Holiday tips tricks and hacks

WHEN people ask me about city breaks, the question they ask has changed over the years.

It used to be about nightlife, food scenes or ticking off landmarks.

Now, more often than not, it’s parents asking a much more practical version of the same thing. Where is a good place to go with kids?

I’m Rob. I work in travel, I look at holiday pricing and trends every day, and I’ve stayed in more hotels than I can count.

I’m also 32, with a two-year-old and an eight-month-old. That combination has completely reshaped how I think about city breaks.

For me, the right family city break is about timing as much as place.

Sensible weather. Walkable centres. Enough going on without it feeling overwhelming. Somewhere forgiving if the day doesn’t go to plan.

This is my month-by-month guide to where I’d go on a city break with kids, based on value, weather, popularity and what’s actually on.

They’re all places I’d genuinely feel comfortable taking my own family.

January – Budapest, Hungary

January is a month where calm matters. After Christmas, families tend to want somewhere affordable, predictable and easy to manage, and Budapest fits that bill perfectly.

It is cold, usually around 3 to 5C, but that brings real advantages.

The city is quiet, hotel prices drop significantly, and the city moves at a slower pace. That makes it far less stressful with buggies and tired legs.

Budapest is compact, flat and well-connected by trams, which makes getting around simple.

Indoor attractions like cafés and historic bathhouses give you plenty of warm places to dip into throughout the day.

I’ve found January breaks from around £114pp for a family of four, which is exceptional value for a European capital.

February – Venice, Italy

February works for families because it offers spectacle without the chaos you get later in the year.

Venice Carnival brings colour, parades and street performers, particularly during the daytime when it feels surprisingly family-friendly.

Children get the magic of masks and costumes, while parents avoid the summer (and summer prices).

Temperatures hover around 7 to 9C, which keeps days comfortable for walking.

Vaporetto boats also turn everyday transport into part of the experience, which is always a win with younger travellers.

I’ve found February stays from around £130pp for a family of four, especially when staying just outside the historic centre.

March – Amsterdam, Netherlands

March is one of the most reliable months for a family city break, and Amsterdam is one of the easiest cities to do with children.

The weather sits around 10 to 12C, the city starts to feel brighter, and peak tourism is still a few weeks away.

It is flat, organised and designed for everyday life, which makes navigating it with kids feel intuitive rather than stressful.

March is also when parks, canal walks and museums like NEMO Science Museum really come into their own, giving you options that work whether the day is high energy or low key.

I’ve found March breaks from around £140pp for a family of four, before spring demand pushes prices up.

April – Athens, Greece

April is a sweet spot for Athens, especially for families who want warmth without exhaustion.

Temperatures typically range between 18 and 22C, which makes sightseeing genuinely enjoyable.

You can explore historic sites without battling summer heat or shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, and there is more space to take things at a slower pace.

Easter often falls in April, bringing local celebrations, food and atmosphere that make the city feel lived in rather than purely touristic.

It is a good month for mixing big sights with relaxed neighbourhood wandering.

I’ve found April city breaks from around £140pp for a family of four, which is strong value for such a bucket list destination.

May – Istanbul, Turkey

May works brilliantly for families because Istanbul becomes warm and lively without tipping into intense heat.

Temperatures sit around 22C to 25C, which is comfortable for walking, ferry rides and outdoor meals.

The city naturally breaks days into short, varied experiences, which is ideal with children. A boat ride, a park stop, some street food, then a rest.

Public transport is efficient, parks like Gülhane provide breathing space, and the sheer variety of sights keeps everyone engaged without needing a rigid plan.

I’ve found May breaks from around £130pp for a family of four, making it one of the best-value big cities in Europe at that time of year.

June – Stockholm, Sweden

June is when Stockholm really makes sense for families.

Long daylight hours, mild temperatures around 18 to 22C, and a strong outdoor culture mean days feel relaxed rather than rushed.

Parks, islands and waterfront walks are everywhere, and ferries turn getting around into part of the fun.

The city feels calm, clean and safe, with lots of space to pause when needed. Museums are interactive, and many attractions are designed with families in mind.

I’ve found June breaks from around £147pp for a family of four, which is good value considering how expensive Stockholm can be later in the summer.

July – Krakow, Poland

July is peak summer, but Krakow works for families because it combines warmth with value and a very manageable city layout.

Temperatures can reach 25 to 30°C, but the city centre is compact and full of shaded squares where you can slow things down when needed.

Summer festivals and outdoor cafés give the city energy without it feeling overwhelming, and everything is close enough that you are never committing to long days out.

Food prices are low, accommodation is good value, and it is an easy city to dip in and out of at your own pace.

