Got 50,000 Avios and a few quid? You’ll love these BA reward seat destinations
If you collect Avios to spend on British Airways reward seats, having a balance of 50,000 points gives you the chance to snap up flights to some truly inspirational destinations.
You can use our Search Calendar at rewardflightfinder.com to find Avios reward flight availability up to a year ahead for free. Even better, if you sign up for a Reward Flight Finder membership you can maximise your chances of getting your ideal British Airways reward seats by setting travel Alerts, and we’ll notify you when your preferred seats are available to book.
We’ve rounded up some of the hottest British Airways reward seat destinations for 50,000 Avios points to show you just how far your points pot can take you. Remember you still have to pay taxes and charges.
Two points to note though.
BA offers different pricing options depending on how many Avios you want to use and how much cash you are happy to pay. Use more Avios and pay less cash. Use fewer Avios and pay more cash. You decide what best suits you. You should also remember that the Avios points for a given destination can change. Those quoted here were correct on August 8, 2022.
Kefalonia (Keffallinia)
Kefalonia first entered the global spotlight in 2001, when it won more hearts than Nicholas Cage in the Hollywood blockbuster ‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin’. But for decades before that, the outstanding beauty of this Ionian island has been much-photographed, much-talked about, and much-loved by everyone who steps foot on it.
Argostoli conjures an intoxicating bohemian atmosphere, particularly in the main square, where you can enjoy glasses (or more) of Robola wine and live music with the locals. The town market is a magpie’s paradise, and a stroll down the flagstone streets reveals an abundance of sweet cafes and restaurants offering the most mouth-watering Greek fayre.
Mount Enos national park invites visitors to explore the untouched, ethereal wonder of the island. Walking through the park feels like stepping into another world, with its exotic vistas, flora and fauna. Tread carefully in the fields around the Pygi monastery and you’ll be treated to a sighting of Equus Cabalus, horses of an ancient local breed living in the wild. Pure magic.
The tiny port of Assos is often considered the prettiest settlement on the island. The houses hug the shoreline and are ensconced by an ancient fortress built in 1593 to defend from pirates. With just 100 residents, Assos is the ideal destination for those who want to get off the beaten track and slow down in charming, natural surroundings. There are assorted beautiful Venetian ruins to explore, and the Church of the Virgin Mary offers an enchanting spot to take in the views of the harbour.
If it sounds like a heavenly getaway to you too, you can get off-peak return Club Europe/Business Class BA reward seats for as little as 19500 Avios plus £141, or if you are happy to use more Avios, 38500 Avios plus £35. We’d definitely recommend setting Alerts for Kefalonia reward seats — it’s a hugely desirable Avios reward flights destination and seats get booked up quickly. Right now there’s decent availability for next June and July, so if we’ve sparked your interest in this Ionian isle then act fast!
Istanbul
Straddling both Europe and Asia, Istanbul is a melting pot of cultural traditions and historical influences. The city is chock a block with majestic remnants of its long and varied history, and the monuments here impress everyone who comes to visit.
The Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya in Turkish) is one of Istanbul’s most cherished landmarks. It has transformed over time depending on the rule of the empire, from church to mosque, to museum, and finally back to a mosque. But all the while its glorious architecture has remained constant, as well as the traditional belief among the locals that it is the “official” centre of the world. From the Hagia Sophia, you can also walk across to the Blue Mosque, enjoying the beautiful gardens sandwiched between them.
Topkapı Palace was built by Mehmet the Conqueror in the 15th century, as a place for the sultans of the Ottoman Empire to rule. The vast compound is a glittering display of beautiful Islamic art. It features decadent courtyards and sumptuously decorated rooms, protected by battlemented walls and towers. Within moments of arriving you’ll be transported back in time to an age of grand dynasty and powerful dominion.
Whilst visiting the Palace, be sure to take in the Harem complex, where the sultan’s many concubines and children would spend their days in gilded luxury, and be dazzled by the Imperial Council Chamber and Third Court, which contained the sultan’s private rooms — a grandiose and extravagant display of wealth. The Third Court houses an impressive collection of relics of the Prophet Muhammad in the Sacred Safekeeping Room that will simply take your breath away.
