holiday

With everything going on in the world right now, more people are, unsurprisingly, choosing to holiday at home. And with great cities, amazing coastlines and glorious landscapes there’s a lot to choose from. We want to hear about your favourite holidays in the UK, whether it was an urban break, under-the-radar coastal resort or a long distance hike.

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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.

THE Cypriots have a saying: “We always survive.”

It is a mantra that echoes in my head as my golf ball makes a sickening plonk into the middle of a lake.

I’m hacking my way around Limassol Greens, the Mediterranean’s newest sporting crown jewel.

It only opened to the public in late 2025, but it is already making a splash (literally, in my case).

I might have lost three balls but the sun is out, the air is crisp and, true to the local spirit, I’ll survive.

The vibe is “modern luxury” from the second you pull up to the pristine clubhouse near Cyprus’s second city. We are greeted by smiley, attentive staff who make us feel more than welcome.

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My hired Callaway clubs appear brand new and the Trackman technology on the range ensures my swing is dialled in before I hit the first tee.

Once on the course, the tech stays with you. Our buggy comes equipped with a GPS screen that acts as both a sat nav directing us around the 71-par course and a digital caddie, calculating yardage to the pin.

Carved out of an old orange grove, the still course has some citrus trees around the perimeter.

This is Cyprus’s fifth course, meaning the island can truly claim to be a “golf destination” for holidaymakers.

Limassol Greens is curated by the same course designer as Aphrodite Hills, the best-known course on the island, and its mix of challenging holes coupled with forgiving fairways and fast-running greens means it may soon be challenging its more established neighbour for supremacy.

After 18 holes we retreat to clubhouse restaurant The Roost. It’s a bright sanctuary serving exactly the kind of high-protein fuel a weary golfer needs.

Another restaurant is under construction, suggesting that, like the golf course itself, Limassol Greens will only flourish with time.

I’m staying at the City Of Dreams Mediterranean resort, a five-minute transfer away.

Dominated by the lively casino at its heart, the 500-room hotel is a playground for adults and a fantastic base for playing golf.

My room was a masterclass in high-spec comfort, featuring a huge comfortable bed perfect for relaxing after hours out on the course.

The pièce de résistance? A free-standing bathtub separated from the bedroom by a glass wall.

You can soak in the suds while staring at the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

Keen to fuel up before heading out for 18 holes, the options and quality at breakfast are faultless.

The orange juice tastes as fresh as if it’s come from the groves by the golf course.

Among three premium restaurants is Prime Steakhouse, where I tackled a cut of wagyu steak imported from the US so tender it practically melted on the fork.

The next night, I swapped the steak knife for chopsticks at Amber Dragon.

The roasted duck truffle puffs — flaky, buttery and decadent — are the stars of the show.

The variation of food and inventive presentation make for a memorable evening.

The hotel provides free transfers to the popular Lady’s Mile beach during the summer months.

But I head to the spa instead. It exudes calmness with low lighting and soothing music.

I’ve booked an express treatment, with my masseuse happy to focus on my legs and shoulder, which are feeling achy after so much golf. While only 25 minutes long, I feel rejuvenated by the time I leave.

Even in January, the main city of Limassol — about 15 minutes from the hotel by taxi — feels alive. I took a breather from the greens to explore the historic centre.

While the medieval castle where Richard the Lionheart had his wedding is impressive, I was more captivated by the city’s feline residents.

Legend says St Helena imported 1,000 cats in the 4th century to hunt snakes. Today, their descendants rule the sun-drenched streets like royalty.

I finished my trip with a stroll along the marina as the sun dipped behind a forest of multi-million-pound yachts.

With a cold Keo beer in hand and the feel of a breeze blowing over the Mediterranean sea, I realised the Cypriots aren’t quite right. You don’t just survive here — you thrive.

Chris Granet visited a cafe that is a cross between a British greasy spoon and an American diner, with friendly staff, and very busy with locals and foreigners alike

Fried Bacon? Check.

Sausage? Check.

Scrambled egg? Check.

Fried fish in breadcrumbs? …Say what now??

I was in a cha chaan teng – a traditional Hong Kong cafe – in the bustling Wanchai district about to tuck into their version of the English breakfast, which had been introduced during the colonial era.

This cha chaan teng was the Victory A Cafe on the bustling Hennessy Road. It was like a cross between a British greasy spoon and an American diner, with friendly staff, and very busy with locals and foreigners alike. Always a good sign.

My plate was fully loaded and well presented when it arrived. As well as the aforementioned items, there were also baked beans, a smidge of salad and tomato, a glazed brioche bun, and garnished prettily with some nondescript diced green leaves. On the side, there was the obligatory milky tea.

