Cheapest

The cheapest European destination has been revealed for the Easter holidays, with golden sand beaches, sun-soaked rays and a charming town, for a fraction of the price

A beautiful town with golden-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters offers the best bang for your buck with £2 pints and a balmy 25C during the Easter holidays.

The resort town of Marmaris, on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, has been named the cheapest destination for a European escape during the Easter holidays. With sprawling beaches, scenic marinas and mountainous landscapes, it’s just over four hours from the UK, and is half the price of a trip to Paris during the same time.

When it comes to an affordable European getaway, thoughts can often turn to Paris, due to its convenient location, less than three hours from the UK by Eurostar or a swift flight that takes just over 90 minutes. While it’s a quick journey, the cost of a stay in the ‘City of Light’ can quickly rack up.

READ MORE: Best food cities in the world – just an hour apart by trainREAD MORE: Medieval castle, golden sand beach and artisan high street make up one quaint village

In fact, Which? revealed that Paris is the most expensive short-haul city break destination you could choose over Easter, setting you back on average, £1,310 per person. Meanwhile, after comparing more than 3,000 package holidays during the busy travel period, the travel experts found that Marmaris offered the cheapest Easter holiday this year.

According to Which?, a stay at the sun-soaked city would cost an average of £594 per person for a seven-night package – half the cost of a trip to Paris! What’s more, Marmaris can reach highs of 25C in April, compared to 16C in Paris.

Often dubbed the ‘King of the coast’, Marmaris is a haven for those seeking an escape in the blistering heat and days spent at their sprawling sand beaches, which are undoubtedly a big draw to Brits. One of the most popular is Marmaris Long Beach (Uzunyali), stretching 4km near the city centre and lined with restaurants and bars, with a selection of water sports on offer.

There’s also Icmeler Beach with calm, azure waters and a relaxed atmosphere, and Turunç Beach with pebbly shores and crystal-clear waters, just a short drive from the city centre. For those feeling a little more adventurous, they can take a short boat ride to the stunning Sedir Island, also known as Cleopatra Island, for a slice of paradise, with its soft white sand and ancient ruins.

The Marmaris coast is dotted with luxurious resorts catering to all holidaymakers, including those looking for a stress-free family getaway with a range of activities and swimming pools to keep the little ones entertained. There’s also plenty to do away from the shores, including snorkelling boat trips, jeep safaris and a visit to the Atlantis Waterpark, which kids will love!

The charming town of Marmaris is also worth exploring, with its lively Grand Bazaar, 16th-century castle, and dancing fountain. There are plenty of bars, cafés and restaurants in the area, including its famed Bar Street, along with shops to pick up a souvenir or two!

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Six holidaymakers paid just £450 each for a week at a five-star all-inclusive hotel in Tunisia through easyJet, including flights and transfers – but there’s one thing to watch out for

A week-long stay at a five-star, all-inclusive hotel for under £65 per night — with flights and transfers included — might sound like fantasy. But that’s exactly what one group of six holidaymakers claim they paid for a winter getaway to Tunisia through easyJet, albeit with one important caveat for travellers to bear in mind.

Terry Langley documented the trip on his YouTube channel, Travelly Man, after arriving at the Iberostar Selection Kuriat Palace in Monastir, where the group stayed for seven nights.

The seafront resort served as their base throughout the holiday.

“We have just arrived here at the Iberostar Selection Kuriat Palace in Monastir, Tunisia, which is going to be our base for this easyJet all-inclusive holiday,” he said at the start of the trip.

The hotel, which opened in 2019, appeared modern and well maintained.

“Now this hotel itself is actually really quite modern. It was only built in 2019 and I think we got this for an absolutely incredible price,” he added.

While generally impressed, Langley noted some minor cosmetic wear in places and a small maintenance issue in one of the rooms.

“The hotel, the Kuriat Palace, I think this is fantastic despite the fact there are a few knocks here and there to the rooms and the fact we did have a small maintenance issue, which was sorted straight away,” he said, reports the Express.

He mentioned that some external areas could benefit from a fresh coat of paint, though staff appeared to be preparing for the upcoming peak season. Inside, however, he described an impressive first impression.

“The common areas are really well kept and there is a real feeling of grandeur when you enter reception for the first time.”

For Langley, it was the service that truly set the hotel apart.

“More than that though, the staff are truly excellent and they do make you feel very welcome and, combined with the service that they offer, for me this is really what makes the stay,” he said.

He suggested the hospitality might be characteristic of either the Iberostar brand, North Africa more broadly, or a combination of both.

“Now I don’t know if it’s an Iberostar thing, a North African thing or a combination of the two but, for the second consecutive year, the service has been incredible — both here in Tunisia and last year in Morocco as well. And that goes for reception, housekeeping, bar staff, restaurant staff and the entertainment team as well. So I have to thank them for that.”

Despite his overwhelmingly positive review, he did flag one issue prospective guests may wish to consider — particularly during busier periods.

