Summer holiday deals under £500pp

Early summer holiday deals under £500pp

May is a fantastic time to catch some early summer sun without breaking the bank. The weather is already hotting up across Europe, and there are loads of cracking deals to choose from.

1. Costa Brava, Spain

Average May temperature: 23°C

It’s hard to beat the Costa Brava for an early summer steal, with Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar among the cheapest holiday resorts in Spain.

If you’re just after beach time, Gran Beach in Tossa de Mar is the postcard spot thanks to the pretty medieval castle on its southern side. Families love Calella de Palafrugell for its shallow waters and laidback Cala Sant Francesc, which is nestled in a cute cove not far from Blanes.

Off the sand, there’s watersports and hiking to get stuck into – the Costa Brava Coastal Path covers more than 200km (124 miles) – as well as loads of restaurants, bars and clubs for supper, sundowners and dancing.

2. Bourgas area, Bulgaria

Average May temperature: 20°C

If you didn’t already know how brilliant-for-your-bank-account Bulgaria holidays are, we’ll say it again: it’s cheap. And the beaches aren’t too shabby, either. With plenty to choose from in this sunny stretch, the Bourgas region is a real Black Sea beauty for an early summer holiday.

Sunny Beach is your classic seaside resort. The 5km-long (3.1 miles) sandy beach has everything from sun-loungers and jet-skiing to souvenir shops and nightclubs, and at nearby Action Aquapark, you’ll find waterslides, a lazy river and an adventure island.

History buffs won’t want to miss the Byzantine ruins of Nessebar’s old town, or stay in Sozopol for chill beach days. There’s two to choose from: Central Beach and Harmanite Beach.

3. Costa Dorada, Spain

Average May temperature: 22°C

It’s hard to beat the action-packed Costa Dorada if you’re travelling with little ones in early summer. The kids will love PortAventura, an enormous theme park complex containing PortAventura, Ferrari Land and the PortAventura Caribe Aquatic Park.

Nearby Salou, with its brilliant beaches and bargain prices, makes an ideal base. Chilled Cambrils is a little more sedate, while Sitges has a more cosmopolitan vibe. For a quick culture fix, head out to the Roman ruins in Tarragona.

Leave enough time to visit Tarragona. One for culture cravers, this coastal city boasts some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Spain as well as an atmospheric old town crowned by a 12th-century cathedral.

4. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Average May temperature: 24°C

Endless sandy beaches – shimmering gold, striking black or sugar-white, depending where on the island you are – are Fuerteventura’s bag.

With 304km (189 miles) of coastline, you’re never far from a photogenic swathe of sand here – head to smaller fishing villages, such as El Cotillo and Tarajalejo, for a bit of quiet. Then, there’s the 9km (5.6 miles) of sand at Sotavento, one of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots on Fuerteventura.

Take a day trip to pretty Betancuria, smack bang in the centre of the island and its first capital, and Antigua, home to the Majorero Cheese Museum, which is dedicated to Fuerteventura’s world-renowned export. Tastings are encouraged.

5. Montenegro

Average May temperature: 24°C

Montenegro wouldn’t have made it on to many lists a few years ago, but this tiny Balkan country is fast approaching mainstream status. Good news, of course, if you’re after a cheap early summer package holiday there.

Most deals will plonk you on to Budva’s pebbly shores, Montenegro’s best-known – and busiest – beach town, but strike out south along the coast and you’ll find plenty of quieter spots.

If you’re up for an adventure, Durmitor National Park delivers adrenaline in spades; more low-key daytrippers will prefer the jaw-droppingly pretty Bay of Kotor, where you’ll find the ancient city of Kotor.

6. Costa Blanca, Spain

Average May temperature: 24°C

Spain’s Costa Blanca needs no introduction. King of package holidays, Benidorm, is here after all, so it’s no surprise that there are early summer deals aplenty here. Stick to this classic for a lively seafront promenade, sandy beaches – including twin bays Levante and Poniente – and a compact old town crammed full of bars and restaurants.

