Plan ahead! 17 swish European villas for your 2026 holiday

More great advice from the Sunday Times in their recent feature on the best villas to book now for 2026. Our newest villa, Maravigghia, was in the best company, one of a smattering of recommended villas in Mediterranean hotspots such as Italy, Greece, Ibiza and Mallorca. So if you’re looking for inspiration for your 2026 holiday, you’ll certainly find it here, amongst an assortment of villas that ranges from striking contemporary homes with jaw dropping views to architect-restored 16th rural retreats and luxury villas with a private concierge.

At Maravigghia, you’ll find three en suite bedrooms, an art-filled open plan living space, and a sweeping garden with two hot tubs and steps that lead directly down to the translucent water of southern Sicily. As an added bonus, the villa is set close to the historic town of Avola so you can split your days between the beach, exploring the nearby towns of Noto and Syracuse, and learning all about local winemaking traditions. Ideally suited for a group of friends or a family, this latest addition to our website is guaranteed to book up fast.

As for timing, booking early doesn’t just mean securing cheaper flights. The simple fact is that the earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have – during peak school holiday weeks, the very best villas can get booked up to a year in advance. So which villas go first? Large villas with a pool and outdoor kitchen, several living rooms, and enough en suite bedrooms to comfortably accommodate a big group are always snapped up quickly. They offer great value for money compared to hotel accommodation and, by booking early, you’re more likely to get exactly what you want. Seafront villas with direct access on to the beach are also quick to go, as are family-friendly villas with a pool and within walking distance of the beach and local town.