“Yet again, I think the only thing to note, and to give some balance, is that the food — despite it being of a really good quality — can be a little bit repetitive and it can also get a little bit congested at the buffet when it’s busy, as it is only a small space,” he said.

Given the visit took place during winter, he warned the issue could be more pronounced in summer when the hotel operates at full capacity.

“So bearing in mind that we’re here in winter, during the main holiday season I think that could be something to watch out for.”

The location may also prove less suitable for guests hoping to explore on foot.

“The other thing I need to mention is the location. It isn’t the best. You can’t really walk out of the front of the hotel and go to any shops or just take a stroll if you want to. You will need to get a taxi into Monastir, but that’ll take less than 10 minutes and it will definitely be cheap enough anyway. And then if you want to go to Sousse, that’s about a 20-minute drive in the other direction.”

However, it was the price that stood out most.

“We booked not one, not two, but three rooms for six people. We have stayed here for a full week on an all-inclusive basis. The total stay came to a cost of £2,700,” he revealed.

That works out at £450 per person, or £64.28 per night, for a five-star all-inclusive package including flights and transfers.

“I don’t know what you think, but I think that is absolutely insane value. And if you’ve ever seen those ‘I tried to profit from an all-inclusive’ videos on YouTube, I can tell you straight away — I don’t need to make such a video. I can tell you 100% that we definitely have.”

FANCY swapping the springtime showers for scorching temperatures, sandy beaches and a fruity cocktail? Of course you do.

But if all that sounds like it might break the bank, then The Sun’s travel team is here to help. Going abroad for some sun this March or April doesn’t have to be expensive or involve a long flight. Here, we take a look at some bargain options for you and your family.

Some mid-haul destinations are truly the sweet spots for warm temperatures and affordable prices in spring.

Plus, being all-inclusive means there’s no need to worry about splurging on random snacks or meals whilst you’re away.

With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the most affordable all-inclusive sun holidays out there, ready to book for Easter 2026 – and you won’t believe what’s included in some of these amazing packages.

Catty Cats Garden Hotel, Side, Turkey

This colourful hotel is just as fun as it sounds, with three swimming pools and several water slides to entertain the whole family.

If zipping down slides wasn’t enough to tire out the children, they can enjoy the kids club and mini discos, whilst adults can unwind in the on-site spa, with its steam room and Turkish bath.

Choose between a standard, large or family room, all of which are spacious options. Plus, the family room feels more like an apartment, as it comes with a handy kitchenette too. Great for cooking up cheaper meal options.

And if you choose to venture out into Side, history lovers will have a field day soaking up the sights of the Roman amphitheatre and Temple of Apollo.

Plus temperatures in Side can reach 24°C in April, meaning you can swap the downpours back home for an Easter break spent sunbathing.

On the Beach offer a 7-night stay from 10 April including return flights from London Luton from £212pp.

El Mouradi Club Kantaoui, Tunisia

This hotel is situated on Tunisia’s Port el Kantaoui, where a vibrant marina features upmarket shopping, cafes, and restaurants.

This pretty port is also home to plenty of beach bars and nightclubs, making it a lively spot to visit in the evenings.

The El Mouradi Club Kantaoui hotel has 456 rooms, each of which has a large comfy bed, air con and many come with a private terrace or balcony.

There are also four restaurants to pick from, including a pizzeria and a beachside dining option.

Cool off in one of two large outdoor pools, or take a swim in the sea – it’s right on the hotel’s doorstep.

Loveholidays offer a 5-night stay from 26 March including return flights from Edinburgh from £259pp.

El Pueblo Tamlelt, Agadir, Morocco

Just a 15-minute hop from the airport, El Pueblo Tamlelt is tucked away in 11 acres of lush, tropical gardens in Agadir.

This Moroccan gem sits right on the southern coast, where you can spend your days lazing on the crescent-shaped beach or taking in the views from the fascinating Agadir Oufella Ruins.

With year-round sunshine and a prime location near the coastal city‘s vibrant centre, it’s the ideal pick for a spot of sun that’s easy to reach.

And with temperatures reaching 23C during the day, you can explore all the coastal resort has to offer with the warmth of the sun on your back.

Loveholidays offer a 5-night stay from 29 March including return flights from Glasgow from £239pp.

Broncemar Beach Suites, Fuerteventura

These bright white, stylish apartments are laid out as a small village, centred around three swimming pools and two hot tubs.

These spacious apartments boast large beds, kitchenettes, living areas and balconies, plus there are bars, restaurants and shops to make use of during your stay.

Just a few minutes’ walk will take you to Caleta de Fuste Beach, where you can lie back on soft sands or search for sea creatures in crystal-clear rock pools.

Alternatively, stroll into the fishing town of Caleta de Fuste to stroll its picturesque marina and dip in and out of independent shops.

And with this Canary Island’s climate reaching 23C in April, you can finally trade those wellies for some flip flops.

Jet2holidays offer a 5-night stay from 10 April including return flights from London Stansted from £587pp.

