destinations

IF you’re having a night out at Wetherspoons, you can expect to drop around £25 for a bottle of wine.

But skip the bottle next time and you could fly somewhere to a beautiful beach instead – sometimes with some cash to spare.

Of course, a bottle is always cheaper at a supermarket, but sometimes you just want to have a night out with your mates.

But there are lots of flights from the UK this month that are under £25 – so we’ve found 10 of the best which have a beautiful beach as well.

Faro

The Portuguese town is used as a gateway to the Algarve but it has its own amazing beaches too. Try Isla Deserta, home to just one restaurant but beautiful stretches of sand.

EasyJet has flights there for £19.99 when flying from London Southend or London Luton.

GROUNDED

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PLANE EXPLAIN

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Biarritz

On the French basque coast is Biarritz, known for being both a surfing capital and a seaside resort once loved by royals – and nicknamed Paris-on-Sea.

Fly with Ryanair from Edinburgh for £19.99.

Santander

The northern part of Spain shouldn’t be overlooked, not least for its amazing ‘pitxos’ snacks – grab a bunch with some cheap wine to the
El Sardinero beaches for a relaxing afternoon.

Flights are £14.99 this month with Ryanair, and you can fly from both Birmingham and Manchester for the bargain fare.

Alghero

Did you know Italy has its own ‘Little Barcelona? Sardinia’s Alghero is just as beautiful especially with its white sand beaches.

Ryanair flights are £15.99 when flying from London Stansted.

Dubrovnik

The Croatian city of Dubrovnik has more to it than it’s Game of Thrones popularity, in the form of Banje Beach right by the Old Town.

Ryanair flights from London Stansted are £16.99.

Madeira

The Portuguese island of Madeira has some of Europes most beautiful mountains to hike, with some fantastic beaches underneath.

£16.99 flights with Ryanair take off from Manchester this month.

Fuerteventura

When it comes to Spanish islands, Fuerteventura is often overlooked in favour of its neighbours Lanzarote and Gran Canaria.

But fly there with easyJet for £19.99 from Birmingham and make the most of Sotavento Beach.

Beziers

In the south of France, Beziers has four nearby beaches to choose from – Portirangues Plage, Serignan Plage, Valras Plage and Vias Plage.

Flights from London Luton to Béziers Cap d’Agde with Ryanair start from £21.99.

Barcelona

Spain‘s second city is know for its beautiful beach, and now is a great time to go following the latest competition of the Sagrada Familia.

Fly with Ryanair from Edinburgh for 14.99. Or fly with Wizz Air from Luton for around £20.

Newquay

Don’t fancy leaving the UK? Newquay is often compared to the Med and if you don’t fancy getting the train, Ryanair has £14.99 flights from London Stansted.

MAKE convenience the driving force behind your holiday.

There are superb destinations within easy reach of ferry terminals in France and Spain.

Escape to sunnier climes in the car with no pricey flights or fear of flight cancellations.

Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of the five best getaways for families, all within an hour of the ferry terminal.

COMILLAS, SPAIN

DRIVE 40 minutes from the ferry terminal of Santander and you’ll find the rustic town of Comillas, crammed with striking Gaudi architecture and art nouveau buildings that overlook a pristine sandy shore.

It’s not as crowded as some of Spain’s more popular holiday resorts and it’s home to the Oyambre Natural Park which is littered with dramatic cliffs and has a plethora of bird life.

SWISS GRAND TOUR

I went on Europe’s ‘Route 66’ with 46 attractions and beautiful beaches

TEMPTED?

Tiny ‘Bali of Europe’ town with stunning beaches, €3 cocktails and £20 flights

Make sure to try a dish loved by locals, marmitako.

The traditional fisherman’s stew comes loaded with tuna, seafood and veggies and will keep you feeling satisfied for hours.

GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Comillas Hotel in the town is from £439.06pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Plymouth on July 20.

Find out more at brittany-ferries.co.uk.

BOULOGNE-SUR-MER, FRANCE

ACTIVITY-loving families will feel right at home in Boulogne-sur-mer, a 30-minute drive from the French port of Calais and with adventure on its doorstep.

Spend a day at the largest aquarium in Europe, Nausicaá, where you can gawp at over 60,000 creatures including reef sharks, manta rays, sea lions, penguins and giant tortoises — the Echappée Tropicale section is new for this year and is framed around mangroves and lagoons.

Nearby Wissant beach is ideal if you’re travelling with youngsters, thanks to its shallow water pools.

And Boulogne-sur-mer’s glorious old town with its cobbled streets, is a wonderful spot for an afternoon potter.

GO: Two nights’ self-catering at the Evancy apartments is from £60pp based on a family of four sharing.

See evancy.com.

The ferry from Dover to Calais costs from around £200 for a family of four travelling in a small car.

See directferries.com.

BILBAO, SPAIN

IF you’re less into fly-and-flop and more of a city dweller, look no further than the Spanish city of Bilbao.

The city centre is a 20-minute drive from the ferry terminal.

Once you arrive, ditch the car as everything is easily accessible on foot or by tram/metro.

Pintxos, essentially the basque version of tapas, is the theme of most menus here.

This means you can sample as many restaurants as you fancy, tucking into the best of the nibbles — they tend to be very affordable, too.

Little ones will love riding the funicular up to the peak of Mount Artxanda, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city.

