Anna Polyviou
If you’re the type to leave planning your Christmas getaway to the last minute, don’t worry. There are plenty of options that won’t break the bank.
Even on short notice, travelers from Cyprus can find affordable escapes to nearby destinations, with low-cost flights and budget-friendly accommodations offering memorable holiday experiences. Flights from Larnaca and Paphos connect to many popular European cities, and with travel dates available between December 20 and January 6, a festive trip is possible without exceeding your budget.
Here are five destinations ideal for a last-minute, low-budget three-day getaway, along with indicative costs for flights and accommodations based on searches conducted in early December.
Athens
It’s hard to think of a last-minute, budget-friendly trip from Cyprus without Athens.
The city is one of the easiest and most economical destinations to reach, with frequent flights from both Larnaca and Paphos. Round-trip fares for a three-day stay between December 20 and January 6 range from approximately €100 to €140 per person. Budget accommodations in central neighborhoods like Koukaki, Pangrati, and Omonia start at €50 to €70 per night for a double room, with boutique hostels and small hotels widely available.
During the holiday season, Athens is particularly charming. The city sparkles with festive decorations and lively Christmas markets. Syntagma Square and Ermou Street host the main Christmas market, while the Christmas Factory at Technopolis is a popular family destination. Iconic sites such as Monastiraki, the Acropolis, and the Acropolis Museum remain must-sees.
Source: athensguide.org
Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is another nearby and affordable option for a festive escape.
Round-trip flights from Cyprus range from roughly €90 to €130 for a three-day visit during the holidays. Budget hotels in central areas, near Kamara, Ladadika, or the waterfront, cost between €40 and €70 per night.
The city is lively during December, with its decorated seafront, bright Aristotelous Square, and bustling main streets. Christmas markets appear along the waterfront and in the center, and Ladadika offers a warm evening scene. Top attractions include the White Tower, the Rotunda, and the city’s museums.
Source: athenstourgreece.com
Budapest
Budapest has become a favorite winter destination, known for its festive markets, striking architecture, and reasonable prices. Frequent flights from both Cypriot airports make the city easily accessible. Budget round-trip fares for three days range from €120 to €170.
Central accommodations are affordable, with hotels and hostels starting around €35 to €60 per night. Holiday activities include the markets at Vörösmarty Square and in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica, considered among Europe’s most beautiful. Budapest’s thermal baths, such as Széchenyi, offer a unique winter experience, while a stroll along the Danube provides panoramic views of the city’s illuminated landmarks.
Source: budapestchristmas.com
Sofia
Sofia stands out as one of Europe’s most affordable destinations, ideal for a short, low-budget getaway. Flights from Larnaca or Paphos typically cost between €60 and €100 for a three-day trip.
Hotel prices in the city center are also economical, with 3-star options starting at €30 to €55 per night. During the holidays, the city center hosts festive Christmas markets, and Vitosha Boulevard is popular for walking, shopping, and coffee. Notable attractions include Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Sofia History Museum, and the National Palace of Culture. A short trip to Mount Vitosha offers scenic winter landscapes close to the city.
Source: europeinwinter.com
Krakow
Krakow is one of Europe’s most enchanting cities during Christmas. Round-trip flights for a three-day stay generally cost between €130 and €180, mainly departing from Larnaca.
The city offers budget-friendly accommodations, with hotels and guesthouses near the center priced between €35 and €65 per night. The Main Square (Rynek Główny) hosts one of Poland’s most famous Christmas markets. Krakow’s historic center, Wawel Castle, and the city’s museums provide a rich cultural experience. The city is also known for its cozy pubs and affordable dining.
Source: krakowdirect.com