I’ve found July breaks from around £144pp for a family of four, which is strong value for a European city in the heart of the school holidays.

August – Edinburgh, UK

August is Edinburgh at full tilt, but it is one of the rare cities where busyness actually works for families.

The Fringe Festival fills the city with daytime street performers, pop-up shows and family-friendly entertainment that you can stumble across without planning ahead.

That makes it ideal if you want flexibility rather than rigid itineraries.

Temperatures usually sit between 18 and 21C, which is perfect for walking without fatigue, and green spaces are never far away if you need a break.

I’ve found August flight and hotel breaks from around £217pp for a family of four. You could do it cheaper with hotel-only and driving or getting the train, but flights are often so reasonably priced that it still makes sense to fly.

September – Munich, Germany

September is a great time to visit Munich with kids.

Early autumn brings warm but comfortable days around 18 to 22C, and the city feels open and easy to navigate.

Oktoberfest adds colour and atmosphere during the day, with fairground rides and music that children enjoy, while the rest of the city remains calm and spacious.

It is easy to sample the buzz without being consumed by it, which is exactly what families need.

I’ve found September breaks from around £180pp for a family of four, particularly when travelling outside the busiest Oktoberfest weekends.

October – Seville

October is the month Seville really starts to shine for families.

The extreme summer heat has gone, leaving warm, comfortable days that suit walking and exploring.

Crowds thin out significantly, which makes the city feel calmer and easier to enjoy with children.

Public squares, parks and shaded streets give you natural places to pause, and the pace of life slows after peak season.

I’ve found October breaks from around £204pp for a family of four, which is good value for southern Spain at its most comfortable.

November – Naples, Italy

November is ideal for families who want a more relaxed, authentic city break.

Temperatures stay mild, usually between 15 and 18C, and tourist numbers drop sharply. That brings better prices and a much more local feel, with everyday life taking centre stage.

Naples is lively and unapologetically real, which many children find fascinating.

Simple pleasures like waterfront walks and excellent, inexpensive food carry the experience.

I’ve found November breaks from around £140pp for a family of four, making it one of the best-value Italian city breaks of the year.

December – Cologne, Germany

December works for families because everything is concentrated and atmospheric.

Christmas markets cluster around the cathedral and surrounding squares, making the city easy to explore on foot.

Lights, music, hot chocolate and gentle fairground rides deliver festive payoff without long days or complicated planning.

Short days actually suit the experience, as you do not need to do much to feel like you have seen plenty.

I’ve found December breaks from around £180pp for a family of four, outside the busiest Christmas market weekends.

City breaks with kids are not about doing more – they’re about choosing the right place at the right time.

Get the month right, and suddenly the weather cooperates, prices feel fair, crowds ease off, and cities become enjoyable rather than exhausting.

These are the places I would confidently take my own family. Thought-through, well-timed choices that work in real life.

IT was when my eight-year-old son Reggie returned to our table – holding a plate of 20 Turkish delights and grinning from ear to ear – that I caved in.

“OK, we are on holiday,” I said as he merrily dished them out to his twin brother Teddie and 12-year-old sister Frankie-Beau.

In fairness, my wife Kayleigh and I had hardly set an example, because the 5-star Liberty Lykia family resort in Oludeniz, on the south-west coast of Turkey, is an all- inclusive foodies’ fantasyland.

Its huge main restaurant offers more than 100 options at breakfast, lunch and dinner, and snacks throughout the day.

On several evenings of our seven-day stay we opted to dine at one of the six sensational paid-for a la carte restaurants, starting from just €5 per child, while watching the sun set across the Mediterranean Sea.

The star of the show was an interactive, flame-fuelled, theatrical dinner of lobster and steak at the open-grill Teppanyaki.

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At the outdoor Pinara Turkish restaurant, you even get a side order of belly dancing.

And all that is just, well, for starters.

A selection of snack shacks, including a well-stocked patisserie, will tempt you throughout the day.

And there’s self-serve draft beer and wine beside the pools and the private beach.

The biggest of the many bars, Apollon, at the heart of the resort, serves more than 30 indulgent cocktails, 24/7.

Thankfully you can easily burn off the over-indulgence.

Within the 400-acre resort, which is set in a tranquil cove among pine forests and overlooked by the majestic Babadag Mountain, are tennis, padel and sandy volleyball courts, an archery area, mini-golf course, ping-pong tables, a climbing wall and two AstroTurf football pitches.

There’s also a gym and exercise classes, as well as all manner of watersports.

Look up in the sky at any time of day and you will be mesmerised by paragliders drifting down to the hotel’s landing strip.

But don’t worry, there’s no need to strap the kids in for the ride, as their every whim can be taken care of at the brilliantly welcoming and free Mini Club, which has endless activities for all age groups.