Adults, on the other hand, will want to sample a glass of Txakoli, a local wine that’s dry, crisp and pairs perfectly with warm weather.

There’s also a beach if you do want to dip your toes into the sea.

GO: Six nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Euskalduna Hotel is £507.11pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Portsmouth to Bilbao on July 19.

Yiou can book at brittany-ferries.co.uk.

TOUQUET-PARIS-PLAGE, FRANCE

THE coastal resort, less than an hour from Calais, is chic French glamour meets old-world Britain.

Don’t take my word for it, though.

Back in the day, it attracted big names like Winston Churchill, Noel Coward, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Sean Connery used to stroll its shores, and President Macron has been seen there.

You’re also within a short drive of France’s oldest amusement park, Parc Bagatelle, which will soon feature a new adrenaline ride, North Storm.

It is 33 metres high and throws riders around on 360-degree rotations.

On top of thrill rides, there are also shows and a mini animal farm.

GO: Two-storey family rooms at the 4H Le Grand Hotel Le Touquet cost from around £286pp with access to an indoor heated pool, a padel tennis court, games room and bike rental service.

See legrandhotel-letouquet.com/en.

The ferry from Dover to Calais costs from around £200 for a family of four travelling in a small car.

See directferries.com.

COURSEULLES-SUR-MER, FRANCE

A SWIFT 30-minute drive from Caen ferry port in Ouistreham, the sleepy fishing town of Courseulles-sur-Mer feels typically French and sits a little off the beaten tourist track.

Be sure to have a go at sand yachting.

Often described as a mix between go-karting and windsurfing, the sport relies on blustery winds to propel you across the sands in a three-wheeled cart with a sail attached to it.

Juno beach is a great spot to try it.

For adrenaline junkies there’s Parc du Chant des Oiseaux which has slides, climbing nets and a zipline, or for something more gently paced there’s an 18-hole mini golf course.

It’s worth renting a bike and exploring the nearby cycle routes while you’re here, too.

GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 3H La Crémaillère is from £454.85pp, based on four people sharing a one-bedroom duplex and including car ferry from Portsmouth to Caen on July 20.

For details, see brittany-ferries.co.uk.

MAKE convenience the driving force behind your holiday.

There are superb destinations within easy reach of ferry terminals in France and Spain.

Escape to sunnier climes in the car with no pricey flights or fear of flight cancellations.

Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of the five best getaways for families, all within an hour of the ferry terminal.

COMILLAS, SPAIN

DRIVE 40 minutes from the ferry terminal of Santander and you’ll find the rustic town of Comillas, crammed with striking Gaudi architecture and art nouveau buildings that overlook a pristine sandy shore.

It’s not as crowded as some of Spain’s more popular holiday resorts and it’s home to the Oyambre Natural Park which is littered with dramatic cliffs and has a plethora of bird life.

SWISS GRAND TOUR

I went on Europe’s ‘Route 66’ with 46 attractions and beautiful beaches

TEMPTED?

Tiny ‘Bali of Europe’ town with stunning beaches, €3 cocktails and £20 flights

Make sure to try a dish loved by locals, marmitako.

The traditional fisherman’s stew comes loaded with tuna, seafood and veggies and will keep you feeling satisfied for hours.

GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Comillas Hotel in the town is from £439.06pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Plymouth on July 20.

Find out more at brittany-ferries.co.uk.

BOULOGNE-SUR-MER, FRANCE

ACTIVITY-loving families will feel right at home in Boulogne-sur-mer, a 30-minute drive from the French port of Calais and with adventure on its doorstep.

Spend a day at the largest aquarium in Europe, Nausicaá, where you can gawp at over 60,000 creatures including reef sharks, manta rays, sea lions, penguins and giant tortoises — the Echappée Tropicale section is new for this year and is framed around mangroves and lagoons.

Nearby Wissant beach is ideal if you’re travelling with youngsters, thanks to its shallow water pools.

And Boulogne-sur-mer’s glorious old town with its cobbled streets, is a wonderful spot for an afternoon potter.

GO: Two nights’ self-catering at the Evancy apartments is from £60pp based on a family of four sharing.

See evancy.com.

The ferry from Dover to Calais costs from around £200 for a family of four travelling in a small car.

See directferries.com.

BILBAO, SPAIN

IF you’re less into fly-and-flop and more of a city dweller, look no further than the Spanish city of Bilbao.

The city centre is a 20-minute drive from the ferry terminal.

Once you arrive, ditch the car as everything is easily accessible on foot or by tram/metro.

Pintxos, essentially the basque version of tapas, is the theme of most menus here.

This means you can sample as many restaurants as you fancy, tucking into the best of the nibbles — they tend to be very affordable, too.

Little ones will love riding the funicular up to the peak of Mount Artxanda, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city.

Adults, on the other hand, will want to sample a glass of Txakoli, a local wine that’s dry, crisp and pairs perfectly with warm weather.

There’s also a beach if you do want to dip your toes into the sea.

GO: Six nights’ B&B at the 4H Abba Euskalduna Hotel is £507.11pp, based on a family of four sharing a room and including car ferry travel from Portsmouth to Bilbao on July 19.

Yiou can book at brittany-ferries.co.uk.

TOUQUET-PARIS-PLAGE, FRANCE

THE coastal resort, less than an hour from Calais, is chic French glamour meets old-world Britain.

Don’t take my word for it, though.

