Best value Christmas 2025 destinations for UK families, according to travel experts Between rising living costs and
Best value Christmas 2025 destinations for UK families, according to travel experts
Between rising living costs and tighter rules around term-time absences, going away during the Christmas holidays can be very expensive. Prices for flights and accommodation often increase at this time – Shubhang Gupta, Director from Viva Holidays advises prices can increase by up to 150-200%.
To help parents find value, Shubhang has recommended the top destinations that typically stay budget-friendly at Christmas. Each pick is based on expert experience, historical pricing patterns and general affordability, supported by simple public data like average December temperatures and cost-of-living indicators.
Here are 10 recommended destinations where families can enjoy a Christmas holiday without overstretching their budget.
1. Antalya, Turkey
Antalya is perfect for families who want warmth and value at Christmas. Turkey often avoids the sharp price surges seen in Spain or Portugal, and all-inclusive resorts offer excellent bundled deals for families. Historic spots like Kaleiçi and Antalya Museum give families a chance to explore without expensive entry fees, and local restaurants stay competitively priced through December. With the average temperature being around 17°C in December, it’s a nice option for a bit of sun during winter.
2. Agadir, Morocco
Agadir has reliable winter sun and family-friendly beachfront hotels at lower prices than options in the Canary Islands. Many hotels cater to children with playgrounds and various entertainment options, and local souks offer an easy cultural outing that does not stretch the budget. Morocco’s dining and transport costs also tend to be far lower than the UK, with a three-course meal costing around £10.
3. Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
With average temperatures in December reaching 23°C, Egypt’s a good option if you want warm weather, family-friendly hotels and competitive all-inclusive packages. Snorkelling reefs are accessible from many hotel jetties, which helps families avoid the higher cost of organised excursions. All-inclusive resorts often bundle waterslides, kids’ clubs and evening shows into their standard pricing, keeping costs low. With temperatures that feel almost summery compared with the chilly UK winter, Sharm el Sheikh offers a comfortable and good-value winter escape.
4. Madeira, Portugal
Madeira gets average December temperatures of around 19°C, and the island offers good Christmas value for families who want nature, coastal trails and scenic landscapes. Walking routes are manageable for children and cable car rides create an easy day out. Accommodation across Funchal and the surrounding areas usually avoids big seasonal jumps, which helps families secure stays at consistent rates.
5. Larnaca, Cyprus
Cyprus has winter warmth, family-friendly resorts and affordable hotel rates. Prices in late December often stay modest compared with peak summertime. Families can visit salt lakes, explore the marina or join relaxed boat trips that run year-round. Meal prices can be up to 30% lower than in many Western European destinations.
6. Sofia, Bulgaria
For families who do not need sunshine, Sofia is a top budget city break at Christmas. Food, attractions and transport are notably cheap (with public transport tickets often costing less than £1), and the Christmas markets offer a great festive feel. Popular attractions like Boyana Church, Vitosha Boulevard and the National History Museum provide low-cost days out.
7. Bansko, Bulgaria (ski option)
Bansko is one of Europe’s most affordable ski destinations, with ski passes often being half the price at an equivalent French resort. A family of four can typically secure week-long ski passes, gear rental and lessons for a level of spending that would only cover partial costs in France or Switzerland. It’s a good option for families who want a ski holiday without Alpine prices.
8. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech offers a warm (average 18°C), vibrant and culturally rich Christmas experience. Boutique riads and family-friendly hotels remain well-priced, and the city’s food and taxis are some of the cheapest among winter-sun destinations. Families can explore gardens like Jardin Majorelle, take gentle camel rides or visit palaces that charge minimal entry fees.
9. Tirana, Albania
Albania is emerging as one of Europe’s most affordable destinations. The city is compact and walkable, attractions are family-friendly, and food costs are low. Skanderbeg Square hosts seasonal lights and events that create a festive setting without commercial mark-ups. While not a winter-sun hotspot, Tirana delivers excellent value on hotels and food, making it perfect for a low-cost cultural Christmas getaway.
10. Porto, Portugal
Only a two and a half hour flight from the UK, Porto is a beautiful city break option where Christmas prices tend to stay reasonable. It offers great food, festive markets and affordable accommodation even at peak times. Families can wander the Ribeira, take river cruises or visit bookshops and markets that keep children entertained at a low cost.
Shubhang adds, ‘we know that the Christmas holidays can make travel feel out of reach for many families. Our research shows that there are still places where prices stay sensible, experiences feel special, and parents can book with confidence. These destinations give families the chance to enjoy quality time together without facing the steep festive price increases seen elsewhere.
Christmas school holiday dates can sometimes feel restrictive for parents, especially when travel costs increase dramatically. But as these recommendations show, value is still out there. Whether families want winter sun, a Christmas city break or a skiing adventure, there are plenty of places where prices stay manageable, daily spending is low, and the experience still feels special.