There’s even a free babysitting service.

With the young’uns entertained, we enjoyed a few hours at the more peaceful adults-only pool and bar.

There you’ll find the luxurious Ocean Spa, where you can pamper yourself with a massage while you gaze out at the Turquoise Coast, so-called because of the striking clear-blue sea. W

hen we were then finally ready to reunite with the family, we headed to the beautiful beach area designed for youngsters, complete with a wave breaker made from rocks and stones.

But the jewel in Liberty Lykia’s crown is its very own waterpark — aptly called Children’s Paradise, with its numerous slides for kids and adults.

It’s a truly vast resort, set into the hilly mountainside.

Steps are steep but there are plenty of slopes and more than enough lifts.

And if little legs are tired after a long day of thrills, on-site shuttle buses taxi you around.

You can even call reception for a golf buggy to take you to and from your room day or night.

Bands and DJs

Our room was a modern sea-view Deluxe Family Suite with walk-in shower, air-conditioning, a superking-sized bed, two single beds and a sofa bed.

The free mini bar is restocked daily so you can enjoy a drink on the balcony.

We were just a two-minute walk from the resort’s main square — a beautiful Mediterranean plaza with a wine bar, shops selling clothes, trainers, sunglasses and souvenirs, an arcade, a craft coffee shop and a boutique for handbags and shoes.

After the sun sets, the main swimming pool hosts illuminated remote-controlled boats, and the stunning outdoor amphitheatre delivers an impressive variety of West End-like productions.

The main square is the lively entertainment venue for bands and DJs taking to the stage until midnight.

It’s not quiet, so do request a room a little farther away if you have very young children.

For anyone who wants to keep the party going, there’s an underground nightclub open until 2am.

And you can stagger out into the nearby snack bar that’s open until 7.30am if, somehow, you are still hungry.

After a week of family fun and feasting in the sun, none of our clothes fit — and the dentist will have some choice words for our kids.

But we left with the wonderful aftertaste of a holiday that was, in the words of my daughter, one big Turkish delight.

WHEN you picture Japan, what comes to mind?

Ultra-modern cities drenched in neon lights? Steam rising from a bowl of soul-warming ramen?

Maybe it’s the stillness of a Zen garden, or the striking silhouette of a Japanese castle. Perhaps it’s Sashimi hand-crafted with the freshest of fish.

You may think that experiencing all of the above means spending weeks journeying across the country with a rail pass and a backpack.

Luckily, you can find them all in one underrated region: Hyōgo prefecture.

Next door to touristy Kyoto, Hyōgo offers Samurai castles, hot spring baths, thrilling theme parks and world-class Wagyu all in one place.

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Hyōgo truly earns its nickname “Japan in Miniature”, as it packs some of Japan’s finest cultural and historical sights into one diverse region.

Plus, there’s never been a better time for Brits to visit Japan.

With the new JESTA travel authorisation system expected to arrive in 2028 – which will require Brits to pre-register before travelling – it’s worth ticking the trip off of your bucket list before the new program and its fees are introduced.

Plus, the yen remains weak against the British pound in 2026, so you can stretch your money further on food, shopping and hotels than ever before.

I enjoyed bowls of delicious ramen for just ¥700 (£3.28), and went shopping for high-quality clothing in UNIQLO for a fraction of UK prices.

So to see what this underrated region has to offer, I explored Hyōgo Prefecture from top to bottom – from the coastal hot spring town of Kinosaki Onsen, down to the glitz of Kobe.

Himeji – samurai era castles, Japanese gardens and traditional restaurants

You might recognise this castle as Tiger Tanaka’s ninja training school in the Bond film You Only Live Twice.

Himeji Castle has also appeared in many classic samurai films such as Ran and Kagemusha, but this is much more than a famous filming location.

Himeji Castle is Japan’s most-visited castle – and it’s widely considered the most beautiful, too.

It’s easy to see why, I thought, as I approached the strikingly white hilltop fortress.

Himeji Castle is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned as the best-preserved feudal era samurai castle in Japan.

Although the hilltop fortification has existed since 1333, the castle as we see it today was built back in the early 17th century.

Since then, Himeji Castle remains remarkably intact, surviving events such as WWII bombing.

The bright white exterior and elegant tiered roofs are said to resemble a heron taking flight, earning it the nickname of the White Heron Castle.

Actually getting inside the castle, however, was quite the task.

Expertly designed to ward off intruders, you must get past multiple moats and a whopping 83 defensive features to make it inside.

These include false entrances, terrifying stone drops, plenty of gun ports and a disorienting, winding path up to the castle.

