Hotels in Portugal

As one of the most visited destinations in the Algarve, holidays to Albufeira are undeniably fun. Its spectacular golden sand beaches pull in the crowds, while its buzzing nightlife scene could rival that of any party resort. You’ll find a good mix of traditional and modern charms here too. For a peek into the past, stroll through the stunning Old Town admiring its Moorish beauty, before discovering its super stylish marina, whose colourful buildings are a stark contrast to the area’s whitewashed houses. And when you’re done sightseeing, Albufeira is home to some fantastic activities with a surf school and championship golf courses at your fingertips.

Things to do

From fun-filled excursions to relaxing days on the beach, families won’t run out of things to do on holidays to Albufeira. Find a spot for your towel on the silky sands of Salgados beach, or take a stroll around the ruins of Paderne Castle to learn more about the region’s history. How about some dolphin spotting at the resort’s luxury marina? Here, fancy yachts and speed boats fill the turquoise waters. If it’s adrenaline-inducing watersports you’re after, paragliding, kayaking, wakeboarding and scuba diving boat trips all depart from here.

World-class beaches

Not many places can compete with the Algarve’s beaches, and Albufeira is home to some of the area’s most striking spots. If you don’t want to wander far for a day on the sand, Praia dos Pescadores (Fisherman’s Beach) can be found to the front of the Old Town. Stretching for about 225 metres, its combination of soft sand and shallow waters is perfect for families with young children. Plus, there’s no shortage of nearby restaurants when you need to refuel.

To the west, Praia da Coelha promises extraordinary beach scenery with its yellow cliffs and calm waters. Keep walking further along the coast and you’ll come to the stunning Praia de São Rafael. A must for couples seeking privacy, find your own secluded sunbathing spot behind the beach’s scattered rocks. Praia da Falesia is another beautiful stretch thanks to its magnificent red-hued cliffs made from ochre stone. Prefer an upbeat atmosphere while you work on your tan? Then, the Blue Flag Praia d’Oura has a great selection of watersports.

History and culture

Originally Albufeira was known as Baltum and was later renamed Al-Buhera by the Moorish settlers in the 8th century.  Look out for historical gems hiding in the Old Town like The Igreja Santana, an 18th century church, or head inland to see the sandstone ruins of Paderne Castle. From here, you can even explore what’s left of a roman villa with a trip to the ancient site, Cerro da Vila. For a more in-depth look into the site’s past, visit the museum and see artefacts from three eras; Roman, Islamic and the Bronze Age..

A nightlife scene for everyone

What was once a sleepy fishing village is now a nightlife heaven. And there’s a party for all tastes on holidays to Albufeira. Head to the neon-lit Strip for the biggest nights, where the bars and restaurants span for a mile. Sip relaxing post-beach cocktails in a chilled-out setting, or dance until the sun comes up at must-visit clubs like Kiss Disco, which hosts regular themed nights. Those looking for a family-friendly evening will prefer the tamer Old Town. When you’re not sinking cocktails in Sir Harry’s and Merlin’s Bar, the square has a great after-dark atmosphere with street performers and market stalls creating a nightly buzz.

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Located on the banks of the Odiáxere River, Alvor is a bustling seaside resort that still keeps all the character of its fishing village past. From traditional whitewashed houses to narrow cobbled streets and a beautiful harbour filled with colourful fishing boats, holidays to Alvor Portugal have plenty of old-school charm.

Wander around historic sites like the 16th century church and ruins of the medieval castle, or visit the nearby Ria da Alvor Nature Reserve for some wildlife spotting. Your holiday wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the vast and pristine beach of Praia do Alvor. Popular for kite-surfing, you can soak up the sun or rent pedalos and kayaks at this sandy beach.

When it comes to nightlife, the cobbled streets lacing the old village centre are dotted with bars where you can sip a cocktail or two. Alternatively, jump in a taxi to Portimão, the livelier resort town next door.

Things to do

Quieter and more reserved than the nearby resort town of Praia da Rocha, this destination might not have a long list of adrenaline-pumping activities, but there’s still plenty of things to do. Alvor holidays are perfect for leisurely strolls along the beach, souvenir shopping in the town’s boutique shops and plenty of kid-friendly activities like mini-golf and fairground rides.

