Our Top Active Holiday Destinations and Ideas

Planning your next adventure? For single explorers, active couples, and groups of intrepid travellers, an active holiday is the perfect way to get your heart pumping and make unforgettable memories. Whether you're a seasoned adrenaline junkie or looking to add some movement to your vacation, these active destinations and sports holidays will inspire your next trip.

Trek through mountains in Geneva, dive in crystal-clear waters in Reykjavik, or learn to ski in Innsbruck; there are lots of opportunities for adventure holidays in Europe and beyond. Here's some of the best places to go for activities to do on holiday.

The Austrian Alps: Innsbruck and Salzburg

For those who love stunning mountain landscapes and year-round outdoor activities, Austria is a fantastic choice. Innsbruck and Salzburg, both served by London Luton Airport during the winter season (December to April), offer a perfect blend of city breaks and Alpine adventures.

Innsbruck is a great hub for exploring the Alps. In winter, it's a paradise for ski breaks, while warmer months are ideal for hiking and mountain biking on scenic trails. Explore a variety of paths that offer incredible views of the surrounding peaks.

Fly from LTN to INN in 2 hours.

Salzburg - the birthplace of Mozart - is more than just a musical city. Its location near the German border provides easy access to the majestic Berchtesgaden Alps. Here, you can spend your days hiking through valleys, tackling challenging peaks, or exploring the region's many lakes. Both cities serve as excellent bases for active holiday destinations.

Iceland: Reykjavik

Iceland is an adventure playground unlike any other, making it a prime spot for active holidays.

You can explore volcanic craters, witness powerful geysers erupting, and hike across vast lava fields. Got a week to spare? Drive the Ring Road, circling the country and stop at incredible natural wonders along the way. Need some more inspiration? Check out our guide to what to do in Reykjavik.  

For a truly unique experience, consider diving or snorkelling in the Silfra fissure, where you can swim between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in crystal-clear glacial water. In Reykjavik, you'll also find opportunities for ice climbing, glacier hiking, and even exploring ice caves. The city itself is a great starting point for day trips into the surrounding wilderness.

Montenegro: Tivat

Montenegro is an underrated jewel for active holidays, offering a stunning mix of mountains and coastline. Tivat, on the beautiful Bay of Kotor, is a fantastic destination accessible from London Luton Airport. The region is perfect for adventure seekers who want a mix of sea and land-based activities.

The Bay of Kotor is a haven for water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. You can explore the bay's hidden coves and ancient villages from the water. Just a short trip inland, the mountainous terrain provides excellent opportunities for hiking and rock climbing. The Lovćen National Park offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire bay. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced adventurer, Tivat has something to offer to make your trip an unforgettable adventure holiday.

Fly from LTN to TIV in 3 hours 5 minutes.

Switzerland: Geneva and Zurich

Switzerland is a must-visit destination for active holidays in Europe. Year-round trips to Geneva and Zurich offer a wide range of activities in every season.

Geneva is situated on the shores of the stunning Lake Geneva, where you can enjoy swimming, sailing, and windsurfing in the summer. The surrounding Jura Mountains are perfect for hiking and cycling, with numerous trails for all skill levels.

Fly from LTN to GVA in 1 hour 40 minutes.

Zurich may be a financial hub, but it’s also surrounded by nature's beauty. Lake Zurich is a popular spot for a variety of water activities, while the nearby Uetliberg mountain offers fantastic hiking trails with views of the city and the Alps. Both cities serve as excellent gateways to more extensive alpine trekking and cycling adventures.

Walking holidays: France, Barcelona and Madeira

Once you’ve flown to your active holiday destination, it’s time to get out and explore your new surroundings on your own two feet! Not only is walking good for your mind and body, you’ll be able to discover places off the beaten tourist trails and connect with the great outdoors. So, it’s time to switch off the phones telling you where to go, and put one foot in front of the other on a walking holiday.

Need to decide where to go on a walking holiday? We’d recommend a trip to the south of France. Head to southwest France near the Swiss border for Alpine walks around Chamonix or Samoens. Or, if you want to tick another country off your travel list, head to Arinsal in Andorra. And as Andorra’s only 30 kilometres wide, why not plan a cross-country walking holiday. Barcelona is the nearest airport to Andorra.

Fly from LTN to BCN in 2 hours 10 minutes.

For those craving sunshine as they step, Madeira is the island for you. Hailed as the “island of eternal Spring”, see plants in bloom across the island. Stay in Funchal or Caniço to the south of the island before heading to one of the many observation decks across the island.

Fly from LTN to FNC in 3 hours 50 minutes. 

A final thought on your next adventure

Choosing the right active holiday or adventure holiday destination is key to an unforgettable trip. With hundreds of destinations available from London Luton Airport, there’s activities to suit every type of explorer.

Whether you're drawn to the snow-capped peaks of Austria, the volcanic landscapes of Iceland, the coastal charm of Montenegro, or the pristine lakes of Switzerland, your next adventure awaits. Take the first step by planning your journey and get ready to create lasting memories.

For more information on these and even more European adventure holiday destinations, you can visit our destinations page.