Best Cheap Holidays Abroad from the UK in 2025

Holidays abroad don’t have to break the bank! Whether you’re after sun-soaked beaches, cultural city escapes, or an adventure-filled trip, there are plenty of affordable destinations just a short flight from the UK. We’ve rounded up the best budget-friendly holiday spots with key details like average temperatures, whether they’re suitable for families, and what kind of weather you can expect.

1. Algarve, Portugal

Best for: Families, beach lovers, couples
Average summer temperature: 28°C
Average winter temperature: 16°C
Flight time from UK: 2.5 hours
Weather: Warm and sunny most of the year, mild winters
Why it’s affordable: Budget-friendly accommodation, affordable food, and free stunning beaches

Portugal’s Algarve region is a fantastic low-cost holiday destination. Flights are relatively cheap, and once you arrive, you can enjoy breathtaking beaches, delicious (and affordable) seafood, and charming old towns. Albufeira, Lagos, and Portimão are among the best places to stay. If you’re traveling with family, the Algarve’s waterparks, golden beaches, and child-friendly resorts make it a great choice.

2. Costa del Sol, Spain

Best for: Families, beach lovers, nightlife
Average summer temperature: 30°C
Average winter temperature: 17°C
Flight time from UK: 2.5 hours
Weather: Hot summers, mild winters
Why it’s affordable: Low-cost airlines, plenty of budget accommodations

The Costa del Sol is one of the UK’s favourite cheap holiday destinations, offering everything from sunny beaches to vibrant nightlife. Towns like Torremolinos, Fuengirola, and Benalmádena have affordable hotels and plenty of cheap eateries. There are also plenty of free things to do, including visiting the beaches, historic Old Towns, and scenic promenades.

3. Budapest, Hungary

Best for: City break, couples, budget travellers
Average summer temperature: 27°C
Average winter temperature: 4°C
Flight time from UK: 2.5 hours
Weather: Cold winters, warm summers
Why it’s affordable: Cheap accommodation, affordable food and drinks

If you’re looking for an affordable city break, Budapest is a fantastic option. Known as the “Paris of the East,” Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, grand architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a cruise along the Danube River, explore the historic Buda Castle, and relax in one of the city’s many thermal baths—all without spending a fortune.

4. Marrakech, Morocco

Best for: Adventure, culture, couples
Average summer temperature: 38°C
Average winter temperature: 18°C
Flight time from UK: 3.5 hours
Weather: Hot summers, mild winters
Why it’s affordable: Cheap hotels, inexpensive food

For a completely different kind of holiday, head to Marrakech. This vibrant city is packed with colorful markets, historic palaces, and stunning gardens. Flights from the UK can be as cheap as £50 return, and once you’re there, food, hotels, and excursions are very budget-friendly. Wander through the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, visit the Majorelle Garden, and take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains.

5. Prague, Czech Republic

Best for: City break, couples, groups
Average summer temperature: 26°C
Average winter temperature: 2°C
Flight time from UK: 2 hours
Weather: Cold winters, warm summers
Why it’s affordable: Cheap beer, budget hotels, affordable transport

Prague is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, filled with medieval streets, fairytale castles, and bustling beer gardens. It’s also incredibly affordable, with cheap public transport, inexpensive restaurants, and plenty of free attractions like Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and Old Town Square.

6. Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

Best for: Party-goers, budget beach holidays
Average summer temperature: 30°C
Average winter temperature: 8°C
Flight time from UK: 3 hours
Weather: Hot summers, chilly winters
Why it’s affordable: Cheap all-inclusive resorts, affordable nightlife

Sunny Beach is one of the cheapest beach destinations in Europe. It’s a hotspot for party-goers, but families can also enjoy the calm beaches and waterparks. Accommodation is exceptionally cheap, and eating out costs significantly less than in Western Europe. If you’re looking for a budget alternative to Spain or Greece, Bulgaria is a fantastic choice.

7. Kraków, Poland

Best for: History, culture, food lovers
Average summer temperature: 25°C
Average winter temperature: 0°C
Flight time from UK: 2.5 hours
Weather: Cold winters, warm summers
Why it’s affordable: Cheap flights, inexpensive food and drinks

Kraków is a hidden gem for budget travellers, offering stunning medieval architecture, delicious food, and a fascinating history. Visit Wawel Castle, the Jewish Quarter, and the historic Market Square. Polish food and drinks are incredibly affordable, with a hearty meal costing as little as £5.

8. Antalya, Turkey

Best for: Families, beach lovers, all-inclusive holidays
Average summer temperature: 34°C
Average winter temperature: 15°C
Flight time from UK: 4 hours
Weather: Hot summers, mild winters
Why it’s affordable: Cheap all-inclusive resorts, affordable food

Antalya is one of the best-value holiday destinations in Turkey, with gorgeous beaches, ancient ruins, and lively resorts. Many all-inclusive packages are available at a fraction of the cost compared to Spain or Greece. The Turkish lira also offers great value for UK visitors.

9. Corfu, Greece

Best for: Families, couples, beach lovers
Average summer temperature: 30°C
Average winter temperature: 14°C
Flight time from UK: 3.5 hours
Weather: Hot summers, mild winters
Why it’s affordable: Cheap package deals, budget-friendly restaurants

Corfu is one of Greece’s most affordable islands, with stunning beaches, charming villages, and plenty of cheap flights from the UK. You’ll find budget-friendly hotels, low-cost transport, and delicious Greek food for less than £10 a meal.

Final Tips for Booking a Cheap Holiday

Book flights early – Budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air offer incredible deals if booked months in advance.
Travel outside peak season – September to November and March to May often have lower prices.
Look for all-inclusive deals – Some resorts in Turkey, Bulgaria, and Spain offer all-inclusive packages cheaper than self-catering.
Use budget accommodation – Airbnb, hostels, and 3-star hotels can save you a fortune.

Best Cheap Holidays Abroad from the UK in 2025 Conclusion

From the sandy beaches of Portugal to the historic streets of Kraków, there are plenty of budget-friendly holidays abroad for UK travellers. Whether you’re after a sunny escape, a cultural city break, or a party destination, you don’t have to spend a fortune to have an amazing trip!