For years, Benidorm has been the go-to all-inclusive destination for UK travellers. It’s affordable, easy to reach, and packed with sunshine, beaches, and nightlife.
But in 2026, travellers are asking a bigger question:
Is Benidorm still the best—or are there better all-inclusive options out there?
The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on what you’re looking for. Because while Benidorm still does a lot very well, other destinations are starting to outshine it in specific ways.
Let’s break it down.
Why Benidorm Still Works (Really Well)
Before looking elsewhere, it’s worth understanding why Benidorm remains so popular.
It offers:
Short, affordable flights from the UK
Reliable sunshine and great beaches
A huge range of all-inclusive hotels
Lively nightlife and entertainment
It’s also one of the best-value destinations in Europe, often coming in cheaper than many alternatives.
For many travellers—especially first-time package holidaymakers—it’s still hard to beat.
But…
Where Benidorm Falls Short
Benidorm’s biggest strength—its popularity—can also be its weakness.
Some travellers now find it:
Too busy, especially in peak summer
Less “authentic” compared to other destinations
More focused on nightlife than relaxation (depending on area)
Even fans admit there are “more attractive cities in Spain” if you’re looking for scenery or culture.
That’s where other destinations come in.
5 All-Inclusive Destinations That Might Be Better Than Benidorm
1. Costa del Sol – Best All-Round Upgrade
If you like the idea of Spain but want something a little more polished, the Costa del Sol is a strong alternative.
You’ll get:
Similar weather and beaches
A mix of lively and relaxed towns
More variety in scenery and culture
Destinations like Torremolinos and Benalmádena offer a balance of nightlife and authenticity, making them ideal for travellers who want more than just a resort experience.
👉 Better than Benidorm if you want: variety and a more “Spanish” feel.
2. Alanya – Best for Value
If price is your priority, Turkey is hard to beat.
All-inclusive resorts here often include:
Larger hotels with more facilities
Better food and drink quality
Lower overall prices
In fact, destinations like Alanya are often cheaper than Spain while offering more luxury-style resorts.
👉 Better than Benidorm if you want: maximum value for money.
3. Crete – Best for Scenery & Culture
If you’re after something more scenic, Greece is a major step up.
Crete offers:
Stunning coastlines and clear water
Historic sites and cultural experiences
A slower, more relaxed pace
It’s less about nightlife and more about exploring, relaxing, and experiencing local culture.
👉 Better than Benidorm if you want: a more meaningful, less commercial holiday.
4. Hurghada – Best for Luxury on a Budget
If you want a “wow factor” holiday without spending a fortune, Egypt is a standout.
All-inclusive resorts here often include:
Private beaches
Huge pool complexes
Waterparks and premium facilities
Despite the luxury feel, prices remain competitive compared to European destinations.
👉 Better than Benidorm if you want: luxury without the luxury price tag.
5. Barbados – Best for Once-in-a-Lifetime Trips
At the premium end of the market, the Caribbean offers a completely different level of all-inclusive travel.
Expect:
White-sand beaches and turquoise waters
High-end resorts and dining
A more exclusive atmosphere
Destinations like Barbados are often seen as the gold standard for all-inclusive holidays.
👉 Better than Benidorm if you want: a luxury, long-haul experience.
So… Is There a Better All-Inclusive Holiday Than Benidorm?
Here’s the honest answer:
No single destination beats Benidorm at everything
But many destinations beat it at specific things
Benidorm is still:
✔ One of the easiest holidays from the UK
✔ One of the most affordable
✔ One of the most reliable
But if you’re looking for:
More luxury → try Egypt or Turkey
More culture → try Greece
More variety → try Costa del Sol
More exclusivity → go long-haul
Final Thoughts
Benidorm isn’t outdated—it’s just no longer the only option.
In 2026, all-inclusive travel is more diverse than ever. And the “best” destination really comes down to one thing:
What kind of holiday do you actually want?
Because for some, Benidorm is still perfect.
For others, it’s just the starting point.