Spain

Why Go

Holidays to Spain, as far as the British are concerned, took off in the 1960s with the invention of package holidays – and tourists have never looked back! The diversity of Spanish holiday destinations, all featuring a sunny Mediterranean climate and plenty of things to do, mean choices are endless for families, couples and solo travellers of all ages and tastes. The sun-baked Balearic and Canary islands offer the best selection of beach holiday resorts, plus plenty of watersports activities, aqua parks and natural attractions – offering everything from a non-stop party vibe, to a family-friendly action holiday, or simply a sandy sanctuary to get away from it all and catch a tan

Madrid  – the stunning capital – is a haven for culture-vultures who enjoy sightseeing, shopping, café society and world-class museums in the dazzling sunshine of its elevated location. Barcelona's attractions are easily on a par with Madrid's – there is a wealth of shopping, ebullient nightlife and architectural wonders to experience in the Catalan capital.

Costa Dorada's theme parks and family resorts, culminating in dazzling Salou, are a real tonic – and offer great value for sun seekers on a budget, as do the northern reaches, rocky coves and whitewashed villages of the Costa Brava, especially lovely Tossa De Mar and the mountains and valleys of the Maresme Coast.

Spain holidays get even hotter the further south you go. The sultry region of Andalucía, which incorporates the infamous Costa del Sol, Marbella, and Torremolinos, has remained the top-spot for all-inclusive action-packed family holidays, or don't-stop-til-you-drop 18 to 30s party breaks alike. The fantastic African climes and the tourist-centric amenities keep holidaymakers flocking to this region of Spain throughout the year. While, just inland, the ancient Moorish strongholds of Granada and Cordoba feature castles, mosques and medieval quarters just made for exploring.

And what can be said about Benidorm that hasn't been said before? Perhaps that, despite the jokes and the, ahem, TV series, this life-affirming resort continually reinvents itself, and always gives more holiday for your money than anywhere we can think of. A bit like Spain holidays themselves, really, always up for fun, surprising, good value and shot through with Spanish passion. Ole!