Monday, July 21, 2025
Spain and Portugal have emerged as the most popular destinations for UK travelers this summer, with Faro, Malaga, and Palma de Mallorca taking the lead. These regions continue to captivate tourists with their sunny weather, rich cultural experiences, and beautiful landscapes. Malaga and Palma de Mallorca in Spain offer a perfect blend of vibrant city life, historical landmarks, and stunning coastlines, making them ideal for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration. Meanwhile, Faro in Portugal has grown in popularity, offering visitors a more tranquil escape with its charming old town and proximity to some of the Algarve’s best beaches. With a surge in bookings to these destinations, it’s clear that Spain and Portugal offer the ideal getaway for UK holidaymakers this summer.
Malaga and Palma de Mallorca: Leading Spanish Hotspots
Malaga, located on the Costa del Sol, stands out as one of the most popular holiday destinations in Spain this summer. Famous for its sunny weather, rich cultural heritage, and stunning coastline, Malaga offers visitors an ideal mix of history and relaxation. Tourists can visit iconic landmarks like the Alcazaba fortress, explore the Picasso Museum, or simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere at its beautiful beaches and seaside promenade.
Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, also takes center stage this summer. This stunning Mediterranean city is renowned for its historical architecture, including the magnificent Palma Cathedral, as well as its picturesque marina and charming old town. Whether travelers are interested in enjoying a relaxing day on one of the island’s golden beaches or delving into its rich cultural offerings, Palma offers something for every type of holidaymaker.
Faro: A Portuguese Escape
Faro, located in Portugal’s Algarve region, has been gaining traction as a top destination for UK travelers. While it might not be as widely known as some of the larger tourist destinations in Spain, Faro offers an authentic and laid-back experience. Visitors are drawn to its historic old town, which is encircled by Roman walls, as well as its proximity to some of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches. Faro is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil holiday, with opportunities to explore cultural sites, such as the Igreja do Carmo, or take a boat ride to the nearby islands.
Other Popular Destinations
Beyond Spain and Portugal, several other destinations continue to attract UK holidaymakers in 2025. Rhodes in Greece, for example, remains a favorite, thanks to its ancient ruins, sun-drenched beaches, and lively resorts. Visitors to Rhodes can explore the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or enjoy the warm waters along the island’s pristine coast.
Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands, also enjoys widespread appeal, particularly for its year-round sunshine, volcanic landscapes, and family-friendly resorts. Popular attractions such as Mount Teide National Park, Siam Park, and Loro Parque draw tourists looking for adventure and relaxation alike.
Dalaman, a picturesque coastal region in Turkey, is another hotspot for UK travelers. Known for its clear turquoise waters, stunning beaches, and proximity to ancient ruins, Dalaman offers the perfect blend of relaxation and cultural exploration. Visitors can discover the nearby ancient city of Kaunos, hike to the impressive Saklikent Gorge, or relax on the sandy shores of Olu Deniz.
Domestic Getaways: Edinburgh and Belfast Take the Lead
For those preferring to stay closer to home, Edinburgh and Belfast are among the most popular domestic destinations this summer. Both cities offer rich history, cultural landmarks, and a welcoming atmosphere, making them perfect for short breaks or visiting family and friends.
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, continues to captivate travelers with its famous festivals, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. The city is a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and stunning views from Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill.
Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, has also seen a rise in tourism. The city’s fascinating maritime history, particularly its ties to the Titanic, as well as its vibrant arts scene, make it an increasingly popular choice for domestic travelers. Visitors can explore the Titanic Quarter, stroll through the Botanic Gardens, or take in the stunning natural beauty of nearby landscapes, such as the Giant’s Causeway.
Peak Travel Days: July 30 to Be the Busiest Day
As holidaymakers prepare for their summer trips, easyJet has predicted that July 30 will be the busiest travel day for 2025. This forecast comes as booking trends show an uptick in demand for both international and domestic destinations. The surge in travel bookings signals a strong rebound in the tourism sector, with UK residents eager to make the most of their summer vacations.
A Robust Travel Season Ahead
The popularity of destinations like Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, and Faro reflects the growing trend of UK holidaymakers seeking sunny escapes, cultural experiences, and beachside relaxation. At the same time, domestic destinations such as Edinburgh and Belfast continue to draw visitors who wish to explore their own country, enjoy local heritage, or visit loved ones.
Spain and Portugal are the most popular summer destinations for UK travelers, with Faro, Malaga, and Palma de Mallorca leading due to their sunny weather, rich culture, and beautiful landscapes. These spots offer the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration.
Looking to the future, these destinations are expected to remain at the top of travel lists for UK residents seeking both international and domestic getaways. With the summer travel season in full swing, UK holidaymakers are ready to enjoy their much-anticipated breaks, and destinations in Spain, Portugal, and the UK are sure to see a busy and successful summer ahead.
