Sunday, July 20, 2025
The 2025 British Tourism report highlights significant shifts in holiday costs across Mediterranean destinations, with Crete becoming the most affordable Greek island for British tourists, while prices in Rhodes, Kos, and Corfu soar. This trend mirrors broader changes in popular vacation spots, as holiday pricing in Turkey, Italy, Malta, Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Portugal also fluctuates, making Crete an increasingly attractive and budget-friendly option for travelers.
The 17th edition of the Post Office Family Holiday Report, conducted in collaboration with TUI, has revealed the most recent trends in cost variations for British families this summer. The report focuses on ten common holiday expenses—such as meals, drinks, sunscreen, and more—across 16 Mediterranean destinations, offering a detailed comparison to help families plan their summer getaways. The results highlight several trends, including the continued affordability of non-Eurozone destinations, such as Marmaris (Turkey) and Sunny Beach (Bulgaria), alongside mixed trends in popular Greek locations like Crete, Kos, Rhodes, and Corfu.
Crete’s Price Drop: A Surprise in the Rankings
Crete emerges as the most notable change in the survey. This Greek island has seen the largest price decrease across all 16 destinations, with a remarkable 7.8% drop compared to the same period in 2024. The cost of a typical family holiday basket is now £166.07, which has propelled Crete up the rankings significantly—moving from 15th to 7th place in just one year. This price drop offers a more affordable option for families seeking a Greek island holiday, while still enjoying the charm and culture of the island. As a result, Crete has become one of the top contenders for cost-effective family vacations, thanks to its competitive pricing compared to other Mediterranean destinations.
Kos: Stable Pricing and Strong Value
Kos, another popular Greek island, holds steady in the rankings at 8th place. While no price change has been observed in the cost of the typical family holiday basket, Kos continues to offer strong value. This island remains a solid choice for families looking to enjoy an affordable yet rewarding holiday experience. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Even without significant cost changes, Kos remains competitive, offering families a reliable and affordable holiday destination.
Rhodes: Slightly Higher Costs, Still Affordable
Rhodes, located in the Dodecanese Islands, ranks 9th on the list. While there are no detailed reports on the specific price changes for Rhodes, the island’s total cost for the same items is higher than Crete and Kos. Although it remains affordable, Rhodes is slightly pricier compared to the other Greek islands on the list. Families may find that while the island offers excellent value, the overall cost of services and goods is a bit steeper. Rhodes is a well-loved destination, renowned for its medieval architecture, beaches, and historical sites. However, if budget is a priority, Crete and Kos might be more appealing alternatives.
Corfu: The Most Expensive Greek Option
Corfu, another favorite in Greece, comes in at 12th place on the list. The report does not specify whether prices have increased or decreased, but Corfu is still notably more expensive compared to Crete and the Algarve in Portugal, which remains the most affordable destination in the Eurozone. Corfu’s charm lies in its lush landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and scenic beaches, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more traditional Greek island experience. However, for families aiming to keep costs down, it may not be the best option compared to other Greek islands like Crete and Kos, which offer more budget-friendly choices.
Marmaris and Sunny Beach: Affordable Choices Outside the Eurozone
For families looking to save significantly on their summer holidays, non-Eurozone destinations like Marmaris (Turkey) and Sunny Beach (Bulgaria) continue to offer the lowest prices. Marmaris tops the list as the cheapest destination at £128.99, followed closely by Sunny Beach at £129.47. These locations remain the best value for families, offering the perfect mix of affordability, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Turkey’s Marmaris is known for its stunning coastline, while Bulgaria’s Sunny Beach provides a lively atmosphere with plenty of entertainment options. Both destinations are attractive for families looking to escape the higher costs of Eurozone countries without compromising on their holiday experience.
Other Mediterranean Destinations
In addition to the Greek islands, several other Mediterranean locations also feature in the rankings. The Algarve in Portugal ranks 3rd, offering excellent value at £143.56, while Paphos in Cyprus follows closely at £144.44. Lanzarote, a popular Canary Island destination, is priced at £151.61. The Costa del Sol has a variable cost, though it is a popular family destination in Spain. Further down the list, Mallorca and Ibiza in Spain come in at £201.67 and £242.79, respectively, marking them as more expensive options for families seeking a lively, upscale holiday experience.
The overall ranking of Mediterranean destinations from the cheapest to the most expensive is as follows:
- Marmaris, Turkey – £128.99
- Sunny Beach, Bulgaria – £129.47
- Algarve, Portugal – £143.56
- Paphos, Cyprus – £144.44
- Lanzarote – £151.61
- Costa del Sol – (price not listed)
- Crete – £166.07
- Kos
- Rhodes
- Puglia, Italy
- Sliema, Malta
- Corfu
- Funchal
- Poreč
- Mallorca – £201.67
- Ibiza – £242.7
The 2025 British Tourism report reveals that Crete, in Greece, has become the most affordable island for British tourists, while prices in Rhodes, Kos, and Corfu surge, reflecting shifting holiday costs across popular Mediterranean destinations like Turkey, Italy, Malta, Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Portugal.
The Post Office Family Holiday Report sheds light on the evolving cost landscape of summer vacations in Mediterranean destinations. While non-Eurozone locations like Marmaris and Sunny Beach offer unparalleled affordability, Greece’s islands like Crete, Kos, and Rhodes remain competitive, though with some price fluctuations. For those prioritizing budget, destinations like the Algarve and Paphos offer great value within the Eurozone. Families seeking a balance of cost and experience can consider various options, from the budget-friendly to the more luxurious choices, depending on their preferences.
