Explore the best cheap family holiday destinations from the UK in 2026, from sunny Spanish beaches to affordable resorts in Portugal, Turkey and Bulgaria. Compare destinations and discover practical tips to save money on your next family holiday.
Planning a family holiday does not have to mean spending thousands of pounds on flights, accommodation and activities. From sunny beaches in Spain to all-inclusive resorts in Turkey, there are plenty of cheap holiday destinations from the UK for families that offer a memorable break without stretching your budget.
The key is to choose a destination that suits your children's ages, travel dates and interests while keeping an eye on the total cost. Some resorts offer affordable accommodation and inexpensive restaurants, while others provide all-inclusive packages that make it easier to manage spending.
If you are still comparing your options, our main guide to Best Cheap Holiday Packages from UK can help you explore different types of affordable holidays and find a deal that fits your family's budget.
What Are the Best Cheap Holiday Destinations from UK for Families?
Some of the best-value family holiday destinations for 2026 include the Algarve in Portugal, Sunny Beach in Bulgaria, the Costa Blanca in Spain, Lanzarote in the Canary Islands and Marmaris in Turkey.
The right choice depends on whether you prefer a beach holiday, a hotel with children's activities, an all-inclusive resort or a destination where you can explore independently. The 2026 Post Office Travel Money Family Holiday Report ranked the Algarve first for everyday family holiday costs, followed by Sunny Beach and Lanzarote. These rankings compare selected holiday expenses rather than the complete cost of travelling from the UK.
1. Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve is an excellent choice for families who want sandy beaches, attractive coastal towns and plenty of activities for children. Located in southern Portugal, the region offers a mixture of family-friendly resorts, self-catering apartments and hotels close to the sea.
Albufeira is a popular base because families can enjoy beaches, boat trips, swimming pools and restaurants without travelling far. Other towns offer a quieter atmosphere for parents travelling with younger children.
Portugal's Algarve topped the 2026 Post Office Travel Money family holiday value ranking, with its selected basket of typical family holiday expenses costing approximately £139.65. This figure does not include flights or accommodation, so you should compare the complete holiday price before booking.
Why families should consider the Algarve
Sandy beaches and a wide choice of accommodation.
Family restaurants and self-catering options.
Boat trips, water parks and outdoor activities.
Opportunities to reduce spending by preparing some meals.
How to save money: Compare flights to Faro from different UK airports and look at accommodation slightly away from the busiest beachfront areas. Travelling outside school holidays can also reduce the cost considerably.
2. Sunny Beach, Bulgaria
Sunny Beach is worth considering if your family wants a traditional seaside holiday with a relatively affordable cost of living. The Bulgarian resort has a long sandy beach, hotels with swimming pools and plenty of restaurants and entertainment options.
Families can choose between budget hotels, apartments and all-inclusive accommodation. An all-inclusive package may be particularly useful when travelling with children because meals and selected drinks are included in the price.
Sunny Beach ranked second in the 2026 Post Office Travel Money family holiday value report, with a typical basket of selected family holiday expenses costing around £142.16.
Why families should consider Sunny Beach
· A long beach with plenty of space for seaside activities.
· Accommodation choices for different budgets.
· Hotels offering pools and children's entertainment.
· Options for families who want to keep everyday spending under control.
How to save money: Compare the cost of an all-inclusive package with a self-catering stay. Check what is included in the hotel price, particularly airport transfers, meals and children's facilities.
3. Costa Blanca, Spain
Costa Blanca is one of the most established choices for affordable family holidays from the UK. Located on Spain's southeastern Mediterranean coast, it offers beaches, family resorts, restaurants and attractions suitable for different age groups.
Benidorm is a popular option for families who want swimming pools, entertainment and easy access to organised activities. Other coastal towns may suit parents who prefer a quieter atmosphere and more relaxed beach days.
Spain also has a wide range of accommodation, from basic apartments to hotels with children's clubs and all-inclusive dining. This variety makes it easier to compare prices and find a suitable option.
Why families should consider Costa Blanca
· A wide choice of beach resorts and accommodation.
· Family attractions, swimming pools and water parks.
· Restaurants and supermarkets for different budgets.
· Regular flight options from several UK airports, depending on the season.
How to save money: Compare packages departing from different airports and check whether baggage and transfers are included. A hotel a short walk from the beach may cost less than one directly on the seafront.
4. Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Lanzarote is a good option for families looking for beaches, outdoor activities and a change of scenery. Part of Spain's Canary Islands, it offers volcanic landscapes, seaside resorts and attractions that appeal to both adults and children.
Families can spend time at the beach, visit local markets or explore the island's unusual volcanic scenery. Resorts such as Costa Teguise and Puerto del Carmen offer different accommodation styles, including apartments and hotels with family facilities.
Lanzarote ranked third in the 2026 Post Office Travel Money family holiday value report, making it worth considering for families comparing everyday expenses.
Why families should consider Lanzarote
· Beaches and swimming opportunities.
· Outdoor attractions and volcanic landscapes.
· Self-catering apartments and family hotels.