Even the plants beside the stone walls were a strategic part of the defence, with thorny, tangled overgrowth designed to stop attackers who tried to escape.

“Imagine you were an intruder trying to get in” said my Himeji Castle tour guide, as she pointed out endless stone drops, hidden gun ports and false entrances. “It would be near impossible!”

After admiring the architecture, I walked just five minutes to the peaceful grounds of the Kōko-en Garden.

Inside Kōko-en are nine Japanese gardens built upon the grounds of old samurai residences, with a large koi fish pond and traditional tea house.

These gardens are a must-see no matter which season you visit Japan.

Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer bursts with greenery and lotus flowers, whilst my winter visit still glowed with autumnal orange.

After wandering through bamboo, crossing stone bridges and hopping stepping stones over glossy waters, I settled down in the garden’s restaurant for a bite to eat.

Here you have your choice between lunch sets including grilled eel, crispy tempura and fluffy pancakes – all served with plenty of green tea and calming waterfall views.

Himeji felt like a snapshot of Japanese excellence, where expert craftsmanship and manicured gardens sit side by side in one unmissable city.

Kobe – world-famous Wagyu and glitzy nightlife

Just a 20-minute ride on the ultra-fast Shinkansen will take you from the historical marvels of Himeji straight to Hyōgo’s bustling capital: Kobe.

This glitzy city was made for wandering into jazz bars and soaking up neon lights, the lively promenade watched over by the glowing red Kobe Port Tower.

I spent days drifting between independent streetwear shops and artsy cafes, as well as making sure to stock up on clothes from trendy UNIQLO – which costs a fraction of the price in Japan compared to the UK.

Down by the waterfront at night, Kobe Harborland is the city at its most lively.

This area is packed with shops, museums, restaurants and a giant Ferris wheel, coming alive after dark.

But Kobe is best-known for its world-famous delicacy: Kobe beef.

To see if it lived up to the hype, I took a counter seat at a Teppanyaki restaurant to watch the chef cook the world-famous steak before my eyes.

I started by trying some Kobe beef sushi, priced at ¥1,260 (£6) – a dish I was unsure of at first, bu the raw beef dissolved on the tongue, leaving a rich, sweet flavour long after eating the rice.

Next came a whole platter packed with thin slices of delicate roast Kobe beef, served cold with a sweet sauce, priced at ¥2,970 (£14).

Last up was the dish I’d been waiting for: a Kobe beef fillet steak, which was buttery soft, oozing with juices and packed with Umami flavour.

Kobe beef steaks can certainly be a splurge (steak with veggies starts at ¥6,600, or £31 at Plaisir) but you can enjoy excellent Japanese beef on a budget too.

A premium Japanese beef burger, for example, costs just ¥1,300 (£6.16) at popular restaurant Brisk Stand.

In 2025, their signature Kittayatsu burger even won the Japan Burger Championship – not bad for a bite under £7.

Awaji Island – theme park paradise

Just a 30-minute bus hop from Kobe over the Akashi-Kaikyo suspension bridge, is Awaji Island – the home of jaw-dropping amusement parks.

Take your pick from three Hello Kitty attractions, fairy-tale and dinosaur worlds at Onokoro Theme Park, and anime fan heaven at a Naruto: Boruto themed land.

I chose to visit the Nijigen no Mori theme park – and whizz down a zip line into a giant Godzilla head.

The Godzilla Intercept Operation Awaji is the world’s largest Godzilla theme park land, made with the production company of the original movies.

The area includes a zip line, miniature movie, shooting game, museum, themed cafe and merchandise shop.

I opted for a light ticket, which grants access to the movie, zip line and shooting game for ¥2,800 (£13.25) per adult and ¥1,800 (£8.52) for children.

I shakily climbed several sets of stairs, and was asked if I’d prefer to zip past Godzilla’s body at 499 feet, or directly into his mouth at 531 feet.

I didn’t travel 13 hours to this Japanese island for nothing, so the choice to me was obvious.

The next and final task was to shoot at glowing targets on Godzilla’s body, whilst ducking down to avoid being seen by the creature.

I ended my visit by shopping for exclusive Godzilla gifts and eyeing up the unique meals on offer at the cafe – a Burning Godzilla Curry for ¥2,200 (£10.41) and Destroyah Hamburger Combo at ¥2,000 (£9.46).

You can book a ticket to the Godzilla Intercept Operation directly via the Nijigen no Mori website, or on apps such as Klook and GetYourGuide.

Kinosaki Onsen – a magical hot spring town

For something a little more relaxing, there’s the hot springs of Kinosaki Onsen Town.

An onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring bath. These soothing geothermal pools are found all over Japan, thanks to the country’s volcanic landscape.

