Spain kinda takes the cake, with over 3,000 beaches (steady on!), plus a hefty dose of history, scenery and mouthwatering grub. Every day's a fiesta.
✨ Holidays to Spain
Beaches, beaches and more beaches (we can get used to that)
Tapas and paella on tap - 'nough said
Nightlife that'll have you dancing 'til dawn (with the excruciating vids to prove it)
A holiday all-rounder with something for everyone
🎉 3 Fun Facts About Spain
🌞 Spain has a whopping 3,000 hours of sunshine a year – It’s proper scorchio over there, making it one of the sunniest countries in Europe. Perfect for topping up your tan and sipping on a Fanta Lemon!
🍷 It’s the land of vino – Spain is the largest wine-producing country in the world by vineyard area. Whether you're into a cheeky Rioja or a refreshing Albariño, Spain's got your tipple covered.
🍻 A pint of beer (or caña) will set you back around €2 to €4 (about £1.75 to £3.50). That’s a proper bargain, especially when paired with free tapas in some regions. That's what cheap holidays to Spain are allll about.
🗓️ When’s the best time to go on your holidays to Spain 2026?
Spain’s one of those places that always delivers – whether you're after beachy bliss, bustling cities or big fat fiestas. But when you go can seriously shape your holibobs, so here’s the lowdown from your trusty travel besties (that’s us).
April–June & Sept–Oct – Warm mid-20s°C, fewer crowds, better prices.
July–Aug – Peak season, 30–35°C, buzzing nightlife, busy beaches.
Nov–Mar – Mild mainland sun (Costa del Sol & Valencia), warm Canary Islands (20°C+).
Wanna see what the Spanish weather is serving up a lil' more closely? Scroll on, or hit the link for a proper nosey.
🔥 Top Tip: Fancy a party? Check out the local fiestas – from La Tomatina (August) to Semana Santa (April), there’s always something wild going on. Just bring your dancing shoes…and maybe some goggles.
Where is the best area to stay in Spain?
Spain is vast, vibrant, and brimming with holiday choices – from the sunny Costas to the party-ready Balearic Islands, there's a top-spot for every type of traveller. Whether you're after a beach retreat, a party paradise, or just a proper good cheap holiday, we've got you covered.
👨👩👧👦 For Families
The Costa del Sol is a family favourite – think Benalmádena with its Sea Life aquarium and Tivoli World theme park, or Torremolinos for wide sandy beaches and easy-going vibes. Over on the Costa Blanca, Benidorm delivers waterparks galore (hello, Aqualandia!) plus hotels with kids' clubs coming out of their ears. Want something a bit quieter? Menorca has calm, shallow waters perfect for little paddlers.
👯 For Groups & Party People
Ibiza is the obvious shout – San Antonio and Playa d'en Bossa are legendary for a reason. But don't sleep on Magaluf in Majorca for a more budget-friendly blowout, or Benidorm on the Costa Blanca if you want neon-lit bars and karaoke without the Balearic price tag.
💑 For Couples
Romance comes easy in Spain. Seville serves up tapas, flamenco and candlelit plazas – perfect for a city break with some spice. On the coast, Majorca's Port de Sóller offers laid-back charm with mountain-backed beaches, while Nerja on the Costa del Sol has those whitewashed streets and hidden coves that make for proper romantic strolls.
🏖️ For Beach Lovers
You're spoilt for choice. The Costa Brava delivers dramatic cliffs and hidden coves – Lloret de Mar is brilliant if you want beaches AND nightlife. The Costa del Sol stretches for miles of golden sand, with Fuengirola and Marbella offering some of the best. If you're chasing that Caribbean-in-Europe vibe, head to Formentera in the Balearics – the turquoise waters are unreal.
🏛️ For Culture & City Breaks
Barcelona is a must – Gaudí's architecture, Gothic Quarter wandering, and beaches all in one city. Madrid brings world-class museums, buzzing nightlife and those late-night tapas crawls. For Andalusian soul, Granada, Seville and Cordoba deliver history, flamenco and oranges by the truckload.