Back in the day, it attracted big names like Winston Churchill, Noel Coward, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Sean Connery used to stroll its shores, and President Macron has been seen there.

You’re also within a short drive of France’s oldest amusement park, Parc Bagatelle, which will soon feature a new adrenaline ride, North Storm.

It is 33 metres high and throws riders around on 360-degree rotations.

On top of thrill rides, there are also shows and a mini animal farm.

GO: Two-storey family rooms at the 4H Le Grand Hotel Le Touquet cost from around £286pp with access to an indoor heated pool, a padel tennis court, games room and bike rental service.

See legrandhotel-letouquet.com/en.

The ferry from Dover to Calais costs from around £200 for a family of four travelling in a small car.

See directferries.com.

COURSEULLES-SUR-MER, FRANCE

A SWIFT 30-minute drive from Caen ferry port in Ouistreham, the sleepy fishing town of Courseulles-sur-Mer feels typically French and sits a little off the beaten tourist track.

Be sure to have a go at sand yachting.

Often described as a mix between go-karting and windsurfing, the sport relies on blustery winds to propel you across the sands in a three-wheeled cart with a sail attached to it.

Juno beach is a great spot to try it.

For adrenaline junkies there’s Parc du Chant des Oiseaux which has slides, climbing nets and a zipline, or for something more gently paced there’s an 18-hole mini golf course.

It’s worth renting a bike and exploring the nearby cycle routes while you’re here, too.

GO: Five nights’ B&B at the 3H La Crémaillère is from £454.85pp, based on four people sharing a one-bedroom duplex and including car ferry from Portsmouth to Caen on July 20.

For details, see brittany-ferries.co.uk.

TEN of the best places to go this summer have been revealed – if you want to avoid the big crowds.

A new study conducted by Skyscanner has looked at summer search data to find places with lower search interest, which will mean finding the lesser known areas to visit.

In the Smarter Summer report, Turku came out on top when it came to being an under-the-radar destination.

The Finnish city is the oldest in the country, and even used to be the capital.

Known as the gateway to the 40,000-island Finnish archipelago (said to be the world’s largest archipelago, the other main attraction is the 13th century Turku Castle.

Flights are as little as £80 return, although Brits will have to change in airports like Gdansk or Helsinki.

Read more on trending spots

TOP TIER

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PINT-SIZED

My favourite up-and-coming EU country has £2.60 pints and summer highs of 30C

After Turku was Thunder Bay in Canada, home to a huge rock formation on lake Superior called the Sleeping Giant.

Average flights here are £305 return, with a change in Toronto.

Also listed was the pretty seaside city of Crotone in Italy, once a Greek colony that was the home of Pythagoras.

Ryanair fly to Crotone but there are no direct flights – Brits will have to change in Milan or Bologna.

This does keep flights cheap thought – Skyscanner found they had the cheapest average price of around £62 retun.

Three islands in Greece made the top list, including Kalymnos which is known for both its rock climbing and diving.

Ferries run from Kos, Rhodes and Athens.

There is also Ioannina, a small inhabited island in the middle of a lake with a historic Byzantine fortresses

Being so secluded, one of the easiest ways to get there is a three-hour bus from Thessaloniki.

And finally there is Astypalaia, a butterfly-shaped island home to a Venetian castle as well as the eight red-roofed Chora windmills.

The island has direct flights from Athens, with its own small airport.

Pico in Portugal, along with Kiruna (Sweden), Clermont Ferrand (France) and Cordoba (Argentina) also made the list as well.

Laura Lindsay, Skyscanner Travel Expert, said: “This year’s Smarter Summer Report is designed to help people make more confident choices on when and where to travel, using Skyscanner’s proprietary data to highlight smarter timings, better-value options and alternative destinations.

“In a more changeable travel environment, checking live prices and staying flexible on where and when you travel can go a long way when it comes to finding better value.”

“More importantly, travellers should stay informed and check the latest travel advice before booking.”

The study also found the cheapest day week to travel on average was, surprisingly, July 7 – just before the school holidays.

And the cheapest day of the week was just as surprising, with Saturday being the most affordable.

They also named some of the cheapest destination to fly to on average this year, which include:

• Dortmund, Germany (£72)
• Cork, Ireland (£83)
• Luxembourg (£86)
• Castellon de la Plana, Spain (£89)
• Baden-Baden, Germany (£89)
• Eindhoven, Netherlands (£94)

Turin in Italy was £102 on average, followed by Cologne (£114), Jersey (£123), and Trapani (£125).

Here are our top bucket list holidays you should go on this year.

And these are some 2026 travel hacks to save you money this year.

One travel influencer has suggested three places in the UK which people should consider visiting instead of more popular destinations. “It’s not about skipping any of them… just travelling a little differently,” she said

The UK is full of incredible places to visit, from historic sites dating back thousands of years, to bustling towns and cities. Whether you want to spend some time in the countryside or on a beach, or if shopping in high-end boutiques and eating in Michelin-star restaurants is more your speed, we’ve got it all.

There are plenty of places in the UK which are famous across the world as destinations for tourists, from the ancient mystery of Stonehenge and the historic streets of Edinburgh, to the spectacular countryside of the Cotswolds and the iconic Big Ben. But what if you want something a bit more off the beaten path?

