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Maldives holidays

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3-star Maldives holiday packages

From £979
Browse bargain Maldives holidays that will still more than satisfy your need for sun-drenched bliss and tropical island holidaying.
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4-star Maldives holiday deals

From £1139
Explore our stunning range of 4-star breaks. Escape to a water bungalow or beachfront villa and do things the Maldivian way!
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5-star Maldives holiday offers

From £1479
Swaying palms, glistening sea and fantastic wildlife - discover luxury 5-star resorts delivering pure Maldivian experiences.
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Currency:
Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR)
Language:
Dhivehi
Time difference:
GMT +5 hours
Flight time:
Approximately 10 hours.

Flights: You can fly from several major UK airports, including Birmingham, London Heathrow, Manchester, Newcastle and London Gatwick.

Passport/visa requirements: British nationals can get a tourist visa, which is valid for 30 days. Your passport must also be valid for a minimum of six months. Check the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website for the latest visa information and travel advice.

Packing essentials: Light and breezy summer clothes and beachwear that isn't too revealing. The Maldives is a Muslim country, so if you're visiting local islands, wear conservative clothing that covers your knees and shoulders (keep a scarf handy to cover long hair) to obey local customs.

The Maldives is one of the world's most spread-out countries, made up of 26 ring-shaped atolls and over 1,000 coral islands. This means that, wherever you stay, you'll feel like you're on your own private island!

Malé is the most populated and the most central city of the tropical islands. It has the best tourist shopping centres and restaurants, and is the closest island to the main airport. The North & South Male Atoll is one of the most popular areas for Maldives holidays, thanks to a huge range of activities on offer.

There are many more islands close to Malé, including Ari Atoll, Maafushi, Kuramathi, Meeru Island, Rangali and Rasdhoo. Islands to the south include Havadhu Atoll, Thinadhoo, Rathafandhoo and Madaveli.

For picturesque tropical scenery and incredible wildlife, you can't go wrong with a Maldives holiday to the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Whichever you visit, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, including Bikini Beach, Coca Island, Veligandu and Hulhumale Island.

Relax and indulge

The Maldives boasts some of the best luxury spas in the world. Chances are, if you're lucky enough to stay here, you'll be somewhere with spa services on offer. Popular spa hotels include Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, W Maldives and Huvafen Fushi.

Explore the ocean

Many Maldives hotels, such as Embudu Village, have a house reef for snorkelling safaris, and others are ideally located for diving. For example, Kuredu Island Resort is surrounded by an array of sites, while the PADI Dive Centre at LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas is one of the world's best.

NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort also has its own diving school, while a dive centre can also be found at One&Only Reethi Rah.

Baa Atoll and the southern atoll of Addu are ideal locations to discover marine life like hammerhead and whale sharks, with resorts like The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort offering amazing access.

Water activities and tours, including exploring shipwrecks, snorkelling with turtles and whale sharks, submarine tours, water skiing, windsurfing and jet skiing can also be enjoyed. For something more relaxing, why not try whale or dolphin watching?

Maldives

Island hopping

Every island resort is blessed with fantastic beaches with white sands and pristine warm waters, and many include concierge services to help you book activities and travel.

If you're feeling adventurous, most allow you to be temporarily stranded on a deserted island - with lunch provided, of course.

When you're not on the beach, the capital Malé is the best place to see the local culture with its colourful houses and bustling markets.

The Grand Friday Mosque in Manadhoo to the north is the biggest in the country, attracting tourists and locals alike. Vaadhoo is also close by and famous for a natural phenomenon that turns the Indian Ocean seawater electric blue.

Family fun

Kurumba and Olhuveli Beach Resort are favourites for families looking for a perfect holiday that suits both parents and children, with children's clubs and babysitting services available.

The Conrad Rangali has an in-house marine biologist, who will bring the seabed to life for young explorers.

Seeing turtles, octopuses, manta rays and exotic fish darting through the reef will guarantee they return home as lifelong marine enthusiasts.

Retail therapy

If you're staying near Malé at a resort like Centara Ras Fushi or Baros Maldives and in the mood to shop, you're spoilt for choice.

Malé local market and Centro Mall on Hulhumale, are both located in close proximity to neighbouring islands. Alternatively, seek out Le Cute or the STO Trade Centre for great deals on souvenirs, handcrafted items and electronic gadgets.


In a region famed for resembling paradise on earth, choosing a beach to visit can be tough. Here are some of our favourites:

  • The Lily Beach resort on Huvahendhoo in the south of Ari Atoll is known for being home to one of the most pristine beaches in the Maldives. It also offers plenty of places to eat and is near many famous dive sites.

  • On North Ari Atoll, the beach at the Veligandu Island Resort often ranks among the top beaches in the Maldives for its picturesque beauty and surroundings.
  • Baros Maldives on the North Malé Atoll has possibly the best lagoon in the whole of the Maldives. After basking in the serenity of soft white sand and spectacular views, why not visit the Lighthouse restaurant or go reef snorkelling?

  • Last but not least, if you stay at the Dusit Thani or Mirihi Island resorts, you could witness the superb natural phenomenon of glow-in-the-dark beaches. You have to see it to believe it!