Plus, you can currently save an extra £100pp off all holidays before June using code EXTRA100 at checkout.

Gavimar Cala Gran Costa Del Sur Hotel & Resort, Majorca

This hotel sits on Majorca‘s Cala Gran Beach, where shallow turquoise waters are backed by hills of Mediterranean pine trees.

Cala Gran is the largest beach in Cala d’Or, a beautiful cove just a short drive away from the coastal town centre, with its trinket shops and relaxed bars.

The hotel itself has all the activities and entertainment you’d expect, including bingo and live music – as well as some unique extras like mini golf and archery.

Loveholidays offer a 4-night stay from 29 March including return flights from Exeter from £179pp.

Maxeria Blue Didyma, Bodrum, Turkey

Holidaying at this super affordable five-star all-inclusive will leave you wondering how you’ve managed to bag such a bargain.

This modern hotel has entertainment and activities galore, including a mini cinema, arcade room, basketball and volleyball courts.

You can really make the most of the food in this all-inclusive package, grabbing late-night treats from the main restaurant or desserts from the resort’s very own patisserie.

Throw in a giant waterpark and beach just a stone’s throw away, and you’ve got yourself a bargain family resort nearing perfection.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night stay from 27 March including return flights from London Stansted from £344pp.

Htop Olympic, Costa Brava, Spain

This Calella hotel is the perfect base for a cheap and cheerful sun holiday, with comfy air-conditioned rooms just a few minutes’ walk from the bustling bars of Costa Brava.

Make use of three delicious meals a day with this all-inclusive package, where you can enjoy a varied buffet stocked with plenty of family favourites like fresh salads, grilled meats and chips.

Choose to make use of the hotel gym, pool and daytime entertainment activities, or head out to a range of affordable bars, shops and restaurants within walking distance.

On the Beach offer a 7-night stay from 27 March including return flights from London Luton from £297pp.

Mitsis Messonghi, Corfu

This Corfu resort was built for families and is buzzing with a whole host of entertainment and activities.

With four adult pools, three kids pools, a mini waterpark and a beach on your doorstep, there’s plenty of spots for you to stretch out on a sun lounger and for the kids to splash around.

When it comes to rooms, choose anything from a standard room all the way up to a beachfront superior bungalow, which swaps a standard balcony with a beachfront terrace.

Dining also goes down well, with a beachfront restaurant serving family favourites and a main buffet restaurant offering rainbow salads and international cuisine.

And as the day winds down to a close, the party starts with mini discos, Greek dancing, lively quiz nights and karaoke.

Loveholidays offer a 5-night stay from 29 March including return flights from East Midlands from £289pp.

El Mouradi El Menzah, Hammamet, Tunisia

This four-star all-inclusive option in Tunisia’s Hammamet doesn’t disappoint, with multiple pools, an extensive buffet restaurant and its own private beach.

Plus, day temperatures in April sit in the 20s, with 9 hours of glorious Tunisian sunshine per day.

This resort is an ideal option for families, with a dedicated kids pool, kids club, sports and crafts options, as well as evening discos to keep children entertained.

Head out to the water to try your hand at kayaking, windsurfing or jet-skiing.

Or if you prefer to completely chill out, there’s a spa with a sauna and hammam to make use of, as well as a range of beauty treatments and massages.

Loveholidays offer a 5-night stay from 28 March including return flights from Glasgow from £369pp.

Bellevue Club, Alcúdia, Majorca

There are more pools than days of the week at the Bellevue Club in Alcudia.

With 11 swimming pools, a 24-hour bar and a garden theatre offering evening entertainment, you’ll hardly want to leave this resort once you arrive.

There’s seven tennis and squash courts plus a gym here, too – just in case you’ve still got some energy after all that swimming.

Nearby, there’s the family-friendly Alcudia Beach as well as the historic old town and promenade of Port D’Alcudia to explore.

The weather in April is pleasant and mild, reaching temperatures of 21C – perfect for playing out in the sun without getting too hot and bothered.

On the Beach offer a 7-night stay from 29 March including return flights from Exeter from £251pp.

Hotel Palia Don Pedro, Costa Del Silencio, Tenerife

Club Palia Don Pedro is a top choice for families, with plenty of activities as well as spacious family suites available.

Rent a bike, try your hand at tennis, or simply get set up for a day’s relaxation on a couple of comfortable poolside loungers.

Plus, this hotel is situated 20 minutes from Playa de las Americas, meaning you’re in a quiet, scenic spot away from large resorts, with the option to taxi to the strip if you do fancy a busier day out.

Temperatures sit at a warm 22C, with bright, sunny days and cooler, comfortable nights.

First Choice offer a 7-night stay from 29 March including return flights from Glasgow Prestwick from £351pp.

RR Club Amarilis, Praia Da Rocha, Algarve, Portugal

The RR Club Amarilis aparthotel sits on the Algarve’s Praia da Rocha, a large and lively beach framed by dramatic limestone cliffs.

