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Top short breaks from London Stansted

 

Ready to jet off from London Stansted, but not completely sure where to go? Read all about our favourite spots for a short break...

When we’ve got such a dreamy selection of holidays and city breaks on offer, why wouldn’t want you to take off and experience as many as you can? Especially when so many of them are ultra-accessible from London Stansted, thanks to the short flight times! Whether it’s a getaway to the coast or a trip to explore a historic city, trust us, we’ve got it all. So, where will you go next?

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Rome

Rome is a place that really has it all. When you weave your way through the city you’re met with beauty at every turn. Some of the city’s oldest structures such as the Pantheon, the Colosseum and the Roman Forum are located on the east side of the river. Be transported back in time to the days of the gladiators or walk in the footsteps of Emperors when you visit these breathtaking, architectural feats.

At Vatican City, you can experience the magical St Peter’s Basilica and the stunning Castel Sant’Angelo. Venture to the Castel’s highest point and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views down the river. Make sure to swing by the Trevi Fountain and make a wish before dining in an exquisite restaurant within Piazza Navona. After some retail therapy? The designer shops down Via del Corso will provide you with everything you could need! And the shops lead you right to the famous Spanish Steps. We told you... Rome has it all. And to top it all off? It’s just over a two-hour flight from London, so you’ll be saying Buongiorno in no time!

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Palma

This coastal city combines history and culture with the shimmering Balearic waters. So, if you’re after a short break from London Stansted that intertwines time lounging on glistening grains with exploring a picture-perfect city, then Palma is your answer. If a jam-packed itinerary is what you’re after from a short break, Palma can provide just that. From the skyline-dominating cathedral sitting just off the sun-speckled beach to the elegant Santa Eulalia Church and the gothic Basilica De Sant Francesc, there are endless must-see structures here.

While Palma boasts magnificent architecture at every turn, it’s the gastronomic scene that’s the real showstopper. The city boasts an array of dining experiences to indulge in during your stay. Choose from Michelin-starred restaurants, tempting food markets and stylish bakeries to tantalise your tastebuds at every mealtime. And when sweet-treat time comes calling, there’s nothing better to indulge in than the local spiral pastry, ensaïmada, often filled with crème pâtissière. But don’t forget to try the array of other delicacies like arroz brut (rice stew) or empanadas (stuffed pies).

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Ibiza

How does a holiday with powdery white beaches, sleepy, whitewashed villages, enchanting old-town streets and world-class party spots sound? Well, you’ll find all this and so much more in Ibiza. And what makes this picture-perfect paradise even more appealing? It’s only two and a half hours from London Stansted! When you touchdown in this Balearic beauty, you’ll want to put a trip to Ibiza Town at the top of your to-do list. This UNESCO-stamped capital boasts fortified walls and a maze of cobbled streets that lead to vibrant markets, handmade jewellery shops and a stunning harbourfront.

If you’re wanting to experience Ibiza in all its after-dark glory, the resort of San Antonio is one of the hottest party spots in Europe. Spend your days next to the turquoise Mediterranean, then get to know the vibrant nightlife. If something a little slower paced is more your style, San Antonio Bay’s the resort’s tranquil neighbour. The horseshoe-shaped bay of Sa Caleta is the perfect spot for a picturesque escape, as the turquoise sea reflects the burnt-orange cliffs. Sleepy Santa Eulalia offers a snapshot to the quieter side of Ibiza too.

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Montenegro

This Balkan beauty may be a quaint country, but it’s action-packed! In just under three hours from London you could be wandering the Budva Riviera, exploring Biogradska Gora, lounging on Mogren Beach or treating yourself in Tivat. Montenegro has something to suit everyone! Sitting on the west coast of the Balkan Peninsula, it’s silky sands, shimmering Adriatic waters and lush, greenery galore here. Whether you stay in Kotor Bay, on the blissful coast of Budva or in the little town of Tivat, every area of Montenegro comes with a guaranteed beauty stamp.

For those wanting a dose of exploration in their short break, Montenegro provides an array of nature reserves, architectural gems and historic landmarks to visit. Head to the fortified town of Herceg Novi and wander the ancient streets to learn more about Montenegro’s history. Or why not pay a visit to the much-loved Ostrog Monastery? This structure sits some 900m above the ground and glistens bright white as it breaks though the rocky façade. Add a day trip here to the must-do pile!

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Skiathos

Greece is the word, right? Well, this Greek island and member of the Sporades archipelago is a true beauty just waiting to welcome visitors. Holding onto its authentic roots, you can expect rippling blue waters, golden sands, whitewashed towns and of course, mouthwatering cuisine! And, in just a four-hour flight from London, you can unlock it all.

Fans of Mamma Mia! will want to make a beeline straight to Agios Nikolaos Church and clock tower. This iconic structure features in the movie and once you’ve climbed your way to the top, the views are spectacular! You’ll also want to add a visit to the Evangelistria Monastery to your to-do list. Nestled away from the town, this peaceful monastery is built into the mountainside. From its vantage point, you can admire the sensational sea views. Speaking of sea views... You’ll want to make sure you’ve got time to enjoy the shorelines here! Head to the go-slow coast at Agia Paraskevi and relish lazy days next to the teal-tinted ocean. Or how about visiting the golden grains of Koukounaries, a small stretch of calming coastline?

Posted: 2nd Sept 2024.

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