💰 For Budget Seekers
Spain does cheap and cheerful brilliantly. Benidorm on the Costa Blanca is legendary for value – €2 pints and affordable all-inclusives that won't rinse your savings. The Costa Dorada around Salou offers great-value family hotels near PortAventura. And Lloret de Mar on the Costa Brava has been delivering bargain jollies for decades.
🏨 What are the top hotels to stay at on your Spain holidays?
In Spain, the hotels are almost as sunny as the beaches. Whether you're chilling in Costa Brava or soaking up the sun on the Costa del Sol, there's a perfect pillow waiting for you. Check out these stunners:
Evenia Olympic Resort - a Costa Brava beauty with pools, clubs, and a mini club for the kiddos.
Sol Principe - beachfront bliss with a splashtastic kids' club in Torremolinos. That's us sold (and the kids).
Sol Pelicanos Ocas - the star of the 'Benidorm' show (no, not that one), with triple the pool fun and a top-tier location.
BCL Levante Club & Spa Hotel - step into adults-only peace and quiet with a spa and a vibe that screams 'relaxation'. Or should we say, whispers 'relaxation'.
Magic Aqua Rock Gardens - a beachside beaut with slides and safari fun. And yes, Dads - you can slide too!
Blue Sea Montevista Hawai - a family favourite in Lloret De Mar with FREE Wi-Fi, pools, and yummy food.
Holiday World Polynesia - free entry to 'The Beach Club' in Benalmadena? Sign us the flip-flop up. This place is all waterpark fun and activities galore.
Ikos Andalusia - a luxurious beachfront haven on Spain's Costa del Sol, offering all-inclusive elegance, world-class dining, and top-tier relaxation in a stunning setting.
Can't decide where to stay? Well, there's plenty of hotels in Spain where that came from, and we've got a bunch of cheeky all-inclusive Spain holidays if you're the kind of person who likes to go big rather than go home. We feel you.
🏖️ What are the best beaches to visit in Spain?
Ready for some beach-hopping fun on your beach holidays to Spain? No matter how last-minute you're looking to get away, these sandy superstars are always game for some beach-bum action, so be sure to get 'em on your bucket (and spade) list:
Playa de Levante - perfect for any holiday squad hitting up Beni – families, friends, lovebirds, two strangers who met at the airport and decided to take a chance on love. Hey, we're not here to judge
La Manga del Mar Menor - a proper local beach in Costa Calida (so prepare to put your Spanish to good use), with those classic white-sand, sea-breeze vibes, ideal for a bit of family fun
Playa de la Fontanilla - a true gem of a beach in Marbella, with a blustery breeze to keep you cool and bags of sand to sprawl out on - perfect for a bit of peace and quiet
Playa de Monsul - a rustic beach with eroded caves and volcanic rocks. You can use this place as your claim to fame, because some scenes from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade were filmed here!
Playa de Bolonia - an absolute BEAUT of a beach, with mega sand dunes and pine trees on one side, and views of the Atlantic stretching out in front. "One of the most special beaches I have seen!" says Elena on TripAdvisor. So if you don't take our word for it, take Elena's.
Playa de Muro - long, sandy and family-friendly (hello, triple threat alert), this place has the sands for castle-building, the shallow waters for paddling in, and the open skies for star-gazing at night. If you're into that.
Playa Cala Sa Boadella - it'll take a steep walk to get there, but it's worth it for the gorge views and soft sands once you get there. Not to mention all the marine life darting about beneath the water's surface. We've got three words for you: bring a snorkel!
Playa de Ses Illetes – think Maldives, but make it Mediterranean. This beach is straight-up dreamy, with turquoise waters and powdery white sands. Ideal for a luxury chillout or a bougie day trip from Ibiza.