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In terms of taste, it was also “same, same but different”. The bacon was a bit fatty, the sausage a tad bland, but the beans were decent. The egg, on the other hand, was superior. Light and fluffy, yet rich and buttery – for in Hong Kong, they’re often made with cream and cornstarch.

And now for the fried fish. I know it sounds wrong, but it’s like when European folk are presented with an English breakfast for the first time and wince at the sight of sausage and bacon. That is, until they have a taste and are pleasantly surprised.

Well, that was me. It turned out to be my favorite thing on the plate, and was made all the better with a splash or a few of local chili sauce (far better than a bit of brown, if you ask me).

And the tea was no ordinary tea. It was made with “silk stockings”. Not real silk stockings, that’d be weird. No, these are narrow cotton bags through which potent Ceylon tea leaves are repeatedly strained, and more resemble granny tights than fancy stockings. The brew created is so strong it could strip paint, despite being half-drowned in condensed milk. Very good, though.

To cap it all off I had a “pineapple bun”. No pineapples are harmed in the making of these traditional local buns, it’s just that their mottled yellow toppings apparently resemble the tropical fruit (couldn’t see it myself).

I again was pleasantly surprised. Once biting through the crusty sugary top, the inside was soft and doughy with a much more subtle sweetness – an interesting combo of flavours and consistencies, and washed down well by the strong tea.

In total, my bill came to HK$85 (£8.50) – $62 for the breakfast, $23 for the pineapple bun. Not too bad considering it left me stuffed and not hungry again until dinner.

For all the ills of colonisation, there are some positives, and the Hong Kong breakfast is definitely one of them. Worth travelling 6,000 miles for.

BOOK IT

Cathay Pacific flies direct to Hong Kong from London, from £549 return. Book at cathaypacific.com Dorsett Wan Chai has doubles from £113 per night with breakfast. Dorsett Kai Tak has doubles from £115 per night with breakfast. Both hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to major transport hubs, shopping, and dining destinations. Find out more and book at dorsetthotels.com

Find out more at discoverhongkong.com

LOVE a holiday but hate a long flight? Bilbao should be your go-to destination. 

It’s the closest major Spanish city to the UK — flights take just an hour and 45 minutes — but is now even easier to visit thanks to Tui’s new city break packages. 

These include flights from Gatwick, Heathrow, Manchester and Bristol. 

Tui Commercial Director Chris Logan said: “Bilbao offers a truly special city break. With incredible art, fantastic food and beautiful scenery all in one trip, it’s ideal for customers who want the authentic taste of Spain.” 

After a sunshine stay in the city this month, Kara Godfrey reveals everything you need to know about it . . .  

WHY SHOULD I GO? Spain is set to hit record tourism numbers this year, expecting to reach 100million for the first time. So trying to find a quieter destination to visit can be tricky.  

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But Bilbao gets just a fraction of the tourists — just 1.6 million visited last year compared to Barcelona’s 16 million. The city is also celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Bilbao BBK Live music festival.

This year’s event, from July 9 to 11, has headliners including Calvin Harris, Lily Allen and FKA Twigs.

ARE THESE STREETS MADE FOR WALKING? Most of the city’s top attractions can be walked between, taking no more than 30 minutes.  

There are extensive bus, tram and metro systems if you need to rest your feet. But with the beautiful estuary running through the city, you’d be mad not to want to explore by foot. Want to grab a taxi? Opt for the Spanish Cabify rather than Uber, as it is normally more affordable. 

ANYTHING FOR THE BUCKETLIST? The impact of the Guggenheim Bilbao museum since it opened in 1997 has been huge. So powerful, in fact, it created the phrase “the Guggenheim effect”, which is when a huge architectural project transforms a destination.  

Tickets to the museum come with a free audio guide (from £13, see guggenheim-bilbao.eus) which helps to understand the modern art pieces ranging from sculptures to paintings. 

One of the most popular — and my favourite — is installation The Matter Of Time, where mighty steel walls guide you throughout the space. 

Other current exhibits include work by Ruth Asawa, a Japanese-American artist known for her unique wire sculptures.  

Also on display at the museum are the 43ft floral sculpture Puppy, by Jeff Koons, and 30ft spider creation Maman. by Louise Bourgeois.

Afterwards, make sure to take a ride on the bright-red Artxanda funicular, which takes you to the top of Mount Artxanda for the best views of Bilbao. Tickets cost from £3,. Check out funicularartxanda.bilbao.eus.

WHERE SHOULD I EAT? Knowing where to start with Spanish tapas — known as pintxos in northern Spain — can be hard. 

But help is at hand. Tui Musement offers locally guided food tours to take you to gastronomic highlights off the beaten track. 

We gorged on everything from Spanish omelette to spicy mushrooms, while learning a bit about the history of them courtesy of our guide Cristina. 

