Bargain breaks
Our pick of 2018’s most affordable school holiday destinations...
Malta
On this small and family friendly island, you’re never far from the coast’s historical sites and cultural attractions. An archipelago in the central Mediterranean between Sicily and North Africa, Malta offers a unique mix of activities. The capital city of Valletta is well worth a visit with its charming narrow streets and houses, or spend a day enjoying exciting water sports. And Maltese cuisine is a treat in itself. Game of Thrones fans can take a tour of locations from the first series.
● San Andrea, three-star, bed and breakfast. Fly from Manchester on 30 July for seven nights, £276pp.
Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is home to over 80 beaches. Due to its volcanic origins, it has a kaleidoscope of sands ranging from golden to silvery grey, to lightly toasted brown. But beach life isn’t the only thing Gran Canaria has to offer – explore rolling forests, pretty villages and lively cities, enjoy swimming in clear waters, hike among the island’s flora, soak in a volcanic spa pool and climb cloud-topped rocks. Fresh seafood is a must-try. ● Duna Beach Bungalows, three-star, self-catering. Fly from Liverpool on 31 July for seven nights, £286pp.
Top tips for great deals
● Consider whether you want full- or half-board, or selfcatering, taking into consideration the local cost of living.
● Price up holidays from more than one airport, taking into account travel costs to the airport and parking.
● Be flexible on your departure date. Often the best deals are mid-week.
● Plan ahead and book any extras such as car hire, travel insurance and airport parking as soon as you book your main holiday, for the best prices.
● Don’t get your holiday money at the airport. You could end up paying almost 10% more than the best rates available online.
Corfu, Greece
With its 135 miles of shores, Corfu offers a family friendly mixture of beaches, water sports, scenic walks and culture. It's an affordable option with plenty of resorts to choose from, with the most popular mainly on the east coast, either side of the capital Corfu Town. Hit ITV series The Durrells was filmed here, so you can follow in the real life characters’ footsteps and explore the sights of Corfu Town, Danilia Village (where the majority of filming took place) and Kalami Bay, which offers picturesque views of beautiful beaches and luscious surroundings.
Irene Apartments, two-star, selfcatering. Fly from Manchester on 27 July for seven nights, £291pp
Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol has become a classic British favourite, offering a lively hub for good-value holidays. Just two and a half hours away, the sun, sea and sand will be waiting, along with kids' clubs, swimming pools, play areas and nightly entertainment, allowing the whole family to relax and have fun. There are 150km of coast to choose from with 22 Blue Flag beaches.
Vista de Rey Hotel Apartamentos, Benalmadena, 3-star, self-catering. Fly from Manchester on 24 July for seven nights, £249pp.
Costa Dorada
Costa Dorada, which means ‘golden coast’ is in Spain’s Catalonia region, south-west of Barcelona. There are family friendly beaches where you can relax and have fun. Children will love a trip to portaventura World, a huge theme park just outside Tarragona. If history is your thing, Tarragona has 13 roman sites to explore.
Camping Playa Y Fiesta, two-star, self-catering. Fly from Stansted on 1 August for seven nights, £283pp.
Barcelona
Barcelona has it all – beach life, city life, park life, nightlife… Its blend of history and modern design means there’s always plenty to do and it’s only two hours away. Take a stroll down La Rambla, soaking up the sunshine and browsing the shops, tapas bars and churches. However, it is Gaudi’s unfinished cathedral that’s the city’s must-see attraction. Cel.les Abat Marcet, three-star, room only. Fly from Gatwick on 7 August for seven nights, £250pp.