One travel influencer has suggested three places in the UK which people should consider visiting instead of the more popular destinations. Apryl, who has 47,000 followers on Instagram and regularly shares tips for travel in the UK, shared the advice on social media. Writing in the first slide of the post, Apryl said: “Three places everyone plans in England but I wouldn’t… where I’d go instead.”

Writing in the caption, she said: “Everyone goes to the icons, and you probably should too. But if you’ve already done them, or want something a little less crowded, here’s what I’d add to your England itinerary.” She added: “It’s not about skipping any of them… just travelling a little differently.”

Ely instead of Oxford

Firstly, she said people planning to visit Oxford should instead consider the Cambridgeshire city of Ely. She said: “Fewer crowds, cathedral views, medieval streets.”

Nestled in the Cambridgeshire countryside, the city’s most iconic feature is the spectacular Ely Cathedral, with its incredible octagonal tower. Tourism site Visit Ely describes it as “the destination city with something for everyone”.

It said: “From the monastic buildings of the city past, the vibrant food scene and the scenic majesty of the Riverside, Ely packs a great deal into a pocket city. With Ely Cathedral, independent shops around the city centre, places to relax and replenish both body and mind, there has never been a better time to enjoy this quintessentially English jewel in the heart of East Cambridgeshire. “

Hastings Old Town instead of Brighton Pier

Next, Apryl said people planning a visit to Brighton Pier should instead consider travelling 36 miles east to Hastings Old Town in East Sussex. Apryl said: “Fishing huts, antique shops, and a slower seaside.”

Hastings Old Town is famous for its 19th-century Net Shops, tall, black wooden sheds originally built to provide weatherproof storage for fishing gear. Today the huts are Grade II-listed, while one serves as a free museum.

The area itself comprises the part of the town of Hastings which existed before the 19th century. Today it is the easternmost valley of the current town.

Chester instead of York

Apryl’s final tip was directed at people planning a trip to the historic city of York. She said people should instead visit Chester in Cheshire. She said: “Timbered streets, Roman walls, and fewer crowds.”

Steeped in history, Chester has the most complete city walls and the largest Roman Amphitheatre in the UK, as well as a 10th century cathedral. Chester Zoo is also home to 35,000 animals, and is reportedly the most-visited attraction in the UK outside London.

Visit Cheshire said: “Visit Chester, for its bewitching beauty and unique atmosphere which make it one of Britain’s most popular places for an unforgettable short break. The ancient city is a breath-taking experience with each chapter of Chester’s history etched into the very fabric of the city. Walk where Roman Legionnaires marched to war, Viking raiders wreaked havoc and Norman invaders conquered Anglo Saxons.”

Concluding, Apryl clarified she wasn’t suggesting people shouldn’t visit Oxford, Brighton, or York, but that they should consider other lesser-known destinations too. “Don’t cancel your trip… just try these too,” she said.

IF you’re tired of battling the crowds – and the soaring prices – of Europe’s busiest tourist spots, it’s time to rewrite your travel bucket list.

That’s where our travel experts come in. We’ve spoken to a range of holiday experts, from seasoned Travel Editors to Travel Supermarket pros, who have revealed their favourite lesser-known holiday destinations.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @TheSunTravel

These are underrated spots where you can visit beautiful remote beaches, wander historic cobbled streets, or dine at authentic restaurants without the dreaded “tourist tax”.

From Amalfi Coast breaks that are actually affordable, to Spanish destinations where you can fly and flop for under £200 – here’s our travel experts’ underrated favourites.

*Price were correct at time of publication

Casablanca, Morocco

Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

While I love the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, Casablanca is just as beautiful… and much cheaper.

The cost savings are huge, according to Kayak. The average hotel room price in Marrakech is £298 per night, while Casablanca is just £140.

Even if you want to splurge, you could pay £421 to stay at the five-star Four Seasons Casablanca.

Visit the five-star La Mamounia in Marrakech on the same day, and you’re splashing out more than £1,000.

When there, you can still haggle for a bargain at the medinas, just with far fewer crowds than in Marrakech.

The Hassan II Mosque shouldn’t be missed either – it’s one of the biggest in the world.

Cheap street food is easy to find, with ‘Sfenj’ doughnuts costing less than 50p.

Make sure to visit Rick’s Cafe too, based on the 1942 classic movie. Here’s looking at you, kid.

Tignabruaich, Scotland

Heather Lowrie, Travel Editor at The Scottish Sun

Tighnabruaich on the The Cowal Peninsula offers stunning coastal views, including the Kyles of Bute – that and the utter quietness are just some of the reasons to go.

The Waverley, the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world, offers sailings through the Kyles from Tighnabruaich in spring, summer and autumn.

Kilbride Bay is a beautiful sandy beach with wide open views and clear waters. You could go beachcombing, swim or just let the kids go wild. And best of all, it’s free.

You can also go wildlife watching, which includes spotting seals and dolphins, and head to Caladh Lighthouse, and the ruins of Asgog Castle and explore – all for free.

There’s also lots of cheap things to do. Head to the Benmore Botanic Gardens just over 30 minutes drive away, and gaze at its 160-year-old giant redwoods and exotic blooms (£10.80 per adult, kids go free). Or visit Caol Ruadh Sculpture Park, an 18-acre outdoor art gallery (£5 per adult, kids go free).

There’s also plenty of sailing and watersports opportunities, lovely restaurants and quiet places to stay without the price tag of bigger, more well-known Scottish tourist spots like St Andrews and Edinburgh.

