As football fans across the UK gear up for a summer of high-stakes games, new research from easyJet holidays reveals that the traditional holiday is being traded for the ‘fan-cation’, with Brits going to extraordinary lengths to ensure they don't miss a single minute of the World Cup action.

A study of British holidaymakers reveals a clear divide between relaxation and team loyalty. With tournament matches kicking off as late as 1 am UK time due to the transatlantic time difference, fans are refusing to let a change of scenery get in the way of their passion. Trading the living room sofa for a Mediterranean sun lounger, travellers are actively seeking out destinations that lean into the tournament atmosphere.

Passports and Penalty Shootouts

While managing time zones on holiday can be a headache, research shows that British fans are treating match days as the main event. With almost half (48%) admitting they would willingly skip a pre-booked holiday excursion, a day trip, or even a romantic dinner if it clashed with a crucial knockout game.

The social compromises don't stop at dinner; the data highlights that over a quarter (27%) of football-loving partners have admitted to causing a "holiday row" over match schedules. This holiday friction hits younger genertions the hardest, as the data reveals a full-blown generation gap when it comes to viewing boundaries. A staggering 62% of Gen Z and 61% of Millennials maintain that catching a game during an intimate holiday celebration is completely fine, compared to only 30% of Baby Boomers, who demand total peace.

The desire for atmosphere is driving booking habits, too. Rather than avoiding the hype, over a third (38%) of supporters state they intentionally book trips to nations with promising football atmosphere just to soak up the local fan culture and celebrations when a goal goes in.

The Price of Passion

For the ultimate fan, catching the game on a smartphone screen by the pool simply won't cut it. Holidaymakers are looking for a community atmosphere, with 70% stating they view a hotel’s screening facilities and atmosphere as a top priority, and over half (59%) admitting they would pay a premium of up to £100 per person for a resort that guarantees a dedicated tournament hub.

To meet this demand, easyJet holidays has mapped out the ultimate match-ready resorts across Europe and North Africa, where fans can enjoy guaranteed sunshine alongside guaranteed screenings.

The Ultimate "fan-cation" Hotlist

Hotel & destination

What’s on offer

Los Zocos Impressive Lanzarote (Lanzarote, Spain)

Main pool bar fully decorated with competing country flags and tournament decor, plus extended bar hours for the ultimate late-night experience.

Zeus Eleva Mirabello Bay(Crete, Greece)

Offering extended All-Inclusive hours to cater for late-night North American kick-offs in a comfortable environment, with noise-conscious zoning.

Grand Palladium Sicilia Resort & Spa (Sicily, Italy)

The Xtra Time Sports Bar serves US-style bites, hot dogs, and a massive selection of drinks across multiple flat-screen TVs.

Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Resort and Spa (Dalaman, Turkey)

Sleek, indoor F-Lounge featuring dedicated English-language broadcasts, comfortable bar-stool seating, and a promise to show every match.

Alua Suites Fuerteventura(Fuerteventura, Spain)

Giant-screen stadium vibes in the resort’s main theatre, public viewing at the Plaza and Agua Bar, plus free-to-air matches in private suites.

Mayfair Hotel (Paphos, Cyprus)

The Flying Pig Sports Bar & Grill, boasts huge screens and a dedicated, fan-first atmosphere built for tournament drama.

Acrogiali Beach Hotel (Mykonos, Greece)

High-comfort, designated screening zones with big screens right by the beach, designed for fans who want luxury with their live sports.

Sunrise Solara & Alora Aqua Park Resort(Hurghada, Egypt)

High-energy, stadium-side atmosphere in dedicated sports bars and lively viewing areas screening every match live under the sun.

Choosing a dedicated sports resort means the stressful search for a local pub showing the game is eliminated. From late-night burgers during extra time to poolside screens, easyJet holidays ensure travellers get more bang for their buck and more goals for their getaway. A list of all hotels to get your game on can be found linked here: World Cup holidays ⚽ Football friendly hotels | easyJet holidays.

Leave the Remote, Take the Sun

With easyJet holidays packages including flights, 23kg luggage, hotel accommodation, and transfers all backed by a low deposit of just £60pp, there has never been a better time to take your support on tour.