Every year, Easter brings that irresistible promise of longer days, brighter skies, and the perfect excuse to pack a bag and escape with the kids. And according to Holidu’s latest Easter Price Index 2026, British families are dreaming bigger (and sunnier) than ever. The majority of the most‑searched destinations this year are abroad, with Spain stealing the spotlight and Mediterranean favourites dominating family wish‑lists.
But what does that mean for families planning their spring break? And more importantly, which destinations offer the best mix of sunshine, child‑friendly fun, and stress‑free exploring?
Top 10 most popular Easter destinations
Here’s a family‑focused look at the top 10 most popular Easter destinations, plus practical tips to help you make the most of each one with little travellers in tow. You can also browse the full Top 30 rankings here: https://www.holidu.co.uk/magazine/easter-price-index
1. Málaga, Andalusia, Spain
Málaga topping the list isn’t surprising — it’s a brilliant blend of beaches, culture, and easygoing charm. Families love its clean promenades, gentle waves, and the fact that everything feels wonderfully walkable.
- Why families love it: Málaga mixes beaches, museums and a compact historic centre that’s easy to navigate with children.
- Top family activities: gentle swims and sandcastles on Malagueta, the interactive Centre Pompidou Málaga and the Alcazaba fortress for short, safe explorations.
- Easter specifics and tips: Holy Week (Semana Santa) is a major local event with daytime and evening processions that can be fascinating for older children; expect mild, changeable spring weather, so pack layers and a light raincoat.
- Practicalities: most family hotels offer cots and connecting rooms; the city is stroller‑friendly along the promenade, and the historic centre is walkable from the port.
Family tip: Visit the Alcazaba early in the morning before the sun gets strong. Kids love exploring the fortress walls, and the views are stunning. Afterwards, head to the port for ice cream and a wander.
2. Albufeira, South Portugal
Albufeira is a typical family favourite thanks to its golden beaches and relaxed vibe. The Old Town is lively without being overwhelming, and the coastline is dotted with sheltered coves perfect for paddling.
- Why families love it: wide, sheltered beaches and a relaxed, small‑town feel make Albufeira ideal for toddlers and primary‑age children.
- Top family activities: supervised beaches like Praia do Peneco and Praia dos Alemães, Zoomarine (marine shows and splash zones), and the mini tourist train that’s perfect for short sightseeing with little legs.
- Easter specifics and tips: spring brings pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than summer; book any water‑park or Zoomarine tickets in advance for holiday weekends.
- Practicalities: many family resorts provide kids’ clubs and self‑catering apartments, and local buses or short taxis make moving between beaches straightforward.
Family tip: Take a boat trip to spot dolphins — many companies offer family‑friendly tours with shaded seating and life jackets for all ages.
3. Benidorm, Valencia Region, Spain
Benidorm has long shaken off its outdated reputation. Today, it’s one of the most family‑oriented destinations in Europe, with theme parks, water parks, and miles of sandy beaches.
- Why families love it: a huge concentration of family attractions plus safe, lifeguarded beaches make Benidorm a one‑stop family holiday.
- Top family activities: theme parks (Terra Mítica), water parks (Aqualandia, Aqua Natura), Mundomar animal shows, and easy boat trips to Benidorm Island with glass‑bottom options.
- Easter specifics and tips: spring is a great shoulder season for milder weather and shorter queues at parks; many parks offer special programmes during the school holidays.
- Practicalities: choose accommodation near Levante or Poniente beaches for playgrounds and promenade access; look for family combo tickets to save on park days.
Family tip: Spend a day at Terra Natura, a zoo‑style park designed with conservation in mind. It’s big enough to fill a day but manageable for younger children.
4. Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain
Palma offers a city break with a beach holiday soul. Families can wander through cobbled streets, explore the cathedral, and still be on the sand by lunchtime.
- Why families love it: Palma blends a compact, historic city with quick access to beaches and island nature.
- Top family activities: Palma Cathedral and the old town for short cultural stops, the Fira del Ram funfair during Easter, boat trips and family‑friendly caves like Coves del Drac for a dramatic, weather‑proof outing.
- Easter specifics and tips: Semana Santa processions are a cultural highlight; some shops close on public holidays, so stock up if self‑catering.
- Practicalities: hire a car for easy day trips around the island or use family‑friendly boat excursions; many hotels run kids’ programmes over Easter.
Family tip: Hop on the vintage wooden train to Sóller. Kids adore the old‑fashioned carriages, and the journey through the mountains is unforgettable.
5. Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
Barcelona is endlessly exciting for children — colourful parks, imaginative architecture, and a beach right at the city’s edge. It’s a destination that sparks curiosity at every turn.
- Why families love it: city sights feel like a playground — Gaudí’s colourful architecture, parks and a beach all within easy reach.
- Top family activities: Park Güell and Sagrada Família for short, visual visits, CosmoCaixa science museum, Barcelona Aquarium and Tibidabo amusement park for a full‑day thrill.
- Easter specifics and tips: spring weather is pleasant for park picnics and beach time; book major attractions in advance to avoid queues during school holidays.
- Practicalities: public transport is efficient and stroller‑friendly on many routes; consider an apartment near Ciutat Vella or Eixample for short walks to sights.
Family tip: Park Güell is a must, but book timed tickets in advance. Bring snacks and let the kids burn off energy while you enjoy the views.
6. London, England, UK
The only UK destination to make the Top 10, London remains a family powerhouse. Museums, parks, theatre shows, and iconic landmarks mean you’ll never run out of things to do.