Cefalu, Italy

Lisa Minot, Head of Travel

The charming Sicilian beach town of Cefalu is a great value alternative to the glitzy towns of the Italian Riviera or Amalfi Coast.

It has the same Italian aesthetic – think cobbled streets, medieval architecture and dramatic cliffs – without the ‘luxury tax’ found on the mainland.

I had a superb burrata salad at Porta Ossuna restaurant right on the seafront in Cefalu for just £10 – washed down with a £3 glass of rose.

My husband was delighted with his foaming beer – a large one cost just £4.

Accommodation is also cheaper with a 4* hotel in Cefalu priced around £115 per night, compared to similar in Sorrento setting you back around £260 a night.

It’s also a great, compact city to explore with the walk from the Norman cathedral to the beachfront taking just ten minutes.

The hike up to La Rocca costs only a few euros and provides panoramic views that rival those of the expensive clifftop terraces of the Riviera.

Efteling, the Netherlands

Helen Wright, Travel Writer

One of Europe‘s best-kept secrets is Efteling Theme Park in the Netherlands.

With lots of families planning to visit Disneyland Paris in France, Efteling is largely overlooked. 

However, at only £35 to get in, this theme park is fantastic value and has so many fantastic rides for families.

There are white-knuckle rollercoasters and attractions for all ages. Plus, the lines are usually manageable, meaning no need to pay extra for fast passes to jump to the front of the queue. 

Efteling has been open for over 70 years and still has areas preserved as it was when it opened, including a forest trail mapping out classic fairy tales like Red Riding Hood. Princess and the Pea and The Little Mermaid. 

Food and drink tends to come in cheaper than at Disneyland too, don’t miss the classic Stroopwafel for only £3.50, which goes perfectly with a coffee as the kids play. 

There are two hotels at Efteling, with rooms starting from £220 per night, including theme park access for the whole family.

It’s easy to get to by car (parking is £12 a day) or you can travel by Eurostar to Amsterdam and hop on the local train directly to the theme park. Allow for at least 2 days at the parks because there is so much to do.

Albanian Riviera

Rob Brooks, Holiday Expert

If you’ve ever looked at the Greek islands or the Amalfi Coast and thought it looks amazing, but you’re not up for paying the price, this is where you go instead.

The Albanian Riviera – especially around Sarandë and Ksamil – has that same crystal-clear water, white beaches and relaxed beach club feel, just without the crowds or the price tag.

It genuinely feels like Greece and southern Italy combined, but way earlier in its tourism story.

What I love about it is how unspoilt it still feels. You’ve got small beach bars, simple but brilliant restaurants, and loads of coastline that hasn’t been overbuilt yet.

And the value is ridiculous once you’re there. You can sit down for fresh seafood, drinks and a proper meal for under £15, and you’ll still find pints for around 250 Lek, or about £2.30, in most places.

The deal I found is for Hotel Vola in Sarande, flying direct from London Luton in May.

It’s coming in at £175pp for five nights, bed and breakfast, so you’ve got a base with a sea view and pool, then loads of freedom to eat and drink out for next to nothing.

Hua Hin, Thailand

Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Most beach-seeking travellers in Thailand will make a beeline for the island of Phuket.

But I’d always opt for the less commercial and far more affordable Hua Hin over this.

Not only is the coastal town relatively crowd-free, you can stay in some pretty high-end hotels with stylish rooms that cost a fraction of the price they would at sister resorts elsewhere in the world.

You’ve got everything you’d want from a typical getaway in Thailand: excellent night markets where you can pick up budget fashion pieces, quality restaurants dishing up traditional grub in fuss-free settings, and sun-drenched sands overlooking an endless ocean.

It’s also under three hours from Bangkok, so makes for a great twin-centre beach and city break.

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Jacob Lewis, Guest Travel Expert at TravelSupermarket

Swap Tenerife for this cheaper Canary with better beaches.

When most Brits think Canary Islands, they go straight to Tenerife, Lanzarote or Gran Canaria – and prices reflect it. But there’s a cheaper alternative hiding in plain sight.

Based on TravelSupermarket searches between 1 January and 12 April 2026, holidays to Fuerteventura average around £622pp – compared to £702pp for Tenerife, £667pp for Lanzarote and £776pp for Gran Canaria. That’s a saving of up to £154pp. And you’re not exactly slumming it.

Fuerteventura is the second-largest Canary Island and has arguably the best beaches in the archipelago – huge sweeps of pale sand that feel closer to the Caribbean than Spain.

It’s also quieter and more stripped-back than its neighbours, with fewer mega-resorts and a slower pace overall.

Corralejo in the north is the liveliest base, with plenty of bars and restaurants, while the Jandía peninsula in the south is calmer, with more space and smarter hotels.

The island is also a magnet for windsurfers and kitesurfers, with reliable conditions year-round at spots like Flag Beach.

Weather-wise, it’s one of the safest bets in Europe. Fuerteventura is one of the Canary Islands closest to Africa, and its flat landscape means it’s generally drier and sunnier than the more mountainous islands. Even in midwinter, average high temperatures hover around 20°C.

Food is simple but good – expect plenty of fresh fish and local goat’s cheese – and all-inclusive deals tend to be well-priced across the island.

Flights take around four hours from the UK, just like the bigger-name islands.

The difference is you’ll often pay less – and get a more relaxed version of the Canaries.