If you want to soak up the exciting holiday atmosphere, there’s a variety of affordable bars, restaurants and nightclubs within walking distance of this comfortable base.

Or for a more peaceful Portugal trip, simply explore the expanse of rugged coastline by foot or bike, as this hotel offers bicycle rental.

This hotel certainly isn’t short of sporting facilities, with a pool, gym, tennis courts, fitness classes and even a diving station offered within the complex.

First Choice offer a 7-night stay from 29 March including return flights from Newcastle from £420pp.

Blue Bay Beach Resort, Rhodes, Greece

Lalyssos in Rhodes is a traditional Greek resort town with plenty of charming tavernas to dip into and a beautiful mixed sand and pebble beach.

The four-star Blue Bay Beach Resort sits a stone’s throw away from this beach, and has its own pools, splash park and water slides.

There’s also a hotel spa and sauna to unwind in, offering massages and beauty treatments at an additional cost.

Here you’re only a 15-minute drive away from Rhodes Old Town, where UNESCO-listed medieval streets wind through castle-like architecture.

Make sure to check out the Street of the Knights, one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe.

Loveholidays offer a 5-night stay from 29 March including return flights from Bristol from £289pp.

Magic Cristal Park, Benidorm, Spain

For a Benidorm holiday more luxurious than the norm, try a stay at Magic Cristal Park.

This hotel is packed with entertainment from day to night, which ranges from an arcade room and three kids’ clubs to evening karaoke and performances.

There’s also plenty of perks, such as a kids stay free policy – but by far the best of which is their “ultra all inclusive” package.

This includes premium drinks, a beachfront brunch and even excursions for guests staying over four nights.

Excursion options include the Medieval Magic Robin Hood Challenge, Princesses and Knights show, and a trip to see a Magic Show.

Plus, if you’re staying at least seven nights, you’ll even get entry to Terra Natura Animal Park and Aqua Natura Water Park included.

On the Beach offer a 7-night stay from 28 March including return flights from Newcastle from £311pp.

Xafira Deluxe Resort & Spa, Antalya, Turkey

The Xafira Deluxe Resort & Spa is stunning to look at – and you’ll feel a bit like royalty staying here, too.

Spend days hopping between a heated indoor pool, spa, outdoor pool and waterpark, or simply walk down to the beach to enjoy the 22C Easter sun.

The main buffet restaurant serves up a banging breakfast as well as a range of international foods at lunch and dinner, whilst a la carte options include Italian, BBQ and seafood restaurants.

There are also seven bars to try out, so you’re never far from a refreshing cocktail.

Choose to sip your drink at the beach, by the pool or in the nightclub at the disco bar.

On the Beach offer a 7-night stay from 10 April including return flights from London Luton from £218pp.

ONE country in Asia with incredible mountain scenery, Alpine lakes and a vibrant capital city is now so much cheaper for Brits to explore.

To encourage more holidaymakers to visit, Armenia has dropped visa fees, ahead of a budget airline beginning direct flights in just a few months.

Armenia isn’t a popular holiday destination for Brits yet, but this could soon change as it has scrapped visa entry requirements for the first half of 2026.

Travellers can stay in Armenia for up to 180 days within a one year period.

The rules are less strict to encourage tourism, particularly longer holidays as well as short city breaks.

Previously, the visa system meant travellers had to apply and pay a fee to enter the country – which at its most expensive cost around £30 and for a stay of up to 120 days.

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Lusine Gevorgyan, chairman of the tourism committee of Armenia, said: “This decision is a clear invitation to travellers around the world. Armenia is open and welcoming, and we look forward to sharing our culture, landscapes and hospitality with more visitors throughout 2026.

“With its ancient monasteries, dramatic mountain scenery, vibrant food scene and rich traditions, Armenia offers travellers a unique blend of history and modern life.

“From exploring Yerevan’s cafe culture and museums to discovering hiking trails and Unesco World Heritage sites, the country provides diverse experiences year-round.”

In a few months, Brits will be able to visit Armenia very easily as one budget airline will begin direct routes.

Wizz Air has gained new slot at London Luton Airport and will fly to  Yerevan, the capital of Armenia.

The flights will start on June 8, 2026 – these will be the only direct flight routes from the UK.

In August, one-way flights are as little as £38 and will take just over five hours.

The direct flights from Wizz Air will stop on October 23, 2026.

Armenia is incredibly affordable too.

Last year, travel insurance company HelloSafe studied the average daily budget required by travellers in 131 countries.

Taking into account expenses like accommodation, food, and transport, Armenia came out as being the sixth cheapest destination.

According to Wise, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant is on average £8.85 with a local beer costing as little as £1.57 and a coffee is under £3.

The country shares borders with Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Iran.

In the capital of Yerevan there’s lots to see like Yerevan Cascade which is a giant, art-filled stairway which has incredible views of the Mount Ararat mountain which sits across the border in Turkey.

