Spain vs Greece holidays
💡 Quick Answer
Winner overall: Spain for value and convenience. Spain normally gives UK travellers lower entry prices and simpler flight logistics. Greece wins for island atmosphere, couples trips, and classic Mediterranean scenery when budget is not the only factor.
Side-by-side comparison table
| Category | Spain | Greece |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | 7-night package: approx. £320-£560 | 7-night package: approx. £390-£680 |
| Flights from UK | More direct routes from regional UK airports | Good summer network, but more seasonal and island-dependent |
| Accommodation | Large inventory: budget hotels, apartments, all-inclusive | Strong mid-range and boutique options, especially on islands |
| Food and drink | Great value tapas and casual dining | Excellent taverna quality, fresh grilled fish, strong local produce |
| Best for | Families, mixed groups, nightlife choice, first-time package trips | Couples, island hopping, slower pace and scenic stays |
Cost comparison
Spain usually wins on headline package price because there is more inventory and airline competition. Greece can still be excellent value in shoulder season, but island logistics can add cost. If you want the cheapest starting point, begin with cheap holidays to Spain from the UK, then compare with cheap holidays to Greece from the UK.
Best destinations
- Top Spain picks: Costa Blanca for budget packages, Costa del Sol for family resorts, Ibiza for nightlife.
- Top Greece picks: Crete for broad value, Rhodes for family-friendly beach resorts, Corfu for green scenery and old-town breaks.
For Spain planning, use the cluster pages: Spain in June, Spain in September, family holidays in Spain, and cheapest places in Spain. For Greece detail, see Crete guide and Rhodes guide.
When to go
May, June, and September are the sweet spot for both countries. Spain typically offers more low-cost options deep into late September. Greece has superb weather in June and September, but top islands can sell out earlier for family dates and peak ferry windows.
Pros and cons
Spain: pros and cons
- Pros: Lower average package cost and broader flight choice.
- Pros: Easier for families and first-time package travellers.
- Cons: Busier mass-tourism zones in peak summer.
- Cons: Some resort strips feel less authentic.
Greece: pros and cons
- Pros: Strong island atmosphere and memorable local dining.
- Pros: Excellent for couples and relaxed beach breaks.
- Cons: Higher average spend in popular islands.
- Cons: Transport between islands can raise total trip cost.
Which should you choose?
Choose Spain if you want the best chance of finding a low-cost package with easy flight options from your nearest UK airport. Choose Greece if you are prioritising scenery, island character, and a slower holiday rhythm, and can accept a higher average budget.
Useful related guides
Frequently asked questions
Is Spain cheaper than Greece for UK holidays?
Most of the time, yes. Spain often has lower package prices due to higher flight frequency and more accommodation supply.
Which is better for couples: Spain or Greece?
Greece is often better for couples because of island scenery, quieter coastal towns, and stronger romantic dining settings.
Which is better for families with children?
Spain usually wins for families because of wider all-inclusive choices, shorter transfer options, and larger family-focused resorts.
When should I book Spain or Greece for best value?
Book for May/June or September departures, and compare package totals with bags and transfers included.