Faro, Portugal

Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

The city of Faro is often used as the gateway to the rest of the Algarve, but I’m fighting its case as a holiday destination in its own right.

Sure, it has far fewer hotels than the rest of the Portuguese coastline, but it is just as affordable.

For example, pay a few euros and you’ll find yourself on one of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa islands, which feel like you paid to have it all to yourself.

Try Ilha Deserta, home to just one restaurant and nothing else, to feel like Robinson Crusoe discovering new lands.

Otherwise stay on the mainland and hop in some of the beachfront bars where pints of beer are easily found under two euros.

Costa de la Luz, Spain

Rob Brooks, Holiday Expert

If you like Marbella or Malaga, but not the prices or how busy it gets, this is the upgrade most people don’t know about.

Down on the Costa de la Luz, around Cádiz and Costa Ballena, you get the same golden beaches, proper Spanish food and hot weather – just with a much calmer, more local feel.

This is where Spanish holidaymakers go, which is usually a very good sign.

The big difference is space. The beaches here are huge, sandy, and never rammed.

You’ve still got beach bars and restaurants dotted along the coast, but without the ‘popular-location tax’ you get further along in the Costa del Sol.

And it’s properly affordable once you’re there. A beer will set you back about €2 (the cheapest I found here was just €1.30) and you can still find really good tapas and fresh seafood dinners for €10-15 a head if you go local.

The deal I found is for the Alegria Costa Ballena AquaFUN Hotel, flying from London Stansted in May for £195pp. It’s a solid, well-rated hotel with big pools and a waterpark on site – so you’ve got loads going on without needing to spend loads once you’re there.

Patmos, Greece

Lisa Minot, Head of Travel

With their labyrinthine white-washed cobbled alleys and blue domes, Mykonos and Santorini are the classic Greek island experiences but their popularity means prices have soared.

Pretty Patmos is a fantastic alternative. The UNESCO World Heritage site offers a quieter, arguably more authentic version with boutique-filled streets and stunning hilltop views of the Aegean.

A sunset cocktail could set you back up to £25 in Santorini – but you can find the same chic venues and prices half of that in Patmos’ Chora.

Mykonos beach clubs sell sunbeds at £130 a day but you can have the same sand between your toes experience facing stunning turquoise waters at Patmos’ Grikos Beach for pennies.

And when it comes to food, the tavernas on Patmos are more than capable of giving those big chef restaurants of Mykonos and Santorini a run for their money.

Fish is still a highlight but a high-end, fancy dinner for two on Patmos with wine will set you back £100 as opposed to nearly £250 on the trendy islands.

Isle of Whithorn, Scotland

Heather Lowrie, Travel Editor at The Scottish Sun

One of the most southerly Scottish villages, this is a fabulous place to escape the crowds but still with plenty to occupy your time – most of it free!

Visit St Nina’s sea-side cave, said to be the hideaway of the early Christian saint.

As one of Scotland’s earliest Christian sites, it brought travellers, traders, pilgrims and royalty to Whithorn for more than 1,000 years.

Ten crosses are cut into the cave wall, and the 18 early Christian carved stones found inside are at Whithorn Priory and Museum.

The Latinus Stone – Scotland’s earliest Christian monument is also housed here. Entry is just £7.50 for adults and children 4-15 are £4.50.

There are three tall standing stones at nearby Drumtroddan, dating to the second or third millennium BC which are part of a unique prehistoric landscape, including the nearby Drumtroddan Cup and Ring Marked Rocks. All free.

Take the Isle of Whithorn Loop, to the Priory, stopping at the iron age roundhouse and finish with coffee and cake at the lovely community cafe and shop and bed down at the Steampacket Inn to explore nearby towns and villages like Garlieston, Sorbie and Monreith.

Salerno, Italy

Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Sipping Aperol spritz from a cliffside restaurant on Italy’s rugged Amalfi Coast should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Don’t waste your cash staying there, though. The charming town of Salerno sits just a short (around 30 minutes or so) and cheap ferry ride away – and you can save yourself hundreds by staying here instead.

When you’re not daytripping to Positano, explore Salerno’s cobbled side alleys, teeming with pokey restaurants where nonnas are cooking up huge portions of fried fish and pasta from family recipe books.

Sopot, Poland

Helen Wright, Travel Writer

If you are looking for a wide, golden sand beach, lined with beach bars and cafes, a busy promenade and a seaside destination with a lot of character, consider Sopot in Poland. 

This beach town is less than half hour from the nearest city, Gdansk. Flights direct to Gdansk from the UK start from £12 each way on Ryanair and it’s an easy (and cheap) train ride to get to the coast.

Hotels start from £40 per night for two people, so it’s ideal for those on a budget.

The coastline is so stunning, you could be forgiven for thinking you ‘re on the beach in Italy or the South of France but for the bargain prices everywhere.

Beautiful, historic buildings sit along the coastal road, including the Sofitel Grand Hotel, which looks like the setting of an Agatha Christie thriller.

The beach is huge and, although popular in the summer months, never feels crowded. The sea here is calm and ideal for a paddle or swim – although the water can be on the chilly side.

At beach cafes along the front, you can grab a cold beer for £2 and cocktails for £5.

Prosto, a pizzeria with a beautiful garden and outdoor seating is just steps from the beach. Here, a huge pizza will only set you back £10 and is definitely enough for two adults to share. 

