1Spain
Spain stays the default choice for a reason: short flights to the Costas, all-inclusive resorts built around what British families want, and enough regional variety to go back every year without repeating yourself.
British holidaymakers have more direct routes into southern Europe than almost anyone else, with flights from a dozen UK airports landing in under four hours. That convenience, backed by decades of package-holiday infrastructure, keeps these six countries at the top of the list for 2026.
Reliable summer sun, prices that are easy to compare against home, and resorts built around British habits make the switch from home straightforward. Whether you want a beach club, ancient ruins or a city break with better weather than the UK, this shortlist covers it.
Spain stays the default choice for a reason: short flights to the Costas, all-inclusive resorts built around what British families want, and enough regional variety to go back every year without repeating yourself.
Greece delivers the reliably hot, dry summer a British holiday is supposed to have, with island-hopping from Corfu to Crete that suits everyone from stag parties to retirees.
Portugal pairs an easy three-hour flight with some of Europe's best-value golf, seafood and surf, and the Algarve has been a British favourite long enough that English menus are a given.
France is close enough for a long weekend by train or a short flight, covering everything from Provençal wine country to Alpine skiing without the trip feeling like a big production.
Croatia has moved from insider tip to genuine rival to Greece, with a clean Adriatic coastline, walled old towns and prices that still feel like a find.
Malta offers English as an official language, one of the shortest flight times on this list, and a size small enough to fit history, beaches and nightlife into a single week.
Compare flight times, weather and prices for each before you book your 2026 trip.