Pull up a chair at one of the great seafood restaurants lining the harbour and tuck into some freshly grilled fish as you take in the sea view. Wander along the elevated walkways of the Ria da Alvor Nature Reserve or tee off at the 18-hole golf course on the edge of the village. 

Excellent beaches

Alvor’s golden sandy beach is a regular hotspot for holidaymakers as the shores provide a delightful chance to relish in the warm weather reclining on sunloungers and under parasols. It’s easy to spend a whole day at this Blue Flag beach as there are lots of top notch amenities, including cafes, where you can get a bite to eat, a refreshing drink or delicious ice cream. Have fun paddling in the shallow waves or if you’re feeling more adventurous have a go at windsurfing, sailing or any of the other water sports available.

History and culture

The resort is on the Rio Alvor in the western part of the Algarve. Now a popular holiday destination, Alvor was once a small Moorish fishing village. It’s well known in the region because it was the place where the great King João II died in 1495. You can still find tradition flowing through the cobbled streets of Alvor and in nearby historical landmarks like the stunningly Manueline-decorated church, Igreja Matriz, less than a 20-minute drive away.

Vibrant nightlife

Alvor is not just a relaxing holiday destination; it’s also home to a great range of nightlife suiting varied tastes, so tailoring your night out couldn’t be simpler. If you’re in need of an evening with a touch of sophistication, have an early dinner and cocktails whilst watching the sun set by the harbour.

For something a little more upbeat, head over to the Irish bars for sports and live music before dancing in one of the lively clubs in the area. Or maybe hop into a taxi to the livelier Portimão, which is just next door. It’s said that Alvor is home to some of the best cuisine in the Algarve with lots of restaurants filling the streets with delicious cuisine from around the world.

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Perched on the sea cliffs with traditional whitewashed buildings and a small cove beach, Carvoeiro in Portugal is a seaside resort just over a half hour’s drive away from Lagos. What was once a quiet fishing village now has a range of shops, bars and restaurants as well as hillsides full of holiday villas. The cliffs and rocks of this coastline have been shaped into a network of caves, caverns and coves, where you’ll see fishermen running boat trips to view them from the beach.

With plenty to do and scenic sights to see, holidays to Carvoeiro will keep all the family happy. There are impressive rock formations to be seen at Algar Seco, two sandy cove beaches just waiting to be explored, and several of the Algarve’s renowned golf courses nearby.

Things to do

Carvoeiro may be smaller than other resorts nearby, but that doesn’t mean it lacks when it comes to things to do. Soak up the Mediterranean sun on the sandy beach, or explore the area’s history with a visit to the 17th century clifftop fort. Take a walk down the steps leading to the Algar Seco rock formations, where you’ll hear the waves crashing against them at high tide.

When it comes to shopping, you can browse for souvenirs at the unique Lagoa flea market, or drive the 15 minutes to shop at the Algarve Mall in Guia. For you golf lovers, the Quinta do Gramacho course is nearby, so you have a chance to tee off on the course that hosts the Portuguese Ladies Open. After a long day of sightseeing and sunbathing, pull up a seat in a local restaurant and tuck into some delicious seafood like the signature Portuguese dish of grilled sardines. 

Excellent beaches

There are several stunning beaches surrounding Carvoeiro, all with soft, sandy shores and glistening, crystal clear waters. What sets these beaches apart from each other are their sizes and the striking rock formations that are hidden along the coastline, so you’ll be able to tailor your beach experience to suit you.

One of the main beaches in the resort is Praia do Carvoeiro, commonly known as Town Beach, which is a quaint, sandy beach with magnificent cliffs that shelter the shore. A hotspot for sun-worshipping holidaymakers, the area has all the amenities and water sports you need to spend your days paddling in warm water and relaxing on the sand.

For something a little quieter, find the small curved bay of Praia do Carvalho for incredible views of the rocks in the shimmering coast. This beach is so remote it’s unattended by lifeguards, but is ideal if you want to recline under the sun in your own spot of paradise.

