A popular travel agency has identified Spain as a top holiday destination experiencing a surge in bookings this year. Recent data from lastminute.com reveals that British travelers are increasingly opting for short-haul destinations perceived as safe, with Spain emerging as a favorite for summer 2026. Among the top six Mediterranean beach holiday spots for British families during May half-term, one particular island has witnessed a doubling of bookings compared to the previous year.
Ibiza, a renowned destination that already attracts around three million visitors annually, including 800,000 Brits, is expected to be a key hotspot for the upcoming May half-term period. Bookings to Ibiza have spiked by 100% year-on-year, indicating a potential increase in beach crowds for British holidaymakers.
The surge in Ibiza bookings can be attributed to various factors, including the island’s close proximity to the UK, appealing sunny weather in May, and rising uncertainties surrounding other holiday destinations like Cyprus and Turkey. Despite its reputation as a party island, Ibiza caters to families with its family-friendly amenities, offering shallow turquoise waters for children to play in, boat excursions, and leisurely hikes. The island also boasts attractions such as waterparks and beachfront rides suitable for all age groups.
However, the influx of British tourists may lead to heightened anti-tourism sentiments on the island, as witnessed in 2024 when Ibiza was part of mass protests in Spain against overtourism issues in popular destinations like the Balearic and Canary Islands.
Apart from Ibiza, other short-haul destinations experiencing a booking surge include Tenerife, with a 48% increase, and Malta, with a 51% rise. Costa Blanca, encompassing spots like Benidorm and Alicante, has seen a 33% uptick in bookings compared to the previous year, while Majorca, a site of previous anti-tourism protests, has recorded a 28% boost in bookings.
Rounding out the top Mediterranean destinations for the half-term period is the Algarve in Portugal, featuring tourist hubs like Faro and Lagos. According to lastminute.com, bookings for the Algarve have increased by 21% year-on-year.
Zoe Fidler, the head of brand and PR at lastminute.com, highlighted the growing demand among British families for easy, sun-filled getaways during the May half-term break, particularly favoring classic Mediterranean beach holidays. Families are seeking short-haul destinations offering reliable sunshine, short flight durations, and attractive package deals.