It is easy to see why holidays in Spain are still as popular as ever with its fantastic climate, gorgeous beaches, authentic fishing villages and hilltop retreats and still great value for money.

With such a diverse choice of destinations, from mainland Spain with its collection of sun drenched Costas to the crystal clear waters of the Balearic and Canary Islands, a Spanish holiday takes some beating.

Mainland Spain

The main holiday destinations are along the Costas. Starting on the southern stretch of coast that faces North Africa, there are the year round regions of Costa de Almeria, Costa del Sol and Costa de la Luz.

Going round the corner and heading north, you'll find the white silky sand beaches along Costa Blanca. Costa Dorada in the province of Tarragona is an area of pristine natural beauty and as you head further north past Barcelona, the rugged coastline of Costa Brava starts to appear with its towering cliffs and hidden coves.

Canary Islands

The Canary Islands sit off the southern coast of Morocco and are perfect to visit any time of year thanks to their wonderful climate with year round average temperatures in the low to mod 20s.

Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Tenerife with its volcano are the most popular islands with well developed infrastructure. Fuerteventura La Gomera or La Palma are relatively quiet and unspoilt by mass tourism.

Balearic Islands

The best known Balearic Islands are the beautiful and diverse island of Mallorca and the European beach party capital of Ibiza. Whilst known for their very lively nightlife, both Mallorca and Ibiza have a refined, chic and sophisticated side that can match the glitzy resorts of the Cote d'Azur.

For a more relaxed Spanish holiday, you can book a holiday rental on Formentera or Menorca. These islands are less developed in terms of tourist infrastructure and consequently much quieter.

Things to see and do

Spain is fortunate to have a treasure chest of historical and cultural towns and cities to explore, with many near the coast. If you are on a beach holiday and want to see a bit more of this fabulous country, there are some amazing places to visit...

• In the Costa del Sol there is the historic city of Malaga, the regional capital. It offers the Picasso museum, together with 30 others, fascinating monuments and pedestrianised shopping centres
• One of the most brilliant jewels of universal architecture is the Alhambra, a series of palaces and gardens in Granada, situated at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, Spains highest mountain range
• Seville, one of the largest historical centres in Europe, boasting the largest Gothic Cathedral in the world
• Serrania de Ronda, one of the most popular destinations from Andalucia. A delightful day trip through tiny white washed villages to the town of Ronda perched on top of the Tajo gorge