There are five beautiful beaches across Europe that are less than 1km away from the airport, meaning you can be off the plane and into the water before you know it

Sometimes holidays can feel like a big hassle.

Once all of the last-minute packing, early morning train to the airport, cramped flight, Ryanair scratchcard sales pitches and passport queues are taken into account, it can all seem a little bit too much. Which is why destination is so key.

Choosing a holiday spot that is not only beautiful and within your price range, but also in a great location, is wise if you’re hoping for a successful trip away. Which is why airport transfer experts at Scschauffeur.co.uk have put together a list of the rare destinations where you can go from runway to relaxation in minutes — in some cases, the beach is visible from the plane window before you even touch down.

Hadleigh Diamond, commercial director at the company, explains: “With time-poor travellers trying to squeeze more out of shorter breaks, destinations that cut down transfer times can make all the difference. When the beach is steps away from baggage claim, you’re guaranteed to start your holiday the moment you land.”

READ MORE: 1,000 experts name European hidden island gem world’s best beach

Gibraltar Air

Distance to beach: 0 km

Eastern Beach is quite literally on the airport perimeter, meaning you can land, walk to the beach and strip off for a drip in mere moments. It is also the largest sandy beach in Gibraltar, stretching for several hundred metres along the Eastside of the isthmus separating Gibraltar from Spain. Out of the three designated beaches on the eastside, Eastern Beach receives the most hours of sunshine. There are bars and food available in the summer.

Skiathos Airport (JSI) – Greece

Distance to beach: ~0–0.5 km

Xanemos Beach on Skiathos Island is located directly opposite the airport runway, making it a popular spot for plane spotters. The beach is known for its unique vantage point where you can watch planes take off and land overhead. While it offers a unique experience, the beach itself is described as rugged, pebbly, and can be windy with choppy seas.

Kavala International Airport “Megas Alexandros” (KVA) – Greece

Distance to beach: ~0.5–1 km

Kavala International Airport (“Megas Alexandros” KVA) is located near the city of Kavala, Greece, and has several beaches nearby, including popular options like Tosca Beach, Batis Beach, and Kalamitsa Beach. The most popular beaches in the Kavala region are known for their white sand and crystal-clear water. Ideal for a post-flight swim.

Samos International Airport “Aristarchos of Samos” (SMI) – Greece

Distance to beach: ~0.5–1 km

The coastline near Pythagorion is so close, you’ll feel the sea breeze as you leave arrivals. Kokkari Beach, Tsabou Beach, and Lemonakia Beach are all within a short distance of the airport.

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) – France

Distance to beach: ~0–1 km

Overlooking the famous Promenade des Anglais, this airport brings the Riviera to your doorstep. The Promenade des Anglais extends from the airport on the west to the Quai des États-Unis on the east, running for a distance of approximately seven kilometres. Its name comes from the English aristocrats who came to Nice in the 18th century to enjoy the health benefits of the local climate.