· A choice of relaxed resorts and livelier holiday areas.
How to save money: Compare package holidays with independently booked flights and accommodation. Before choosing a hotel, check the transfer distance from the airport and whether the facilities your children want are included.
5. Marmaris, Turkey
Marmaris is a popular Turkish coastal destination for families who want warm-weather holidays, swimming pools and a wide choice of hotels. Many resorts offer family rooms, children's entertainment and all-inclusive meal plans.
An all-inclusive holiday can be convenient for parents because the main food costs are covered in advance. However, excursions, premium drinks, some activities and airport transfers may cost extra, depending on the package.
Marmaris also provides opportunities for boat trips, beach days and exploring the local area. Families who prefer to spend most of their time at the hotel may find an all-inclusive deal easier to budget for than a trip involving frequent restaurant visits.
Why families should consider Marmaris
· A range of hotels catering to families.
· All-inclusive packages at different price levels.
· Boat trips, beaches and swimming activities.
· Opportunities to combine relaxation with local sightseeing.
How to save money: Compare the total price of packages with similar hotel ratings and facilities. Check the transfer time, children's club arrangements and the terms of the all-inclusive plan before paying.
6. Costa Brava, Spain
Costa Brava, in northeastern Spain, is another destination to consider when searching for cheap family holidays from the UK. It combines Mediterranean beaches with coastal towns, outdoor activities and accommodation for different budgets.
Families can enjoy beach days, visit local markets and explore seaside towns. Depending on where you stay, you may also find water parks, boat excursions and attractions suitable for older children.
Costa Brava can work well for families who want a combination of beach relaxation and independent exploration rather than spending every day inside a resort.
Why families should consider Costa Brava
· Sandy beaches and attractive coastal scenery.
· Apartments and hotels at different price points.
· Opportunities for walking, swimming and sightseeing.
· A mixture of lively resorts and quieter locations.
How to save money: Compare accommodation in nearby towns rather than focusing only on the best-known resorts. If you plan to explore independently, check local transport options before deciding whether hiring a car is necessary.
7. Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife is a strong option for families who want beaches, resort facilities and activities beyond the hotel. As the largest of Spain's Canary Islands, it offers a variety of holiday areas, from lively resorts to quieter coastal locations.
Families can enjoy swimming pools, beaches, boat trips and attractions such as water parks. The island also has natural scenery and viewpoints for those who want to explore beyond the main tourist areas.
Tenerife can be suitable for families travelling at different times of the year, although flight and accommodation prices vary considerably according to demand and school holidays.
Why families should consider Tenerife
· A wide range of family hotels and apartments.
· Beaches, swimming pools and organised activities.
· Attractions for children and teenagers.
· Opportunities for outdoor exploration.
How to save money: Compare different resort areas and check whether the hotel is close to the activities your family wants to enjoy. Choosing a package that includes checked baggage and transfers may help avoid unexpected costs.
8. Costa del Sol, Spain
Costa del Sol is ideal for families who want a sunny coastal break with plenty of accommodation and entertainment choices. The region has sandy beaches, seaside promenades, family restaurants and resorts catering to different budgets.
Families can stay in established resort towns or choose accommodation outside the busiest tourist areas. Some locations are better suited to young children who need convenient beach access, while others offer more activities for teenagers.
The region's range of hotels and apartments makes it worth comparing several destinations before making a decision.
Why families should consider Costa del Sol
· Beaches and coastal promenades.
· A wide choice of family accommodation.
· Restaurants, attractions and day-trip options.
· Flexible choices for different holiday budgets.
How to save money: Compare flight prices to Málaga from different departure airports and consider accommodation with a kitchen. This can help reduce food expenses, especially for larger families.
9. Menorca, Spain
Menorca is worth considering for families who prefer a calmer beach holiday. The Balearic island has attractive coves, clear water and resort areas that can suit parents travelling with younger children.
Families can spend their days swimming, relaxing on the beach and visiting local towns. Self-catering apartments can be useful for managing food costs, while family hotels may offer convenient facilities and organised activities.
Menorca ranked fourth in the 2026 Post Office Travel Money family holiday value report, putting it among the destinations worth comparing for a budget-conscious trip.
Why families should consider Menorca
· Attractive beaches and coastal scenery.
· A more relaxed atmosphere in many resort areas.
· Apartments and hotels for different budgets.
· Opportunities for family walks and outdoor activities.
How to save money: Compare package prices early, especially for summer travel. Look at the cost of local transport and meals before choosing a resort, as these expenses can affect your overall budget.
10. Paphos, Cyprus
Paphos is another option for families seeking a Mediterranean holiday with beaches, historical attractions and family-friendly hotels. The destination combines seaside relaxation with opportunities to explore local culture and archaeological sites.
Families can choose accommodation with pools and children's facilities or book an apartment to have more control over meals and daily expenses.
Paphos appeared among the top ten destinations in the 2026 Post Office Travel Money family holiday value report. Its suitability will depend on your travel dates, accommodation preferences and planned activities.
Why families should consider Paphos
· A mixture of beaches and cultural attractions.