History and culture

Situated on Portugal’s southern coast, the village was built into steep sandstone cliffs in the 1960s to accommodate the influx of tourism in the area. A quieter resort than its neighbours, Albufeira and Portimao; Carvoeiro is centred on a picturesque hive of sandy coves and green hills. It has a vibrant nautical history of pirates and battles along its waters. You can see the remains of the 17th century Fort of Senhora da Conceicao, which once added to the Algarve’s defences.

The village today is quiet and peaceful; if you wander around the hilly pathways you can see spectacular views of the intricate coast and stunning horizon.

Vibrant nightlife

The village is small and quiet but surprisingly is home to a great selection of bars, restaurants and shops. A lot of the bars have a traditional atmosphere with the Portuguese laid-back vibe streaming into the streets. Whether you enjoy watching sports, listening to live music or being entertained by flair bartending, Carvoeiro has a wide range of nightlife available. If you’re looking for an evening with a bit more buzz, Albufeira is not too far away.

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It may be one of most historic and prettiest towns in the Algarve, but there’s plenty more to Lagos than its narrow cobbled streets, 16th century walls and ornate churches. With some of the region’s best beaches nearby and an impressive coastline to explore, holidays to Lagos Portugal have something for everyone.

Head to the long sweep of sand in Meia Praia, or visit Praia de Dona Ana and Porto de Mós for its secluded coves and caves. Holidays here are jam-packed with things to do; from boat trips along the coast and water sports on the beach to teeing off on a golf course’s rolling fairway. The fun doesn’t stop when the sun sets either, as it pumping nightlife has some serious appeal for all-night party lovers.

Things to do

Lagos holidays have every activity under the sun on offer. Relax on the soft golden sands of Meia Praia beach with a good book, before tucking into some great Portuguese food at one of the seafood restaurants lining the modern, yacht-filled marina. See the iconic Ponta da Piedade by boat; its dramatic sandstone cliffs, lighthouse and orchid-filled surroundings are not to be missed. Spend some time at Lagos Zoo. This is the perfect family day trip and the kids will love seeing all the animals.

Excellent beaches

Lagos can be found in the Barlavento region of the Algarve. The laid back costal resort has pristine beaches and remote bays to relax on. The most popular is Meia Praia, which is said to be one of the best in the Algarve. Walk along the soft, golden sand and recline on a sun lounger taking in the stunning views of the cliffs and coast. The beach is where you’ll find plenty of water sport opportunities including the chance to paraglide, surf and jet ski. Or take a boat trip out to sea to explore the dramatic rocky cliff face and hidden coves.

Interesting History

Lagos has an interesting history; the Romans settled in the 2nd century BC because of the links to the harbour and local fishing trading route. The Great Earthquake tragically destroyed Lisbon and resulted in a tsunami destroying Lagos and the Algarve in the 18th century, and what little was left was later rebuilt after several battles. You’ll be able to learn more about the detailed past of Lagos in the local museum or visit the towns ancient monuments like the Lançarote Gate and the restored section of the 16th century town walls that used to surround Lagos.

Vibrant nightlife

Lagos nightlife tends to be a bit quieter than other resorts in the Algarve but still has enough going on to entertain no matter what your tastes. Start your evening in a restaurant by the harbour. Dine on delicious seafood whilst watching the yachts as they sail up and down the waterway. Next move on to the main strip, Rua 25 de Abril, where you can choose to sip on a cocktail in one of the bars, enjoy the Irish pubs and dance the night away in one of the clubs.

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With its broad, cliff-backed swathe of sand, picturesque old sea fort and bustling town overlooking the sea, it’s easy to see why Praia da Rocha has been a popular place for holidays since the late 19th century. Climb the steps of the 16th-century Fortaleza da Santa Caterina and take in the views of the modern yacht-filled Marina de Portimão and ocean from the fort’s terrace.

Only a short stroll up the elevated main street of Avenida Tomás Cabreira is Praia da Rocha town. It’s full of luxury hotels, bars, restaurants, and even a casino, which look down over the beach from the edge of ochre-red clifftop. The port town of Portimão and the lively nightlife resort of Alvor, are both just under 15 minutes away too.

