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Elise Christian August 7, 2025

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Jet2holidaysSummer is in full swing, so it’s unsurprising if you’re thinking about your next getaway. However, when time and budgets are tight, deciding where to go can be tricky.

Luckily, there are plenty of warm, wonderful spots within easy reach of the UK that are perfect for spending a few days, whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or both. From Tenerife with its volcanic landscapes and stunning beaches to Dubrovnik with its medieval history and Mediterranean charm. Even better is that you can visit them for bargain prices.

To offer some ideas, we’ve partnered with Jet2holidays – the UK’s largest tour operator and Which? Travel Brand of the Year 2024 – to bring you a list of 10 great value destinations for a five-day break. Your next holiday could be just around the corner.

Save £150 per couple on all Summer 2026 holidays! T&Cs apply.

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1. Tenerife, Canary Islands

Tenerife, Canary Islands

Belonging to Spain but geographically close to Africa, Tenerife is the largest Canary Island. It’s divided by two distinct regions: the golden sandy beaches and lively resorts of the arid South, and the lush, verdant North, with its green valleys, jagged cliffs, and beautiful coastal towns like Puerto de la Cruz. Tenerife’s excellent beaches (some with black sand!) make it perfect for a relaxing five-day getaway, with adventure around every corner, should you seek it.

Nature lovers can spot dolphins and whales from the magnificent cliffs of Los Gigantes or see them up close on a boat tour. At Mount Teide National Park – known for its ethereal landscapes – you can take a cable car to the summit for astounding panoramic views. Plus, in the vibrant port city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the modern plazas, well-preserved old town, and Palmetum of Tenerife (home to the biggest collection of palm trees in the world) are a joy to explore.

2. Madeira, Portugal

Madeira, Portugal

Perched in the Atlantic near Africa’s western shores, the balmy island of Madeira boasts rough mountains, exotic flowers, aquamarine waves, fresh seafood, and ancient woodland – including the 20-million-year-old Laurissilva forest. The island’s microclimate nurtures everything from sweet passion fruit to world-renowned wines, while its terrain alternates between sophisticated coastal towns and timeworn hamlets tucked into mountainsides.

Madeira is compact, so you can see lots in five days. This includes the ethereal black sands of Seixal Beach; the Pico de Arieiro mountain, where you can watch the sunrise above the clouds; and the “skywalk”, an extended glass platform on a 580-metre cliff on the south coast. You can also visit banana plantations, go whale watching, explore tiny triangular ‘Santana’ houses, take a traditional toboggan ride, and discover incredible flora at Monte Palace Tropical Garden.

3. Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Though Lanzarote has an average flight time of just four hours and 15 minutes from the UK, arriving in this Canary Island paradise can feel like stepping onto another planet. With crystal clear waters, striking volcanic landscapes, flawless weather, and golden, white, and black sand beaches, it’s no wonder Lanzarote draws over three million tourists annually.

That said, with so many miles of sand to stretch out on, Lanzarote does well at not feeling as crowded as some other classic European beach break destinations. Plus, if you’ve had your fill of sea and sand, there are plenty of offbeat things to try. Admire a spectacular sunset from the top of Red Mountain (an extinct volcano), bargain-hunt at the markets of the old capital of La Villa de Teguise, tour unusual vineyards in La Geria, or visit Europe’s first underwater sculpture museum.

4. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Visiting Dubrovnik as part of a package deal is a great way to see this beautiful city on a budget – especially if you choose to go all-inclusive. The brilliant blue water, delicious food, orange rooftops, sunny Mediterranean climate, glorious coastline, and fascinating history will capture your heart. And with just a two-hour 50-minute flight time, visiting seems like a no-brainer.

Over five days, you can explore the charming medieval coastal town of Cavtat; catch a boat to Maki Ston Bay to go oyster catching; and wander the Old Town’s city walks and admire the Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Of course, the beaches are just as enchanting – especially the tranquil, luxurious Banje, an amazing place to kick back, book in one hand, cocktail in the other.

5. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Fuerteventura is a true gem – and despite its 210 miles of wonderful coastline, it often falls under the radar. On the beach of Costa Calma, you can stroll for 10km, with little more than discreet winds and the gentle murmuring of waves for company. And, on Cofete Beach, located in the heart of Jandia National Park, 12km of unspoilt beach offers a blissful sense of freedom. Rough turquoise waves crash against pale golden sands that slowly turn to ochre as you wend from one end to the other.

But peel back the island’s layers and you’ll find more than stunning beaches to keep you entertained over five days. Dramatic volcanic landscapes reveal authentic whitewashed villages, traditional cheese farms, and the otherworldly dunes of Corralejo Natural Park. Plus, there’s plenty of history to be discovered in Bentancuria, Fuerteventura’s first capital.

