A recent Summer Holiday Value Index has identified Europe's most budget-friendly destinations for 2026, with Seville, Spain, topping the list. The index analyzed 100 popular locations based on average holiday prices, Google ratings, and online reviews.
Seville, known for its flamenco dancing and architecture, scored 99 out of 100. The report indicates that direct flights from London to Seville can be found for as little as £24 in September, with accommodation starting at £30 per night. Attractions like the Plaza de España and the Catedral De Sevilla offer opportunities for exploration.
Milan, Italy, secured the second position with a score of 92 out of 100. Despite its reputation for fashion, the city offers affordable access to sites such as the Duomo di Milano and Castello Sforzesco. Tickets for the Teatro alla Scala are available from approximately £12.97, and flights in September can be as low as £17, with mid-range accommodation priced around £46 a night.
Jointly ranking second with Milan is Fuerteventura, Spain, which received a 92 out of 100 score. This Spanish island is noted for its beaches and natural parks, such as Parque Natural de Corralejo and Playa de Cofete, which are free to access. Direct return flights in September are available from £28, and the island features numerous affordable all-inclusive hotels.
Florence, Italy, ranked fourth with a score of 90 out of 100. The city, rich in Renaissance art and architecture, offers many free sights. Local restaurants serve pasta dishes from as little as £5, and direct flights in September are priced from £34, with central hotels around £60 per night.
Rome, Italy's capital, placed fifth with a score of 89 out of 100. Despite perceptions of being expensive, the city offers many cultural landmarks, including the Colosseum and Pantheon, with free entry on select days. Flights to Rome in September start at £18, and hotels are available from approximately £80 per night.
Sicily, Italy, also tied for fifth place with a score of 89 out of 100. The island provides a Mediterranean experience with natural attractions like Mount Etna, which has free hiking trails, and historic sites such as the ancient theatre of Taormina, offering free entry on the first Sunday of each month. Flights to Sicily start from £26.
France features prominently in the top ten, with Paris ranking seventh with a score of 88 out of 100. Visitors can admire landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe for free. Direct flights to Paris in September are available from £32. Lyon, also in France, shares the seventh spot with a score of 88. It is noted as a less crowded alternative to Paris, offering free attractions like Notre Dame de Fourviere and the Vieux Lyon. Flights to Lyon from London can be found for as little as £17 in September.
Naples, Italy, ranks ninth with a score of 87 out of 100, recognized as the city where pizza originated. Authentic pizzas can be found for under £10. Direct flights to Naples are among the cheapest, starting at £16.
Cyprus is represented by Protaras and Larnaca, both scoring 87 out of 100 and tying for ninth place. Protaras offers free access to beaches and clear waters. Flights to Larnaca, the nearest airport, start from £22 in September. Larnaca, Cyprus's oldest city, provides historical landmarks and coastal attractions, with flights from £18.
Venice, Italy, also tied for ninth with a score of 87 out of 100. It is recognized as a highly walkable city, with many of its attractions accessible on foot. Direct flights to Venice are priced from £18.
Marseille, France, secured 13th place with a score of 86 out of 100. The port city offers lively neighborhoods, beaches, and various accommodation options. Chania, Crete, ranked 14th with a score of 85 out of 100, featuring a Venetian harbor and historical sites. Mallorca, Spain, rounds out the top 15, offering beaches and traditional villages.