You can lay down a blanket and spend the whole day basking in the sun, or take position in one of the fancy beach clubs, which have Ibiza vibes but start from £10 per day for a comfy sunbed and umbrella. 

Kefalonia, Greece

Jacob Lewis, Guest Travel Expert at TravelSupermarket

Swap Skiathos for this Greek island that’s £370 cheaper.

Skiathos might be one of Greece’s best-loved islands – but you’ll pay for it.

TravelSupermarket data shows average prices at around £955pp. That’s nearly £370 more than Kefalonia, which comes in closer to £588pp. For families, that’s a serious saving.

Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands – and one of the most dramatic. Think steep limestone mountains, dense forests and electric-blue bays, including Myrtos, regularly ranked among Europe’s best beaches.

It shot to global fame thanks to Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, but it’s long been a favourite with travellers who want something a bit less built-up.

That’s partly down to stricter planning rules, which have limited large-scale development and kept much of the island feeling low-key. You’ll find more small hotels, villas and apartments than huge resort blocks.

Argostoli, the capital, feels more like a proper Greek town than a purpose-built resort – with a lively waterfront, good tavernas and a laid-back atmosphere.

Up north, Fiskardo is one of the prettiest harbour villages in Greece. It survived the 1953 earthquake that flattened much of the island, so its Venetian buildings are still intact – and it’s easily worth a day trip.

You still get the same essentials as Skiathos – clear, warm water, great beaches and reliable sunshine – just spread across a bigger, less crowded island. Flights from the UK take around three hours, so there’s no extra hassle.

It’s one of the best-value destinations in Greece right now.

From popular beach resorts to bustling European cities, language experts reveal the holiday destinations that British tourists commonly mispronounce — plus how to say them correctly

Brits are passionate about their overseas holidays. One advantage of living in the UK is having Europe right on our doorstep – yet many people may be completely unaware of how to pronounce their chosen destination correctly.

Linguistic specialists at the learning app Preply have compiled a list of locations Brits most frequently mispronounce. If you’re arranging a trip to any of these spots, verify your pronunciation using Preply’s handy guide (below). Mastering the correct pronunciation of your dream destination could help you avoid embarrassment while you’re there, reports the Express.

Cannes, France

The pronunciation of this glamorous French resort continues to catch people out. Many Brits naturally pronounce the final “s” or insert an additional syllable, but it’s actually a quick single syllable “kan”.

Phuket, Thailand

This stunning island getaway is incredibly popular among British holidaymakers but remains consistently mispronounced. The spelling can be deceptive, but the proper pronunciation is much simpler, beginning with a soft “p” to create “poo-ket”.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Renowned for its pastel-coloured buildings and picturesque harbours, this beautiful Italian coastal stretch welcomes millions of visitors annually, and countless people are getting it wrong.

Don’t rely on English pronunciation rules; instead, follow Italian conventions, starting with “cheen-kweh” and finishing with a rolled “teh-rreh”.

Kraków, Poland

This Polish city is regularly mispronounced. The main error is overemphasising the “ow” ending, when it ought to be a gentler “kov”.

Ibiza, Spain

It may be among the UK’s most beloved party destinations, but that hasn’t protected it from mispronunciation. Numerous people continue to overpronounce the “z” when it should actually be a gentle “th” sound.

Lagos, Portugal

This Algarve holiday favourite is frequently mispronounced by visitors. English speakers tend to pronounce it phonetically, whereas in Portuguese, the ending features a gentler “sh” sound, creating “lah-gosh”.

Budapest, Hungary

Common mispronunciation: “Buda-pest”

Hungary’s capital presents difficulties due to its misleading spelling. The proper pronunciation replaces the hard “pest” with a gentler “pesht”.

Barcelona, Spain

Despite Barcelona being an exceptionally popular tourist destination, many continue to anglicise the name. In Spanish, the “c” is pronounced “th”.

Marylebone, London

Despite being on British home turf, many people still struggle to pronounce certain locations. Marylebone is among these places. Instead of pronouncing it phonetically, it’s shortened to “Mar-li-bone”.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Scotland’s capital represents a classic stumbling block for tourists, who frequently over-enunciate every letter while attempting to get it correct. In practice, locals adopt a considerably more casual approach, dropping the ending completely and keeping it brief and low-key: “Edin-bruh.”

EasyJet, has launched nine new routes to some major holiday hotspots that will take off this year from airports across the UK – and some fares are incredible affordable

EasyJet has launched nine new routes from airports across the UK, and fares start from as little as £24.

In an exciting update for holidaymakers, easyJet is introducing new flights to the Canary Islands, Egypt, France, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Poland and Slovenia. The new routes will launch in winter this year, and will see easyJet be the only airline to offer some of these holiday hotspots from three UK airports.

The new routes and package holidays released by easyJet are:

• Birmingham to Agadir
• Belfast International to Rome and Sharm El Sheikh
• London Luton Airport to Ljubljana
• London Southend Airport to Budapest
• Newcastle to Fuerteventura, Reykjavik, and Krakow
• Southampton to Paris

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In an exciting update for Birmingham, the route to Agadir, the coastal resort city in Morocco, will start on 27 October, 2026. They will depart twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and are ideal for those looking for a sun-soaked getaway in one of their sprawling resorts dotted along the sand beaches with crystal clear turquoise waters.

