Written by Nancy Lova
Image by @dabratpins
Let’s face it, the price of everything has gone through the roof and with bills and other costly responsibilities, pleasures such as vacations have fallen off the list of priorities for many. Whilst some advise to save money by avoiding luxuries like travel, I believe a getaway from time to time is a necessity. It’s often vital for our mental health and just the thing we need to spend quality time with our loved ones.
So on that note, I will suggest a number trips for you and the girls that won’t break the bank and are under £500 for the entire group!
Seville, Spain
3 adults, 4 night stay, 3rd – 7th July
Flights from London Stansted via Ryanair: £64.15pp
Hotel via booking.com: £281 at 4* Hotel Virgen de los Reyes
Total: £473.45
I spent a whole month in Seville last July and it was incredible! First of all, with the average annual temperature of 19C and multiple days reaching above 40C in summer months, Seville is officially the hottest city in Spain and perfect for that sizzling-sun getaway.
The birthplace of Flamenco and renowned for architectural marvels such as Seville Cathedral, Plaza de España and Setas de Sevilla, the city makes a great destination for lovers of history and culture.
Let’s not forget the beach babes though. The neighbouring city, Cádiz is a magnet for those wanting to spend a day swimming in the sea and lazing about in the sun and in about 1h40m on the train, you and the girls can be exploring hidden coves and bar-lined beaches.
Hotel Virgen de los Reyes offers a relaxing atmosphere for their guests and due to its central location, major sites, landmarks and fabulous restaurants are all within walking distance.
Zadar, Croatia
3 adults, 3 night stay, 9th – 12th June
Flights from London Stansted via Ryanair: £52.64pp
Hotel via booking.com: €382 *mobile price only through app (£337.37) at 4* Central Apartments Integrated Hotel
Total: £495.29
Sun-seekers looking to spend a long weekend with charming coastlines and crystal-clear waters should consider this next trip. Whilst Zadar is a lesser known destination compared to its neighbours, Dubrovnik and Split, the city is in fact popular for its white sands, roman ruins and attractive restaurant scene.
Enjoy fine dining by the sea at Harbor CookHouse & Club or Butler Gourmet & Cocktails Garden then see the night through with good music and drinks at Teatro Bar or Yachting Bar, two of Zadar’s most popular bars.
Something that is a must to do here is to book a boat trip for the day to Plitviče Lakes National Park, an incredible forest reserve with breathtaking lakes and waterfalls. In the heart of the city is Central Apartments Integrated Hotel offering a modern stay a stone’s throw away from historical locations and just 100 yards from the sea!
Carvoeiro, Portugal
2 adults, 4night stay, 19th Sep 2023 – 23rd Sep
Flights from London Stansted and hotel, 4*Rocha Brava all via onthebeach.com
£219pp total: £438
Fancy golden beaches, unspoilt natural scenery and picturesque towns of gleaming white Mediterranean houses sat atop cliffs? Then book a getaway for you and your bestie to Carvoeiro! This beautiful resort town is the ideal destination for those craving nothing but chilled vibes in the sun. The iconic Praia da Marinha is one of the most stunning beaches in Portugal surrounded by picture-perfect views and enchanting coves making it THE place to visit when staying in Carvoeiro.
If you’re quite the mermaid and can’t get enough of being in the water then Carvoeiro provides a range of watersports and activities to choose from such as sailing, paddle boarding and cave kayaking. Situated amongst luscious green gardens, 3 swimming pools and 4 tennis courts, Rocha Brava is a clifftop resort which presents a magical holiday and a chance for guests to truly unwind.
Prague, Czech Republic
2 adults, 3nights 21st – 24th June
Flights from London Luton and 5* hotel Mamaison Riverside Hotel Prague via booking.com
£230pp, total:£460
Think luxury, think lavish interiors, think elegance and then think of Mamaison Riverside Hotel in Prague. This 5* hotel isn’t shy when it comes to showing off its Art Nouveau-style and unique location by Vltava River. It’s the dream hotel to stay in for those looking for a extravagant city break and for £230 per person WITH flights included for a 3 night stay in one of Europe’s most popular destinations, I mean it’s a no brainer!
Something about Prague that successfully attracts visitors is the nightlife and bar scene. The city is bursting with incredible rooftop bars such as CODA Restaurant for 360° enchanting views of historical sites, Marina Ristorante set within a converted riverboat on the Vltava embankment and Duplex, a stylish nightclub with a rooftop lounge and terrace in the centre of Prague. All great for your girly getaway!
Please note prices may change depending on time of booking and dates of travelling.