Best places for shoulder-season trips

Holiday hack #1: Start your summer when schools go back for cheaper prices, fewer crowds and temperatures that won’t make you melt. Shoulder-season trips are basically the same as travelling in August, anyway – the sun is still very much out in September and October, but things have cooled down enough to do things that don’t just involve lying horizontal poolside. Plus, there are no kids about. So, actually, it’s nothing like peak season – it’s better…

The other big difference is it’s up to £300 cheaper per booking compared to August…* You’re welcome.

Wondering where to pick? We’ve pulled together the best places to go on a shoulder-season trip, and the best deals. Spoiler alert – they’re all under five hours away.

Already sold? Head straight to our deals to start your summer in the shoulder seasons.

Turkey

If you’re a sun lover but you’re not a fan of crowds, Turkey in September is all yours. It’s still a very toasty 31°C, so it’s a great time to enjoy the off-peak perks – fewer people, cheaper prices, and a whole lot of space on the sand. The Antalya and Dalaman areas are firm faves for their dreamy beaches and buzzy vibes. And if you’re around in October, the Antalya International Film Festival brings Hollywood glam to the Turkish Riviera.

Off-peak pick

Tenerife, the Canary Islands

This pick’s a classic all year round. Tenerife cools down to the mid-20s in September, which is the prime temp for mixing beach days with hikes, trips to Mount Teide and hitting the slides at Siam Park. It will feel a lot quieter compared to the peak months, too, especially in popular tourist hubs like Playa de las Americas and Costa Adeje. The island doesn’t slow down completely, though, with events like the Chase & Status Weekender keeping things lively in October.

Off-peak pick

Cyprus

At a steamy 27°C, Cyprus’ summer is still very much on in September. You’ll have your pick of the 64 Blue Flag beaches, from Nissi Beach’s white sweep to the golden sand in Coral Bay. Away from the coast, it’s now comfortable enough to soak up the island’s historic side – tick off the Tomb of the Kings in Paphos or the crumbling Kourion in Limassol. And if you’re a vino lover, don’t miss the Limassol Wine Festival in September.

Off-peak pick

Crete, Greece

The shoulder seasons are the perfect time to see Crete in all its glory. The weather’s warm enough for a beachy break, but no longer too hot to explore beyond the sand. Set off on a walking trail through the Samaria Gorge, embrace your inner Indiana Jones at ancient Greek sites and stroll along harbours in cute fishing villages. Fancy yourself a foodie? The Full Moon Olive Harvest in September Cretan cultural highlight, or if you’re more of a Sporty Spice, sign yourself up to the Crete Half Marathon in October.

Off-peak pick

Majorca, the Balearic Islands

This Balearic babe cools down to a lovely 20°C in September, so you can pack in the island’s best bits without breaking a sweat. Palma, Majorca’s capital, is home to most of the age-old sites, like the Gothic cathedral, Moorish Palace and Arab baths – you could even pack it all into one sightseeing sesh if you run the Palma Marathon in October. If you prefer things a little more laidback, Alcudia in the north has been blessed with beautiful beaches – and the only exercise you’ll be doing here is a drinks run to the bar.