Things to do

With beaches this good, holidays Praia da Rocha could easily just consist of sunbathing, swimming in the sea and enjoying the open-air cafés lining the promenade. But there’s plenty of things to do in Praia da Rocha away from the impressive sandy shoreline too. Explore the history of the area with a trip to the 15th century fortress of Santa Catalina and Portimão’s old town. Take the kids on a family-friendly day out to Ocean Revival Underwater Park. Sail along the River Arade to Silves on a boat trip, or unwind in the nearby village of Alvor.

Excellent beaches

Praia da Rocha is renowned for its fantastic beaches that are sheltered by dramatic sandstone cliffs which are said to be some of the best in the Algarve. Follow the steps down to the long and wide stretch of golden sand, where you can soak up the glorious sunshine by reclining on sun loungers and under parasols. There are other smaller beaches in coves along the coast, which are accessible via a connecting tunnel. If you’re in need of something a little more uplifting, why not try your hand at the variety of water sports available to you; speed along the waves on a jet ski, take to windsurfing or gently bob through the water on a pedalo.

History and culture

Praia da Rocha is right next door to Portimao; it’s often considered connected to the bustling city and was the Algarve’s first ever tourist destination. Praia da Rocha translates to ‘rock beach’ in English. This may be because of its favourable cliff-top location giving spectacular views of the glistening waters and the River Arade. It’s the second biggest resort in the area next to Albufeira and has fantastic beaches and a great nightlife.

Fantastic nightlife

Praia da Rocha transforms from being a place to relax under the sun by the beach, into an upbeat, colourfully lit resort where dancing and entertainment is high on the agenda. With a great number of restaurants lining the streets, eating out couldn’t be more enjoyable as delicious food is served in the feel-good vibe that this resort is famous for.

There are a lot of great bars to choose from including sports bars, Irish pubs, karaoke bars and discos. Cocktails can easily be found with fruity flavours being served in the upbeat bars across the resort, including the popular Manhattan Café found just outside the main strip. Dance the night away in one of the nightclubs or visit the bars and hotel venues that host live music. Praia da Rocha is a modern resort with lively nightlife, which makes it easy to find something to do in the evening to suit your tastes.

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Set between fishing village resorts and the medieval town of Loulé, there’s much more to holidays in Vilamoura than just year-round sun and soft sand. Its coves, beaches, yacht-filled marina, and excellent golf courses have helped put Vilamoura holidays on the map. The resort’s wide streets will take you past the rolling fairways of perfectly manicured golf courses and down to the seafront marina that’s dotted with luxury hotels, restaurants and bars. Nearby you’ll find the well-preserved medieval quarters of Faro, as well as plenty more beaches, some with conditions that are ideal for windsurfing. 

Things to do

Lined with hotels, cosmopolitan bars, restaurants, and shops, the busy marina is a hub of activity day and night. Enjoy some local Portuguese cuisine in one of the marina’s seafood restaurants, or people watch as you stroll along the promenade, ice cream in hand. In the evening, relax to the sounds of smooth jazz or visit the casino to try your hand at some of the tables. Away from the marina, holidays to Vilamoura include rounds of golf on some of the best courses, horse riding, and boat trips to visit Roman ruins. 

Food and drink

Vilamoura isn’t short of places to eat and drink, so you’re bound to find something that suits everyone’s tastes. The majority of restaurants and bars are found in and around the marina and the cuisine on offer is varied. As Vilamoura and Quarteira have a strong fishing community, you’ll find seafood is available on most menus at both resorts. Take a seat along the waterfront and enjoy delicious freshly caught fish. When it comes to drinking, you can take your pick from cosy pubs and wine bars, or if you’re craving a taste of back home there are also many British and Irish pubs where you can grab a pint and watch the football.

History and culture

Vilamoura also has a rich history with origins dating back as far as Roman times. Unleash your inner history buff with a trip to the Cerro da Vila and uncover facts from the Bronze Age. Imagine yourself back in the Roman era as you discover the remains of what was once a luxurious villa and admire the artefacts in the museum. If you’re looking to soak up some culture on your holiday to Vilamoura, you’ll want to head to Quarteira to check out the markets. It’ll give you a taste of traditional Portuguese delicacies and specialities as you mix with the locals and barter with the stall holders.