You’ve also got Aqualandia and Terra Mitica parks right on your doorstep (both open in late May), while romantics can take boat trips to the tiny island of Tabarca, and enjoy sunset strolls out to the scenic Balcón del Mediterráneo, a lookout that juts right out into the Med.

Beyond Benidorm, there’s bustling Alicante, traditional Torrevieja and, to the north, lovely little Calpe.

Late summer holiday deals under £500pp

With the weather still wonderfully warm in destinations around the Mediterranean and beyond, September is a great time to fly away for a relaxing beach break.

Temperatures remain high enough for you to laze about on the sand, the sea is still warm and there are some fantastic September package deals to snap up after the end of the school holidays.

1. Cyprus

Average September temperature: 25°C

Temperatures can reach 30°C in Cyprus in September – perfect if you're seeking some late summer sun. And whether you’re looking for hidden and remote or exuberant and loud, Cyprus delivers on it all.

Party seekers can’t go wrong with buzzing Ayia Napa, where beaches such as Konnos and Nissi are offset by beach bars and watersports, while Coral Bay in Paphos is a great family choice with a gorgeous sandy beach and shallow waters.

If you're looking to escape the tourist trail, venture to Lara Bay. Close to the striking Akamas Peninsula Nature Reserve, it’s best reached by safari or 4x4. The journey is worth it: this north-western part of the island is home to loggerhead turtles, pretty sandy stretches and panoramic views.

2. Algarve, Portugal

Average September temperature: 23°C

With an abundance of exceptional beaches, the Algarve is superb sunbathing territory for a hot September holiday in Europe and accommodation ranges from all-inclusive hotels to B&Bs.

Albufeira, Alvor and Lagos are top choices for fly-and-flop holidays – picture honey-coloured beaches dotted with sunbeds and parasols, as well as promenades lined with cafés, shops and watersports rentals. Don’t miss a sea kayaking trip around the iconic Ponta da Piedade cliffs.

In Faro, you can combine Michelin Guide restaurants and city sights with the sublime scenery of the Ria Formosa Nature Park.

3. Ibiza, Spain

Average September temperature: 24°C

There’s far more to the White Isle than neon lights and pounding beats, and Ibiza’s northern side boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in the Balearics.

Portinatx and Puerto San Michael sit amid pine-clad hills and are popular with families and couples. Santa Eulalia, meanwhile, is the style icon of the southeast coast with a grand marina, galleries and two spotless beaches.

For a little more nightlife, Playa d’en Bossa and San Antonio offer beach-basking by day and a multitude of venues by night.

4. Tenerife, Canary Islands

Average September temperature: 23°C

Tenerife is ideal for late summer sun seekers, with temperatures still sizzling well into September.

Eleven of its beaches have Blue Flag status, with a combination of wide sweeping stretches and smaller, more intimate volcanic sand beaches.

Those looking for vibrant nightlife after a hard day’s basking will find it at resorts such as Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos, or you can keep it chill with a sundowner at Las Teresitas – its beach has fine yellow sand imported from the Sahara Desert, making it one of the few on Tenerife where you won’t see the usual black, volcanic sand.

5. Sardinia, Italy

Average September temperature: 22°C

You can take your pick of silver, gold or white sands on Sardinia’s 1,000km (621 miles) of coastline.

Located on the aptly named Emerald Coast, stunning Baia Sardinia has crystal-clear waters and powder-white sands. Alternatively, you can mingle with the glitterati at Porto Cervo, which oozes glamour and offers plenty of opportunity for working on that celebrity tan.

Alghero, in northwest Sardinia, has a strong Catalan influence and San Giovanni beach – also known as ‘the lido’ – borders the town. However, for a beach with a real wow factor, Maria Pia is just five minutes away by car and has a stretch of ice-white sand, haloed by scented pine forests.

If one Sardinian beach just isn’t enough for you, take a boat tour to spend a day cruising coastal highlights.

6. Croatia

Average September temperature: 21°C

Croatia is blessed with several outstanding islands that are perfect for a late summer sun escape, most of which can be visited by taking a ferry from cities on the mainland, such as Split or Dubrovnik.