Also in Yerevan is Republic Square, the central town square in the city which is a symbol of Armenia.

The buildings in the square include the Government House, the History Museum, the National Gallery and Armenia Marriott Hotel.

It also has huge fountains that are lit up and in the summer there’s even an evening show.

For those wanting to pick up a souvenir, head to Vernissage Market which sells handmade crafts, artwork, and jewellery.

An hour outside of is the popular spot of Lake Sevan which is one of the world’s highest freshwater alpine lakes.

It’s popular in the summertime with swimmers and those wanting to bask on its sandy banks.

The best time to visit Armenia is between May and June as well as autumn between September and October due to the mild temperatures up to 25C.

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Expedia’s Air Hacks Report shows how holidaymakers can save hundreds on flights – including the cheapest day to fly, best time to book and most affordable month to travel

New figures from travel agency Expedia have uncovered how holidaymakers can knock hundreds of pounds off their flight costs, with Friday now officially crowned the most budget-friendly day to jet off. Expedia has put together a comprehensive guide of “Air Hacks” to help travellers secure the best bargains throughout the year.

The latest Air Hacks Report shows that travellers can pocket an average saving of 18% by departing on a Friday rather than a Saturday. Despite being the busiest travel day of the week, Friday delivers the strongest value for money. Meanwhile, Tuesday emerges as the quietest day for flying but most expensive to book.

According to the report, the best day to book is Sunday, as this gets you the best deal and June is the most affordable month to fly, with flights 68% cheaper on average than December, which represents a potential saving of £250 per ticket.

For optimal booking, the most affordable window for domestic economy flights is between 31 and 45 days before departure, which will save people around £38 compared to booking six months out.

For international travel, adults can save an average of £93 by booking between 15 and 30 days ahead of time instead of six months, though purchasing tickets 31 to 45 days before can still yield a saving of £85.

Regarding UK airports, the cheapest to fly from, on average, are Belfast (£170), Liverpool (£171), and Bournemouth (£171). Conversely, the most expensive airports to fly from are London Heathrow (£533), Humberside (£420), and Manchester (£404).

Melanie Fish, a spokesperson from Expedia, said: “We are very excited to release these new findings and share our top air hacks for 2026 to ensure holidaymakers get the best value for money, as well as an enjoyable travelling experience.

The report also uncovered emerging travel trends. Twenty percent of travellers have booked an “extreme day trip,” which involves a roundtrip flight within 24 hours to visit a new destination.

Over half (51%) of international flyers now opt for morning departures, with only 15% choosing an evening flight. Furthermore, a third of travellers now fly with only a carry-on bag, and 29% admit they wear extra layers to avoid baggage fees.

The company, which launched a ‘Flight Deals’ feature to help users find flights 20% below the norm, hopes these insights will help holidaymakers navigate the overwhelming and expensive process of planning a trip.

A travel enthusiast and On the Beach worker shared the cheapest time to book flights and hotels

People hoping to get the best deal on their summer holiday might need to set an early alarm. A travel influencer claims he knows the ‘cheapest time’ for booking flights and hotels – and it’s bad news if you like to sleep in.

The tip was shared on social media by Rob Brooks, a travel enthusiast and influencer with the travel company On The Beach. He is well-known online for providing budget-friendly travel advice, hotel reviews, and holiday tips, which has helped him amass a significant following on social media, especially on TikTok where he goes by the username @Robonthebeach.

In a recent video, Rob shared ‘three bad holiday booking habits that could be costing you £100s’ and explained how the timing of your holiday booking can affect the price. Introducing the three tips, Rob said: “I look through holiday bookings every single day, and I see these mistakes all the time.”

For his first point, Rob suggested that people shouldn’t book their holidays in the morning unless they get up early. “Your first bad booking habit is booking holidays in the morning,” he claimed.

“We see so many people book holidays between 7am and 10am in the morning. Often, that’s people booking just before work, on the commute, or even at the desk with their first coffee. And I get it, it feels like you’re being really productive and taking off something big right at the beginning of the day.

“But not many people know it’s actually one of the most expensive windows to book, because you’ve got loads of people searching at the same time. Everyone’s had the same idea, which means demand spikes, flight prices spike too, and then package prices follow.”

Rob continued: “The best times to book are statistically in the evening, between 8pm and 10pm. And actually the very cheapest time to book is first thing in the morning, between 4am and 5am. But no one’s setting their alarm for that habit.”

Continuing his video, Rob shared two more mistakes that he said holidaymakers should be wary of. In his second tip, he suggested people shouldn’t wait when they find the right deal for them.

“Don’t forget, when you find a really good deal, it’s very likely that someone else has found the same deal too. So waiting doesn’t protect you; it usually just means that the best price then disappears. So I would say this: when you find a holiday that you think is a really good price and you’ve checked it against other people, don’t wait, just get it booked,” he advised.

Finally, the travel influencer warned people against being ‘super rigid’ with their holiday dates. Rob pointed out that switching your holiday from seven days to six days, for example, could make a big difference to the price.