6. Algarve, Portugal

Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve blends dramatic coastal beauty with authentic Portuguese charm. Over five days, you can explore the majestic caves and rock formations in the village of Benagil by boat, wander through Faro’s preserved medieval old town, and discover the historic fortress at Cape St. Vincent, Europe’s southwestern tip. You can also meander through whitewashed Tavira’s cobbled streets and sample fresh seafood in traditional fishing villages like Olhão.

For something more active, consider hiking the dramatic Seven Hanging Valleys trail, surfing at the lovely beaches of Sagres, or playing golf at world-class courses. But don’t miss the region’s hidden gems – the pristine barrier islands of Ria Formosa Natural Park and the peaceful inland village of Silves (the former of the Algarve) with its Moorish castle.

7. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

A sun-kissed jewel in Spain’s Canary Islands, Gran Canaria has average year-round temperatures of 24C – and offers remarkable deserts, brilliant hiking routes through pine-clad forests, and beaches with sparkling sands and warm, azure waters. Its central region is also a huge volcanic crater with characterful towns nestled inside. Plus, the island is a fabulous foodie destination, home to family-run fincas (farms) and Michelin-star restaurants.

Gran Canaria is the ideal place to spend five days on a budget. In Las Palmas, historic Vegueta’s cobbled streets and the sweeping sands of Las Canteras Beach await. Hike the volcanic Roque Nublo for breathtaking island views, then cool off in the natural rock pools of Agaete. Evenings in Gran Canaria bring lively tapas bars, fresh seafood, and local papas arrugadas (a traditional boiled potato dish) with mojo sauce.

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8. Majorca, Spain

Majorca, Spain

Majorca is the largest of the Balearic islands and one of the most beloved destinations in the Mediterranean. Over 300 dreamy beaches and 300 days of sunshine draw most visitors. But foodies will also appreciate the fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and world-class wines, and nature enthusiasts will be captivated by hidden lakes, rocky coves, and impressive mountain views.

Plus, in Palma – the island’s capital and beating heart – a visit to the Old Town is like stepping back in time. Elegant stone houses, winding alleys, scenic squares, elaborate churches, and antique furniture shops are waiting to be explored. And less than an hour’s drive away, on the northwest coast, lies one of Majorca’s prettiest and most romantic villages; picture turquoise seas, honey-coloured stone houses with green shutters, olive grove terraces, and secluded coves.

9. Crete, Greece

Crete, Greece

Crete is a dream to visit. Its sugar-white sands are lapped by azure waters so crystal-clear that they’re mesmerising. The Greek island is also known for its warm, generous people, vibrant cities, idyllic villages, and picturesque countryside – as well as a treasure trove of archaeological wonders. Five days is enough time to bask in the sun and explore some of Crete’s most interesting cities.

The capital, Heraklion, offers a nice introduction to the long history of Crete – especially the Palace of Knossos, which dates back to 2,000 BC. Rethymno is also one of Crete’s most beautiful and enchanting cities; home to a maze of quaint cobbled streets, a huge Venetian Fortress that dominates the landscape, and a 12km golden sand beach, with lots of bars, restaurants, and shops.

10. Dalaman area, Turkey

Dalaman area, Turkey

Whatever type of holiday you’re looking for, the Dalaman area in southwest Turkey can offer it in spades. For a fun, therapeutic experience, head to the Dalyan mud baths, while history buffs can explore ancient ruins in Letoon or take in the hauntingly beautiful scenery of Kayaköy, a mountainous ghost town. And wildlife lovers can enjoy spotting loggerhead turtles at the gorgeous Iztutu Beach.

The tranquil waters of the Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon will also leave you feeling like you’ve fallen into a dream. Bordered by lush foliage and powder-soft sands, and home to a fascinating underwater world, this natural wonder is one for the bucket list. For something more lively, the resort town of Marmaris offers a kaleidoscope of vibrant bars and restaurants – and plenty more beautiful beaches.

Final thoughts…

If you’re ready to swap grey skies for sunshine without breaking the bank, we hope you’ve found some inspiration here.

Whether you’re craving sandy beaches, cultural treasures, or outdoor adventures, there’s a perfect destination just a short flight away.

With Jet2holidays’ affordable prices and hassle-free travel, your next escape is closer than you think. You can browse their full range of holiday packages using the button below. 

Save £150 per couple on all Summer 2026 holidays! T&Cs apply.

Find a holiday

Are you interested in any of these destinations? Or would you recommend any in particular? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Elise Christian

Elise Christian is Lifestyle Editor at Rest Less. She joined Rest Less in 2018 after achieving a first class Master’s Degree in Journalism from the University of Kent, and writes across a range of lifestyle topics such as mental health, home and garden, and fashion and beauty. Prior to this, she worked as a freelance writer for small businesses and also spent a year training to be a midwife. Elise spends her spare time going to the gym, reading trashy romance novels, and hanging out with loved ones. She also loves animals, and has a fascination with sharks and tornadoes.

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