When the weather turns cold and dark, many of us begin dreaming of our next holiday. If you’re feeling the pinch, however, it can be difficult to justify spending money on things that aren’t strictly necessary. But we all deserve a break, and the good news is that special, relaxing holidays can be far more affordable than you think.
All-inclusive breaks aren’t just hassle-free, they can end up costing far less. Paying for everything upfront – flights, accommodation, food, and drink – means no hidden costs. Plus, in the UK, we’re lucky to have some of the world’s best-value all-inclusive hotspots on our doorstep.
From sun-drenched southern Spain to Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, here are eight Mediterranean all-inclusive hotspots that won’t break the bank.
1. Algarve, Portugal
While technically Portugal is on the Atlantic, its culture, climate, and cuisine are all overwhelmingly Mediterranean. Boasting one of the most sensational shorelines in Europe, Portugal’s Algarve region is known for its coastal resorts, many of which are all-inclusive. While there are lots of luxury hotels, there are budget-friendly options, too, so getting a taste of luxury doesn’t have to break the bank. Plus, the Algarve is a golfer’s paradise, and many hotels include access to the greens in the booking price.
If you’re not a golfer, there’s still plenty to keep you busy. Sunseekers have a gorgeous array of golden beaches, secret bays, and rocky coves to visit, while culture enthusiasts can explore Faro, the Algarve’s historic capital. There are excellent all-inclusive hotels in Faro, but the largest resort town, Albufeira, usually has the most variety – as well as a lively nightlife, if that’s your thing. If you prefer to be based somewhere quieter, low-key Alvor and Olhos d’Agua have plenty to offer.
2. Tenerife, Spain
Spain’s Canary Islands have long been a popular choice with Brits, and if you’re looking for a bargain, you’ll be pleased to learn many of Europe’s best all-inclusive resorts are found on this volcanic archipelago. But it’s Tenerife, the largest island, that has the most diversity, and the hotels are as varied as the landscape. Some of the best resorts are found in the island’s otherworldly interior, and offer a refreshingly different experience to accommodation on the coast.
But it all depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re more interested in swimming and sunbathing than hiking and stargazing, your best options are on Tenerife’s south coast. Beach towns like Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos have a dizzyingly wide array of resorts or, for something more upmarket, Costa Adeje has high-end hotels that are surprisingly affordable. But for something different, you may want to head to Buenavista, in the north, where you can discover another side of the island.
3. Rhodes, Greece
If you’re looking for luxury with an affordable price tag, why not head to Rhodes? This gorgeous Greek island is packed with four- and five-star all-inclusive resorts and, unlike those on islands like Santorini or Mykonos, these don’t need to break the bank. Despite being one of the most affordable Greek islands, Rhodes is also one of the most diverse, and there’s something for everyone – from Byzantine buildings and Trojan ruins to picture-perfect whitewashed villages and sweeping golden beaches.
Most of the all-inclusive resorts are found on the island’s east coast, where a seemingly endless stretch of soft sand backs onto sparkling turquoise seas. Coastal Rhodes Town, with its UNESCO-listed Old Town, is a great base if you’re interested in history. If you prefer being away from the hustle and bustle, you may want to head further south, to chic, laidback Kolymbia. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater for families, but many are adult-only, and the ideal spot for a sophisticated escape.
4. Paphos, Cyprus
Cyprus is also known for its sun-kissed coastline, and if you’re looking for a beach break with a generous side of culture, few destinations can compete. The south of the island is home to the best all-inclusive options – and while the Larnaca region is a popular choice, you tend to get more for your money around Paphos. Known as the birthplace of Aphrodite, ancient Paphos is bursting with romance and history and, thanks to its position on the country’s southwest corner, enjoys truly sensational sunsets.
There’s lots of variety when it comes to all-inclusive hotels. Some of the cheaper options are apartments with kitchens, so if you don’t fancy eating in the hotel restaurant you can cook – perhaps a good choice for people with dietary restrictions. But there are also plenty of glitzier hotels and resorts where you can hop from bar to restaurant. There’s lots of variety in Paphos itself, too; stay in Ktima, the old town, or Kato Paphos, a modern resort that’s centred around one of the Med’s most impressive harbours.
