A recent analysis has identified Europe's most value-for-money holiday destinations for 2026, with southern European hotspots like Seville, Spain, and Milan, Italy, topping the list. The Summer Holiday Value Index, conducted by AttractionTickets.com, evaluated 100 popular destinations based on average holiday prices, Google ratings, and online reviews.
Seville, Spain, secured the top spot with a score of 99 out of 100. The city, known for its flamenco dancing and architecture, offers a more affordable experience than larger Spanish cities. Direct flights from London to Seville can be found for as little as £24 in September, with accommodation starting around £30 per night. Attractions such as the Plaza de España and the Catedral De Sevilla are highlighted.
Milan, Italy, and Fuerteventura, Spain, tied for second place, both scoring 92 out of 100. Milan, despite its reputation for fashion, offers budget-friendly historical sites, including the Duomo di Milano and Castello Sforzesco, which are free to enter. Tickets for Teatro alla Scala can be found for around £12.97. Direct flights to Milan in September are available from £17, with lodging outside the city center priced at approximately £46 per night.
Fuerteventura, a Spanish island, offers a more relaxed escape with numerous beaches. The Parque Natural de Corralejo and Playa de Cofete are free to access. Direct return flights are available from £28 in September, with a selection of affordable all-inclusive hotels.
Florence, Italy, ranked fourth with a score of 90 out of 100. Visitors can explore Renaissance statues and ancient basilicas for free. Local restaurants offer pasta dishes from £5, and direct flights in September are around £34, with central hotels costing approximately £60 per night.
Rome, Italy, placed fifth with a score of 89 out of 100. Despite its image as an expensive city, Rome offers free access to many historical sites like the Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, and Pantheon on certain days. Flights to Rome are available from £18 in September, with hotels priced from £80 per night.
Sicily, Italy, also tied for fifth place, offering a Mediterranean escape with free hiking trails on Mount Etna and free entry to the ancient theatre of Taormina on the first Sunday of each month. Flights to Sicily start at £26.
Paris, France, and Lyon, France, shared seventh place with scores of 88 out of 100. Paris offers free access to landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, with direct flights in September from £32. Lyon, noted as less crowded than Paris, provides free access to Notre Dame de Fourviere and the Vieux Lyon. Flights to Lyon are available from £17.
Naples, Italy, secured ninth place with a score of 87 out of 100, celebrated as the birthplace of pizza. Authentic pizzas can be found for under £10. Flights to Naples are the cheapest listed so far, starting at £16.
Cyprus features prominently with Protaras and Larnaca also ranking ninth. Protaras offers free access to its sandy beaches and clear waters, with flights to Larnaca starting from £22. Larnaca, Cyprus's oldest city, provides a coastal getaway with historical sites like the Church of Saint Lazarus and a medieval fort. Flights to Larnaca are priced from £18.
Venice, Italy, also ranked ninth, noted for its walkability and canals. Direct flights to Venice start at £18.
Marseille, France, came in 13th place with a score of 86 out of 100. The port city is described as an increasingly trendy spot with lively neighborhoods and beaches.
Chania, Crete, ranked 14th with a score of 85 out of 100. The city features a Venetian harbour and historical sites, including the Maritime Museum and the Egyptian Lighthouse.
Mallorca, Spain, rounds out the top 15, offering sheltered coves, sandy beaches, and traditional Spanish villages.