6 July, 2026, SYDNEY – New Expedia data reveals Australians are making a late dash to Europe for the northern hemisphere summer, with accommodation searches jumping in the last two weeks, as confidence returns and air capacity increases. 

Aussies booking last-minute Europe trips are chasing culture, accessibility and value 

Australians are prioritising destinations that offer a mix of culture, accessibility and value, with Expedia data showing, Budapest (+135%) is the top trending destination, followed by Prague (+105%), Vienna (+80%) and Lisbon (+60%). These popular destinations offer the culture, food and history of a classic European escape, while often delivering better value than traditional favourites such as Paris and London. 

Expedia’s Top trending last-minute Europe destinations for Aussie travellers: 

² Based on Australian searches from mid-June 2026 

1. Budapest, Hungary (+135%) 

2. Prague, Czech Republic (+105%) 

3. Vienna, Austria (+80%) 

4. Lisbon, Portugal (+60%) 

5. Amsterdam, Netherlands (+50%) 

6. Milan, Italy (+50%) 

7. Dublin, Ireland (+25%) 

8. Mallorca, Spain (+25%) 

9. London, United Kingdom (+15%) 

10. Rome, Italy (+15%) 

While enthusiasm for long-haul travel is increasing, cost of travel remains top of mind. Expedia data shows use of the Budget accommodation filter has increased 61% year-on-year this winter¹, highlighting that travellers are actively seeking ways to make a holiday happen, even if it means downgrading accommodation style. 

“Australians are proving it’s not too late to book a European summer holiday, but value is key” said Sarah King, Expedia Travel Expert. “For travellers booking at the last minute, being smart about destination choice is one of the best ways to unlocking savings, with Eastern Europe in particular offering great value. For example, Budapest, often referred to as the ‘Paris of Eastern Europe’, is on average 45% cheaper for accommodation than the actual City of Lights, Paris.” 

Expedia Tips for a Last-Minute Euro Summer for Aussies: 

• Use Expedia’s filters: Quickly identify accommodation options that align with your travel needs. For example, use the ‘budget’ or ‘kitchen’ filter to keep costs down or ‘air-conditioning’ if visiting a warmer European destination. 

• Consider late summer for better value: Late September and October, when school is back will generally see better airfares, less crowds and cooler weather.  

• Bundle and save on Expedia: Combining flights and accommodation can help knock off hundreds of dollars during peak European summer travel periods.  

• Jump on deals: Take advantage of Expedia’s Big Winter Sale until 13 July to get up to 35% off select hotels and holiday homes⁴. 

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FAQ 

1. When is the best time for Aussies to book a better-value Euro summer trip? 

According to Expedia, travelling in late September and October can generally offer better-value airfares, fewer crowds and more comfortable weather than the peak European summer holiday period. 

2. Which European destinations can offer the best value? 

Expedia data shows Eastern and Southern European cities such as Budapest, Prague, Vienna and Lisbon often deliver better value than traditional favourites like Paris and London  

3. How can Australians save on last-minute Europe accommodation? 

Travellers can use filters such as ‘budget’ or ‘kitchen’ on Expedia to quickly find more affordable or self‑catering options, consider travelling slightly later in the season, and look for member deals or seasonal promotions on Expedia 

¹ Based on ‘Budget’ filter demand made on Expedia.com.au from 1 December 2025 – 31 May 2026 for stays between 1 June 2026 – 31 August 2026, compared to the previous year. 

² Based on accommodation searches made on Expedia.com.au from 15 June 2026 – 28 June 2026 for stays between 15 June 2026 – 31 August 2026, compared to the previous year. 

³ Based on average accommodation prices on Expedia.com.au for stays between 2 July 2025 – 3 May 2026, compared to the previous year 

⁴ Deals on participating properties only. Subject to availability. Please click through to individual deals to confirm prices, availability and applicable terms and conditions for these deals. Visit  https://www.expedia.com.au/Travel-Deals