Spain and Portugal Dominate UK Summer Travel in 2025 with Malaga, Palma, and Faro as Top Picks
UK travelers are embracing Mediterranean sunshine this summer, with Spain and Portugal reigning supreme as the most popular international destinations. According to leading travel data and airline booking trends, Faro, Malaga, and Palma de Mallorca have emerged as the top travel hotspots for British holidaymakers in summer 2025.
Spanish Sunshine: Malaga and Palma de Mallorca Lead the Pack
Malaga, situated on Spain’s famed Costa del Sol, continues to attract travelers with its blend of sun, sea, and culture. Known for its warm weather, seaside promenades, and cultural gems like the Alcazaba fortress and Picasso Museum, Malaga appeals to both city-break seekers and beach lovers. The local airport, Málaga-Costa del Sol (AGP), remains one of the busiest in Spain, offering dozens of daily direct flights from the UK.
Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, also enjoys a strong presence among British tourists this season. Its Gothic architecture, including the breathtaking La Seu Cathedral, pairs seamlessly with the island’s golden beaches and luxury marina life. UK airlines such as Jet2, Ryanair, and easyJet have significantly increased their capacity to Palma (PMI), reflecting high demand.
Faro: Portugal’s Rising Coastal Gem
Across the border, Faro in Portugal’s Algarve region has surged in popularity among UK visitors. Often considered more tranquil than its Spanish counterparts, Faro offers cobbled streets, charming plazas, and Roman-era walls enclosing its old town. Its proximity to spectacular beaches like Praia de Faro and Ilha Deserta make it a haven for those seeking quiet beauty.
The Portuguese National Statistics Institute (INE) recently reported a 12% year-on-year increase in UK arrivals to the Algarve for summer 2025, signaling a strong rebound from pre-pandemic levels. Faro Airport (FAO) has added new routes and increased frequency to meet the influx.
Other Trending Destinations for UK Holidaymakers
While Spain and Portugal lead the charts, other sun-soaked destinations are also capturing the attention of UK travelers this year.
Rhodes, Greece remains a favorite for its ancient history and scenic beaches. The UNESCO-listed Old Town and the Temple of Apollo are popular attractions, while all-inclusive resorts continue to perform well with families and couples.
Tenerife offers dependable sunshine year-round. UK travelers flock to its southern resorts, including Playa de las Américas and Costa Adeje. Mount Teide National Park and Siam Park remain top attractions, especially for adventurous travelers and families.
Dalaman, Turkey rounds out the international hotspots. Known for its turquoise coastline and historical richness, Dalaman appeals to travelers seeking cultural depth and coastal charm. UK interest in Turkish destinations has spiked due to the favorable exchange rate and competitive hotel pricing.
Domestic Favorites: Edinburgh and Belfast Shine
Not all travelers are heading abroad. Domestic tourism is thriving, with Edinburgh and Belfast standing out as top choices for staycations and city breaks.
Edinburgh’s summer calendar is packed with events, including the Edinburgh International Festival and the world-famous Fringe. Iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and the Royal Mile remain ever popular with visitors.
Belfast continues its tourism resurgence thanks to its Titanic heritage, dynamic arts scene, and natural wonders nearby. The Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coastal Route offer day-trip adventures for those looking to explore Northern Ireland’s dramatic coastline.
According to VisitScotland and Tourism Northern Ireland, hotel occupancy and event bookings in both cities have reached their highest levels since 2019, signaling strong domestic demand.
July 30: UK’s Busiest Travel Day of the Year
easyJet has identified July 30 as the busiest travel day for UK air passengers in 2025, with tens of thousands of holidaymakers scheduled to depart for summer vacations. London Gatwick, Manchester, and Bristol are expected to see peak activity, especially on flights bound for Spain and Portugal.
The airline noted a 15% rise in bookings compared to summer 2024, reflecting growing consumer confidence and pent-up travel demand. Families, in particular, are taking advantage of school holidays and early summer deals.
A Bright Outlook for UK Travel
As summer reaches its peak, UK travelers are demonstrating a clear preference for destinations that offer a blend of sun, culture, and affordability. The strong performance of Spain and Portugal highlights their ongoing appeal and accessibility, with abundant flight options and diverse experiences catering to every traveler type.
Domestic cities like Edinburgh and Belfast are also proving that the UK itself offers vibrant, enriching getaways. As global tourism rebounds, both international and homegrown destinations are set to enjoy a successful and bustling 2025 travel season.
With excellent weather forecasts, expanded airline schedules, and a wide array of holiday experiences, UK holidaymakers are poised to make the most of this summer—whether soaking up the sun in the Algarve or discovering history on the Royal Mile.
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