Stiniva, on the picturesque island of Vis, is within easy reach by ferry from Split. Accessible by hiking a steep path or by taxi boat from the nearby Rukavac Cove, this exquisite patch of coastline is well worth the effort.

Hvar is the place to visit for glamourous, sun-drenched stretches and trendy bars, while you’ll find protected forests, olive groves and two stunning saltwater lakes on scenic Mljet.

7. Kefalonia, Greece

Average September temperature: 22°C

Kefalonia’s shimmering Ionian shores and its bargain holiday deals are equally as tempting in late summer.

Look to Katelios, Lassi or Lixouri for the best package prices – all make the line up for the cheapest resorts in Greece this year and are classic seaside staples. Think pretty patches of sand, watersports and ice-cream shops.

Wherever you stay, a trip to Myrtos Beach is a must. Reachable by a long winding road, is one of the best in the country, with pure white pebbles that glisten against the lush green mountainside.

If you can tear yourself away from the sand, Kefalonia’s countryside is rife with adventure. Hike Mount Ainos, trot through forest trails on horseback or go in search of ancient monasteries.

Last-minute summer holiday deals under £500pp

Didn’t book that bargain break in January and now feel the need for a spontaneous escape to the sun?

You’re in luck. Even when summer is in full swing, you don't need to break the bank to enjoy a last-minute getaway. Here are eight fantastic places where you can soak up the sun and sea, all for under £500 per person.

1. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Gran Canaria has got last-minute holidays down to a tee – think ten hours of sunshine a day, beaches backed by golden sand dunes and all the tapas and sangria you could ask for. There’s no shortage of activities either, whether you fancy a whale-spotting boat trip or museums and shopping in the capital’s old town.

Joined by a colossal stretch of silky-soft sand, Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés are undoubtedly the island’s best-known resorts. Pick the former for high-end hotels, and the latter for nightlife.

Capital Las Palmas has more variety for accommodation as well as one of the best city beaches in Spain, Las Canteras Beach. Sunbathe or surf before refuelling at one of the seafront restaurants.

2. Antalya, Turkey

Turkey is a great bet for a last-minute all-inclusive holiday on a budget, and Antalya’s beach resorts are out to impress with fancy pools and spas. Even if you don’t go all in, you’ll find plenty of cheap deals on four-star hotels and self-catering apartments.

Keep little ones entertained by making a splash at Aqua Atlantis waterpark, checking out the giant sculptures at Sandland or spotting sea life at the Antalya Aquarium.

For more relaxed day trips from Antalya, sip coffee at a harbourfront café in Kaleiçi old town or indulge in a hammam spa session before kicking back on Konyaalti or Lara Beach.

3. Rhodes, Greece

Rhodes is a real Aegean gem with a notorious party hub that needs no introduction. Faliraki may have calmed down somewhat from its heyday but it’s still a lively place where you can kick on until sunrise.

You won’t be left searching for a drink as it still boasts some of the best nightlife in Rhodes, with scores of bars and clubs lining the creatively-named Bar Street and Club Street.

It’s not just about the nightlife, though. Make time to explore the fascinating medieval Old Town of Rhodes, with its cobbled streets, ancient ruins, and the impressive Palace of the Grand Master.

You can also visit the Acropolis of Lindos, which enjoys breathtaking views over the island and a glimpse into ancient Greek history.

4. Menorca, Spain

You’ll have a hard time trying to decide which of Menorca’s beaches is your favourite if you book a last-minute holiday here – this Balearic island is all about its rugged coastlines and beautiful sands.

Spend your days soaking up the sun on Cala Galdana’s Blue Flag beach, known not only for its soft, white sand but also for its great selection of watersports and bars. For a more laidback vibe, head to the pretty fishing village of Fornells where you can boat-watch from the harbour and dine in some of the island’s best fish restaurants.

If you love a good walk, the coastal paths like the Cami de Cavalls will be your bag. Expect scenic routes with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as lush wetlands, ancient watch towers and hidden coves.