Onsens are said to have numerous health benefits due to their mineral-rich waters, and I was excited to check out their restorative reputation.

Kinosaki Onsen is a 1,300 year-old town where visitors can go onsen hopping, dipping in and out of seven public bathhouses lining its high street.

Visitors are encouraged to wear yukata (a lightweight Japanese robe), geta (traditional wooden sandals), as well as tabi (split-toe socks).

Kinosaki is a postcard-perfect town set along a quiet canal, lined by glowing stone lanterns and drooping willows. Dressed in traditional attire, I set out to explore its streets – and take part in the ritual of onsen.

The public bath experience is an unforgettable ritual, with a few customs to follow. Once shoes and belongings are stored away, you must bring only a small towel inside with you – which is often neatly folded upon your head when entering the water.

Once you’re in, it’s bliss, and I left with silky skin, and fully warmed through by the 40°C baths, ready to face the winter weather.

A Kinosaki day pass lets you dip in as many onsens as you please for just￥1,500 (£7.10).

They are available to buy at any of the seven bathhouses.

FINLAND has a staggering three million saunas to its five million residents.

So, when my guide tells me “sauna isn’t just our culture, it’s our way of life”, I believe him.

The tradition has been around for thousands of years here, with many treating these mini hot houses as a place to socialise, much like we would in the pub on a Friday night.

These saunas aren’t like the ones you find at your local gym, though. They are on a whole other level — think electric, wood-burning and the oldest kind, smoke saunas. And you’re expected to sit in the heated cabin, where the air is a sweltering 100C, for hours.

My adventure to the Nordic country takes me to Jyvaskyla in central Finland and the city of Tampere, which is known as the sauna capital of the world.

There are over 50 in the city centre alone. Sataman Viilu is one of the best, with two-hour sessions costing just €17 for use of its three saunas, two hot tubs, and lake-water plunge.

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My advice for newbies is to make sure you start with a sauna first. Being hot makes the transition easier because you will still feel warm when you brace the lake water.

I’d also recommend wearing a pair of thick socks, which will slow down the rate at which the cold takes over.

And while it may seem obvious, remember to breathe. Controlling your breath can be hard when you’re submerged in icy water, so focus on inhaling and exhaling through the chill.

You might think this activity is the kind to be enjoyed during the summer, when both Jyvaskyla and Tampere transform into a flowery paradise, but it’s popular all year round. The cool weather doesn’t matter to those living in Finland, even when temperatures go well below 0C.

One local told me: “We don’t have bad weather, just bad clothing.”
They’re out and about all the time, ice skating on lakes or hosting car and horse rallies on the frozen waters.

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So, no surprise that in Finnish language there are hundreds of words for snow, depending on how it falls, whether it turns to slush, or if it lays like a thick blanket.

You may think warming stews, therefore, would be the focus of Finnish cooking.

And although these are popular in many parts, Finland is largely known for its blueberry farming. Throughout the year you can pick up tasty jams and blueberry juice — pay a visit to Lepomaki Farm if you’re keen to learn more.

Rich fish such as salmon, perch and herring are a staple in these diets, too.
Kuokkala Manor in Jyvaskyla is an excellent spot to sample local dishes — the beef tartare was delicious and came with a wintry topping of crunchy kale and cranberry.

If you’re staying close to Tampere, I loved Ravintola Kajo, a Michelin Guide restaurant in the city centre. While it is fancy, offering an 11-course tasting experience, wine pairings and tea-based drinks, there’s no pressure whatsoever to dress up.

Make sure to explore the Tampere Market Hall while you’re here, too. It’s the largest indoor market in the Nordic countries and dates back to 1901. Inside, you’ll find locals picking up fresh fish, coffee and pastries like Karjalanpiirakka, which has a thin rye crust and a savoury filling (usually rice porridge).

For dessert lovers, I’d highly recommend a cardamom donut from Pyynikin Munkkikahvila, a cafe within the market. It’s delicious and not too sweet.

If you’re worried about the chill getting too much, then book a stay at Lapland Hotel Arena, a ten-minute drive down the road where some of the bedrooms feature private saunas.

I enjoyed an early morning session each day while reading a book.
If you’re keen to stay closer to Jyvaskyla, The Boutique Hotel Yopuu has a cosy, family-run feel to it with each of its 26 rooms designed to look completely different.

But nothing could compare to my stay at the Hankasalmi and Revontuli Lakeland Village on the outskirts of Jyvaskyla.

I slept so cosily inside my All Sky Aurora Glass Igloo, which came with a little kitchen and living area — although the highlight was undoubtedly the magical bedroom, surrounded entirely by windows and with a glass roof to soak up the views.

