Where Does Your Holiday Money Go Further?
27/03/2026
Who says dream holidays need dream-sized budgets? With favourable exchange rates and fantastic value on everyday experiences, some holiday destinations are made for making your pounds stretch further. Whether you’re planning a sunshine escape with the family or an adventure-packed getaway with friends, these great-value destinations from the UK prove that a little savvy foreign exchange planning goes a long way.
💡 Why exchange rates matter
Getting more for your pound means saying yes to that extra cocktail, booking the boat trip or upgrading to the sea-view room. By choosing destinations where GBP has strong spending power, you can help your holiday budget work harder, without compromising on experience. Meaning more meals out, more excursions and more unforgettable moments without overspending.
Short Haul Destinations with Serious Spending Power
Looking for the best value European destinations to visit this spring or summer? Here's our top budget friendly countries to visit close to home, that help you make the most of your foreign currency rate!
Poland
For a budget-friendly city break, Medieval charm meets wallet-friendly prices in Poland’s most beautiful cities. Wander Krakow’s cobbled squares, explore Gdansk’s colourful waterfront and enjoy hearty meals for less. With great value hotels and affordable attractions, it’s a dream for culture lovers who want a European getaway that feels rich in experience, without the premium price tags.
Top Resorts: Krakow & Gdansk
Great for: Weekend breaks
Currency: Polish Złoty (PLN)
Avg Units per £: 4.9
Cost of Living Index: 47.3
Portugal
Portugal proves you don’t have to travel far for great value sunshine. Expect golden beaches, delicious seafood and charming city strolls without premium price tags. From Lisbon’s tiled streets to Algarve’s dramatic coastline and family-friendly Blue Flag beaches, this is a close-to-home classic where your spending money stretches further than you might expect.
Top Resorts: Algarve & Lisbon
Great for: Close to Home Sun
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Avg Units per £: 1.17
Cost of Living Index: 48.8
Turkey
A long-time top pick for affordable summer holidays, Turkey continues to offer incredible value. Think beachfront hotels, bouncing bazaars and generous dining prices that are a firm favourite for value-seekers. Whether you’re relaxing along the Turquoise Coast or indulging in local cuisine, this destination delivers plenty of holiday magic without stretching your family budget too far.
Top Resorts: Antalya & Dalaman
Great for: Luxury for Less
Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
Avg Units per £: 41
Cost of Living Index: 44
Top Tips before Take Off to Save
💙 Take advantage of Free Child Places.
🧡 Look for low deposit holidays with affordable monthly payments.
💙 Consider shoulder-season travel for lower prices if you can
🧡 Choose destinations where everyday costs are lower
💙 Exchange currency before you travel for the best rates
🧡 Make the most of last minute deals and travel sales!
Worldwide Adventures Where Your Money Goes Further
Sometimes travelling far lets your money travel even further! Here are our top three best value long haul destinations where the pound strongest against foreign currency:
Vietnam
Once you hop off the plane, Vietnam delivers big adventure with small price tags. From lantern-lit Hoi An to breathtaking Ha Long Bay, feast on flavour-packed street food, cruise through crystal waters, and explore buzzing cities at excellent value. With accommodation, excursions and meals all surprisingly affordable, this destination is ideal for travellers wanting unforgettable experiences without constantly checking their budget.
Top Resorts: Hoi An & Hanoi
Great for: Affordable Faraway Fun
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Avg Units per £: 35,100
Cost of Living Index: 39.2
Indonesia
Indonesia combines tropical beauty with impressive affordability, especially in the popular island of Bali. Think jungle villas, spa days, and beach club sunsets without luxury price tags. Dining out, excursions and private pool stays can cost far less than expected, particularly in Canggu, Ubud and Kuta, making this Indonesian island perfect for travellers seeking indulgence, culture and relaxation while keeping spending surprisingly sensible.
Top Resorts: Bali
Great for: Indulgent Island Culture
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Avg Units per £: 22,800
Cost of Living Index: 40.8
Thailand
Long known as a budget travel and backpackers' dream, Thailand remains a firm favourite for great value long-haul travel. Perfect for travellers wanting tropical luxury without the hefty price tag, resorts like Phuket, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai and even Bangkok make it easy to enjoy unforgettable moments in paradise. Beachfront bungalows, indulgent wellness experiences, incredible island-hopping trips? Thailand’s indulgent extras are yours at pocket-friendly prices.
Top Resorts: Phuket & Koh Samui
Great for: Luxury That Feels Reachable
Currency: Thai Baht
Avg Units per £: 42.4
Cost of Living Index: 43.9
Big adventures. Smaller spend. Maximum memories.
A great exchange rate doesn’t just save money; it opens the door to richer travel experiences. With the right destination, your budget can unlock more adventures, more indulgence and more magical memories.
Ready to spring into savings? Your next adventure might be closer (and better value) than you think.