Spain holidays 2026 travel guide
👨👩👧👦 Things to do in Spain for families
Spain is made for family holidays, whether you want a classic beach jolly or a week of adrenaline, we've got you covered like chips on ketchup...
PortAventura World - Located in Salou, this massive theme park has thrill rides and shows for kiddos of every age.
Siam Park - Head to Tenerife for the world’s best waterpark – the slides are mahoosive and the wave pool is epic.
Timanfaya National Park - It’s like stepping onto another planet in Lanzarote; the volcanic landscapes are totally cool and educational too.
Loro Parque - A must-visit in Tenerife for animal lovers, featuring parrots, dolphins and a huge penguin enclosure.
Costa Blanca Beaches - Soft sands and shallow waters make spots like Benidorm perfect for building sandcastles and safe splashing.
❤️ Things to do in Spain for couples
Romance is baked into Spain’s DNA, so couples' holidays here are a no brainer. From city breaks to sunset cocktails, Spain holidays for two are absolutely top-tier.
Seville - Stroll hand-in-hand through historic streets before tucking into delish tapas in a cosy square.
Port de Sóller - Watch the sun set over the harbour in Mallorca – it is the ultimate romantic backdrop.
Barcelona - Mix culture with pleasure by exploring Gaudi’s architecture before a candlelit dinner in the Gothic Quarter.
Ibiza Sunset Strip - It’s not just for partying; grab a cocktail at Café Mambo and watch the sky turn pink.
🥳 Things to do in Spain for groups
Group holidays don’t get better than Spain. Whether you are popping off in the clubs or catching a match, the vibes are always 10/10.
Ibiza - The clubs here are legendary; dance 'til dawn at superclubs with world-class DJs and electric energy.
Puerto Banús - Get boujee in Marbella with swanky beach clubs, designer shopping and serious yacht-spotting opportunities.
Benidorm - For a classic fun-filled jolly, you can't beat the neon lights, karaoke bars and bargain drinks here.
Camp Nou - Sports fans can head to Barcelona to tour the massive stadium and soak up some football history.
San Sebastian - Grab the squad for a surf session in the Basque Country followed by incredible pintxos food.
🍽️ Spain for foodies: What should you eat and drink?
You can’t come to Spain and just stick to the hotel buffet (even if it is top-tier). Spanish food is absolutely delish, and diving into the local scran is a massive part of the culture. Whether you’re after a sit-down meal or just snacking your way through a market, here is what you need to try.
Paella - The absolute classic rice dish loaded with seafood or rabbit - just make sure you eat it at lunch like a true local.
Churros - Fried dough sticks dipped in thick, hot chocolate that are strictly for breakfast (or a 4 am post-club snack).
Tinto de Verano - Move over Sangria, this is what the locals actually drink - red wine mixed with lemonade and ice.
Jamón Ibérico - The fancy cured ham that melts in your mouth - it’s boujee but totally worth the price tag.
Patatas Bravas - Crispy fried potatoes smothered in spicy sauce and garlic mayo - frankly, 10/10 comfort food.
Fancy living a bit of the Spanish island life? Well, we've also got deals on holidays to Tenerife as well as Lanzarote holidays. The Canaries are calling...
🚗 Getting Around in Spain
🚌 Buses – affordable and frequent. ALSA covers long-distance routes with Wi-Fi and comfy seats. Local buses are cheap and handy in every city.
🚆 Trains – high-speed AVE whizzes between Madrid, Barcelona and Seville. Cercanías connects smaller towns. Book ahead for savings.
🚖 Taxis & Rideshares – easy to find in cities. Use Uber/Cabify for cashless rides, or taxis with meters on.
So, where to?
Popular Spain hotels
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Weather in Spain
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Spain’s a sunshine superstar, with something for every season:
Spring (Mar–May) – 18–26°C. Flowers bloom, cities buzz, perfect for sightseeing in Barcelona or Seville.
Summer (Jun–Aug) – 28–35°C. Hot, lively, peak beach season. Think Balearics, Costa del Sol and late-night fiestas.