Guided tours aside, if you just fancy hopping between tapas bars for snacks and drinks — a practice locals call txikiteo (pronounced chee-kee-tey-oh) — do try all of them at Plaza Nueva. 

My number one was Cafe Bar Bilbao for its tasty pork sliders, as well as Taberna Ona for freshly sliced Iberian ham. 

Just expect to have people waiting in the wings for your table — seats are much sought after. 

I FANCY A DRINK: The most famous Bilbao drink is txakoli, a Basque white wine which you can find pretty much anywhere. Squeeze into the family-run Taberna Basaras, a tiny bar with barrels for tables and bottles from floor to ceiling, for a hearty glass. 

You might also spot the locals ordering a mariano, a vermouth “daytime” cocktail that’s lighter than a negroni. 

But only order if you’re ready for an early night — it certainly packs a punch. 

WHERE SHOULD I STAY? For some of the best views, try 5H hotel The Artist where a rooftop bar overlooks the Guggenheim. 

Another stylish option is the adult-only Axel Hotel, which lays claim to having one of the city’s only rooftop swimming pools. The covered Skybar right next to it is a great place to dry off, over a cocktail or two. 

Even the basic rooms have views of the estuary and Old Town, each one snug but chic — think industrial interiors with extremely comfy beds. 

Also save some time for the wellness area, too, where you can book a massage or just relax in the sauna and hot tub. 

I WORK in travel and look at holiday pricing data every single day – and there are a few patterns that I see constantly.

Small booking habits that feel completely normal, but quietly push prices up. We’re not talking about a few quid either. Get these wrong, and you can end up paying 20–30 per cent more for the same holiday.

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

Here are the three biggest mistakes – and exactly how to fix them.

Bad Habit No.1: Booking in the morning rush

This one surprises people the most.

Booking your holiday first thing – on your commute, before work, or when you sit down at your desk – feels productive.

But it’s actually one of the worst times you can choose.

According to the data, the most expensive time to book a holiday is between 9am and 10am.

In fact, booking in that window came in at around 30 per cent more expensive than the cheapest time of day, which is actually 2:47am.

And it makes sense when you think about it – because that’s a peak demand window when everyone is searching at once.

Flight prices react to this demand first, then package holiday prices follow.

So while you think you’re being organised… you’re actually booking at the busiest, and often most expensive, moment of the day.

In one example, I found a 5-night all-inclusive stay at the Catty Cats Garden Hotel in Turkey was priced at £133pp in the early hours – but just a few hours later, that had jumped to £165pp for the exact same holiday.

That’s a 24% increase (£64 more for two people) simply from booking later in the day.

Bad Habit No.2: Waiting after finding a good deal

This is the classic “I’ll just check again later” mistake: you find a good price, but instead of booking it, you leave it.

You come back later. Maybe the next day. Maybe after asking a few people.

It feels like you’re being careful or thrifty, but the data shows the opposite.

Every search feeds demand into the system, demand pushes flight prices up, and flight prices push package prices up.

But the reality is: if you’ve found a good deal, it’s very likely other people have found it too.

So while you’re waiting, those seats and rooms are disappearing, filling up and pushing up the package cost pretty quickly.

In one real example, a luxury all-inclusive stay at the Titanic Deluxe Lara in Antalya,Turkey was priced at £558 per person.

But after waiting just 24 hours, that same holiday increased to £606 per person.

That’s an extra £48pp – or £192 more for a family of four – just for not booking when the price was lower.

Prices change, availability drops, and that deal you liked is gone forever.

Bad Habit No.3: Being too rigid with dates and nights

This is where people leave the biggest savings on the table.

I see it every day: most searches are locked into the same dates, same duration, no flexibility.

But pricing doesn’t work like that – it fluctuates constantly based on demand.

Flight and hotel combinations are constantly shifting, and the price you see is based on very specific availability – not a fixed “cost” for that trip.

That means sticking rigidly to one duration can actually stop you from seeing better-value options.

Sometimes, adding or removing just one night can completely change the price – because it opens up different flight combinations or cheaper room availability.

In one search I did for a Corfu holiday, a 7-night stay was coming in at £874 per person.

But by simply increasing the stay to 8 nights, the price dropped to £720 per person for the same package.

That’s a saving of £154pp – or £308 for two people – just by adding one extra night.

It goes against what most people expect, but it shows how pricing really works.

You’re not just paying for nights – you’re paying for the combination of flights and hotel availability behind them.

Yet most people never check – they search once, see one price, and assume that’s what the holiday costs.

Good Habit No.1: Use price alerts instead of repeatedly searching

One of the easiest ways to save money is to stop manually checking prices over and over again.

Every time you search, you’re adding to demand signals – and you’re far more likely to miss the moment a price drops.

Instead, set up price alerts or track a holiday and let the price come to you.

