School's out for summer, but there's still time to book your getaway - our top picks

Last updated Jul 24, 2023

Some of us are planners, some of us love the spontaneity of a last minute trip.

If you fall into the latter camp you may still be thinking about booking up for summer '23. Summer might be here (and school is most certainly out) but all is not lost.

Whether you want to explore a new city, sip cocktails on the beach, go hiking, or brave some of the fastest rollercoasters around, here's some of our suggestions...

If a city break is what you're after

Tirana

🏙️ Quickly becoming a city break favourite, Tirana is a fusion of old and new.

While there are echoes of its history throughout, parts of the city have undergone a recent regeneration with trendy bars, restaurants and nightclubs at every turn.

Must sees include Skanderbeg Square, home to some of Albania's most recognisable landmarks; the Dajti Mountain National Park - nicknamed the Balcony of Tirana for the panoramic views you get there; and the nearby Albanian Riviera with its gorgeous beaches.

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Gdansk

🏛️ Not to be overlooked when planning a trip to Poland. While the tendency can be to gravitate towards Warsaw and Krakow, Gdansk should be on your list.

Among the oldest cities in the country, its skyline is dominated by St Mary's Church Tower which is the world's largest brick church. It's 405 steps to the top but it doesn't come without reward - the views are well worth it, plus you've had an excellent workout.

If you like kicking back in a bar or restaurant after a day's sightseeing - or cruising the city's river - you'll not be short on options.

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If you want sun, sea and sand

Paphos

🏖️ Pave the way to Paphos if it's warm weather and relaxation you want.

This city on the Cypriot coast once belonged to the ancient gods and goddesses of Greece, and Old Paphos is preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

When you're not exploring the history, or lounging on the beach sipping cocktails, take a trip to the Aphrodite's Rock or the Akamas Peninsula Archaelogical Park which has lagoons, natural spring pools and walking trails.

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Santorini 

🌅 The place that's likely dominating your Insta feed.

Santorini's sunsets, clifftop villages and iconic landscapes make this one of the most beautiful places you'll see, and often referred to among the planet's best islands to visit.

Among the things to do on this Greek island (in addition to admiring the scenery) are visiting some of it's ancient vineyards, taking a boat trip to the Nea Kameni volcano which has been around for 2.5 million years, and of course tucking into a delicious Souvlaki.

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If you're all about adventure

Orlando

🎢 It's not all about the mouse. You've got rollercoasters, waterparks, studios and exhibitions, beaches, parks, shopping, watersports, nightlife and golf.

For many people this is the dream family destination, particularly if it's fun and adventure you want - good luck squeezing it all into your summer break!

With direct flights right to the heart of the Sunshine State you can experience all the fun and adventure of Orlando - or even venture onwards to Miami and Tampa.

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Marrakesh

🌄 An adventure holiday in Marrakesh? Yes, you Moroc-can!

Think markets bursting with life, beautiful buildings, and natural beauty.

On one hand you've got the high-energy of Jemaa el-Fnaa (the main square and marketplace) and Medina, a UNESCO recognised site comprising twisting streets and lively souks, and on the other you've got the 2,500km long Atlas Mountain Range, the famous Ouzoud Falls, and serene Majorelle Garden.

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If you want to try some of the best food around

Naples

🍕 Where it all started for the humble pizza. Home to some of the finest pizzerias on the planet. You're probably sold already, right?

Well if you need extra inspiration this city also serves up street food delights like Pizza a portafoglio (a wood-fired pizza folded on itself and wrapped in foil) and traditional deserts such as sfogliatella - a crisp and sweet pastry filled with ricotta.

That should give you the energy to explore the sights of Naples, whether visiting Pompeii or climbing to the top of Mount Vesuvius. You'll want to grab a pizza the action.

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Santiago de Compostela 

🦐 The capital of Galacia, a region renowned for its food. If you like your seafood, cheeses, and of course empanadas you're in luck. We're hungry just thinking about it.

You won't need to spend too long searching before you find the wine bars and tapas spots it's is so famous for.

A mix of the traditional and modern, the city is the final destination on Saint James' Way where thousands of Camino pilgrims make the journey each year, finishing at the Cathedral in Santiago's Old Town - an area which has UNESCO World Heritage status.

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Check-in desk opening times

Different airlines open their check-in desks at different times, so it's always best to check this before the day of your flight.

While some open their desks up to four hours before flight times, others do so two hours ahead of departure.

Desks and times can vary, and are subject to change by the airline.

Check-in desk times

Browse the shops

If you're looking to pick up a pre-flight bargain or a holiday essential once you arrive at the airport then you're in luck.

We have an extensive selection of retail options on offer to passengers, selling everything from designer clothes and electronics to sunglasses and suitcases.

Airport shops

Find out what we've got on offer before and after security here.

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