Holidays 2026

Looking forward to your holidays in 2026? It’s never too early to start planning. Whether you’re dreaming of sandy beaches, city adventures or family getaways, booking your 2026 holiday now means access to early deals, more availability and plenty of inspiration for your next escape.

Why book your 2026 holiday now?

Booking your 2026 holiday early gives you more than just something to look forward to. You’ll get access to better prices, first pick of the best hotels and a wider choice of flights and destinations. For families tied to the school holidays, planning ahead is often the only way to guarantee your preferred dates without paying over the odds.

Top destinations for 2026 holidays

Whether you’re after sunshine, culture or something a bit different, 2026 is the perfect year to explore somewhere new or revisit a favourite destination. Some of our top picks include:

When to go on holiday in 2026

Timing your holiday right can make a big difference, especially if you’re travelling with children or looking to avoid peak season prices. Here’s a quick guide to planning around the UK calendar:

• Spring (March to May): Quieter cities and blossoming landscapes

• Summer (June to August): School holidays and beach escapes

• Autumn (September to November): Warm weather without the crowds

• Winter (December to February): Christmas markets, ski breaks and winter sun.

Remember to keep an eye on the UK school holidays and bank holidays for 2026 when planning your trip.

All-inclusive holidays 2026

If you want to travel abroad without the hassle of thinking about what to eat and where to go for drinks, opt in for our last minute all-inclusive holidays.

Family holidays for 2026

Start planning your next family adventure with our top picks for 2026. From kid-friendly beach resorts to exciting theme park breaks, these holidays are made for memory-making.

Summer holidays 2026

Make summer 2026 one to remember with these sunshine-filled escapes. Whether you’re dreaming of golden beaches or a cultural city break, these offers are ideal for your summer getaway.

How to find cheap holidays for 2026

You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy an unforgettable getaway. Here are a few tips to help you save on your 2026 holiday:

• Book early to secure lower prices

• Be flexible with your travel dates and departure airports

• Travel outside of school holidays if possible

• Consider less touristy destinations or hidden gems

• Use our filters to find budget-friendly and all-inclusive options

Whether you’re planning a big summer trip or a spontaneous long weekend, there are always ways to keep your travel costs down.

Plan now, pay later: flexible options for 2026

At lastminute.com, flexibility comes as standard. Many 2026 holidays can be reserved with low deposits or paid in instalments, making it easier to spread the cost over time. This is especially helpful for families, groups or anyone juggling school calendars and work schedules. With ATOL protection and trusted partners, you can book with confidence.

What are the best long weekends and breaks to plan holidays in 2026?

In 2026, there are several opportunities for extended holidays thanks to how the UK bank holidays and weekends fall. Here are some key dates to keep in mind when booking your time off:

• Easter break: Good Friday is on 3rd April 2026 and Easter Monday on 6th April, giving you a four-day weekend. Book a few extra days around it for a longer spring escape.

• Early May bank holiday: Falls on Monday 4th May 2026, perfect for a quick city break or a relaxing weekend away.

• Spring bank holiday: Lands on Monday 25th May 2026. Combine this with a few extra days' leave for a full week in the sun, just before the peak of summer.

• August bank holiday: Monday 31st August 2026. Great for a late summer getaway or one last beach break before autumn.

• Christmas and New Year: Christmas Day is on a Friday and Boxing Day falls on a Saturday, meaning Monday 28th December will be a substitute bank holiday. New Year’s Day is on Thursday, so with some careful planning, you could turn this into a longer winter break.

Planning around these dates means more holidays for fewer days off, so they’re ideal for getting the most out of your annual leave in 2026.