Escorted tour specialist Newmarket Holidays says it is seeing a significant increase in demand for short-haul holidays, but clients are leaving it later to book.

It said it has seen a 9% rise in clients travelling to Italy, its most popular destination, while tours to Dubrovnik and the Dalmatan coast, Seville and Granada, Krakow, the Scottish Highlands and one-day trips to Lapland have also been ‘consistently popular’ since the start of the year.

However, Newmarket said booking cycles for European tours are getting shorter, while long-haul bookings are being made further in advance than previous years.

Head of Sales Richard Forde said:  “Our booking data since the start of this year shows that travellers are continuing to book short-haul holidays that offer a mix of convenience, culture and unparalleled experiences, but they are booking later than previous years. 

“They’re attracted by prices that are more affordable, the convenience of flying from regional airports and the comfort of shorter flight times.”

He added: “We’re continuing to support agents with new tours that enhance and expand out Italian tour collection and offer fresh experiences to new and returning customers.”