All-inclusive holidays are the be-all and end-all of travel convenience. Going away with the kids? Pop them into the childrens’ club. Is someone in your party a fussy eater? Meals are covered. Don’t want to worry about dinner reservations every evening? Eat at the hotel instead.
These packages can be the key to a stress-free getaway, ensuring all the essentials are taken care for you so you can focus on enjoying yourself when abroad. For these reasons, we’ve seen the package holiday rise in popularity over the recent years – hardly any surprise when you consider the amount of time and money you can save.
Here’s a curated list of the best destinations for an all-inclusive holiday, to inspire your next escape.
1. Antalya and Bodrum, Turkey: affordable luxury on the Turquoise Coast
Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is a top contender for cheap all-inclusive holidays. The regions of Antalya and Bodrum offer the perfect balance of natural beauty, luxurious amenities, and value for money. Resorts offer world-class spas, gourmet dining and a host of thrilling activities, from parasailing to yoga.
In Antalya, visitors can relax on pristine beaches like Lara Beach or explore the ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos. Alternatively, Bodrum combines a cosmopolitan vibe with historical charm, including the famed Bodrum Castle.
2. Malta: Mediterranean charm and culinary wonders
Malta, a sun-kissed island in the heart of the Mediterranean, blends rich history with picturesque coastlines and a unique culinary heritage. The island’s all-inclusive resorts cater to families, couples, and solo travellers alike, offering everything from infinity pools to local dining experiences. Beyond the resort, Malta’s history unfolds in attractions like the medieval city of Mdina and the Megalithic Temples, some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world. For beach lovers, Golden Bay and Mellieha Bay offer crystal-clear waters just a short trip away.
Maltese cuisine is a highlight, drawing influences from Italy, North Africa, and the Middle East. Don’t miss the pastizzi – flaky pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas – and fenkata, a traditional rabbit stew. Fresh seafood like lampuki (fish) pie often takes centre stage, while local wines and beers complement every meal.
For those seeking a more tranquil escape, the sleepy sister island of Gozo is the perfect spot for a slower-paced all-inclusive escape. Expect serene beaches, picturesque countryside, and a rich cultural heritage. Popular landmarks include the Ġgantija Temples, and the charming coastal town of Xlendi. Don’t miss the chance to savour traditional Gozitan foods like ftira, a traditional Maltese flatbread, at one of the many restaurants in Gozo.
3. Crete and Rhodes, Greece: idyllic islands and cultural riches
Greece’s islands give traveller’s a choice: budget hotels or luxurious accommodations surrounded by unparalleled vistas. Crete and Rhodes are particularly popular with their equal helpings of luxury and culture. Enjoy authentic Greek cuisine at resort restaurants, before stepping out into the night to explore ancient treasures like the Palace of Knossos.
Couples, families and young groups will find themselves swept away by the versatile all-inclusive experience in the heart of the Mediterranean.
4. Portugal’s Algarve: sun, sea and serenity
The Algarve region in southern Portugal is a dream for those who crave gentle coastline and pristine sand, without the disruption of big crowds. Its all-inclusive resorts are perfect for unwinding by the Atlantic Ocean, while the surrounding area offers endless opportunities for exploration. Even if you’ll be visiting for winter in the Algarve, when temperatures are somewhat cooler, there’s still plenty to see, do, and eat here.
Golf enthusiasts will love the Algarve’s world-class courses while those looking to get lost in nature can take an Algarve kayaking or boat trip to explore the dramatic Benagil Caves or wildlife-rich Ria Formosa Lagoon.
5. Paphos, Cyprus: ancient history and delicious cuisine
Paphos is a gem on Cyprus’s sun-drenched western coast, offering a perfect mix of relaxation, history, and culinary delight. Known for its ancient ruins, such as the Tombs of the Kings and Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, Paphos invites you to step back in time while basking in the Mediterranean sun.
All-inclusive resorts here excel at showcasing the best of Cypriot food. Indulge in dishes like souvl – a slow-cooked meat skewer – or halloumi, the island’s iconic cheese, often served grilled or fried. Desserts like loukoumades (honey-soaked doughnuts) will appeal to those with a sweet tooth. However, if you prefer to play-it-safe when eating out on holiday, rest assured there are plenty of Western options too. The resorts often feature themed dining nights, giving you the chance to explore local flavours alongside international cuisines.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool with a koumandaria wine or exploring the nearby Akamas Peninsula, Paphos offers an unforgettable all-inclusive escape.
Where’s your favourite destination for an all-inclusive holiday? Share your favourite places in the comment box below.