Tbut there are still some places where you can get a drink for less than £5.

The cost of a pint continues to creep upwards. Tracking down a boozer flogging pints for under a fiver has become nearly impossible, yet certain spots still won’t leave your wallet crying.

A report from takepayments has uncovered which UK cities offer the most wallet-friendly drinking experience. The research examined 34 major UK cities against 16 affordability measures, encompassing housing, transport, wages, and discretionary spending (such as the cost of a pint).

Each location received a score out of 10 for overall affordability, identifying where Brits can enjoy the cheapest tipple.

Derby emerged as the nation’s most affordable city for a beverage, with pints priced at a mere £3.60. That’s a bargain when you fancy unwinding after a day discovering what the city has to offer – and there’s loads to see.

Situated in the East Midlands within Derbyshire and hugging the River Derwent, Derby serves as an ideal starting point for venturing into the picturesque British countryside, boasting numerous walking routes and cycling trails, reports the Express.

Among the finest is the Vicar Wood & Mackworth loop accessible from Markeaton Park. This 6.1km ramble takes roughly 90 minutes, beginning at the Mundy Playcentre car park.

Winding through farmland and parks, it’s ideal for families. There’s also Calke Abbey – a dilapidated stately home boasting sprawling gardens and a remarkable natural history collection.

Originally an Augustinian Priory, the property was acquired by Sir Henry Harpur in 1622. The estate remained in the family for generations, and from 1924 onwards, Calke was left largely untouched, though it underwent gradual modernisation.

Today, the National Trust has preserved the house much as it was, offering a fascinating glimpse into life from a bygone era.

After exploring the residence and grounds, visitors can stop by the on-site cafe and gift shop – ideal for picking up mementos.

It turns out timing does matter, with a TikTok travel expert revealing that even a few minutes can make the difference between overpaying and bagging a bargain.

Ever wondered when the best time of day is to book a holiday? A TikTok travel expert has the answer — and his viral video is doing the rounds online.

Rob, known as @robonthebeach online, has built a reputation for clever holiday hacks that save travellers money, but on of his more recent tips is truly ground-breaking. In a clip posted last month, he revealed the best and worst times to book, and the results might just surprise you.

In the video, Rob — who says he “works in travel and looks through holiday data every single day” — explains that timing isn’t just important by the day or week, but down to the hour and even the minute. This is a big win for the night owls!

“According to the data, the most expensive time to book a holiday is between 9 and 10am in the morning,” he said. That’s the dreaded office-hour scroll, and it could be costing travellers dearly.

Rob claims bookings made in that hour were around 30% more expensive than those made at the cheapest time of day. His advice? “No more booking holidays as soon as you get to the office.”

The cheapest time, however, comes much much earlier: “[It’s] early morning, like really early morning, between 4 and 5 am”. He explains how airline pricing systems effectively reset overnight as demand from the previous day drops off, pushing prices closer to their base level before creeping back up as searches increase throughout the day.

And for those searching for the ultimate saving, Rob revealed the exact time where prices are at their lowest: “The single cheapest minute to book a holiday is 2.48am,” he noted. Booking at that precise moment was, on average, 60% cheaper, though he stressed this won’t magically slash the price of each and every trip.

If you’d rather not set a 4am alarm, Rob points out there are other cheaper times, including late evening between 8pm and 10pm, which is still noticeably cheaper than the morning rush.

The video sparked a wave of reactions online, with one user confirming: “On those insomnia nights, can confirm the early hours are cheap,” while a second joked: “Now everyone is going to book at this time and it won’t be cheap anymore.”

Others offered additional tips, including: “Remember to clear your cache,” as another summed it up with “cheap as chips, fair play”.

Brits are certainly keen holiday bookers. Research from YouGov shows that around 35% of UK travellers book their holidays one to three months in advance, while a further 23% book four to six months ahead.

While data from IPA suggests the average UK adult books a holiday roughly 17 weeks before travelling, with online bookings now dominating. ABTA claims that around 78% of adults take at least one holiday each year.

ESCAPING the dreary UK for the paradise of the Caribbean might sound incredibly expensive.

However, on the cheapest island which is the Dominican Republic, you can get an all-inclusive February break from £155.57per night.

The Dominican Republic is one of the best places to travel to this year, and was voted as such in the ‘Best of the Best’ Travellers’ Choice Awards on Tripadvisor.

On what visitors can see there, Tripadvisor said: “Offering a lush interior with a mix of caves, Victorian gingerbread houses and the lore of pirates, plus 900 miles of coastline along its brim.”

“Island highlights include riding a cable car up Mount Isabel de Torres and basking on stunning Saona Island. Oh, and did we mention the D.R. is family-friendly, has just about perfect weather and is affordable?”

Tourists visiting the Dominican Republic will flock to Punta Cana on the eastern side of the island.

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This is where you’ll find white sandy beaches with bright waters and all-inclusive resorts – which are incredibly affordable.