Golden beaches

If lazing around on golden beaches is your ideal holiday, you’ll love Vilamoura. Its main beach is very easy to find as it’s just a few steps from the marina. Here you’ll find the perfect conditions for sunbathing and many opportunities for you to try your hand at water sports. If you follow the stretch for four kilometres, you’ll end up on the beautiful sandy beach at Quarteira, where its golden sands are lined by calm waters and stony walls. This charming town has a quiet and peaceful atmosphere for relaxing days on the sand.

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Often overlooked in favour of big-name Algarve resorts like Albufeira (just 15kms to the west) Armação de Pêra holidays are just as exciting. Home to one of the region’s longest beaches, when you’re not sprawled out on its golden sands, you’ve got a town of bars, restaurants and shops waiting to welcome you. 

History lovers shouldn’t miss a chance to hunt down the resort’s 16th century fort, originally built to defend the town from pirate invasions. While those hoping to get out on the water will love the many boat trips on offer here. Make sure you squeeze in a trip to the impressive Benagil sea cave, which has been internationally recognised as one of the ‘most beautiful places in the world’.

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Caniço hoildays are all about laid-back beach days, village strolls and epic water sports. A peaceful coastal hideaway on the south coast of Madeira, Caniço is a traditional town with green hills, rugged clifftops, a pretty square, and year-round sun. Enjoy lazy days on the pebble beaches, surfing the waves or diving for marine life. In the town, relax with a wine and fresh seafood in the genteel bars, climb the rocky landscapes for panoramic views, or practice your swing on the verdant golf courses.

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Welcome to Madeira’s 500-year-old capital, perched on a hill along the Garden Island’s southern coastline. Cobbled streets, stunning gardens, and a cosmopolitan marina are all part and parcel of Funchal holidays.

This place flawlessly blends old with new, from the historic Old Town to the smart boutiques and bars. And it’s home to some super-stylish clubs, too, along with rustic restaurants serving up classic local fare. Don’t miss the famously colourful gardens; you can enjoy spectacular views across the bay from some of them. Looking for a beach? There are four of them nearby, just a half-hour walk from town.

Things to do

You could spend hours and hours exploring the cobbled streets of Funchal’s Old Town, dipping in and out of the shops and museums. How about a trip to the Museum of Contemporary Art? It’s housed in the 17th century São Tiago Fort. But there’s so much more to this place, too. Holidays to the Garden Island are a change to explore the great outdoors, so pack your swimsuit and your hiking boots and see where your trip takes you.

Excellent beaches

There are only a few sandy shores in Funchal, as most are pebble beaches, so you’ll find a unique take on a traditional afternoon by the beach. It’s common to find paved promenades with lidos on the edge of the coast with sunbathing facilities and you can still swim in the calming waves as a safe section of the sea is usually marked off. In the Old Town you’ll find Praia da Barreirinha where you can relax on the promenade on sun loungers before taking a dip in the pool.

Follow the steps down to the sea and have fun swimming in the stunning setting. If you want to find sand, one of the more popular beaches is the small man-made one in nearby Calheta. The golden sand was imported from Morocco and is ideal for reclining on sun loungers under the glorious warm sunshine.

History and culture

Funchal is Madeira’s largest city and the island’s 500 year old capital. The area became popular with tourists in the 1850s and the main export of the island is the famous Madeira wine, which began trading in the 17th century. You’ll find most of the island’s history and culture in the cobbled streets of the Old Town and 16th century buildings in the centre of Funchal.

The general atmosphere when walking around Funchal is upbeat and modern, but tradition oozes through in the shape of traditional food and age-old customs, such as picking grapes in September’s Wine Harvest Festival. Another celebrated tradition is toboggan rides down the steep hill that connects Monte to Funchal. Drivers, also known as Carreiros de Monte, push the wicker cart, which was described by writer Ernest Hemingway as the ‘most exhilarating experience’ of his life.