You may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed.

Sadly, it was cloudy the day I was there, but watching the snow fall across the glossy, white landscape was spectacular.

WHEN winter drags on and the heating bill lands, most of us start asking the same question…

Where’s warm, easy to get to, and won’t drain my bank account?

Instead of guessing, I decided to settle it properly.

In my day job at one of the UK’s top travel companies, I built an algorithm to rank the best winter sun destinations for 2026, using the things that actually matter to holidaymakers – price, winter temperatures, flight time, hotel value, popularity and availability.

I made an eqaution and it gave each spot a score out of 100.

Every major winter sun destination went in: the Canaries, Turkey, Egypt, the Caribbean, long-haul and short-haul.

Some familiar favourites scored brilliantly, others just missed out. Here’s the list.

10. Madeira (Score: 41)

A brilliant destination and one of my personal favourites, Madeira scores well for scenery, food and short flight times, but loses points on winter warmth.

Temperatures are pleasant rather than hot with average highs of 20C, which kept it out of the top half of the list.

That said, for travellers who want winter sun somewhere that’s calmer and a bit more of a hidden gem, it’s hard to beat.

I found February B&B breaks at hotels like Golden Residence in Funchal from around £345pp, which is very good value for a smart European city-break-style escape – just don’t go expecting summer heat.

9. Lanzarote (Score: 43)

Lanzarote is one of the most reliable winter sun destinations on the map, and that consistency is exactly why it scores well for availability and flight time.

Where it loses ground is popularity – demand stays high all winter, which naturally pushes prices up compared to less-busy rivals.

Even so, February room-only stays at hotels like THB Royal from £165pp show why it remains a firm favourite – warm with average highs of 22C, easy, affordable and no surprises.

8. Barbados (Score: 45)

Barbados delivers near-perfect winter weather with average highs of 29C and postcard beaches, scoring top marks for temperature and overall experience.

What holds it back is cost. Longer flights and higher hotel prices mean it’s not a budget-friendly option for most families.

February room-only stays at beachfront hotels can reach £913pp, before food or extras – incredible value for a Caribbean escape, but not one for bargain hunters.

7. Fuerteventura (Score: 48)

Fuerteventura performs strongly for value and space. It’s warmer than mainland Europe with average highs of 22C, quieter than Tenerife, and offers excellent winter deals.

It drops a few points on temperature, as winter highs are slightly cooler than the top-ranked destinations, but it remains a strong all-rounder.

February breaks at resorts like Bakour Fuerteventura La Pared from £220pp just go to show the great value for a relaxed Canary Islands winter escape.

6. Marrakech (Score: 51)

Marrakech scores highly for price, flight time and culture. It’s one of the cheapest winter sun options available and offers something completely different to a beach resort.

Where it loses points is temperature consistency – winter days are warm with highs of 21C, but evenings cool quickly.

That said, all-inclusive February deals at hotels like Marrakech Ryads Parc & Spa from £203pp explain why it just misses the top five but still remains a smart-value winter break.

5. Gran Canaria (Score: 54)

Gran Canaria is one of the most balanced destinations in the ranking.

It scores well across every category: dependable winter warmth with average highs of 21C, short flights, and a huge range of hotels competing on price.

It may not top any single metric, but it rarely lets anyone down.

February stays at hotels like Cala d’Or from around £200pp show why it’s such a safe and popular winter option.

4. Antalya, Turkey (Score: 57)

Antalya climbs the rankings thanks to exceptional value for money.

Winter temperatures remain comfortable with average highs of 19C, flights are short, and the quality of all-inclusive hotels for the price is hard to match anywhere else in Europe.

I found all-inclusive February breaks at five-star resorts like Side Moon Palace from £145pp – which is exactly why Antalya scores so high.

3. Hurghada, Egypt (Score: 62)

Hurghada stands out for reliable winter heat and strong hotel pricing.

With temperatures regularly reaching average highs of 25C and the mid-haul flight times still manageable, it offers a warmer alternative to Europe without the cost of long-haul.

February all-inclusive stays at resorts like Sunny Days Mirette Aqua Park from £315pp make it warmer than Turkey, but still cheaper than most Caribbean options.

2. Cape Verde (Score: 66)

Cape Verde is the highest-ranked long-haul destination and well deserving of its place at number two.

It scores highly for hot winter temperatures with average highs of 25C, lower popularity and decent value, sitting neatly between short-haul Europe and the Caribbean.

February breaks at hotels like Dunas De Sal Design Hotel from £443pp highlight why it’s growing in popularity in recent years though – proper heat, big beaches and prices that still feel VERY reasonable.

1. Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt (Score: 72)

Sharm El Sheikh comes out comfortably on top.

