As summer reaches its peak, the urge for a spontaneous getaway is strong among British travellers. According to recent data from KAYAK, the leading travel search engine, many are finding great deals for last-minute vacations this August. The data suggests that prices for popular destinations have dropped compared to last year, making it an ideal time for those seeking a quick escape.
Istanbul Leads the Pack
Topping the list of most-searched destinations is Istanbul, Turkey. This vibrant city, which uniquely bridges Europe and Asia, has captivated the interest of spontaneous travellers with its rich history, bustling bazaars, and stunning architecture. Iconic sites such as the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s storied past, while the lively markets, such as the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, provide a taste of local culture. The scenic Bosphorus Strait and a thriving nightlife scene add to Istanbul’s appeal. Moreover, with the average price for return flights down by 22% compared to last year, Istanbul is an attractive option for a last-minute summer escape.
Top 10 Last-Minute Destinations for August
KAYAK has identified the following destinations as the most sought-after for August travel. The list includes average return flight prices for economy tickets, highlighting some notable savings compared to 2023:
Istanbul, Turkey: £278 (22% decrease)
New York, United States: £513 (6% decrease)
Bangkok, Thailand: £822 (7% decrease)
Barcelona, Spain: £146 (15% decrease)
Alicante, Spain: £203 (5% decrease)
Málaga, Spain: £204 (3% decrease)
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: £582 (2% decrease)
Paris, France: £124 (3% decrease)
Lisbon, Portugal: £228 (19% increase)
Toronto, Canada: £638 (8% decrease)
Finding the Best Deals
Despite August being a peak travel period, KAYAK’s data shows that prices for several popular destinations are lower than last year. Rachel Mumford, a travel expert at KAYAK, advises that travellers can still find affordable last-minute deals. She recommends using KAYAK’s new AI-powered tool, KAYAK PriceCheck, to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal. The tool allows users to upload a screenshot of a flight itinerary from any site, and KAYAK will compare it against hundreds of travel sites to find better prices.
For those ready to make the most of the remaining summer days, these destinations offer both excitement and value, ensuring that a spontaneous escape is within reach.