Holidays in Europe: Top Resorts and Best Beach Destinations
Europe remains the firm favourite for British holidaymakers looking for a reliable, sun-soaked escape. Whether you are flying out from Manchester or Liverpool, the promise of golden sands, sparkling Mediterranean waters, and familiar comforts makes it the go-to destination for family half-terms and well-earned summer breaks.
Package holidays here are designed to take the stress out of travel. With a huge variety of resorts ranging from coastal retreats in the Algarve to the volcanic landscapes of the Canaries, there is an ideal spot for every type of traveller.
Top European Hotels for Your Next Getaway
Choosing the right base is essential for a relaxing trip. We have hand-picked a selection of highly-rated hotels to help you find your perfect match:
- For those seeking a beachfront stay, the 4-star Sol Don Pablo is a classic choice located in Torremolinos, Costa del Sol.
- Families heading to the Balearics will love the Viva Eden Lago, a 4-star apart-hotel in Playa de Muro, Mallorca, conveniently adjacent to the S'Albufera Natural Park.
- If you prefer the dramatic scenery of the Canaries, the GF Victoria in Costa Adeje, Tenerife, offers a 5-star luxury hotel experience.
- For a touch of elegance in the Paphos Area, the 5-star Olympic Lagoon Resort Paphos is a luxury resort located right near the Paphos coastline.
- Golf enthusiasts should consider the Marriot Residences Salgados Resort, a 4-star residential resort located near Salgados Beach and the golf course in the Algarve, Portugal.
- Finally, the Magic Pirates Island Resort in the Costa Blanca provides a fun-filled 4-star themed family resort experience in Benidorm.
Getting There and When to Go
Europe is remarkably accessible from the UK, with frequent flight connections from airports like Manchester and Liverpool. Most major holiday resorts are reachable within a three-to-four-hour flight, making them perfect even for shorter breaks. While the summer months from June to September offer the most reliable sunshine and peak beach weather, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn provide a milder climate that is often preferred for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Beaches and Resort Life
The variety of resorts across Europe is vast. In the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca, you will find long, sandy stretches perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action with plenty of nearby bars and cafes. If you are looking for something more scenic, the volcanic coastline of the Canaries offers unique beaches, while the Balearics are known for their picturesque coves and crystal-clear waters. Regions like the Algarve, Paphos Area, and spots like Zante or Corfu provide a mix of rocky inlets and golden shores, ensuring there is a coastline to suit every preference.
Food and Things to Do
A European holiday is rarely complete without sampling the local cuisine. Whether you are tucking into fresh seafood in a bustling harbour in Rhodes, Crete, or Malta, or enjoying tapas in a lively town square, the food culture is a highlight for many visitors. Beyond the dining table, the days can be filled with watersports, strolls through ancient town centres, or simply lounging by your hotel pool. For those who enjoy a bit of history, the older quarters of towns in Cyprus or the Greek islands offer charming architecture and quiet alleys far removed from the beachfront energy.
Who It Suits
Europe caters to everyone. Families gravitate toward well-equipped resorts in areas like the Costa Blanca and Mallorca, where the infrastructure is tailored for children. Couples often prefer the more refined atmosphere of the 5-star resorts found in the Paphos Area or the quieter stretches of the Algarve and the Canaries. Whether you are looking for a lively nightlife scene or a tranquil spot to recharge, these destinations offer a dependable, high-quality holiday experience.
Ready to pack your bags? Take a look at our latest live package deals below to compare prices, flight times, and hotel availability for your next European adventure.
Photos from Europe