5. Benidorm, Spain
It may not have shaken off its reputation for ‘Brits abroad’, but there’s more to Costa Brava’s Benidorm than meets the eye – and if you’re looking for a budget break in Spain, you probably won’t find anything cheaper. Compared to hotspots like Majorca and Ibiza, Benidorm is considerably less expensive, yet the sand is just as white, and the waters just as clear. Despite the ubiquitous high-rise buildings, Benidorm’s history goes back to 1325, and its cobbled old town and Baroque church are as authentic as it gets.
There are all kinds of all-inclusive options, from unpretentious hotels to four-star resorts with beach access, so there’s something for every budget. The town’s best beaches, Levante and Poniente, are incredibly picturesque, and both have restaurants, bars, and watersports. For something quieter, head to locals’ favourite Malpas Beach, a peaceful cove behind the old town port. At night, the town comes alive, and the aroma of tapas and sounds of tribute bands drift on the warm breeze.
6. Antalya, Turkey
Home to warm turquoise seas, sweeping golden beaches, ancient Greek ruins, and fabulous cuisine, Turkey’s appeal is obvious – and that’s without factoring in the plentiful sunshine and welcoming people. But this big, beautiful country is also home to some of the best-value hotspots in the Med. The standard of all-inclusive resorts here is arguably higher than anywhere else in Europe, and it’s in the gorgeous Antalya province, on Turkey’s southwest coast, where you’ll find the most choice.
The bougainvillaea-lined streets of Antyala’s old town, Kaleici, are a joy to explore, and there are plenty of all-inclusive hotels. But, if you’d rather be on the beach, you might want to look at resorts in Kemer, about 40 miles southeast. If you want a beach break with a side of history, the town of Alanya has a medieval castle, Side boasts Roman ruins, while Beldibi has fascinating prehistoric cave paintings. Lara Beach and Belek are a bit fancier, but both still have plenty of affordable all-inclusive resorts and hotels.
7. Sunny Beach, Bulgaria
For years, the beautiful beaches of Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast were a relatively well-kept secret. While this is no longer the case, it’s still one of the best-value destinations for an all-inclusive break – and for the very best deals, head to Sunny Beach. This purpose-built, modern town has everything you could want from a beach holiday: shimmering blue seas, hours of sunshine, fabulous restaurants, bustling nightlife, and a spotless Blue Flag beach spanning an impressive eight kilometres.
If getting plenty of sun, sea, and sand is your main priority, you won’t be disappointed – and many of the all-inclusive resorts back right onto the beach. There’s never a shortage of sunloungers, but to save more pennies and lay your towel down for free, just walk a little further down the coast. History enthusiasts will want to visit the ancient UNESCO-listed city of Nessebar, just four kilometres away, while if you enjoy hiking, the dramatic mountains behind Sunny Beach are crisscrossed with trails.
8. Hammamet, Tunisia
Not every all-inclusive Mediterranean hotspot is in Europe. Tunisia may be on another continent, but it boasts some of the best-value resorts on the Med, so if you’re looking for a beach break that feels a little different, it might be for you. Dubbed the Saint-Tropez of North Africa, the whitewashed town of Hammamet boasts a 10-km beach that unwinds along the Cap-Bon peninsula. Many of the resorts lead right out to the soft honey-coloured sand, giving you easy access to the warm sea.
There’s accommodation for every budget, but if you’re looking for added luxury, your money will go further here. Most of the swankier hotels and resorts have Moorish-inspired architecture, with intricate tiles and ornate domes – but Hammamet Medina gives you an even more authentic glimpse into Tunisian culture and history. This ancient walled city is home to the oldest mosque in the country, as well as labyrinth-like alleys, colourful bazaars, and a 13th-century Kabah (fort) with sweeping sea views.
Final thoughts…
All-inclusive holidays are far more diverse than many people think. While there are many luxurious resorts that offer a five-star experience, there are also plenty of budget-friendly hotels where you can enjoy a relaxing holiday without breaking the bank.
From fascinating North African countries to sun-drenched Spanish islands and historic Greek islands, there’s a destination to suit everyone. And, because everything is paid for upfront, there are rarely any hidden costs to worry about – so you can sit back, soak up the sun, and savour every moment.
To browse more holidays, why not head over to the travel section of the Rest Less website?
Are you dreaming of an all-inclusive holiday? Or do you have any of your own favourite all-inclusive destinations to recommend? We’d love to hear about your travel experiences in the comments below.