If you’re a fan of exotic shopping experiences then there’s nowhere quite like Istanbul. The Grand Bazaar is so big it takes up an entire city quarter, and the Spice Bazaar is the perfect place to indulge in some authentic lokum (Turkish delight)! The local stall holders love to barter, so get some practice before you go and you can come away with some real bargains.
For many visitors, the best views of Istanbul are to be seen from a Bosphorus excursion ferry, cruising the city’s waterway, which connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. From the comfort of the boat, you’ll see the defensive fortresses, Ottoman-era palaces and mansions, and the Bosphorus’ bridges. Seeing the city this way gives you a chance to sit back and relax, away from the hustle and bustle of the city walls.
If Istanbul is your destination of choice, both Peak and Off Peak Club Europe/Business Class return Avios reward flights will set you back about 39000 Avios plus £35. Right now, there’s excellent reward seat availability from October 2022 and throughout 2023.
Slovenia
This lush oasis might be small, but it’s certainly mighty! Slovenia is the green heart of Europe, a magnificent symphony that can be felt in the atmosphere around you, the food and the beautiful sights.
Piran is considered by many to be the most picturesque town on the Slovenian coast. The Piran salt pans still produce fleur de sel (flower of salt) today using age-old methods, and they’re well worth a visit. You can even enjoy a spot of Thalassotherapy (seawater therapy to you and I!) at the Lepa Vida Spa. Piran is an old port town, where you’ll find remnants of mediaeval walls and narrow, winding streets. The church and town square host quaint, jovial festivals for everyone to enjoy, and there are plenty of sweet cafes and bistros to chow down on traditional Slovenian delights, such as Carniolan sausage, Potica and Jota.
Bled, with its Lake and romantic architecture, is a tourist gem on the edge of the Triglav National Park. So incredibly stunning that it has been nominated as one of the seven wonders of the world, it’s distinguished by a mild climate and thermal springs. Hop on board a rustic, charming pletna boat to Bled Island and climb the 99 steps to the Church of the Mother of God — don’t forget to ring the wishing bell! Here you’ll also be able to explore the bell tower, curate’s and provost’s house. It’s a photographer’s dream, so if you’re an enthusiast, don’t forget your camera. Back on the shore, Bled Castle is painstakingly restored to its former glory. It holds a museum in the upper courtyard, where you can delve deep into the history of Lake Bled and explore a range of ancient artefacts. If you’re lucky enough to be at Lake Bled when they host Mediaeval Days, you’ll be able to meet the Castle knights, who are only too happy to show tourists how people lived here in the Middle Ages.
Equestrianism and horseback riding is a beloved, centuries-old traditions throughout Slovenia. Keen riders and even beginners will find lots of equestrian centres, tourist farms and ranches which offer you the chance to ride with world-famous Lipizzaner horses, saddle up and trek in the gorgeous countryside or even learn the reins (what a pun!) in one-to-one lessons.
If Slovenia sounds right up your street Off Peak Club Europe/Business Class return Avios reward flight seats will set you back 40,000 Avios plus £1. Right now, there’s strong reward availability from May 2023.
Norway
Norway is a big country, with A LOT to see and do. Depending on the kind of holiday you’re looking for, Norwegian cities like Oslo and Bergen make for fantastic breaks, and more laid-back areas invite you to take glittering fjords and natural beauty off the beaten path.
Oslo, the Norwegian capital, is all about cutting-edge, funky neighbourhoods and an innovative, adventurous food scene. With an abundance of museums and attractions, as well as a fully-packed event calendar, you’ll want to make the most of this cultural treasure. Akershus Castle and Fortress is a great place to immerse yourself in the history of the city, with guided tours available throughout the summer and autumn months.
At the Fram Museum, you’ll be able to see the world’s strongest wooden ship, which still holds the historical records for sailing farthest north and farthest south. Visitors can board the ship to see how the crew managed to survive in the Arctic and the Antarctic, as well as take part in a polar simulator to experience the freezing dangers of expeditions centuries ago. If you’re looking to combine city life with the outdoor exploration you’ll be pleased to know Oslo lies on the fringes of Oslofjord and deep forests, where you can partake in more nature-based fun like cycling, skiing, and trips to nearby regions of Østfold and Vestfold.
Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, offers travellers trendy restaurants, a progressive music scene and the hottest fashion retail. A trip here wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the KODE art museum and a stroll down the squiggly cobblestone streets to discover the homes of legendary composers Edvard Grieg, Ole Bull and Harald Sæverud.
Lofoten and Vesterålen are decorated with astonishing peaks, sparkling fjords, traditional fishing villages, and jaw-dropping beaches. They’re an Instagrammers dream. Known as the Kingdom of Whales, they’re the perfect destination to hunt for the Northern Lights and bask in the Midnight Sun. If you’re a fan of watersports, a sea safari or kayaking trip offers a unique vantage of the sights in the region. Via the water, you’ll be able to visit abandoned fishing villages, islands and skerries, and rare bird colonies, including the local white-tailed eagle. If you’re seeking a fancier way to experience the fjords you can do so from the deck of a majestic sailboat on a dinner cruise, a sensory experience for both your taste buds and your eyes.
If a Nordic adventure appeals to you too, you can get off-peak return Club Europe/Business Class BA reward seats for as little as 40,000 Avios plus £1. There’s loads of availability from September 2022 onwards.
Marrakech
Prepare for sensory overload. Marrakech is an intoxicating mix of tradition and modernity, known for its mediaeval souks, ancient riads and beautiful Islamic architecture, as well as its new design icons, boutique hotels, classy art galleries and museums, and amazing spas.
Visiting the Unesco-listed Old Medina is a must. Here you’ll find the Koutoubia Mosque, Bab Agnaou and fabulous gardens and ramparts. The central square of Djemaa El Fna is a sight to behold, especially at night, when the square fills with food vendors, snake charmers, acrobats, musicians, storytellers, fortune tellers, and soothsayers.
The square gives way to many alleys in the souk where you can buy expertly crafted leather, spices, homewares, oils, candles, carpets, herbs and souvenirs. Don’t forget to haggle — not only is it expected, but it’s a way of life in the souks of the Marrakech.
Culture vultures will adore Bahia Palace and the Dar Si Said, with their expertly chaotic and intricate tilework and floral painted ceilings. The Saadian Tombs are a historic royal necropolis, adorned with opulent marble. They’re the final resting place of 60 members of the Saadi dynasty, and you’ll find them ensconced in a serene walled garden containing over one-hundred tombs that are lovingly decorated with coloured mosaics.
The Musée de Mouassine is a true Moroccan treasure, accidentally found. While house-hunting in the medina, Parisian Patrick Menac’h stumbled across this historic building of great cultural significance. Beneath the layers of plaster of a modest riad’s guest apartment, he unearthed a jewel of Saadian architecture from the 1560s. Musée de Mouassine houses a small collection of Amazigh artefacts and photography exhibitions, but the slavishly restored interior of the upstairs salons are the true star of this modest museum.
There is a growing modern side to Marrakech too, with areas like Gueliz attracting trendy, design types, in search of funky new art galleries, restaurants, designer shops, and nightclubs. Known as the New City, Gueliz is also home to Jardin Majorelle, a magical garden created by French painter Jacques Majorelle, who spent 40 years injecting his passion and creativity into this project. Containing over 300 species of plants, tranquil streams and enchanting pedestrian lanes, this little oasis of art-deco and Moorish styling is a perfect place to relax when you need a break from the busy city.
You can get off-peak return Club Europe/Business Class BA reward seats to Marrakech for just 48,500 Avios plus £1, and there’s great availability from December 2022 onwards.
Do you fancy finding out where in the world your Avios points pot can take you?
Sign up as a Silver or Gold Reward Flight Finder member and you’ll get access to our Worldwide Map tool, which allows you to see all available BA reward seats on flights across the globe for your preferred dates, in all cabin classes.
To take a look at our different memberships visit our Pricing page, or to see how Reward Flight Finder works visit our homepage.
Original Source — https://rewardflightfinder.com/news-and-advice/got-50-000-avios-and-a-few-quid-you-ll-love-these-ba-reward-seat-destinations
