If you like the idea of a leisurely sun break but worry you’ll get bored, go somewhere that combines brilliant weather with culture. The trick is discovering the perfect location that offers holidaymakers not only great weather and beaches, but also has a historical edge. Fortunately there are plenty of ideal destinations that are only a few hours flight from the UK. Cheap holidays to Sharm el Sheikh, Crete and Turkey all offer guests brilliant sunshine and the chance to explore and learn about ancient civilizations – all at a very affordable price!

Sharm el Sheikh combines sun with sites brilliantly. While many holidaymakers visits Sharm for its brilliant weather and superb diving sites, the culture is also worth the holiday. Travellers interested in biblical times will enjoy a trek in the Holy Mountains. Mount Sinai, where Moses received the 10 Commandments, is perhaps the most famous peak in this range. In addition to plenty of beautiful natural sights, you’ll also stumble upon historic ones like the Seven Elders of Israel Amphitheatre. You’ll find this little gem of a monument about half way up the peak.  If you’re staying for an extended holiday you may even want to consider a day trip to Cairo. Plenty of tour companies offer deals that include transfers and a full day of sightseeing. The combination of sunny weather and sandy shores make it a brilliant location in which to simply relax and enjoy yourself in.

Cheap holidays to Turkeyoffer holidaymakers a great mix of ancient culture and beautiful scenery. With so many cool historical sites, it would be easy to be overwhelmed – just be sure you check out two of the best, Ephesus and Troy. Ephesus was of high importance during the Greek and Roman eras. In fact with a population of 250,000 in 1 BC, it was considered the second largest city in the world. Troy has been an important city in both the factual and literary worlds. The site today is a major tourist attraction. Both cities are major tourist attractions, so after a day of exploring you’ll certainly enjoy relaxing back at your hotel. Stay at a hotel on the beautiful coast so after a day of sightseeing you can relaxing and unwind by the sea.

Those who love ancient civilizations will find Crete to be a big kid’s playground – along with excellent beaches to boast! The iconic Greek coastlines need no introduction, from the beautiful white buildings to the crisp blue waters. Travel inland and you’ll find a country scattered with ancient ruins everywhere you look. Some of the most mentionable ones include the palaces of Knossos and Phaistos. Another great attraction is the Heralkion Museum, which is home to thousands of important artefacts that have been found during excavations in Crete. There are plenty of offers on cheap holidays to Crete throughout the spring and early summer.