5. Crete, Greece

If there’s one thing you must do on a last-minute holiday to Crete, it’s visit Elafonissi Beach. Granted, the sands might not always be as pink as the postcards promise but the impossibly clear water and sandbar that stretches all the way to Elafonissi island make it more than worthy of your time (and your Insta feed).

It’s not too far (about an hour and a half by car) from the historic city of Chania, with its Venetian harbour, narrow streets and vibrant markets. For a bit of adventure, hike through the Samaria Gorge or visit the ancient Palace of Knossos.

If you wander far enough east, you’ll find another unique beach. Vai might be hidden behind Europe’s largest palm forest but it’s hardly off the radar, so get there early.

6. Sicily, Italy

It’s tempting to try and cram all of Sicily’s sights into one last-minute trip, but this is one Med island holiday you’ll want to savour.

A few things for your itinerary include Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, where ancient Greek ruins stand majestically against the backdrop of the Sicilian countryside, and the charming little island of Ortigia in Syracuse.

Taormina, in the northeast, is prime beach territory, or you might prefer gritty Palermo, which puts you close to both Mondello Beach and lovely Cefalù on the north coast.

Sicily is also a paradise for food lovers, with its unique cuisine that includes arancini, pasta alla Norma and breaded swordfish involtini rolls.

7. Halkidiki, Greece

The Greek islands can get busy in summer, so why not hunt for last-minute bargains on Greece’s mainland instead? The northern region of Halkidiki, about an hour’s drive from Thessaloniki, is famous for three distinctive finger-like peninsulas – Kassandra, Sithonia and Mount Athos – that jut into the Aegean, which means there’s plenty of coastline to go around.

Lively resort towns like Kriopigi and Chanioti line the 100km (62 miles) sun-baked coast of Kassandra, the most developed of the three. Kallithea, in particular, is known for its late-night energy.

Beaches on Sithonia, the middle peninsula, are wilder with fewer facilities, but the hotels don’t scrimp on luxury. It’s the one for back-to-nature serenity.

8. Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

Sunny Beach is pretty much a mainstay among the top last-minute holiday destinations thanks to its wallet-friendly prices.

But affordable doesn’t mean this Black Sea resort skimps on the good stuff. As well as its sun-drenched, sandy beach (the clue’s in the name), Sunny Beach comes alive with bars, clubs and entertainment options after the sun goes down.

It’s also a great base for exploring the area. There’s the nearby ancient town of Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobbled streets, Byzantine ruins and beautiful churches, or you can join a jeep safari into the mountains for a high-octane day out.

Four-star summer holiday deals under £500pp

Stylish hotels, premium comforts, those luxury extra touches that make us feel like we’ve levelled up our getaway… what’s not to love about a four-star stay? Throw in some summer sunshine and a budget-friendly price and you’ve got holiday gold.

1. Agadir, Morocco

Beach resort in Morocco? Agadir is your answer. With an average of 340 days of sunshine per year, plus a sweeping stretch of fine golden sand, it’s the country's top spot for a summer seaside escape. Take one look at the variety of stylish four-star hotels lining the coast (think palm-fringed pools and sun terraces), and it will soon be your favourite spot, too.

Almost completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1960, Agadir has since undergone a modern renovation. Contemporary buildings, street cafés and shop-lined boulevards create a Mediterranean feel to the city, but you’ll still find its traditional heritage in the bustling souks and hammam spas.

When you’re not basking on the beach, rent a surfboard to catch some waves, check out the hilltop ruins of Agadir Oufella or take a day trip to the Souss-Massa National Park to spot wildlife among the wetlands and dunes.

2. Majorca, Spain

Majorca is a package holiday mecca and whether you’re searching for an all-inclusive resort or self-catering stay this summer, you’ll find a four-star hotel to suit.

Some of the best deals can be found in the southern resorts of Santa Ponsa, Palma Nova and in the capital city, Palma. Spend lazy days lounging on sun-bleached beaches before choosing which tapas or cocktail menu tickles your fancy at one of the waterfront restaurants and bars. Come sundown, follow the party tunes to Magaluf if you’re game for a late-night boogie.