That way, you’re not feeding the surge – and you’re ready to act when the price is right.

I sometimes see short-term dips of up to £50 per person on the same holiday when demand softens briefly – but these windows can last hours, not days.

The people who catch them aren’t constantly searching – they’re notified. But how do you actually do it?

At On the Beach, if you save a holiday, you’re automatically tracking it, and they’ll email you to let you know when the price changes.

On Google Flights, you can search your route, then just toggle “Track prices” – then you’ll get email alerts whenever fares move up or down.

On Skyscanner, hit the heart or bell icon on a flight, and it’ll notify you when the price changes.

It takes about 10 seconds – and it means you’re not guessing when to book.

Good Habit No.2: The 33-day booking rule

There’s no perfect moment to book – but there is a bit of a sweet spot.

According to the data, booking around 33 days before departure can unlock savings of up to 10%.

That’s because it sits between two high-demand groups: early planners who book far in advance and last-minute bookers chasing limited availability.

In this middle window, demand is lower, and prices often reflect that.

Which means on a £700 holiday, that 10% saving means paying around £630 instead – a £140 saving for a couple without changing anything else.

It’s not about waiting as long as possible. It’s about timing it right.

Good Habit No.3: Switch airports, not just dates

Most people have a “default airport” – the one they always fly from without really thinking about it.

But sticking to the same airport can quietly cost you more than you realise.

Flights to the same destination can vary massively in price depending on where you depart from – even on the exact same day, for the exact same hotel.

And often, the cheaper option is only a short drive or train journey away.

In one search I did this week for a family holiday to Majorca, the same 5-night stay at the Sea Club Mediterranean Resort was priced at £260pp flying from Manchester.

But switching to Liverpool Airport for the exact same trip brought the price down to £235pp.

That’s a saving of £25 per person – or £100 for a family of four – just by changing the departure airport.

It’s a simple check most people skip, but it can make a real difference to the total cost.

A Holiday Expert’s bottom line:

These aren’t big sacrifices, and you’re not downgrading your hotel or cutting your trip short. You’re just booking smarter.

But these small tweaks of timing, confidence and flexibility can easily save you hundreds over time.

And once you see how the pricing actually works, you won’t book the same way again…

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.”

A MAJOR train station in England has announced its closure over a busy bank holiday weekend.

Passengers are urged to plan their journeys ahead as the station will be shut.

One of the North West‘s busiest stations will be closed over the early May bank holiday.

Liverpool Lime Street station will stop its overground services on Sunday, May 3, and into the morning of Monday, May 4.

Engineers will be carrying out major upgrade works around the station during the closure.

Along with replacing outdated signalling infrastructure in the Edge Hill area, workers will be maintaining overhead power cables and track points.

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This means that overground lines in and out of Lime Street will be disrupted.

Paul Owen, Liverpool area director for Network Rail, said: “We would like to thank passengers for their patience while this vital work takes place.

“Replacing older signalling infrastructure with new equipment will reduce disruption on the railway and create smoother, more reliable journeys.”

Local Merseyrail trains will continue to run while other routes will be diverted or replaced by bus.

Travellers are advised to check with their train operator or on the National Rail Enquiries website for the latest information.

Passengers should allow extra time for travel and expect delays or changes to their journeys.

THERE’S still time to bag a bargain break for a long weekend away this May bank holiday

We found a selection of staycation deals across the UK that still have availability for both the early May bank holiday and the late bank holiday weekend.

From lodges in the woods, to farm stays with roaming cows, to resorts with outdoor pools overlooking the sea – here’s the best cheap UK holiday deals you can still book for a long weekend in May.

Relaxing Lodge stay in North York Moors National Park

3-night stay for two from 1 – 4 May: £284

Snap up this last-minute deal for the early May bank holiday and stay three nights in the cosy Thirley Beck Lodge, right in the stunning landscapes of the Yorkshire Moors.

This lodge is perfect for a couple’s retreat to the countryside, with a double bed and open plan kitchen, dining and seating area – plus a balcony and chairs to enjoy a sunset drink or morning coffee.

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The lodge sits on a working farm, so it’s not a rare sight for cattle, sheep or horses to roam the surrounding fields.

And for a change of scenery, the beautiful seaside village of Robin Hood’s Bay is only 20 minutes’ drive away.

Ty Hafan, Flintshire, Wales

3-night stay for two from 1 – 4 May: £292

Bag a stay at this pretty countryside cottage in North Wales for a last-minute romantic staycation for two.

Step into an adorable pastel blue cottage decorated with blooming flowers and mini white picket fence into a blue and cream-themed interior.

Make use of the afternoon tea table set, or enjoy a bottle of fizz out in your own private garden under the sun.

Nearby, you can visit Talacre Beach to watch the sun set behind its Grade II-listed lighthouse.

