France, Spain, Greece – these are often the big European countries Brits have in mind when planning a summer holiday.
But as many popular destinations become overrun with tourists, plenty of Brits are keen to try out alternative spots. Enter the gems of eastern Europe.
Wizz Air has revealed new data showing that Poland is the most popular for city breaks amongst its UK passengers for the fifth consecutive year, representing more than a fifth of all city break bookings made with the airline in 2025.
Overall, Eastern European destinations dominate the top three most popular city breaks, as Brits increasingly seek out cheaper, lesser-known destinations – showing the rise in popualrity of the region.
Wizz Air’s flight booking data shows Poland was followed by Romania and Hungary.
Albania climbed the rankings in 2025 to fourth position, as British holidaymakers flocked to the new budget-friendly favourite.
Here’s a rundown of the budget-friendly Eastern European destinations on the rise you should add to your bucket list…
Poland
Warsaw’s old city centre makes for a unique city break full of history
Polish cities such as Gdansk, Warsaw and Krakow not only provide historic architecture, vibrant nightlight and rich culture – they are also some of the most affordable destinations on the continent, with the average cost of a pint in Krakow just £3.73.
And with a short flight time of around two hours, Poland is ideal not just for couples, friends and solo-travellers but families too – whether it be for a quick city break, or a longer week filled with culture.
Kraków and Warsaw are well-known, but Gdansk is rapidly increasing in popularity, drawing 4.5 million visitors in 2024.
There are other alternative destinations to visit in Poland too.
The little-known ‘Alps of Poland’, a snowy mountain destination perfect for a summer break, offers £2.50 pints and flights from £18.
Zakopane boasts emerald lakes, wooden chalets, purple wildflower meadows, bustling markets, cosy beer halls and thermal baths.
Travellers can discover this unspoiled, little‑known corner of Poland from May to September, flying from airports across the UK with easyJet and Ryanair.
Romania
Bran Castle near Brasov is known as Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania, Romania
In second place is Romania, where cities such as Bucharest and Sibiu feature stunning, walkable old towns, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, all at affordable prices.
Visitors to Brasov can even visit the legendary Dracula’s Castle while taking in the surrounding Transylvanian countryside.
On the rise among history fans, literary nerds and travellers seeking something out of the ordinary, Bran Castle (its official name) is a great unique sight to see.
It might be slightly creepy, with one reviewer writing: ‘Very interesting, beautiful and scary castle. Tour is really well done… Because of that ‘scary’ vibe the castle looks even better at night.’
But it’s certainly popular, with one visitor describing: ‘Very picturesque! Absolutely beautiful and well maintained castle.’
Elsewhere, nicknamed ‘Little Paris’, Bucharest is a popular European destination known for its mixture of communist-era architecture, medieval charm and vibrant nightlife.
With cheap flights from £40 with Ryanair, the city has seen a significant tourism boom this year.
In the first half of 2025, Bucharest recorded nearly 954,000 arrivals and 1.93 million overnight stays.
Hungary
The famous Szechenyi Chain Bridge is a recognisable symbol of Budapest, Hungary
Hungary, ranked third, offers city breakers a diverse range of experiences.
In popular Budapest, for example, travellers can enjoy everything from thermal spa culture and atmospheric ruin bars to the fairy-tale architecture of Buda Castle and scenic cruises along the Danube.
Visitors rave about the castle, with many sharing their thoughts on Tripadvisor.
One wrote: ‘Beautiful structure that tells the story of the city. It also houses the National Gallery. Breathtaking views from its balconies, as it overlooks the whole city and the Danube! To visit!’
There’s clearly much to do if you visit.
Another added: ‘A home of Hungarian National Gallery, National Library and Budapest Museum. Spectacular building – one of the city’s landmarks, almost completely destroyed during WWII. Renovation looks good, even done within socialist realism style. The reopened St Stephen’s Hall is spectacular.’
The Hungarian capital is known for its magnificent River Danube, as well as architecture that rivals some of the best in the world.
Elsewhere in the country, you could explore Lake Balaton, described by tourists as ‘a must to visit’ and ‘a hidden gem’.
One visitor explained: ‘Lake Balaton is a hidden gem if you know where to go. We had the pleasure of swimming in a non-touristy spot, far from the usual crowds. The lake is incredibly vast, with the southern part being less crowded – most Hungarians prefer the northern side.
‘The water was perfect for a swim, and we felt completely safe and relaxed. The surrounding villages offer numerous restaurants with a great vibe. This experience was truly unforgettable, and I highly recommend visiting the quieter spots for a more authentic experience.’
Historic cities such as Pécs and Esztergom are also on the rise.
Albania
The Albanian coast and Ionian Sea, featuring the picture-perfect Livadi beach
Albania moved up to fourth place in Wizz Air’s rankings in 2025 (from fifth in 2024).
With cities such as Tirana offering a blend of history, impressive architecture, café-lined streets and high-quality dining – all at great value – it is fast becoming a budget-friendly favourite.
And for those looking to extend their trip and spend some time on the beach, the Albanian Riviera has been dubbed ‘the Maldives of Europe’ due to its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and small, accessible islands.
It’s a fantastic alternative for Brits seeking luxury, without the price tag to match.
Last year, budget airline operator Wizz Air announced a new route would be commencing from London Gatwick to Tirana in Albania – making it even easier to reach, and with flights from just £30.
Popular Livadi beach is one standout destination to visit – with calm shores, free from the mass tourist crowds of popular spots in Spain.
One reviewer on Tripadvisor wrote: ‘Very quiet beach and sheltered from the winds. Nice view on hora and transparent sea. Many small taverns around, all serve excellent food (adonis, our favorite).’
Yvonne Moynihan, managing director at Wizz Air UK, said: ‘City breaks have become an essential part of the British travel calendar, and we’re seeing a clear trend in where travellers are choosing to go.
‘Poland’s continued popularity shows that UK holidaymakers are prioritising destinations that offer culture, character and excellent value for money.
‘Eastern Europe continues to outperform traditional city break favourites, with customers seeking vibrant, lesser-known destinations that deliver incredible experiences at an affordable price.’
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