For the type of turquoise coves and picturesque fishing harbours that make your Instagram feed, you’ll want to head to the island’s east coast. Cala Figuera, Cala d'Or and Cala Ratjada are your quieter resorts brimming with rustic Spanish charm, while Cala Millor’s mile-long activity-filled beach is favoured by the family crowds.

3. Dalaman area, Turkey

Awash with pine-clad hills, crystal clear sea and summer temperatures topping 30°C, the hardest part of your Dalaman holiday is deciding where to stay.

Dalaman itself is a hub of restaurants serving up delicious Turkish staples like lamb koftas, meze and fresh seafood, and you can’t beat Kayacik Beach for sunsets.

Marmaris has the biggest array of four-star hotels and a list of activities to match – from splash-filled days out at Atlantis Water Park to mountain hiking – while ancient rock tombs, mud baths and turtles await in Dalyan.

Go east to seek out Dalaman’s laidback side. Try Fethiye for top-notch spas, local markets and tranquil boat trips to the surrounding islets; next door, you’ll find one of Turkey’s – and Europe’s – best beaches in Olu Deniz. Hint: It’s a lagoon, and it’s brilliantly blue.

4. Corfu, Greece

Like your summer on the hot side? Temperatures hit 30°C in Corfu between June and September so expect serious sunbathing sessions and deliciously warm waters.

Look out for four-star hotels offering budget deals or consider a self-catering apartment for an even cheaper stay – many are in complexes with a private pool and onsite restaurant or café.

Sidari and Dassia are great picks for non-stop beach activities. Agios Georgios North is a bit smaller, but its 2km-long (1.2 miles) arc of sand makes up for it. For beach cocktails by day and clubbing by night, you can’t do better than rowdy Kavos.

5. Costa del Sol, Spain

Fuengirola is frequently one of the cheapest resorts for a summer holiday on this stretch of Spanish coastline and a top pick for families. Its 8km-long (4.9 miles) beach is a frenzy of watersports and cafés but the sea is relatively calm and is watched over by lifeguards.

Benalmádena and Torremolinos are equally popular resort towns thanks to their soft, toffee-coloured beaches and fun-filled attractions. Little ones will love learning about marine life at Sea Life Benalmádena, big kids can hit the water slides at Aqualand Torremolinos and culture-cravers can admire the decadent Casa de los Navajas palace.

To combine sunbathing and sightseeing, make a beeline for Malaga. As the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, a visit to Museo Picasso is a must, as is a trip to the medieval Alcazaba fortress.

If your summer holiday vibe is more stylish beach clubs, sangria sundowners and boutique shopping, then it’s got to be Marbella.

6. Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Lanzarote is known for its year-round warm weather, but a four-star summer holiday here just hits different – there are ten hours of glorious sunshine a day, the sea temperature averages an inviting 22°C and the buzz of busy restaurants and bars creates a jovial atmosphere.

The summer months have a handful of festivals and concerts, too. Join the parades in honour of the Saint Carmen in the Nuestra Señora del Carmen festival that takes place throughout Lanzarote’s towns from 16 July onwards, or time your visit with the end of the Fiesta de San Gines to catch the dazzling firework display over Arrecife's beach. For one weekend in June (13-14) and July (25-26), the Lava Live music festival brings non-stop tunes to the island.

Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen are two of Lanzarote’s most popular resorts, and you’ll find all the holiday essentials (ice cream stalls, watersports rentals and souvenir shops), plus some great-value package holiday deals, in both.

7. Malta

Don’t be fooled by Malta’s small size – with three main islands, a UNESCO-listed capital city and some of the best beaches in Europe, there’s plenty of options for a four-star getaway.

Start by exploring the stunning coastline. Golden Bay and Mellieha Bay are the most popular beaches on Malta, red-sand Ramla Bay is a must-visit on Gozo and you could easily spend a whole day splashing in Comino’s sparkling Blue Lagoon.

When you get hungry, Malta’s food scene is in a league of its own. Graze on meze boards, flaky cheese pastizzi pastries and freshly caught fish.

Keep it cheap by staying in a boutique hostel or B&B.