Last-minute getaway to Great Yarmouth, Norfolk

3-night stay for two from 1 – 4 May: £292

This Parkdean resort in Scratby sits on a golden sand beach with plenty of relaxing coastal path walks nearby – plus it’s close to mega seaside resort Great Yarmouth.

Stay in a comfortable chalet and make use of the pool, crazy golf, on-site arcade and live evening entertainment at the Showbar every night.

Drive or take the bus just 15 minutes into Great Yarmouth to stroll its famous seaside pier – plus a go on the snail rides at the Joyland amusements is a must!

Safari Tent stay at Thorness Bay, Isle of Wight

3-night stay for up to four from 1 – 4 May: £169

Stay in a luxurious safari tent this bank holiday weekend on the sandy sweep of Thorness Bay on the Isle of Wight.

With two bedrooms, a unique safari-style look and wooden decking, the safari tents make your staycation feel like you’re holidaying somewhere more far-flung.

On the resort there’s a heated indoor pool with a waterslide, sports courts, arcades and more. Plus there’s a family-friendly restaurant and takeaway options like fish and chips and Costa Coffee.

And if you want to venture out, there’s a beautiful beach on your doorstep, plus the Isle of Wight Steam Railway is nearby, too.

Stay on Cornwall’s stunning Lizard Peninsula

3-night stay for up to three from 1 – 4 May: £184

Bag a bargain stay this early May bank holiday at Sea Acres Holiday Park in Helston, Cornwall.

The Sea Acres Holiday Park is close to top attractions like the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, as well as the pretty fishing town of Porthleven.

The resort has sweeping views over Kennack Sands, where you can take a dip in the water or catch a spectacular sunset.

Stay in a bronze caravan with a modern interior, kitchen, seating area with a flatscreen TV, plus a large comfy bed and sofabed.

Wooden Glamping Pod in Forrester Park Golf & Country Club, Essex

3-night stay for two from 22 – 25 May: £351

These cosy pods nestled in Forrester Park in the Essex countryside make for a very Instagrammable staycation.

Each wooden dome comes with a cosy seating area, kitchenette, a double bed under a window looking out to the forest, decking to soak up the sun, and access to a hot tub.

Within Forrester Park there’s Padel courts, a driving range and several restaurants offering everything from fry-ups to a Sunday roast – turning your woodland retreat into an action-packed weekend away.

Enjoy a classic seaside stay at Cleethorpes Pearl, Lincolnshire

3-night stay for two from 22 – 25 May: £298

This holiday resort in the traditional seaside town of Cleethorpes has plenty to see and do on-site, including live entertainment and lots of child-friendly activities.

The heated outdoor pool area has a sun terrace with plenty of loungers, and looks more like a posh resort abroad than it does a UK holiday park.

The food at this resort is fantastic, too, as restaurants and shacks serve up everything from Filthy Fries to Magical Milkshakes.

Nearby you can laze out on the sands of Cleethorpes Beach, or hop on the historic Cleethorpes Light Railway – which makes a stop at the tiniest pub in the world.

Whitecliff Bay, Isle of Wight

3-night stay for two from 22 – 25 May: £298

Whitecliff Bay on the eastern tip of the Isle of Wight is a gorgeous coastal destination with golden beaches overlooked by dramatic cliffs.

The Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park is a scenic spot to stay, with a giant outdoor pool looking out to sea.

On-site there’s activities like a crazy golf course, and stylish places to eat and drink like The Nab Bar and The Culver Club.

Nearby head to the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary to spot rare species, or Dinosaur Isle for family-friendly fossil walks.

ONE of the UK’s busiest airports is set for travel chaos over the May bank holiday weekend due to strike action.

Around 100 workers at London Stansted Airport – the UK’s fourth busiest airport – will walk out between May 3 and 6.

The walkout, which has been called by Unite the Union, will mainly involve staff who help passengers with disabilities at the airport and onto their flights.

Action was called after staff rejected a “substandard” pay offer.

Delays are expected as a result of the strike, as it will take longer to board passengers who need help to get to their flights.

Last year the airport handled 2.74 million passengers across May, with thousands travelling across both May bank holiday weekends.

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Many budget airlines fly from the airport including Ryanair and popular European destinations include Rome, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Alicante and Ibiza.

As a result of the strike action, families and travellers heading off for the long weekend might experience delays in getting to their destinations.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “ABM staff do a vital job for passengers at the airport, yet they are struggling with low pay while their employer makes huge profits.

“This situation is unacceptable and workers at ABM continue to have Unite’s full support.”

Unite regional officer Steve Edwards added: “Workers at ABM are increasingly given bigger workloads and deserve pay that reflects this.

“Their employer can afford to come back with an offer workers would accept and could end this dispute easily by doing so. But until then, Unite members will strike until their voices are heard.”