On loveholidays you can get a seven-night holiday to the 3-star Bavaro Green hotel (room only).

Flights depart on February 23, 2026 from Manchester Airport.

The apartment-style hotel is in the heart of Pueblo Bávaro – it has an outdoor pool as well as one for kids and a playground.

It’s a five minute walk away from the city centre and Bavaro Beach is a 15-minute drive away.

On loveholidays, all-inclusive packages start from £1,089pp in February – which works out at £155.57pppn.

For this price you get a seven-night stay at the whala!bavaro including TUI flights from Manchester.

The 4-star hotel has 212 rooms which come with air conditioning, flatscreen TVs, private bathrooms and WiFi.

The resort has both an outdoor freshwater pool surrounded by sun loungers, and an indoor freshwater pool.

There are three bars, a buffet restaurant and it’s minutes away from the closest beach.

Compared to other destinations in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is relatively cheap.

The average price of coffee in the Dominican Republic is £1.46 and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can start from £4.65, according to Wise.

In comparison, a meal in Barbados is around £14.50 and a coffee is around £3.32.

It’s so affordable because of its low labour costs and local production of goods, which keeps operating expenses down for resorts.

February is a great time to travel to the Dominican Republic – it’s an incredible winter sun destination.

During February, there are daily highs of around 28C with minimal rainfall.

When it comes to exploring the island, one must-visit is one of the ‘World’s Best Beaches‘ – Canto de la Playa came in at number six.

Found on Saona Island it’s considered ‘one of the Caribbean‘s best-kept secrets’.

It’s been described as having noticeably soft sand along with calm waters for swimmers with vibrant coral reefs just offshore.

Saona Island is found off the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic and forms part of the East National Park.

It’s known for mangroves and coral reefs and of course, its palm-fringed beaches.

In the waters around the island, visitors can expect to see sea turtles, dolphins and even humpback whales.

If you want to get incredible views, head up the Mount Isabel de Torres cable car which in 10-minutes climbs 2,600 feet.

The cable car is in Puerto Plata on the northern coast of the island with views of the city, tropical forest and the coastline.

For more on the Caribbean, Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey checked out one of the least visited islands with zip lines, lobster bars and volcano hiking.

And this is the closest Caribbean island to the UK that has Maldives-like overwater villas.

FANCY a mini-break but don’t want to spend too much money? Well, how about a short cruise to Europe for the same price as a meal at Pizza Express for a family of four.

Travellers can head off on a two-night cruise between Hull and the Netherlands.

The P&O Ferries mini cruise allows you to travel overnight, usually leaving Hull at around 8:30pm and arriving in the Netherlands around 8:45am.

You can opt between heading to Rotterdam or Amsterdam on a return sailing from Hull to Europoort, with two nights in an en suite cabin, return coach transfers into the city centres and the live entertainment on board.

In between you will also get to explore either Rotterdam or Amsterdam – all for just £65 per person.

For example, one £65pp sailing heads off on March 3 and returns on March 5.

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Included in the price you pay is a two-bunk cabin with an en suite shower room with a WC.

Towels and bed linen are included too.

There are of course add-ons, if you wish to include them – such as the kitchen dinner for £25 per person, which is a buffet of international dishes.

If you fancy breakfast on board, that will set you back £13.50 each too.

Or you could get a package for both dinner and breakfast for £35.95 per person.

Though it is worth baring in mind, these prices are all per way.

Coach transfers from the port to either Rotterdam or Amsterdam are listed as £12 per person, per way – though they are included in the £65 per person price.

The cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam in the Netherlands are both great to explore for a day.

In Rotterdam, you can head to one of the maritime museums to learn about its history as a port city.

Then, you could swing by the Cube Houses, known for their unusual architecture.

Opposite the Cube Houses you will find Markthal, which is a large market hall home to around 96 food stalls.

Alternatively, if you choose to head to Amsterdam you can explore the intricate network of canals that sprawl across the city.

One of the most popular tourist spots in the city is the Anne Frank House, which is a museum inside the actual house where Anne Frank hid during World War II.

To explore the canals further, you can also hop on a canal tour via boat.

If you fancy an even more memorable sailing you can head on a Mini Cruise Live.

These cruises have different entertainment onboard, often including celebrities.

For example, you could head on a Noughties Takeover cruise from February 27 to March 1.

On board, the entertainment includes JLS star Marvin Humes and Blazin’ Squad star and former Love Islander, Marcel Somerville.

This sailing costs from £139 per person.

With the family? Then head on the Family Cruise from April 8 to 10, with K-Pop Live and Cirque: The Greatest Show – a circus-musical experience with songs from The Greatest Showman, La La Land, Rocketman and Moulin Rouge.

There will also be face painters on board, and tickets to this sailing also cost from £139 per person.

Fancy something a little different? Head on the Murder Mystery Mini Cruise from March 4 to 6.