Nightlife

Madeira follows a typically English way of life, with many of the clubs and bars dormant throughout the week. However, you’ll be able to find evening entertainment throughout the week in Funchal. Enjoy a cocktail or two in outdoor seating and dance to live music if the moment takes you. Madeira has a great selection of traditional food to try too. Dine on hearty meals and sip on the famous Madeira wine transported directly from the vineyards found in the mountains.

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Whether you want to relax on a sun-bleached beach, explore modern cities, watch the world go by from a harbour-side café or get to grips with some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery, Croatia holidays are packed with amazing experiences. 

Families who want to enjoy some time together will find plenty to see and do, from river-kayaking in the mountains of Gorski Kotar to exploring cascading waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes. Couples can step back in time and visit the palatial Roman ruins of Split, the medieval cathedral of Sibenik or sit in a sleepy bar and enjoy homemade rakia. With so much to see and do, holidays to Croatia are whatever you want them to be.

There is nothing like Croatia's pristine islands adorned with fragrant pines and shingle beaches. Go island-hopping to Brac where you’ll enjoy turquoise waters and a shape-shifting beach of white pebbles at Zlatni Rat. Wild and windswept, with ancient villages dotted around the coast, Brac island is the perfect getaway for beach lovers and outdoorsy families.

Holidays to Croatia are just as varied as its many gorgeous landscapes. In the northwest region of Istria, close to Italy, is the compact city of Rovinj. Here holidaymakers are greeted with charming cobbled streets, pastel-coloured townhouses, and a vibrant foodie scene. An alfresco meal in the old town promises to be one of the most memorable moments of your trip. 

When you’ve had your share of sun lounging on islands, hop on a boat to the historic city of Dubrovnik, located south of the country. Dubrovnik is no doubt Croatia's most impressive city, and it's no wonder it's known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic”. Not only does this UNESCO-protected town host a lively summer festival, but it is also home to some of the best-preserved ancient city walls in the world. During any other time of year, just strolling through the old town and admiring its medieval architecture is a delight.

Travel back in time

Around 229BC, Romans crossed the Adriatic and took control. Today, their influence can be seen almost everywhere you go. Roman architecture, buildings and artefacts are some of the most popular attractions in Croatia and an absolute must for anyone with an interest in history. Head to the city of Split to see Emperor Diocletian’s Palace. Over 2,000 years old, it still cuts an imposing figure and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Cathedral of St Domnius is conveniently close and gives a fascinating insight into early Roman beliefs. Pula is home to a huge Roman amphitheatre, which seats over 20,000 people and is still used today.

Explore ancient history 

With such a rich history and spectacular countryside, it should come as no surprise that Croatia has acted as the backdrop to an impressive list of films and TV shows. Most recently, Dubrovnik has doubled as King’s Landing in the TV series Game of Thrones, while sci-fi fans might recognise parts of it from the Star Wars franchise. Croatia also has its share of unusual and totally unique attractions.

Zadar is home to 'The Greeting to the Sun', an interactive art installation: a giant, circular arrangement of solar panels that soak up the sunshine by day, turning the energy stored into a mesmerising light show by night. The main attraction has to be the underground sea organ, which uses the motion of the waves to create a range of eerie and soothing sounds.

What should I pack?

What you pack for your trip will depend largely on which part of Croatia you’re visiting, so it’s a great idea to check the weather forecast before you set off. If you’re heading here for a beach break in the summer months, don’t forget to pack plenty of sun cream, a hat and a cover-up for the beach, as the sun can be pretty fierce.

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia in the winter, you’ll need cosy layers, comfortable shoes and a warm, waterproof jacket, as well as winter accessories such as a hat and gloves to ensure you don’t feel the cold when the temperature drops.

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Holidays to Spain bring you to some of Europe’s most vibrant cities, 3,000 miles of soft sandy beaches, and fun-filled waterparks galore. Whether you’re heading for the bustling mainland or the gorgeous islands off the coast, you’ve always got year-round balmy weather, just a short flight away from the UK. Discover a country full of charm, from the mountain villages and Moorish castles to the bustling resorts and delightful tapas restaurants. 

There are so many incredible destinations to explore with a holiday to Spain. You could relax on the powdery white sands of Marbella, soak up the party atmosphere in Ibiza, venture through the coves of Costa Brava or seek out the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands. So whether you want to flop on the beach, hit the world-famous after-dark scene, or set off on an adventure, Spain holidays are for you.

