The Chicest & Savviest Bank Holiday Escapes To Book Now

There’s something about the May bank holidays that makes everyone suddenly desperate to get away. Whether it’s a spontaneous European city break, a country reset with friends or a British coastal escape, this is the weekend that signals the start of summer. The challenge, of course, is that everyone else has the same idea. Flights climb, hotel prices surge and the best rental accommodations disappear quickly. But according to savvy travellers, booking smarter matters just as much as booking early – and that’s where  Skyscanner comes in.

More than just a flights platform, Skyscanner helps travellers compare flights, hotels and car hire all in one place, making it easier to build a stylish getaway that feels seamless from start to finish. From chic boutique hotels to country cabins and design-led apartments, it’s become the go-to for travellers looking to maximise both budget and experience.

Here’s how to plan a bank holiday escape  – without overspending…

Book The Stay First

For many travellers, accommodation is now the main event. A beautifully designed hotel, a wellness retreat with a spa or a stylish cottage can completely shape the feel of a long weekend – especially when you only have a few days away.

One of the smartest features on Skyscanner is its Unique Stays filter, which helps uncover more characterful accommodation options beyond the standard hotel chains. Think converted farmhouses in the Cotswolds, coastal hideaways in Cornwall, boutique riads in Marrakech or chic Scandinavian apartments in Copenhagen. It’s an easy way to discover hotels and rental accommodations that feel more curated and design-led, while still comparing prices and availability in one place. For style-conscious travellers planning a group trip or romantic weekend away, it takes much of the stress out of finding somewhere that feels genuinely special.

Swap The Obvious Destinations For Smarter Alternatives

Peak-season travel doesn’t necessarily mean spending more – it just means travelling more strategically. Instead of booking the busiest destinations, many travellers are choosing slightly more under-the-radar alternatives that offer the same atmosphere with fewer crowds and better value.

Opt for Porto instead of Lisbon, Seville over Barcelona or Palma for a long weekend that combines beach clubs, boutique hotels and incredible food. Closer to home, Margate, Whitstable and the Norfolk coast continue to appeal for stylish UK staycations with excellent restaurants, sea views and a slower pace.

Using flexible search tools on Skyscanner also makes it easier to compare destinations if you’re open-minded about where to go. Rather than locking yourself into one expensive route, you can discover destinations that fit your budget, dates and travel style more naturally.