This holiday season, we found 5 European budget destinations whose airfare is considerably lower than most international flights. Which means you can get away — far away — for less. So pack up last year’s mittens (we love them, Grams), grab your passport and hit these top destinations.
Stockholm, Sweden
We said brrr, it’s cold in here. But there are plenty of reasons to visit Sweden this year. For one, every holiday season they break out the traditional oliebollen and appelflappen in street fairs throughout the city. And with a solid snow cover, twinkling lights and fairytale-esque architecture, it’s almost as if you’re at the North Pole. We found that flights to Stockholm are 41% lower than the international median airfare. We found median airfares in November at $450, $644 in December and $482 in January. Just be sure to book at least 2 months ahead of travel to get the best deal.
Oslo, Norway
We know what you’re thinking. How does notoriously pricey Oslo make it onto a wallet-friendly list? While per diem costs in Norway can certainly border on expensive (median hotel rates go from $106/night in November to $144/night in December), you’ll save on flying there. In fact, flights to Norway this holiday season are 40% cheaper than the international median. Just be sure to pack your winter coat and lots of layers. Wondering what to do in the snow? Beyond some epic sledding and skiing, November through December is a great time to experience the Northern Lights.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Confession — we’re a bit partial to Copenhagen, as it’s now home to one of our offices. Plus, mid-century modern design paired with storybook holiday markets? No wonder the Danes are so happy. This season, Copenhagen clocked in as our #3 Wallet-Friendly International Flight. That’s thanks to it being 30% cheaper than most other international destinations. In November and January, you can find airfare around $451. In December, median airfare goes up to $612 for a round-trip ticket. Just prepare yourself for a chilly winter visit. Temperatures average around 41 degrees in November, and only go down from there. So embrace the hygge and find a cozy spot to warm up in.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland is still super hot… even when it’s super cold. This trending destination made our #4 Wallet-Friendly International Flight list for the holidays. It’s low airfare — 35% lower than most international flights to be exact — helps offset the higher cost of hotel rooms. Just be sure to book at least 10 weeks ahead of travel if you’re hoping to max your savings. And while you’ll only experience a few hours of daylight, that Northern Light display is totally worth it. To combat the winter blues, order one of the best hot dogs you’ve ever tasted at Pylsuhusid Hot Dog House, grab a book from the stacks at Mál og Menning and settle in for a long winter’s nap.
Paris, France
Last on this list is the city of l’amour. While Paris is romantic any time of year, there’s something about the holidays’ twinkling lights and snow-dusted streets that makes it extra special. As our #8 Wallet-Friendly International Flight destination, airfare is 28% cheaper than other international flights. We suggest you travel in January when median airfare is lowest at $508 round trip. January is also when hotel rates start to drop, from around $177/night in December to $151/night. Get into the holiday spirit — for less — by perusing outdoor holiday markets, riding the carousels that pop up every year, and sipping hot chocolate in a cafe.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly break to Europe or something a little more luxe, we can help you find what you’re searching for.
Methodology can be found here.