Autumn (Sept–Oct) – 22–28°C. Warm, fewer crowds, cheaper prices. Ideal for relaxed beach dinners and cultural trips.
Winter (Nov–Feb) – 12–18°C on the mainland, but 20–24°C in the Canaries. Perfect for off-season sun.
☀️ Top Tip: The Med coast = dry heat, the north-west = breezier and cooler.
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Spain?
How long does it take to fly to Spain?
It takes about two hours to fly to Spain from the UK/Ireland, which is the ideal length for a cheeky nap and then - boom - you're there!
What’s the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Spain?
What’s the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Spain?
Spain is one hour ahead of the UK/Ireland, so unless you're a total drama queen, you shouldn't experience any jet lag.
What currency do they use in Spain?
What currency do they use in Spain?
The official currency of Spain is the Euro.
What language do they speak in Spain?
What language do they speak in Spain?
The official language spoken in Spain is Spanish, which you might've guessed.
What is the best part of Spain for a holiday?
What is the best part of Spain for a holiday?
Honestly? It depends what you're after:
Beach lovers – The Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca serve up miles of golden sand. For something more dramatic, try the hidden coves of the Costa Brava.
Party people – Ibiza is legendary, Magaluf delivers big nights on a budget, and Benidorm has karaoke and €2 pints galore.
Culture vultures – Barcelona for Gaudí, Madrid for world-class museums, Seville for flamenco and tapas.
Couples – Majorca's Port de Sóller is dreamy, Menorca is peaceful and romantic, and Granada has the Alhambra for a proper culture-meets-romance combo.
Winter sun – Head to the Canary Islands for guaranteed warmth year-round.
Is the tap water safe to drink in Spain?
Is the tap water safe to drink in Spain?
Yes! Tap water in Spain is safe to drink in most areas. Some coastal regions have a slightly mineral taste, so you might prefer bottled water, but it's perfectly fine health-wise. Fill up your reusable bottle and save those euros for more important things... like sangria.
What should I eat in Spain?
What should I eat in Spain?
Your belly is in for a treat:
Paella – The classic rice dish, best enjoyed at lunchtime like a proper local.
Tapas – Small plates, big flavours. Order a few and share.
Jamón Ibérico – Melt-in-your-mouth cured ham. Worth every penny.
Churros con chocolate – Fried dough dunked in thick hot chocolate. Breakfast of champions.
Patatas Bravas – Crispy potatoes with spicy tomato sauce. Tapas bar essential.
Gazpacho – Cold tomato soup that's surprisingly refreshing in the Spanish heat.
Do I need to pay tourist tax in Spain?
Do I need to pay tourist tax in Spain?
It depends where you're staying. Tourist tax applies in:
Catalonia (including Barcelona) – €0.60 to €3.50 per person per night depending on accommodation type, plus an extra €4 surcharge in Barcelona itself.
Balearic Islands (Majorca, Ibiza, Menorca, Formentera) – €1 to €4 per person per night in high season, with 50% off in low season (November–April).
The tax is paid directly at your hotel on check-in or check-out – it's not included in your holiday price. Kids under 16 are usually exempt.
What documents do I need to travel to Spain?
What documents do I need to travel to Spain?
UK & Irish passport holders don't need a visa for stays up to 90 days. You may need to show:
A valid passport (must be valid for at least 3 months after your return date)
Proof of accommodation (your hotel booking confirmation)
A return or onward travel ticket
Proof you have enough funds for your stay
Spain may also ask for proof of travel insurance at the border, so it's worth having your documents handy.
What is the average price of beer in Spain?
What is the average price of beer in Spain?
A pint of local beer (or caña) will set you back around €2–€4 (about £1.70–£3.50) depending on where you are. Benidorm and the Costa Blanca are particularly wallet-friendly, while swankier spots like Marbella and Ibiza will cost a bit more. Still cheaper than a round back home though!






