British Holidaymakers Shift from Spain to Morocco Amid Rising Costs
In recent months, a growing number of British holidaymakers are turning away from Spain in favour of Morocco, seeking more affordable and diverse travel options. Flight prices from the UK to Spain have more than doubled in some cases compared to pre-pandemic levels, making holidays less accessible for budget-conscious travellers. In contrast, flights to Morocco have remained comparatively affordable, further tipping the scales in its favour.
Morocco’s Rising Appeal
Recent data from travel agencies and booking platforms shows Morocco has become a top choice for UK tourists looking for affordable yet enriching holiday experiences. TUI UK reports a 30% increase in summer bookings to Egypt compared to 2024, along with double-digit growth for Tunisia and strong demand for Morocco, all citing better value for money. Booking.com recorded a 68% increase in searches for summer breaks in Tunisia, with Egypt and Morocco seeing rises of 64% and 39% respectively.
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Morocco’s appeal lies in its high-quality hotels offered at significantly lower prices than comparable options in Spain, France, and Italy. For example, a week’s holiday in Agadir averages around £889 per person, while popular destinations like Santorini, Marbella, and Mykonos now command prices ranging from £1,000 up to £2,700 per person. This affordability, combined with Morocco’s rich cultural heritage and varied landscapes, makes it an increasingly attractive option.
Spain’s Challenges and Changing Tourist Preferences
Meanwhile, Spain remains a favourite for many, but the cost of flights and accommodation has sharply increased, especially in hotspots like the Canary Islands and Costa del Sol. These price hikes are partly due to increased demand combined with new tourism levies introduced by local governments to fund sustainability projects. However, these additional fees have had the unintended effect of driving budget-conscious travellers to look elsewhere.
British travel agents and booking platforms report a noticeable surge in interest for Moroccan holidays. Many travellers appreciate that Morocco offers a high standard of hotels and resorts that often outshine those available at comparable prices in Spain, Greece, or Italy. For families and couples seeking value for money, Morocco’s combination of affordability and cultural experiences is proving particularly attractive.
Morocco’s tourism sector has expanded rapidly, with millions of visitors arriving annually. The country’s investment in infrastructure, safety, and marketing has positioned it as a top holiday destination for British tourists seeking sunny getaways that combine adventure with relaxation.
At the same time, Spain faces challenges such as overcrowding in some coastal resorts and growing local concerns about the environmental impact of mass tourism, influencing travel choices. Some British tourists are choosing destinations that offer a more authentic and less commercialised experience.
As a result, Spain’s traditional dominance in the UK holiday market is being challenged. With Morocco’s affordable prices, rich culture, and expanding tourism infrastructure, it is quickly becoming a preferred destination for British holidaymakers seeking value and variety in their summer breaks.