We love the number of high-quality All Inclusive Resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean…but…
Maybe you’re finding cheaper flights to Europe than to Cancun, Punta Cana, Jamaica etc?
Well you’re in luck.
In a Nutshell: Europe has always had all inclusives. Club Med started the craze in Italy in 1954 and Europeans flock to all-inclusives in Turkey, Spain and Greece. In fact there are more all-inclusives in those locations than in all of Mexico and the Caribbean put together. So All-Inclusives in Europe are not new. What IS new is that Americans staying in all-inclusive resorts are much fussier than the typical European vacationer. Now, North American all-inclusive resort chains are crossing the pond to build new (or renovate older) resorts and bring them up to standards that won’t get them flaming TripAdvisor reviews.
Americans want 5-star properties, with top shelf liquors, gourmet food and all the other amenities they are familiar with, so All-Inclusive companies whose resorts have been located in Mexico and the Caribbean are now taking their party overseas to Europe. Many well-known US brands such as Hyatt and Hilton own all-inclusive resorts in countries such as Greece and Spain…meaning you can enjoy the all-inclusive experience in a brand-new destination!
Here are just some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Europe, with Pros and Cons to visiting each resort:
Creta Maris Resort, Crete, Greece
Pros
- A beachfront property overlooking the clear blue Aegean Sea, with a certified blue flag beach.
- Seven signature restaurants, 10 bars, and 5 snack points.
- 16 pools (5 for kids) plus a waterpark.
- Focus on sustainability in all areas of operation.
- Located in the lively and charming town of Hersonissos, offering guests an array of authentic local experiences, green events, cultural activities and entertainment.
Cons
- Reservations are required for dinner in the a la carte restaurants.
Domes Aulus Elounda, Curio Collection by Hilton, Crete, Greece
Pros
- Described as an ‘elevated culinary journey’ with five signature restaurants and bars.
- A beachfront property, overlooking the Sea of Crete and the islet of Spinalonga. It is 60 metres from resort to beach.
- Option to upgrade to the ‘Cool Living’ concept, unlocking additional benefits and an upgraded dining experience.
- Certified as a sustainable hotel by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). Measures include reduced energy use, locally sourced products and supporting local communities.
Cons
- As an adults-only resort, children under 16 are not permitted (this could also be a pro!).
- It’s more than 3 hours by car from Chania International Airport, but only 1 hour from Heraklion airport.
- Most basic rooms are on the small side.
- It’s a bit over a mile (2 kilometers) from the nearest town – Elounda.
Zoetry Halkidiki Resort & Spa, Greece
Pros
- An absolutely idyllic location overlooking the Aegean Sea with Mount Olympus as a backdrop and surrounded by olive groves and a biodiverse nature reserve.
- A 5-star resort on the Greek mainland, with easy transport links to Thessaloniki.
- A well-equipped spa including sauna, steam room, rain showers and a relaxing indoor and outdoor lounge area. Offering a wide array of body, facial and beauty treatments.
- A brand new resort, opening June 2024, with modern rooms and décor and unrivalled architecture and design.
Cons
- Located in northern Greece, the resort offers less reliable weather than those further south, in Crete for example, or Spain’s Canary Islands.
- Not available until June 2024, but already taking bookings for this date onwards.
Azul Beach Resort, Montenegro
Pros
- So.Much.Beach! At 50 meters wide and 12 kilometers long, you won’t feel crowded on this impressive stretch of sand.
- 6 restaurants and 7 bars, all showcasing the Karisma focus on high-quality cuisine.
- Family suites that are actually very thoughtfully designed for families.
- Speaking of family resorts, Azul makes a special effort with their Toddler Inclusive and Baby Butler experiences to welcome kids and ensure they have fun.
Cons
- It’s about an 75-minute drive from the Podgorica Airport, 30 minutes longer if the driver doesn’t take the toll route.
Iberostar Selection Lagos Algarve, Lagos, Portugal
I’ve stayed at the Iberostar Lagos recently and loved it – one week was just not enough!
Pros
- All rooms are elegant, comfortable, and have a great view of the ocean.
- On the small-ish side compared to most Mexican/Caribbean resorts, the Iberostar Lagos has a very intimate, boutique feel.
- While not immune to the occasional rainy day, the weather year-round is nearly always sunny and warm.