A previous strike was planned for April 17 to 20 but was called off.

Sun Travel has contacted London Stansted Airport for comment.

Stansted Airport also recently hiked its drop-off parking charges by almost 50 per cent.

In March, the fee to use the express drop-off (up to 15 minutes) at the airport rose from £7 to £10.

The fee for longer stays of up to 30 minutes also rose from £25 to £28.

The changes made Stansted Airport the second most expensive airport for drop-off fees in the UK, only beaten by Gatwick Airport where the fee is £10 for 10 minutes.

Flight compensation rules

A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.

What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?

Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.

If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.

You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.

So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.

But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.

When am I not entitled to compensation?

The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.

Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.

Some airlines may stretch the definition of “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?

If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.

Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.

Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.

If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.

In other flight news, Ryanair is axing thousands of flights from European airport this summer.

Plus, four major European airlines are set to scrap free hand luggage onboard.

Home Bargains is selling a £5 travel organiser for ‘hassle-free holidays’

Travel fans can keep their holiday essentials organised with a £5 Home Bargains storage item. Most high street stores are stocking new lines in time for summer, and Home Bargains could have just the thing for holidaymakers.

The discount retailer has updated its travel range ahead of the summer holidays – and there’s a ‘compact’ travel organiser that could impress jet-setters. Whether customers are travelling solo or with family, the product could help shoppers to ‘stay organised on the go’.

Home Bargains says the £4.99 Travel Hanging Organiser is ‘compact and practical’ for holidays. The product description explains: “Stay organised on the go with the Travel Hanging Organiser from the Simple family, featuring 24 mesh pockets and four hooks for versatile, compact storage wherever your holiday takes you.” The description says the design is “compact and practical for hassle-free holidays.”

Alternatively, travel lovers could shop the store’s selection of travel pouches and laundry bags if they prefer a different way to keep their items organised. For shoppers looking for bags, the retailer sells a set of three Travel Mesh Pouch Organisers for £1.99.

There are several colour options available. The product description for the blue pack says: “Keep your travel essentials neat with this lightweight three-pack of blue mesh pouches in small, medium, and large sizes—ideal for effortless packing on the go.”

For shoppers looking to simplify their packing for the return trip, there’s also a £1.99 Travel Laundry Bag, which could be ideal for separating clean and dirty clothing. Home Bargains says: “Keep your dirty laundry organised on the go with this simple, roomy Travel Laundry Bag featuring a handy drawstring design for easy packing and unpacking. Perfect for stress-free travel.”

Elsewhere, Dunelm also offers a travel range, including items that could be considered rivals to Home Bargains products. For £10, Dunelm shoppers can get a set of seven Travel Storage Packing Cubes to keep their belongings organised.

The product description says: “Organise your travels with our Seven Piece Travel Storage Bag – its stylish grey colourway and sleek design make packing a breeze. Lightweight and easy to carry, this set is water repellent and boasts a large capacity to accommodate all your essentials. Plus, for your convenience, it’s machine washable, ensuring a hassle-free journey from start to finish.”

Rating their purchase, a Dunelm shopper wrote: “I have just got back from a trip where I used these travel bags for the first time and am really happy with them. There is a good variety of styles and sizes and they are better made than I expected for the very reasonable price.

“They definitely helped me keep my suitcase organised over a two week holiday. The only thing I will do next time is attach tags to the zips to remind me what is in which bag.”

Another reviewer said: “On my last holiday, my case was a mess and my friend had these bags and everything was organised and stress free! I can’t wait to go on holiday and try them out!”

Just because you have booked your break, doesn’t mean that is the price you will pay

Travel industry chiefs have warned that holiday prices could go up – even for people who have already booked. There are fears of cancellations, delays and disruptions this summer as oil supplies are restricted by the war in Iran.

And there are concerns that prices of travel will go up to cover the rising cost of fuel. But industry experts have also raised the spectre of the price of existing holiday bookings going up.

That means people who have already booked and paid for their holidays being asked to pay more if they still want to travel. Emma Brennan from travel agent and tour operator trade association ABTA said the legislation allows companies to ask for more money.

Speaking to BBC Money Box Live, she said: “There is something in the package travel regulations which just applies to package holidays, that travel companies could increase the cost of package holidays by what they call a fare charge. However, it very rarely happens, and there have been so many situations of disruption and uncertainty in recent years, and we haven’t seen this happening.

“And even if the travel company did choose to do it, there are quite strict rules around it. So, for example, it would have to have been in their terms and conditions, they can only do it up to the cost of eight per cent after that, and that’s a cost of eight per cent of the whole holiday – after that you would be offered a refund and it can only apply to various cost increases they are facing.”

According to Which? A 14-night package holiday can cost between £1,500 and £2,000 per person – meaning you could be asked to pay an extra £160 – or £640 for a family of four.

