene offers a variety of dining experiences, including fine dining at Chapter One and Variety Jones, traditional Irish fare at The Winding Stair, and international cuisine at restaurants like Yamamori and Rosa Madre.
- Ideal time to spend in Dublin: A stay of three to four days allows visitors to explore major attractions such as Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and the Guinness Storehouse, while also enjoying the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and culinary offerings.
- Currency: Euro (€).
5. Germany – Düsseldorf (Approx. 1h 20m)
Why visit? A blend of modern city vibes and historic charm, Düsseldorf is an underrated European destination.
- Best things to do:
- Stroll along the Rhine promenade.
- Shop on Königsallee, Germany’s most luxurious shopping street.
- Visit the Old Town (Altstadt) for local beer and German cuisine.
- Explore modern art museums like K20 and K21.
- Places to stay in Düsseldorf: Luxury accommodations such as Breidenbacher Hof and Steigenberger Parkhotel Düsseldorf, mid-range hotels, and budget-friendly options.
- Places to eat in Düsseldorf: Renowned restaurants like Nagaya for Japanese cuisine, Brasserie Stadthaus for French dishes, and traditional German eateries such as Brauerei Schumacher.
- Ideal time to spend in Düsseldorf: Three to four days to explore major attractions and experience the local culture.
- Currency: Euro (€).
6. Spain – Barcelona (Approx. 2h 10m)
Why visit? Barcelona is a must-visit city that blends beach life, incredible architecture, and vibrant nightlife.
- Best things to do:
- Admire Gaudí’s masterpiece, Sagrada Familia.
- Relax on Barceloneta Beach.
- Wander through Park Güell and see its colorful mosaics.
- Stroll down La Rambla for shopping and street performances.
- Places to stay in Barcelona: Budget-friendly areas include El Raval, Gràcia, and Poble-sec, while luxury stays can be found in Eixample and Barceloneta.
- Places to eat in Barcelona: Try Can Paixano for tapas, La Boqueria Market for fresh seafood, and El Xampanyet for authentic Catalan cuisine.
- Ideal time to spend in Barcelona: 3 to 5 days is ideal for exploring the main attractions, enjoying the beaches, and experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife.
- Currency: The currency used in Barcelona is the Euro (€).
READ: Best Cities to Visit in Spain
7. Portugal – Porto (Approx. 2h 20m)
Why visit? Porto is a scenic and cultural destination known for its wine, colorful streets, and beautiful riverside views.
- Best things to do:
- Visit the Ribeira District for stunning riverside views.
- Explore the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
- Taste Port wine in the Douro Valley.
- Walk across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge.
- Places to stay in Porto: Options range from luxury hotels like The Yeatman and Infante Sagres to boutique accommodations such as Torel Palace Porto and budget-friendly choices like Being Porto Hostel.
- Places to eat in Porto: Experience traditional Portuguese cuisine at Taberna Dos Mercadores, indulge in fine dining at Antiqvvm, or savor local favorites at Café Santiago.
- Ideal time to spend in Porto: A stay of three to four days allows ample time to explore the city’s historic sites, enjoy its culinary delights, and experience the local culture.
- Currency: Euro (€).
8. Switzerland – Geneva (Approx. 1h 40m)
Why visit? Geneva is a sophisticated city with breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
- Best things to do:
- Walk around the Jet d’Eau, Geneva’s famous water fountain.
- Visit the United Nations headquarters.
- Take a boat cruise on Lake Geneva.
- Enjoy traditional Swiss fondue in the Old Town.
- Places to stay in Geneva: Options range from luxury hotels like Beau-Rivage Genève and The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix to budget-friendly accommodations such as ibis budget Genève Aéroport and Geneva Hostel.
- Places to eat in Geneva: Diverse dining experiences include traditional Swiss cuisine at Café du Soleil, international flavors at Parfums de Beyrouth, and budget-friendly options like Inglewood for gourmet burgers.
- Ideal time to spend in Geneva: A stay of three to four days allows visitors to explore major attractions, enjoy the lake, and experience the city’s cultural offerings.
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF).