· Family hotels and self-catering accommodation.
· Opportunities for sightseeing and boat trips.
· Options for relaxed holidays and activity-based breaks.
How to save money: Compare hotels in different parts of the destination and check whether you can reach beaches, restaurants and attractions without paying for frequent taxis.
How Much Does a Cheap Family Holiday from the UK Cost?
The cost of a family holiday depends on the destination, travel dates, number of travellers, accommodation and meal arrangements. School holiday periods can be particularly expensive, while travelling outside peak dates may offer better value.
For a realistic comparison, calculate the full cost rather than looking only at the advertised price.
Your budget should account for:
· Return flights for every family member.
· Checked baggage and seat selection, where needed.
· Hotel or apartment accommodation.
· Airport transfers or car hire.
· Meals, drinks and snacks.
· Excursions, tickets and entertainment.
· Travel insurance and any required travel documents.
An all-inclusive package may cost more initially but can help control food spending. A self-catering apartment may be cheaper for a family that prefers preparing meals and exploring local restaurants.
To compare more options, read our guide to Best Cheap Holiday Packages from UK, where you can explore ways to find affordable package deals.
When Is the Cheapest Time to Book a Family Holiday from the UK?
Timing can make a significant difference to the cost of a family trip. If your children attend school, travelling during term time may offer lower prices, but school attendance rules and family commitments need to be considered.
If you must travel during school holidays, start comparing options early. Popular resorts and family rooms can become expensive when demand rises.
Consider these practical ways to reduce costs:
Compare departure dates: Moving your trip by a few days may reveal a cheaper package.
Check different airports: Compare the total price from nearby UK airports, including the cost of travelling to them.
Consider shoulder-season travel: Late spring and early autumn can offer attractive conditions in many Mediterranean destinations, although weather varies.
Compare board types: Check whether breakfast, half board, full board or all-inclusive offers the best overall value for your family.
Set a complete budget: Keep some money aside for meals, activities and unexpected expenses instead of spending the entire budget on flights and accommodation.
How to Choose the Best Cheap Family Holiday Package
The cheapest advertised holiday is not necessarily the best deal. A package with a slightly higher price could offer better value if it includes baggage, airport transfers, meals and activities that your family would otherwise pay for separately.
Start by deciding what matters most. Families with toddlers may prioritise short transfers, convenient beaches and suitable sleeping arrangements. Families with teenagers may prefer water parks, sports and organised excursions.
Before booking, check the following details:
· Hotel facilities: Confirm that pools, children's clubs and other advertised facilities will be available during your stay.
· Room arrangements: Make sure the room comfortably accommodates everyone travelling.
· Meal inclusions: Check whether drinks, snacks and children's meals are included.
· Transfer arrangements: Confirm how you will travel between the airport and accommodation.
· Booking protection: Check the applicable package travel protections, the organiser's details and the terms of your booking.
· Travel insurance: Choose suitable cover for your family and planned activities.
For eligible package holidays, ATOL protection may cover certain financial risks if the relevant travel company fails. Check the specific booking documentation and protection arrangements rather than assuming every holiday is covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the cheapest holiday destination from the UK for families?
There is no single destination that is always the cheapest. In the 2026 Post Office Travel Money family holiday value report, the Algarve in Portugal ranked first for its selected basket of everyday expenses, followed by Sunny Beach in Bulgaria and Lanzarote in the Canary Islands. Flights and accommodation must be compared separately to identify the cheapest complete holiday.
Which country is best for an all-inclusive family holiday?
Turkey is worth considering because of its wide selection of all-inclusive resorts. Spain, Bulgaria and other Mediterranean destinations also offer all-inclusive options. Compare meals, drinks, children's facilities, transfers and the total package price before deciding.
How can I find cheap family holiday packages from the UK?
Compare several departure dates, check nearby airports, consider less expensive resort areas and examine what each package includes. You can also use our guide to Best Cheap Holiday Packages from UK to explore more ways to find suitable deals.
Are cheap family holidays suitable for young children?
Yes. Many affordable destinations offer beaches, family rooms, swimming pools and self-catering accommodation. Before booking, consider flight duration, airport transfers, access to food and suitable facilities for your children's ages.
Is it cheaper to book a package holiday or flights and hotels separately?
It depends on the destination and dates. Package holidays can offer convenience and potentially useful booking protections, while separate bookings may sometimes cost less. Compare the complete price, including baggage, transfers, accommodation, meals and any relevant booking fees.
Conclusion
The best cheap holiday destinations from the UK for families include the Algarve, Sunny Beach, Costa Blanca, Lanzarote, Marmaris and several other Mediterranean resorts. Each offers a different balance of beaches, activities, accommodation and everyday expenses.
The best option for your family will depend on your budget, children's ages, travel dates and preferred holiday style. Compare the full cost of each trip, check what is included in the package and avoid choosing a destination based on the headline price alone.
For more ideas and practical advice, explore our main guide to Best Cheap Holiday Packages from UK to continue comparing affordable holidays and plan a family break that offers good value for money.