Airports Council International, which represents more than 600 airports, wrote recently to European commissioners for energy and transport and tourism, claiming that if the crucial Strait of Hormuz in Iran does not reopen in a “significant and stable way within the next three weeks” then “systemic jet fuel shortage is set to become a reality for the EU”.

Some airlines such as Virgin Atlantic have imposed fuel surcharges on passengers in response to higher oil prices, and others such as KLM have cancelled flights amid concerns about a shortage of fuel.

Susannah Streeter, chief investment strategist at Wealth Club, said: “Consumers are bracing for an energy crunch, and there are fears that just like the credit crunch of 2007-2008, there could be a long tail of repercussions. In the immediate term, there’s the prospect of holiday plans being ruined by a jet fuel crisis which could see thousands of flights cancelled.

“Lufthansa has already scrapped a big chunk of routes, and there are worries tourist destinations could be hit.”

BRITS have a habit of booking the same Spanish holidays on repeat.
Benidorm. Marbella. Palma. Salou.

And fair enough – they are popular for a reason. But after years of working in travel and digging through the data, I’ve found something interesting.

The best-value holidays in Spain are often sitting right next door to the famous places.

So you can book and get the same sunshine, the same beaches and often the same flights – but you pay a fraction of the price, even in summer.

So here are 10 under-the-radar Spanish resorts that could save you hundreds this year.

Manilva, Costa del Sol

Manilva feels like Marbella…but without the price tag.

If Marbella feels a bit too “Champagne prices”, Manilva is what you book instead.

It sits right on the edge of the Costa del Sol, near Gibraltar, so you’re still getting that same guaranteed sunshine and polished coastline – just without the mass tourism or inflated prices.

The beaches are long, clean and far less packed, and the whole place feels calmer and more local.

With an historic old town, quaint fishing village and peaceful surrounding vineyards, there is something for everyone.

It’s the kind of spot where you can actually get a table by the sea without booking a week in advance.

And crucially: everything is cheaper. Drinks, meals, and especially accommodation.

Guardamar del Segura, Costa Blanca

This is Benidorm’s quieter, cheaper neighbour.

Just down the coast from Benidorm, Guardamar feels like a completely different holiday.

You’ve got huge, natural beaches backed by sand dunes, proper Spanish restaurants, and far fewer crowds.

But you’re still within easy reach of Alicante and all the infrastructure that makes this coastline so easy.

It’s massively underrated, and that’s exactly why it stays cheap.

Food is a standout here too – you can easily eat well for under €15, and a pint will rarely set you back more than €3.

El Arenal, Majorca

El Arenal is somewhere I’ve been banging on about for a while, because it’s one of the cheapest ways to stay near Palma.

You’re just 10 minutes from the airport, right on a long sandy beach, and a short taxi from Palma Old Town – arguably one of the most underrated city-style breaks in Europe.

So instead of paying premium prices to stay in Palma itself, you base yourself here and dip in and out, with the beach right on your doorstep.

It’s lively, yes – but it’s also incredible value if you use it right.

Cabo Blanco, Majorca

This is the quieter side of Majorca for half the price.

If you want the opposite of Magaluf or Palma, Cabo Blanco is about as chilled as it gets.

It’s set on the south coast with sea views, open space, and a slower pace that feels a world away from the busier parts of the island.

You won’t get big nightlife here – but you will get peace, sunshine, and significantly cheaper hotels.

Perfect if your idea of a holiday is pool, a good book and repeat.

Mijas, Costa del Sol

Mijas is postcard Spain at a pinch of the price.

Mijas gives you that classic white-village-on-a-hill look, but without the premium price tag you’d get in nearby hotspots.

You’ve got incredible views, a more traditional Spanish feel, and easy access down to the coast when you want beaches.

It’s a great middle ground for holidaymakers – scenic, relaxed, but still well connected.

And again, because it’s not as heavily searched, prices stay lower.

Can Pastilla, Majorca

This Majorca destination offers Palma vibes without the Palma prices.

Can Pastilla is one of the smartest bookings on the island.

You’re right next to Palma Airport, directly on the beach, and just a short cycle or taxi into Palma itself – which means you get the best of both worlds.

City break and beach holiday in one – it’s simple, easy, and consistently good value.

Sitges, Costa Dorada

Barcelona’s beachy, cheaper cousin, Sitges, is one of those places people feel like they’ve heard of but rarely think to actually book.

It’s just down the coast from Barcelona, with beaches, nightlife, and loads of character – but without the same price pressure as the city itself.

You can even dip into Barcelona for the day, then come back to somewhere more relaxed (and cheaper) in the evening. Best of both worlds.

La Pineda, Costa Dorada

La Pineda – basically Salou, but better value.

