If you know when you plan to travel and are looking for ideas where to go, see Best Time to Visit. Also see our complete guide to the best holiday destinations.
1. Spain
Summer Holiday in Spain has long been a favourite of British holidaymakers, and it remains our number one holiday destination. In particular, the Balearic islands of Mallorca and Ibiza are perennial big-hitters (not forgetting Menorca), along with Canary Islands such as Tenerife, La Palma and the beautiful lesser-known La Gomera. Other great beach destinations include the Costa de la Luz and Catalonia.
2. France
The relationship between the British and French may have had its ups and downs over the years, but our love of all things French shows no signs of abating. From the Channel ports to the islands of the Mediterranean, Francophiles are never short of new Summer holiday destinations to discover.
3. Great Britain
No list of holiday destinations for UK travellers would be complete without mentioning our own great country: not just England, but Wales, Scotland, Northern Island and some of our lesser known islands such as the Scilly Isles and the Isle of Wight.
4. Greece
Summer holidays in Greece are all about simplicity. Despite a recent proliferation of five-star hotels, it is the whitewashed villas, the friendly tavernas, the hot sun and blue seas that keep us coming back year after year. Even Greek food is a masterpiece of simplicity, both traditional and healthy.
5. Italy
Ancient culture, great beaches, fantastic food and beautiful weather – it’s no surprise that so many of us decide to Summer holiday in Italy. For a taste of la dolce vita, head to the wonderful cities of Rome, Florence and Venice – for an extra dash of old-school glamour, you can even travel to Venice on the Orient Express.