It scores high across every part of the formula: excellent winter heat with highs of 24C, strong hotel availability, competitive pricing and relatively short flight times.

February all-inclusive deals at resorts like Parrotel Aqua Park Resort from £223pp are exactly why Sharm dominates winter bookings.

Warm, easy and outstanding value – it’s the rare destination that gets everything right at once, and officially the best winter sun destination for your money in 2026.

Analysis based on On the Beach booking data and February 2026 package pricing.

THE WORLD’S most welcoming cities have been revealed and a UK destination with famous Turkish Baths and vibrant gardens has been named amongst them.

Though technically not a city, Harrogate in North Yorkshire, sits on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

And according to Booking.com, Harrogate is one of the most welcoming destinations in the world and the only spot in the UK to feature on the list.

Booking.com commented: “Harrogate is an elegant English spa town full of historic charm.

“Quaint boulevards and ornate Victorian façades frame a town filled with modern and contemporary cafés, indie shops and scenic garden paths perfect for leisurely strolls.”

One top spot mentioned by Booking.com is Valley Gardens, formed of 17 acres of English Heritage Grade II listed parkland.

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In the gardens, visitors will find themed areas, different flower species and a number of historic buildings.

There’s also a children’s play area and entry to the entire park is free.

One recent visitor said: “What an absolute gem of a park.

“Very picturesque, serene and pleasant walk through with a beautiful Victoriana style cafe and beautiful views across the park.

“I could spend a day there with a book, flask with hot tea and snacks and relax. It has a very calming aura.”

Harrogate is also well-known for its Turkish Baths – a unique spa experience that dates back to 1897.

The Harrogate Turkish Baths are one of the best-preserved Victorian Baths in the UK and were once used as a luxury and therapeutic experience by wealthy Victorians.

The spa still operates today and has a frigidarium, steam room, different heat rooms and a plunge pool.

Sessions usually cost £37 per person for an hour and a half to two hours access.

And if you find the history of the spa town interesting, then head to the Royal Pump Room Museum, where you will find the strongest sulphur wells in Europe.

You will also learn about Harrogate’s connection to Russian royalty.

It costs just £4.20 per adult and £2.40 per child to visit.

The Montpellier Quarter then dubs itself as “Harrogate’s best-kept secret”.

Here visitors will find over 50 independent shops including cosy cafes.

Across the cobbled streets in the Montpellier Quarter, there are gardens, ornate lamp posts and lots of flowers.

One visitor said: “This is a rabbit warren of individual antiques and curios shops under one roof.

“There is art, jewellery, ornaments – too much to mention but all very interesting and great for provoking memories of things our grandparents had in their time!”

If you are looking for somewhere to stay in the town, then you could head to The Old Swan Hotel – which is the hotel where Agatha Christie was discovered after she had been missing for 11 days in 1926.

The ivy-covered hotel is just a three-minute walk from the Royal Pump Room Museum and features suites with four-poster beds.

Rooms cost from around £68 per night.

For a bite to eat, definitely check out Bettys Café Tea Rooms – a famous spot for afternoon tea and coffee.

You can opt for the Grande Breakfast which includes muesli, pain au chocolat, toasted fruit loaf, tea or coffee and a choice of either poached egg and avocado, scrambled eggs and Yorkshire smoked salmon or poached egg and dry-cured bacon for £22.50 per person.

Booking.com added: “Captivating with its harmonious mix of culture and greenery, Harrogate invites travelers to unwind while discovering the quieter corner of northern England.”

Other cities named among the most welcoming in the world include Montepulciano in Italy.

This hilltop town in Tuscany, Italy, is famous for its red wine.

Due to being on the hilltop, the town has stunning panoramic views.

Other destinations named as welcoming cities include Fredericksburg, Texas, United States and Klaipėda, Lithuania.

In other destination news, the cheeky 48-hour holidays to Europe’s best cities, beach towns and islands this summer from £167.

Plus, five stunning European holidays that are cheaper than a UK train fare – with £2 prosecco and stunning beaches.

WHETHER you’re wondering which park to pick or you’ve already got yours booked, Tracy Kennedy is helping Sun readers make the most of their £9.50 holiday.

Tracy Kennedy, a Hols from 9.50 expert who has more than a quarter of a million followers online, has long been helping Sun holidaymakers plan their getaways.

If you fancy asking Tracy something else about the Sun’s Hols from £9.50, she’ll be answering your questions in her new agony aunt column in Sun Club.

One top question each week will be rewarded with a £100 Amazon voucher – use the form further down to send her your question.

Having stayed in holiday parks across the UK from the Isle of Wight to Bognor Regis, Tracy has experience staying in a range of locations.