9. Denmark – Copenhagen (Approx. 1h 50m)
Why visit? Copenhagen is known for its hygge (cozy) atmosphere, stylish design, and sustainable living.
- Best things to do:
- See the famous Little Mermaid Statue.
- Wander through the colorful Nyhavn district.
- Visit Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks.
- Explore Christianshavn and enjoy a canal-side café.
- Places to stay in Copenhagen: Luxury accommodations like Hotel d’Angleterre and Nimb Hotel, boutique hotels such as Nobis Hotel Copenhagen, and budget-friendly options including Go Hotel Ansgar.
- Places to eat in Copenhagen: Michelin-starred restaurants like Noma and Geranium, traditional Danish eateries such as Schønnemann, and diverse international options including Bæst and Kødbyens Fiskebar.
- Ideal time to spend in Copenhagen: A stay of four to five days allows ample time to explore major attractions, experience the culinary scene, and immerse yourself in the city’s culture.
- Currency: Danish Krone (DKK).
10. Spain – Madrid (Approx. 2h 20m)
Why visit? The Spanish capital offers a mix of royal history, world-class museums, and buzzing nightlife.
- Best things to do:
- Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid.
- Explore the Prado Museum for famous artworks.
- Relax in El Retiro Park.
- Enjoy tapas and churros at San Miguel Market.
- Places to stay in Madrid: Luxury accommodations like the historic Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá, boutique hotels such as Posada del Dragón in La Latina, and budget-friendly options like Hostal Oriente near the Royal Palace.
- Places to eat in Madrid: Historic establishments like Sobrino de Botín, the world’s oldest restaurant; traditional tapas bars such as Bodegas El Maño in Malasaña; and modern culinary experiences at DiverXO, Madrid’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Ideal time to spend in Madrid: A stay of four to five days allows visitors to explore major attractions, savor the diverse culinary scene, and immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant culture.
- Currency: Euro (€).
Tips for Booking Short-Haul Flights
- Book Early for the Best Deals – Short-haul flights can be cheap if booked in advance, especially during off-peak seasons.
- Use Budget Airlines – Airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air offer low-cost flights to many of these destinations.
- Pack Light – Avoid baggage fees by traveling with a carry-on and checking airline luggage policies.
- Consider Alternative Airports – Flying into smaller airports near major cities can save money on fares.
Which European Cities Can I Reach from the UK in Under Two Hours?
For travelers looking to escape the UK quickly, several European cities are just a short flight away, making them perfect for a quick holiday or weekend getaway.
Destinations like Paris (1h 15m), Brussels (1h 10m), Amsterdam (1h 20m), and Dublin (1h 15m) can be reached in under two hours, allowing you to maximize your time exploring rather than traveling. Other great options include Geneva, Düsseldorf, and Copenhagen, offering a mix of culture, history, and vibrant nightlife with minimal travel time.
What Are the Best Short-Haul Holiday Destinations from the UK for a Weekend Trip?
If you’re planning a weekend escape, some of the best short-haul destinations from the UK include Barcelona for sun and tapas, Porto for wine and stunning river views, and Berlin for history and exciting nightlife.
Those looking for romance can opt for Paris, while culture lovers will enjoy Rome or Amsterdam. For a mix of affordability and adventure, Budapest and Prague are great choices with cheap flights and plenty of sights to explore in a couple of days.
How Can I Find the Cheapest Short-Haul Flights from the UK to Top Holiday Destinations?
Finding cheap short-haul flights from the UK requires smart booking strategies. Use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak to track the best deals, and try booking flights mid-week (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) for lower fares. Budget airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air frequently offer discounted tickets, especially if booked a few months in advance.
Traveling with only a carry-on bag can also save money on baggage fees. Additionally, flying into alternative airports near major cities can sometimes provide cheaper options than direct flights to major hubs.
Conclusion
Short-haul flights from the UK allow you to experience new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes without spending hours on a plane. Whether you’re wandering the romantic streets of Paris, enjoying tapas in Madrid, or cycling along Amsterdam’s canals, these quick flights make it easy to maximize your holiday time. Start planning your next adventure and explore more with minimal travel time.
