The most affordable short-haul flights for a fun Galentine's weekend getaway abroad

What started as an online trend has evolved into a genuine shift in travel habits, with female friend groups increasingly ditching romantic breaks in favour of short, flexible getaways that don’t come with a couples’ price tag. Travel experts at Transfer Travel are seeing February trips shaped less by the classic romantic destinations, and more by easy, low-pressure escapes with friends – from quick European weekends to same-day “extreme day trips” that skip accommodation altogether.

Laura Carden-Lovell, travel expert at Transfer Travel, says:“Galentine’s Day reflects how travel habits are changing. We’re seeing February trips shaped less by traditional couples’ escapes, with more travellers choosing flexible, social trips with friends that don’t require months of planning or big holidays.

“One trend gaining particular momentum is the rise of the ‘extreme’ day trip, where travellers fly out and back on the same day to make the most of cheap short-haul flights and skipping accommodation altogether.” To help travellers make the most of this trend, Transfer Travel has rounded up some of the most affordable, short-haul flights delivering standout value – whether you’re travelling for a weekend getaway or a same-day Galentine’s trip.

Bordeaux

Paris may be the classic Valentine’s destination, but for Galentine’s Day, we recommend exploring one of France’s other offerings – Bordeaux. With flights costing £50 from Manchester, Bordeaux offers a more relaxed city break, without compromising on culture and charm. Flight times are just under two hours, making it ideal for a long weekend of wine tasting, local cuisine, and sampling chic cafés with friends.

Budapest

With flights from the UK available for as little as £77, Budapest is shaping up to be a top Galentine’s getaway. At around 2 hours and 45 minutes in the air, it’s a quick hop to the Hungarian capital, where you can explore iconic thermal baths, local history, and vibrant nightlife. Plus, with beers averaging £2.27 and meals around £9, Budapest ranks highly on affordability.

Cork

At just an hour’s flight time from several UK airports and fares from £13, Cork is perfect for a same-day adventure or a weekend girly city break. Quieter and more budget-friendly than Dublin, the city offers charming streets and cosy cafés.

Edinburgh

Flights from London to Edinburgh can be snapped up for as little as £48, making the Scottish capital a top pick for short-haul Galentine’s getaways. Cheaper and faster than the train, a one-hour flight gives friends the chance to explore historic streets and an abundance of bars - all without breaking the bank.

Brussels

The Belgian capital is emerging as a favourite for European Galentine’s adventures, with flights from the UK starting at £22 and taking just over an hour. From the history of The Grand Palace to the lively streets, Brussels works just as well for a day trip as it does for a weekend away with the girls.

Amsterdam

It may be a typical Valentine’s Day destination, but Amsterdam still has plenty on offer for a group weekend break. Flights from London are just over an hour and are currently priced at £74 - making the Dutch capital an affordable and easy European escape for Galentine’s Day.

Frankfurt

With Galentine’s Day flights from London starting at just £87 you can be in Frankfurt in under 1 hour and 45 minutes. Offering a more cultured weekend escape, Frankfurt boasts a wide offering of museums, a vibrant bar scene and traditional apple wine taverns, making it easy to enjoy a fun-filled girls’ getaway without stretching the budget.