The flights from Belfast International to Sharm El Sheikh and Rome will launch on 25 and 26 October, respectively. The Sharm El Sheikh service will fly twice a week on Wednesdays and Sundays, while the Rome service will depart twice a week on Mondays and Fridays.

The route from London Luton to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, will start on 26 October and depart three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Ljubljana offers a largely pedestrianised area in Slovenia’s largest city, with a scenic river, the iconic Dragon Bridge, vibrant café culture and striking architecture.

Meanwhile, flights from London Southend to Budapest will also begin on 26 October, departing twice a week on Mondays and Fridays. This is a welcome connection for Essex and London residents who want to easily explore the ‘city of spas’ situated on the stunning Danube riverfront, alongside its famed ruin bars.

Expanding its Newcastle links even further, the flights to Fuerteventura, Reykjavik, and Krakow will start their departures on 25, 26, and 27 October, respectively. The route to Fuerteventura will depart twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays, the Krakow route will depart twice a week on Mondays and Fridays, and the Reykjavik flights will depart twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Elsewhere, the new route from Southampton to Paris Charles de Gaulle will start on 25 October, and will operate twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays. This is ideal for those looking for a romantic weekend escape in the city of love, or to simply explore its iconic landmarks.

Following the launch of its new mega routes, offering fares from £23.99, easyJet will be the only airline operating from Belfast International to Sharm El Sheikh, and the only airline offering a regular route from Belfast International to Rome. Additionally, the budget-friendly airline will be the only air service connecting London Southend to Budapest and London Luton to Ljubljana.

Holiday packages are available with easyJet to all of these new destinations, including flights and hotels, plus 23kg luggage and transfers. The airline noted that all holidays can be booked with a deposit of just £60 per person, making it even more convenient for Brits to book their winter escape.

Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, said: “We are excited to be launching nine new routes and packages from across the UK for this winter, providing customers with even more choice and connectivity. Whether they’re looking for winter sun, or a weekend away in some of Europe’s most iconic capitals, this new batch of routes further expands the range of exciting destinations available for our customers to choose from at affordable prices.”

For more information or to book your next getaway, visit the easyJet website.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

BRITS will soon be able to bag a bargain as easyJet is launching new flights to a sunny African destination for less than £37.

The budget airline will launch new flights to Morocco from the UK this winter.

The routes will include one from Newcastle to Marrakech starting November 3 and operating two times a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

The flights for this route are already on sale and cost from £36.99.

And then there will also be a new route between Birmingham and Agadir, with flights coming on sale this spring.

In the meantime though, the two destinations will reach temperatures of up to 36C this week.

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Flights to Marrakech cost as little as £19 per way for the remainder of April, and for Agadir, flights cost as little as £15 per way for the remainder of April.

What to do there

Marrakech is known as the ‘Red City’ thanks to its iron-rich coloured buildings and is home to bustling souks and palaces.

For example, you could head to Bahia Palace, which is a 19th-century building with 160 rooms and beautiful mosaics.

Make sure to see the courtyard which spans across 1,500-square-metres and is paved with Italian Carrara marble.

Jemaa el-Fnaa is then the main square in the city and during the day boasts a market.

From the square, you can also venture to Souk Cherratine known for leather goods and Souk Haddadine, home to a number of blacksmiths.

If you fancy a bit of an adventure, head to Agafay Desert which is about 45 minutes away.

It is a top spot for seeing an orange-glowing sunset and going on quad-biking adventures.

When visiting the city, make sure to stay in a riad, which is a traditional courtyard house that has been converted into a boutique hotel in Morocco.

Lisa Minot, The Sun’s Head of Travel, has visited the city and said: “Tourism is booming in the city and while the streets are as colourful and chaotic as ever, the influx of visitors has brought some gorgeous new bars, restaurants and stunning hotels.”

Marrakech will reach temperatures of up to 35C next week.

On the other hand, if you fancy visiting Agadir, you can explore a six-mile beach.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey said: “At Taghazout Beach, hordes of eager surfers took to the sea before I’d even finished my morning coffee.

“As a novice surfer, I opted to watch those riding the waves, while my companion made friends with the stray dogs and hawkers selling Moroccan breads.”

After a stroll along the beach, make sure to visit Souk El Had, which is one of North Africa’s largest markets with over 6,000 stalls.

And over at the Medina, you will find a number of artisan workshops selling traditional Moroccan items including colourful carpets and pottery.

Last month the destination was named the most affordable break for this summer.

According to loveholidays, a week in Agadir would cost as little as £33 per person per night between June and August.

Agadir will reach temperatures of up to 36C next week.

Easyjet will also offer package holidays to both destinations from both UK airports too.

News of the new routes comes as the airline officially launched a new permanent three-aircraft base in Marrakech this week.

It marks the airline’s first-ever base in Africa and has created 100 new jobs.

Kenton Jarvis, CEO of easyJet, commented: “We couldn’t be happier to launch our base in Morocco for our 20th year of operations in the country and to mark the milestone of 20 million passengers flown over that time.

“This is a milestone for our development in the region, providing more travel opportunities than ever before for our airline and holidays customers, while contributing to the local economy through tourism and the jobs we are creating.”

In other destination news, these are the most family-friendly destinations for 2026 – including affordable hotels with rooftop pools and kids’ clubs.

Plus, here are the seven holiday destinations Brits are booking instead of other spots due to ongoing Iran conflict.