On board, passengers will get to enjoy two murder mystery experiences with Cheeky Blinders on night one and 1925-based mystery The Maiden Voyage on night two.

This sailing costs from £99 per person.

In other cruise news, the ‘affordable luxury’ Nordic cruise where temperatures hit 28C.

Plus, our pick of the eight best cruises for both hot and cold weather – from Caribbean sailings to Icelandic glacier tours.

Parents who are looking to get away during the six week summer holidays could potentially save hundreds by booking during a certain week instead of planning their holidays at the start of the break

The six-week summer holidays are still a long way off, but many families will be booking their annual holiday in the coming weeks, and no doubt looking for ways to bring the price down a little.

Travelling during the school holidays is never going to be the cheapest option. Last year, research showed that a family of four will pay an additional £716 on average if they travel during a school holiday, and the big six-week holidays in July and August are when prices are hiked the highest.

But according to travel specialists, being a little flexible with your departure dates can make a big difference. Dawn Morwood, co-director of Cheap Deals Away UK, previously shared her insider knowledge: “Most people assume all summer flights are expensive, but there are specific days that offer much better value.”

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She added: “The summer flight market follows predictable patterns. Prices peak during school holidays in late July and early August, but there are pockets of opportunity both earlier and later in the season.”

The priciest days in the summer fall on July 22, 23, and 29, when flights can cost up to 40% more on average. Therefore, if you can avoid these peak dates, you may find your holiday costs less overall. Dawn said: “If your travel dates are flexible, shifting even a day or two could save you a significant amount.”

Parents should double-check the term dates for their child’s school on GOV.UK. Some schools will place inset days in the days leading up to the school holidays, meaning it may be possible to get away a couple of days before the rush when prices rise.

Many parents are keen to get away in the first couple of weeks of the school holidays, but if you have patience, you can often get cheaper deals by booking in the last week of August. Around August 28, flight and package holiday prices tend to take a dive, but if your child isn’t back until September 4 or 5, you may be able to sneak in a few days of sunshine before the autumn term.

If you live close to the Scottish border or are willing to travel to a Scottish airport, you could potentially save money by travelling outside of the country’s summer holidays. Scottish schools break up around June 24-29 and return around mid-August in 2026. Therefore, if you are looking for a break mid to late August, departing from a Scottish airport could be a lot cheaper.

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As an example of how much prices can fluctuate, we looked at prices for a TUI package holiday at Zante Plaza Hotel & Apartments on an all-inclusive basis for a family of four. If they departed London Stansted on July 24, the cost would be £1156pp, but a free child place brings the total down to £3466.

However, if the same party travelled on August 28, returning September 4, the total would be £3076, saving just under £400 on the holiday cost.

For parents who are willing to risk term-time fines, Dawn says: “Early June hits that sweet spot between good weather and good prices.” However, you’d have to take into account the cost of fines, which are applied per parent per child, meaning a family of four can face four lots of penalties.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

Travel expert claims to have found the best time to book holidays in 2026 after analysing pricing data – and it could save you up to 60%

Booking a getaway is thrilling, but when planning our escapes we’re always keen to ensure we’re securing the best deal possible. Nowadays, many holidaymakers turn to online platforms to arrange trips overseas instead of visiting traditional travel agents.

This has afforded travellers greater freedom to make reservations at any hour. Yet an expert has cautioned that prices for identical holidays can fluctuate depending on what time of day you book.

The amount you fork out for your break could hinge entirely on when you hit that booking button.

Travel guru Rob.onthebeach shares his insider tips on social media, and reckons he’s discovered the most economical time to reserve a holiday in 2026.

Rob has scrutinised data daily to pinpoint the cheapest and priciest booking windows, right down to the exact minute, reports the Express.

Based on Rob’s findings, the most costly period to book a holiday falls between 9am and 10am. He elaborated: “Booking in those hours came in 30% more expensive than the cheapest hour of the day”.

Disclosing the most budget-friendly slot, Rob revealed it’s actually in the early hours. The window between 4am and 5am emerged as the optimal time to bag a bargain.

Rob explained: “Overnight, airline pricing systems basically reset. The interest and the demand from the day before all drops off, prices return closer to their base level, then as the day goes on more searches, more clicks, more people just having a look, and prices start to creep back up again.”

The expert conceded that most of us wouldn’t fancy setting our alarms for 4am just to secure a getaway, so he also identified the optimal booking window during reasonable hours.

He discovered that late evening – roughly between 8pm and 10pm – proves “noticeably” more economical than the morning price surge.

Yet if you’re truly after a steal, Rob pinpointed the precise moment that delivered the lowest costs. Rob disclosed: “The cheapest, single minute to book a holiday is 2:48am.

“Booking at that exact moment came out 60% cheaper.”

Despite his research, Rob cautioned that reserving at 2:48am won’t render every single holiday “automatically 60% cheaper”.

He continued: “But the pattern is really clear, if you really want to save money on your holiday, the early hours beat the office hours every time.”