Things to do

You'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do on a holiday to Spain. From lounging on the golden sands to picking up the pace with watersports in bustling resorts like Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca or Costa Almeria on the mainland. But a holiday to Spain has so much to offer beyond the coastline. It’s brimming with incredible landscapes, from Lanzarote’s volcanic peaks to Menorca’s lush wetlands.

Family fun

You could make a splash together at the famous Siam Park. Build sandcastles on the pristine soft sands of Playa de Alcudia.  And if you're seeking a day of sightseeing, hop aboard the Cap Salou Tourist Train. Your little ones will love discovering the hidden corners of this spectacular city.

Couples

Couples have so much culture and romance to soak up together in Spain. Whether you want to step under the stained glass windows of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Go on a horse riding tour through the valleys of Ibiza. Or set sail with a sunset catamaran trip in Malaga. And if it's foodie hotspots you're both after, follow your taste buds around the pavement tables of Alcudia for the traditional paella.

Places to stay

With a fantastic range of Blue Flag beaches, it's no wonder Spain attracts so many to its shoreline. Holidays on the mainland are about the Costas, aka the ‘Golden Coast’, a stretch of soft sand drenched in sunshine. In the Canaries, you'll find black volcanic sands in Lanzarote and Saharan shores in Gran Canaria. While in the Balearics, Menorca and Majorca boast secluded coves and sweeping bays. In Ibiza, it's become a tradition to watch the spectacular sunsets. The rich hues of reds, oranges, and pinks set the Mediterranean waters on fire.

Canary Islands in Spain

With golden beaches, volcanoes and lush forests, holidays to the Canary Islands are all about diverse landscapes. There's so much to explore, from the fire mountains in Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote to the nature reserve on Lobos Island in Fuerteventura. The weather is also warm all year round, with excellent conditions for watersports and long days under the African sun. With all this and more, Canary Islands holidays have got everything you could ask for. All within a reasonably short flight.

Costa Almeria

From the whitewashed buildings of Mojácar to the traditional culture of Roquetas de Mar, holidays to Costa de Almeria are great for peaceful breaks in idyllic settings. You can head out on scenic walks in the hills or stroll along golden beaches. Bars and restaurants can be found in the eco-resort of El Toyo, where you can fill your Costa de Almeria holidays with new Spanish flavours.

Costa Blanca

Translating to the "White Coast", Costa Blanca holidays are popular with beach lovers. Stunning white sands stretch for miles, making it perfect for those long, lazy days soaking up the sun. It's more than just beaches, though. Holidays to Costa Blanca can take you up into the hills, where the countryside is rich with colour, charming vineyards and the smell of citrus and almond groves. In the evenings, Costa Blanca nightlife is not to be missed.

Costa Del Sol

Spanish for "Coast of the Sun", Costa del Sol holidays offer 325 days of warm weather and 95 miles of coastline. But there's plenty more to the sun coast than soft sands and blue waters. On holidays to Costa del Sol, you'll find sleepy villages amongst the hills and mountains that are beautiful to drive through, vibrant nightlife, and rich history and culture.

Costa Dorada

Costa Dorada holidays boast pristine sands, pretty ports, towering mountain trails, pine forests, the region's largest wetlands and medieval villages. Salou is great for kids. With shallow waters, playgrounds and historic towns. And family holidays to Costa Brava aren't complete without a visit to PortAventura, one of the biggest theme parks in Europe, with themed rides and brilliant entertainment.

What should I pack?

Pack your sunscreen if you're booking your holidays to Spain in the summer months. Aside from that, a few other bits and bobs will help make your break easier. If you can't live without your gadgets, you might want to bring an adaptor to charge them back in your hotel. A portable power pack is also a good idea for gizmo addicts.

When it comes to clothing, keep it light and airy, with outfits made from linen and cotton. 

Unsure of the best time of the year to visit? Check the weather in Spain to see which month is right for you.

