We Did the Research: These are the 5 Cheapest Flights from London in 2024

When the world began to reopen after those dark years of Covid lockdowns, many of us rushed to the airport as soon as we could. We were desperate to get out and see the places we were imagining for so long. But when we did, we all noticed one thing: finding those bargain basement fares from low-cost airlines became trickier.

But there is good news on the horizon. Whilst a return of those £1 Ryanair fares of yesteryear that we’re craving may not be on the cards, airfares are coming down. Dublin-based Ryanair, Europe’s largest low-cost airline, recently reported its average fares in Spring 2024 dropped by 15% compared to the same period in 2023.

This is great news for British travelers as Ryanair offers some of the cheapest flights from London. With their largest base at London Stansted Airport serving over 150 destinations across Europe, finding the cheapest flights from London has never been easier. And it’s not just Ryanair offering super-low fares this summer: their low-cost competitor Wizz Air is driving prices lower still.

How to get the Cheapest Flights from London?

For each of the below flight routes, we’ve included a link to the right airport for each of them blue. Just make sure to click on the text in bold for the cheapest flights when you go to book.

What are the 5 Cheapest Flights from London?

Tirana

With fares from just £25 roundtrip, the Albanian capital is a surprising contender for one of the cheapest flights from London. It’s just over 1,175 miles as the crow flies, translating to a flight time of three hours which means Tirana is the furthest destination on our list of the cheapest flights from London. The cheapest flights to Tirana depart from London Luton.

Tirana highlights include a trip on the Dajti Ekspres, a cable car which leads to the summit of Dajti Mountain. The views from the top are unbeatable. Back on terra firma, while away a few hours ambling around the city’s beautifully landscaped parks.

The city is also home to some of the region’s top museums: BUNK’ART is our number one recommendation, giving a glimpse into Albania’s communist-era history. Once you’re done exploring, enjoy some traditional Albanian cuisine. A blend of Ottoman and Mediterranean influences, their national dish, Tave Kosi (baked lamb with rice, yoghurt and eggs), is delicious.

Lyon

Roundtrip fares to Lyon start at £26, with the cheapest flights from London Gatwick. At just over an hour-and-a-half, Lyon is ideal for a weekend break.

Standing at the confluence of two of Europe’s most important rivers, the Rhone and Saone, Lyon has a long and intriguing history. It was founded by the Romans in 43BC and grew to become France’s third city and a financial powerhouse.

Must-sees in Lyon include the imposing cathedral, Basilique Nortre Dame de Fourviere, built with public funds in the 18th century in dedication to the Virgin Mary. Learn about the role of waterways in the city’s history at Musee des Confluences and take a stroll around the gorgeous old town.

In the evening, aside from enjoying some of the finest French food around, head to neoclassical Opera de Lyon to catch a show, or simply relax with a bottle of wine and view.

Gdansk

With flights from London Luton starting at £28 return, the Hanseatic city of Gdansk is not only one of the cheapest flights from London, but also Poland’s answer to city break heaven.

On Poland’s Baltic coast, Gdansk has a fascinating history. It rose to prominence as a trading port during the Middle Ages but it was when Gdansk joined the Hanseatic League that the city’s fortunes were set. Since then, it’s had lives as a Polish city, German city, a “home rule” city (effectively self-governing) and finally a Polish city again in 1939.

With historic buildings aplenty, a bustling waterfront promenade lined with cafes and bars and serene parkland, you could never bore of Gdansk in a lifetime. Pay a visit to the World War II Museum, then take a trip along the river to Westerplatte, the site of a major battle at the start of the World War II.

Edinburgh

By far the shortest of our five cheapest flights from London, roundtrip fares to Edinburgh from London Stansted start from £29. Just an hour’s flight away, Edinburgh is perfect for a short break and even possible as a day trip if time is tight.

Scotland’s enchanting capital is one of our favorite cities in the UK. No matter when you visit, it always has so much to offer. From the world-famous Tattoo and Fringe Festival in the summer to the lively Christmas Markets in winter, Edinburgh is one of those places which can truly claim to have it all.

Explore the imposing 11th century castle, walk the Royal Mile to the Holyrood, home to both the seat of Scottish parliament and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Family’s official Scottish residence. If you’re feeling active, take a hike up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano, or head out to the beautiful Botanic Gardens.

And don’t miss the chance to sample some traditional Scottish foods whilst you’re there – they might just shock you.

If you’ve got a few extra days up your sleeve, consider a trip over to vibrant and gritty Glasgow. Better yet, take a road trip over to the Isle of Skye or Isle of Lewis.

Barcelona

Spain’s seaside cultural hub, Barcelona, is just a two-hour flight away. The cheapest flights from London can be taken from both Luton and Gatwick, with prices starting from as low as £33 roundtrip.

Admire Antoni Gaudi’s masterpieces from the bizarre Casa Batlló to La Sagrada Familia, the only UNESCO World Heritage Site listed before building was completed. After, head along to Park Güell to take in the Barcelona skyline.

Lose yourself in La Boqueira, Barcelona’s top food market in La Rambla. In this incredible urban market you’ll find everything from freshly caught seafood to pungent cheeses. When evening comes, wander through the Gothic Quarter to the Grand Marina and feast on tapas with a cooling Sangria.

---

Read more of our best insights from around the world

• 5 Traditional Desserts of Turkmenistan Cuisine And Where to Find Them
• The Ultimate Border Town Experience: Top 6 Things to Do in Tijuana, Mexico
• The Ultimate 10 Day Greek Island Hopping Itinerary
• These are the 5 Best Bars in Vilnius, According to Locals
• Why This Ancient Wonder in Türkiye is Easier to Reach Than You Think 
• 6 Best Things to Do in Kaunas, Lithuania: A Weekend Itinerary

The post We Did the Research: These are the 5 Cheapest Flights from London in 2024 appeared first on Travel Insighter.