Along the way she’s picked up some of the best tips and tricks for making the most of your break – and now she’s here to answer your questions.

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From how to plan a romantic getaway for couples, to how to find a quiet site to avoid the crowds, our £9.50 Hols Agony Aunt has got you covered.

This week, Sun reader Paula Cubitt has been awarded best question of the week – which means she’s been selected to win a £100 Amazon voucher. Congratulations, Paula!

If I am unable to go on the holiday after booking, can I alter the date or venue? How do I do it?

Denise Houghton

Once you’ve had your confirmation through, speak to your chosen holiday site.

The £9.50 holidays website tells you to speak directly to the parks themselves.

They’re the best ones to tell you. Don’t do anything until you’ve spoken to them!

A lot of the parks are happy to change, but sometimes there’ll be a £20 admin fee or so to make amendments.

Some have rules that you can’t change dates, but some parks will change it for you. So it’s always worth asking. But they don’t give refunds.

How can I make sure I get disabled friendly caravans or chalets?

Paula Cubitt

If you need certain accommodation, use the contact form straight after you’ve booked.

You can fill it in to request the right kind of space. Make sure to contact them straight away, because there’s only so many at each resort.

It says more on the £9.50 Holidays website about how to speak to them once you’ve booked your holiday.

Where is ideal for a romantic getaway for couples?

Adam Meacham

For couples, I suggest maybe going somewhere abroad on a European holiday.

Somewhere in Italy, as there’s quite a few Italian sites. Because Italy is such a romantic country!

If you’re wanting to go away in the UK, it depends on how far you’re willing to travel and where you’re based.

But if you can, I’d say to go up to Scotland for one of the beautiful sites up there – plenty of the Scottish sites welcoming to dogs too.

Can an older couple enjoy a £9.50 holiday, or are they for families?

Tracey Wolverson

There’s lots of things to do for couples and older couples.

Check your preferred park on the website to see what they offer. You can always go for a drink, have a meal, play bingo or go swimming.

Walks along the beach are nice too, or going out to explore the little villages nearby.

For couples looking for lots of things to do, I’d recommend Billing Aquadrome in Northampton.

There’s loads of adults and kids stuff. Lakes and streams to walk around, a lovely bar. It’s absolutely amazing.

It’s also only a 10-minute taxi ride from the closest train station.

Tips for those who want to travel by train?

Monica Johnstone

Firstly you should look at your preferred sites to work out how to get there from where you live.

Look at how far the train station is from the park and how easy it would be to take a bus or a taxi from there.

Also you should book your train tickets as early as you can to get the best deals.

If you go to somewhere like Caerelwan, you can literally get off the train, walk out the station and you’re there.

You’re practically next to the tracks, but you can’t hear the trains, it’s great!

There you’ve got a pub down the road, arcades, and a little shop.

How to find quieter sites?

Dora White

I’d say all sites can be quiet, if you book to go out of season.

Maybe book a holiday just before the kids break up. But bear in mind that Scotland break up for school before England do.

If you go between the school holidays, the sites won’t be full of children so are usually quieter.

A good park for some peace and quiet is The Lakes Rookley on the Isle of Wight.

The views are amazing around there, and it’s definitely very quiet.

You can go off site and do plenty of walking. Even on the site itself there’s a lovely lake to walk around, it’s very peaceful.

Everywhere is reachable from there, too. You can jump on an island hopper bus and they can literally take you around the whole island.

You just buy a day saver ticket. So then you can leave the car behind if you fancy a drink.

Tracy’s top tips for £9.50 Holiday planning

Before booking, Tracy recommends researching any dates you can and can’t make ahead of time.

This includes making a note of when the school holidays are, and any key events you have coming up in the year.

You should also consider how far you’re willing to travel, and how exactly you’ll reach the holiday park.

This includes planning out the car journey, or researching ahead of time where the nearest train stations are to the holiday parks.

You should also double check that the park you want has the right facilities for you.

Whether this is accessible accommodation or dog-friendly sites, Tracy says you should definitely check ahead of time to see if the park offers what you need.

Entertainment on offer can change depending on which holiday park you choose, and which time of year you go.

Tracy recommends looking up the entertainment schedule ahead of time to know what will be available once you’re there – especially if you’re bringing kids.

And if your top picks have already been fully booked – don’t worry, they might just be back.

Lots of popular parks get snapped up the minute that booking opens, and gradually more and more places become filled.

But sometimes, later in the year, new spots open up at various holiday parks.

Tracy recommends hopping back on the website from time to time to see if any secret deals have been added.

However, there;s no guarantee that more spaces will open up – so make sure to have some backup holiday parks in mind that you wouldn’t mind booking.