La Pineda sits right next to Salou but tends to be cheaper, quieter, and a bit more family-friendly.

You’ve still got easy access to PortAventura, beaches, and everything that makes this area popular, just without the same level of mainstream popularity.

Hotels here often offer better value for money too, especially for families.

Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona

Perfect for a Spanish city break without the Barcelona price tag.

Barcelona hotels can get expensive quickly. But if you stay just outside the centre in Hospitalet, you can cut that cost massively while still being a short metro ride from everything.

You’re still doing the Sagrada Familia, the beach, the food – you’re just not paying tourist-centre hotel prices.

It’s one of the easiest ways to do Barcelona on a budget and is proving surprisingly popular with families looking for a little more than a fly-and-flop holiday.

Cantabria (Northern Spain)

This northern region is one of Spain’s best-kept secrets.

If you think Spain is all dry heat and packed beaches, Cantabria will completely throw you.

This is Spain’s green north – rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and wild coastline that feels closer to northern Italy than the Costa del Sol.

It’s cooler, quieter, and far less built up, which is exactly why it stays so affordable in peak summer.

You’ve got proper Spanish towns, incredible seafood (this is one of the best regions in the country for it), and beaches that feel untouched compared to the south.

And because Brits still massively overlook it, prices haven’t been pushed up in the same way.

THE Cotswolds are a sought out holiday spot for lots of celebrities – with even the likes of Kourtney Kardashian visiting.

One of the most beautiful is Bourton-on-the-Water, considered the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ thanks to its riverside restaurants and little stone bridges across the water.

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

With it being one of the prettiest villages in the UK, it’s no wonder that celebs like Kourtney Kardashian are drawn to it.

The TV personality known for Keeping Up With the Kardashians revealed her stay on social media.

Posting pictures of a three-bedroom cottage, she said: “Dreamy storybook fairytale enchantment.”

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£9.50 holiday spot with shipwrecks, seals offshore & horseshoe-shaped waterfalls

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Called Stepping Stones, the cottage has now undergone a £50,000 makeover – as part of a £100,000 refurbishment project of properties owned by Cotswold Cottages.

Stepping Stones sits right next to the River Windrush which flows through the village.

The three bedrooms sleep five with a private patio where guests can enjoy dinners outside.

Inside, there’s a modern kitchen, cosy lounge area with a fireplace, and bedrooms with new furnishings.

Cotswold Cottages announced that work on Stepping Stones was completed this week.

It was part of a wider project, of which the first stage focused on the four neighbouring one-bedroom cottages; Kestrel, Robin, Swallow and Skylark Cottage.

These were completely overhauled with new kitchens and bathrooms along with new furniture as well.

For more hotels to stay in around the UK – here are some of our favourites…

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Margate House, Kent

This stylish boutique hotel is in a seaside townhouse, a short walk from Margate’s coolest bars and restaurants. Decked out with plush velvet sofas, candles flickering and striking independent art, inside feels like a warm welcome home. Rooms are stunning, especially the ones that give you a glimpse of the sea.

BOOK HERE

The Alan, Manchester

The Alan looks extremely grand, being built into a beautiful Grade II listed building. Spread across six floors, with 137 rooms, each one looks like a fancy design magazine. From the concrete coffee tables to the pink plastered walls, the industrial-inspired designs perfectly replicate the history of the city.

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The Queen at Chester Hotel

This historic hotel has welcomed the likes of Charles Dickens and Lillie Langtry through its doors. Rooms have richly-patterned carpets with super soft bed linen and premium toiletries in the bathroom. Go for a superior room for extra goodies including bathrobes and snack boxes.

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The University Arms Hotel, Cambridge

This Cambridge hotel is in the ideal spot, within walking distance to bars, shops and hotspots like the university colleges and Parker’s Piece. The inside couldn’t be prettier, with huge stained glass windows, grand chandeliers, and rooms with enormous clawfoot bath tubs.

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Bourton-on-the-Water has lots of spots that draws in celebrity visitors, like its perfumery which was established in 1966.

It’s set inside a 300-year-old building and is known for creating bespoke scents – even the late Queen Elizabeth II was a former client.

It also operates a one-day perfume-making course which starts from £325.

The village has a Model Village too which is the only one of its kind in the country.

The Grade-II listed model village was built in the 1930s by the former owner of The New Inn pub.

When it comes to eating and drinking, the village is home to several riverside pubs and restaurants, including the Kingsbridge, which overlooks the River Windrush.

Other spots that make most of the riverside locations are the Green & Pleasant Tearooms and the Bourton Riverside Cafe.

For more on the Cotswolds, here’s one town with old-school sweet shops and riverside games that one Sun Writer loves.

And for more places where you might bump into a celebrity – check out the Cotswolds ‘Golden Triangle’.