- Why families love it: world‑class museums, parks and seasonal Easter events mean there’s something for every age and budget.
- Top family activities: Natural History Museum and Science Museum (free entry), Easter egg hunts at Hampton Court or London Zoo, Southbank and West End family shows.
- Easter specifics and tips: the capital runs many special holiday programmes and free events over the long weekend; check opening times for public holidays and prebook popular activities.
- Practicalities: use an Oyster/contactless card for easy travel; many museums have baby‑changing and family rooms, and West End shows often offer matinees for younger children.
Family tip: Choose one “big” activity per day — London is exciting but can be overwhelming. Pair a museum visit with a relaxed afternoon in a park to keep everyone happy.
7. Nerja, Andalusia, Spain
Nerja is a gentler, quieter alternative to some of the Costa del Sol’s busier spots. Its beaches are beautiful, and the town has a friendly, village‑like feel.
- Why families love it: quieter than larger Costa del Sol resorts, Nerja offers safe beaches and a village atmosphere that suits families wanting a gentler pace.
- Top family activities: Playa Burriana with its facilities and water sports, the Balcón de Europa viewpoint, and the Nerja Caves for an impressive, weather‑proof excursion.
- Easter specifics and tips: spring is pleasantly warm for beach play, though the sea can still be cool; local processions are smaller and easier to watch with children than in big cities.
- Practicalities: choose accommodation near the old town for short walks to beaches and restaurants; parking can be limited in peak spots, so plan arrivals early.
Family tip: Visit the Nerja Caves — they’re cool, dramatic, and surprisingly accessible for families. Many children find them magical.
8. Alicante, Valencia Region, Spain
Alicante is ideal for families who want sunshine without too much hustle. The castle, marina, and long sandy beaches make it a great all‑rounder.
- Why families love it: easy airport access, broad sandy beaches and a compact city centre make Alicante a low‑stress family option.
- Top family activities: Santa Bárbara Castle (lift access for little legs), Playa de San Juan for safe swimming, Terra Natura and Aqua Natura for animal encounters and water fun.
- Easter specifics and tips: many hotels run Easter kids’ programmes and special menus; spring weather is reliable for outdoor play.
- Practicalities: family‑friendly hotels often include pools and kids’ clubs; the tram connects to nearby resorts like Benidorm for day trips.
Family tip: Take the lift up to Santa Bárbara Castle instead of walking. Save little legs for exploring the top, where there’s plenty of space to roam.
9. Benalmádena, Andalusia, Spain
Benalmádena is packed with family attractions — from aquariums to cable cars — and has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
- Why families love it: a compact resort with parks, an award‑winning marina and a cluster of child‑focused attractions.
- Top family activities: Parque de la Paloma (playgrounds and free animals), Selwo Marina and Sea Life aquarium, the Benalmádena cable car up Monte Calamorro for panoramic views and birds‑of‑prey displays.
- Easter specifics and tips: spring events and quieter beaches make it ideal for families looking to avoid high-summer crowds; many attractions offer family tickets.
- Practicalities: the marina area has plenty of family restaurants and easy boat trips; public spaces are well-maintained and suitable for pushchairs.
Family tip: Ride the cable car up Mount Calamorro. At the top, you’ll find walking trails, viewpoints, and sometimes even bird‑of‑prey demonstrations.
10. Marbella, Andalusia, Spain
Marbella may be known for its glamour, but it’s also surprisingly family‑friendly. The Old Town is charming, the beaches are clean, and the promenades are perfect for pushchairs.
- Why families love it: polished promenades, clean beaches and a surprisingly broad family offering beyond the glamour.
- Top family activities: Old Town strolls and Plaza de los Naranjos, beach days at family‑friendly Nagüeles or Cable Beach, and hotel kids’ clubs and Easter programmes that include egg hunts and crafts.
- Easter specifics and tips: Semana Santa processions are part of the local calendar, and many resorts run organised children’s activities over the holiday; spring weather is ideal for outdoor family time.
- Practicalities: pick family‑oriented hotels with supervised kids’ clubs if you want adult downtime; Puerto Banús is fun to visit for a short stroll along the marina, but it can be busy.
Family tip: Head to the playgrounds along the Paseo Marítimo. They’re well‑maintained, shaded, and ideal for a pre‑dinner runaround.
Why Families Are Looking Abroad This Easter
Holidu’s research shows that 25 of the top 30 most‑searched destinations are outside the UK. It seems families are craving guaranteed sunshine, outdoor time, and the chance to explore somewhere new together.
“British holidaymakers are prioritising Mediterranean warmth over domestic stays this Easter.”
And honestly, who can blame them? After a long winter, the promise of blue skies and sandy toes is hard to resist.
Making the Most of Your Easter Break
Wherever you choose to go, a few simple strategies can make travelling with children smoother:
🌿1. Build in downtime – Kids don’t need a packed itinerary. One activity a day is often enough.
🎒 2. Pack smart, not heavy – A small backpack with snacks, wipes, and a change of clothes solves 90% of travel hiccups.
🏖️3. Choose accommodation with space – Apartments or holiday rentals give families room to breathe — and to store all the beach toys.
🚶 4. Walk when you can – Exploring on foot helps children engage with a destination and burn off energy.
🍦5. Embrace the slow moments – Some of the best memories come from simple pleasures: a seaside ice cream, a sunset stroll, or a spontaneous paddle.
If you’d like to explore the full Top 30 destinations and see how the Holidu rankings were put together, you can find the complete study here:
👉 https://www.holidu.co.uk/magazine/easter-price-index
Image Credit: depositphotos.com