More travel guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Andalusia | Balearic Islands | Barcelona | Canary Islands | Costa Almeria | Costa Blanca | Costa Brava | Costa Dorada | Costa del Sol | Fuerteventura | Gran Canaria | Lanzarote | Tenerife | Ibiza | Madrid | Malaga | Majorca | Menorca

Turkey holidays are full of delights, from serene, golden beaches to a history spanning thousands of years and mouth-watering cuisine. There’s no shortage of bucket list-worthy attractions either, whether you’ve come here to paraglide over those famous Blue Lagoon waters or enjoy a soak in Pamukkale's hot springs.

And with a foot in both Asia and Europe, Turkiye holidays bring you the best of both continents. Swap Istanbul’s trendy neighbourhoods and modern museums for a glimpse into the mystic Sufi culture in Konya.

Things to do

There are endless things to do in Turkiye, whether you book a short city break or settle in one of its sundrenched beach resorts.

If you’re staying in Istanbul, you shouldn't miss a chance to tick off the city's impressive mosques such as Sultanahmet (aka Blue Mosque ) or Hagia Sophia with its stunning Byzantine beauty. Those keen to shop will also appreciate the bustling Grand Bazaar for its handcrafted items and unique atmosphere. Meanwhile, did you know Istanbul is one of the world’s only transcontinental cities? Part lies in Asia and the other sits in Europe, giving it two very two different sides.

Other must-see attractions in Turkey include the ancient city of Ephesus and the breathtaking 'fairy chimney' rock formations of Cappadocia. Alternatively, see the enormous Roman Theatre of Aspendos in the Antalya region, or visit the equally astounding Greco-Roman ruins of Pergamum (or Pergamon) in Bergama, Izmir.

At Turkiye’s modern beach resorts, you can enjoy days on the picturesque coast before tucking into a meal at a family-run restaurant. When night falls, sip on a freshly-made cocktail while watching live music, or dance the night away at one of its late-closing clubs.

The Turquoise Coast

Many of the most popular holiday destinations in Turkey can be found on the Turquoise Coast (in the southwest), which is recognised for its stunning pine-covered scenery. With over 400 miles of coastline in Antalya alone, it’s a big hit with beach lovers. It’s also home to Olu Deniz’s breathtaking Blue Lagoon, one of Turkiye’s most photographed shores for its bright blue waters and beautiful milky sands.

Another popular Turquoise Coast resort is the lively seaside town of Marmaris, where a traditional Old Town meets a smart marina. This idyllic area is also perfect for honeymooners, particularly Bodrum, where couples can step away from its beautiful bays and discover amazing antique wonders.

Places to stay

Wherever you stay, you’re never far from a sun-drenched sand spot or a dose of culture. Only a short 20-minute drive from Ephesus, Kusadasi is a great pick for visiting one of Turkey’s best-preserved cities. For a mix of family fun, history and lively nights, look no further than bustling Marmaris with a stay at the Grand Yazici Club Turban Thermal Hotel. 

Or if you’re looking for something a little more upmarket, the Antalya region is full of luxury hotels and Long Beach Resort Hotel & Spa Deluxe is as fancy as it gets! For the beach at your feet, Delphin Be Grand Resort has its own private stretch, while adrenaline junkies will appreciate the easy access to Wet & Wild waterpark from Aska Lara Resort & Spa.   

Hoping to delve into the country’s past? Base yourself in beautiful Bodrum! This historical hotspot is like stepping foot inside an open-air museum with its amphitheatre, 300-year-old village and ancient city of Halicarnassus – home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World! And you won’t have to wander far for a day on the sand thanks to its stunning peninsular beaches. If that hasn’t tempted you, a stay at the adult-only Marmara hotel will, with its panoramic views of Bodrum Castle.

If you want to truly get away from it all on your holiday to Turkey, you can always retreat to Club Tuana Fethiye. Situated in the under-the-radar city of Fethiye, it’s perfect for couples seeking a slower pace. Lose yourself among the streets of the Old Town and haggle your way around traditional markets before sipping cocktails in one of Fethiye's swanky marina setups.

More Turkey travel guides

Find out more with our guides to these Turkiye holiday hotspots: Antalya | Bodrum | Dalaman | Istanbul | Izmir