- Amazing location in historic Lagos, with plenty of nearby shops, restaurants, and a marina to explore.
Cons
- It’s a very long drive (by bus, car, or train) to the Algarve region from the Lisbon airport.
- The resort is not directly on the beach (but it’s only a 2-3 minute walk).
- Only a single restaurant on-site which can feel limiting to some vacationers (but the food is great!).
Dreams Calvia Resort & Spa, Mallorca, Spain
Pros:
- Picturesque location
- Authentic countryside feel
- Diverse outdoor activities
- Kids’ club and family-friendly amenities
- Amazing cuisine! Need we say more?
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other European all-inclusive options
- Limited historical and cultural attractions nearby
Secrets Lanzarote Resort & Spa, Lanzarote, Spain
Pros:
- Adults-only atmosphere
- Luxurious and romantic setting
- Volcanic landscape views
- World-class spa
Cons:
- Limited cultural experiences outside the resort
- Remote location
- Not ideal for families with children.
Zoetry Mallorca, Mallorca, Spain
Pros
- Housed in a rustic 14th century manor complete with neo-gothic church and windmill, and surrounded by rolling hills and pleasant scenery, it’s a far cry from a more traditional all-inclusive resort.
- Boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, with acclaimed cook Andreu Genestra as head chef serving a range of Mediterranean dishes.
- Much of the food is grown on the estate or sourced locally.
- Offers a world class spa including heated pool, relaxation beds, massages and Turkish baths. Each all-inclusive guest enjoys a complimentary 20-minute wellness experience.
Cons
- While children are welcomed, there isn’t much to keep them entertained. There is a children’s swimming pool, but this resort is more suitable for adults.
- The resort is a bit over 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the coast, meaning getting to the beach requires taxis or shuttles.
Dreams Jardin Tropical Resort & Spa, Tenerife, Spain
Pros
- An all-inclusive resort for the entire family, welcoming children. The Explorers Club and Core Zone offer a wealth of activities for children and there is a dedicated children’s outdoor swimming pool.
- A beachfront resort in the popular town of Costa Adeje, with plenty of facilities both inside and outside the resort. Siam Park, Europe’s biggest waterpark, is less than a mile (2 kilometers) from the resort.
- Wonderful views from all rooms, looking out over either the tropical gardens, Atlantic Ocean or island of La Gomera.
- Spacious guest rooms all include a terrace or balcony.
- Six diverse restaurants including both buffet and a la carte options serving a range of cuisine including Italian, Spanish and Mexican.
Cons
- Books up extremely quickly in the summer months so early booking is recommended.
AluaSoul Ibiza, Ibiza, Spain
Pros
- Good location on the island’s eastern tip, in the small town of Es Canar and close to unspoiled natural beaches and coves. 50 metres from the beach.
- A large outdoor pool area including a swim up bar and Bali beds.
- Ibiza is well regarded as one of the best ‘party islands’ on the planet, home to some of the world’s most famous nightclubs and with an unrivalled nightlife across the island.
- Both buffet and a la carte dining options serving local and international cuisine.
Cons
- An adults-only resort for those aged 16+.
- Entertainment is only provided in the evening, unlike many resorts where there is entertainment throughout the day.
- Ibiza is one of Spain’s most exclusive and expensive destinations, so prepare to spend a lot if leaving the resort for dinner, or for one of the White Isles famous nights out!
Secrets Sunny Beach Resort & Spa, Bulgaria
Pros
- Great location in St Vlas, the more ‘upmarket’ part of Sunny Beach but also within reach of shops, restaurants and bars for those wanting to leave the resort.
- A significantly cheaper destination than more western European countries such as Greece and Spain.
- A beachfront property located just steps from the ocean.
- Five restaurants including buffet and a la carte options and and six bars, including a swim up bar.
- Close to the airport for short transfer times.
Cons
- Less accessible destination than Spain or Greece, with fewer flights to Bulgaria.
- An adult only resort for those aged 18+.
- Official 4-star rating, not the most luxurious resort on this list.
There are SO many more European All-Inclusives, including quite a few that are due to open in 2024 and 2025….a number of them from brands you already know and love — such as Hyatt and Hilton — and can count on for a high-quality vacation experience. We’ll be updating this list on a regular basis and adding to it, be sure to Subscribe to our Newsletter to be amongst the first to know of new openings!
