Taking a break from the everyday ups and downs of life is necessary to unwind and refresh. For some, that could mean a few days off and a staycation to just relax and explore the city they’re already in. For others, that could mean taking a week or two off and jetting out somewhere extravagant to really destress and remove themselves from any aspect of their regular lives.
If the second option sounds like you, choosing where to go is half the fun. You don’t even need to go that far away to have a truly spectacular trip, so forget about spending an entire day in airports and on planes, and instead find somewhere close by that still checks off all the boxes for your dream trip.
Here are the best holiday destinations that you can go to without going too far.
Ireland
Just a hop, skip and a jump away from the United Kingdom, Ireland is an often-overlooked trip destination for Brits because of how close it is. There is so much to see and do, though, that once you’ve gone, you’ll wonder why you didn’t go sooner.
Of course, there are the super touristy spots, like the Guinness Storehouse, the Temple Bar in Dublin, the Ring of Kerry and Blarney Castle, but if you head out to the coastal cities or countryside, you can find lush rolling hills with castles dotting the horizon, huge oceanside cliffs, and stunning views you won’t soon forget.
Plus, Northern Ireland is a great place to visit as well and you won’t even have to leave the UK. See the Giant’s Causeway and explore Belfast, or see the glacial valleys and mountains, or explore castle ruins and Celtic monuments. There’s definitely no shortage of what to explore in Ireland or Northern Ireland no matter what time of year you go.
Greece
Greece holidays may seem a bit cliché, but they’re popular for a reason. With so many different islands to choose from, and each with their own brand of travel and excitement, there’s a Greek destination for any kind of trip, whether you’re looking for something more budget-friendly or luxurious and extravagant.
Visit popular islands like Santorini, Athens, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Corfu, Crete, or Ithaca to experience breath-taking sunsets, beaches, waters, landscapes, and ruins, or explore lesser-travelled islands like Kythira, Karpathos, Ikaria, and Anafi for a serene getaway, mostly untouched by tourists.
Iceland
Not thought of by many as a hot travel destination, probably because literally not a hot country, Iceland is full of dramatic landscapes comprised of volcanoes, geysers, national parks, and hot springs. Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa and outdoor hot spring, is a popular spot for tourists and so gorgeous you won’t believe it until you see it.
Rent a car and trek out to see more waterfalls than you can count amongst the rocky mountainous terrain, or stay in the capital city of Reykjavik for an eclectic nightlife and late-night bars.
Portugal
The coast of the Algarve in southern Portugal are some of Europe’s best beaches, so if you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, don’t overlook these spectacular spots. That’s not all Portugal has to offer, of course.
There are plenty of villas, bars, restaurants, and castles, as well as vineyards, hiking, and whale-watching, so you can come for the beaches, but stay for the culture.