Latest Maldives holiday deals

Up to 55% Off and Free Room Upgrade to a Premium Beach Villa with Whirlpool *
Canareef ResortFrom £1139pp
Discover a sanctum of serenity in the Maldives at the divine Canareef Resort.
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Up to 35% Off, Free Room Upgrade to a Ocean Villa with Pool + Slide and Free Seaplane Transfers*
Siyam WorldFrom £2329pp
A blissful sunshine adventure in a spectacular Indian Ocean setting awaits at Siyam World, an awe-inspiring Noonu Atoll all-inclusive getaway in the magical Maldives.
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Up to 65% Off *
Rahaa ResortFrom £1179pp
Rahaa Resort is a dream come true for anyone craving an unforgettable holiday experience in the magical Maldives.
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Up to 35% Off and 1 Kid Stays Free *
NOOE Maldives KunaavashiFrom £1899pp
Welcome to the 5-star NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi.
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Up to 45% Off, Free Room Upgrade to a Water Villa, Free Board Upgrade to All Inclusive and Free Seaplane Transfers*
Sun Siyam Iru FushiFrom £2349pp
Get set to discover pure indulgence among spectacular tropical scenery at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi resort in the heart of the Maldives.
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Up to 55% Off, Free Board Upgrade to All Inclusive and Free Speedboat Transfers *
Hard Rock Hotel MaldivesFrom £2459pp
The fabulous Hard Rock Hotel Maldives hits all the right notes when it comes to providing an unforgettable experience in the sun-kissed Indian Ocean.
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Best time to visit the Maldives

Temperatures average between 23ºC and 31ºC all year round, which is ideal if you're looking to travel outside of peak summer. The best weather in the Maldives is between November and April. Overall, the islands have a tropical monsoon climate and two main seasons - dry season lasting from December to April, and rainy season lasting from May to November.

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Maldives locations and where to stay

If you prefer a shorter transfer, you could choose a resort in the Malé Atoll to be closer to the airport. Diving enthusiasts might be drawn to the popular reef of the Ari Atoll, while those looking for natural beauty may choose the Baa Atoll. The truth is that wherever you choose, you're in for a breathtaking holiday.

Maldives holiday options

The Maldives is a destination that caters for everyone, from adventure lovers wanting access to their own reef, to families and couples craving all-inclusive bliss.

All-inclusive Maldives package holidays
An all-inclusive getaway allows you to kick back and relax knowing that all your needs are taken care of. Dining dilemmas are forgotten, drinks flow freely and there's no end to the activities.

Our Expert Shauna Golding : "An all-inclusive holiday in the Maldives is the way to go for a completely carefree escape. With everything covered in the price, you can have the time of your life enjoying superb food, drink and activities without worrying about extra bills."

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Diving in the Maldives
Scattered among the nearly 1,200 islands, you'll find countless unbeatable dive sites. It's one of the best places for spotting marine life, with Maldives diving holidays bringing you up close with tropical fish, manta rays, sea turtles, whale sharks and plenty more.

Our Expert Nadine Edwards : "Diving in the Maldives with whale sharks or manta rays is a true bucket-list experience. While lucky divers can spot them at any time, you increase your chances by heading to the western side of the Maldives from December to April. If you're visiting in the rainy season of May to December, you should aim to dive around the eastern atolls."

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Maldives honeymoons
Mesmerising beauty makes this idyllic destination the perfect place for a romantic holiday. From relaxing strolls along white sandy beaches with the love of your life to sipping cocktails under the stars, you'll enjoy sheer luxury at every turn.

Our Expert Shauna Golding : "There's nothing more romantic than a paradise island honeymoon on these dreamy shores. With intoxicating tropical beauty all around and intimate accommodation with indulgent leisure facilities and dining, this haven is the ideal place to celebrate your wedded bliss."

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Maldives family holidays
Beautiful sandy beaches, inviting waters and a host of amenities and attractions back at your hotel mean there's never a dull moment on Maldivian family getaways.

Our Expert Nadine Edwards : "Family holidays here are what dreams are made of. You'll get to share unforgettable paradise island adventures with your nearest and dearest and make magical memories. There are plenty of family-friendly resorts with superb amenities and activities for children, plus lots to keep grownups happy too."

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Maldives overwater villa holidays
Picture Maldives island holidays and the first image that comes to mind will be of water villas perched on stilts over the Indian Ocean. Many of its best resorts offer a selection of overwater villas and rooms with access to the ocean just steps from your bed.

Our Expert Nadine Edwards : "There really is nothing like an overwater stay. I've never seen water clearer or sunsets more breathtaking ? it's well worth it for a special holiday or honeymoon. I'd always recommend choosing a villa that faces the sunset side of an island, and have breakfast delivered to the room at least once during your stay!"

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Maldives multicentre holidays
A multicentre holiday lets you combine the magic of the Maldives with attractions in other exciting destinations. Why not mix things up with a visit to Bangkok or Dubai? There's also the option for other island getaways, such as Sri Lanka or Phuket.

Our Expert Llewys Benbow : "A Maldives multicentre holiday will take your luxury escape to the next level, combining two or more exhilarating destinations into one. Choose from a variety of phenomenal locations around the globe and enjoy a melting pot of culture, beauty, adventure and relaxation in a single trip."

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FAQs

Where is the Maldives located?

The Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, just southwest of Sri Lanka.

What currency is used in the Maldives?

The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian rufiyaa (Rf). The US dollar is widely accepted as a legal tender. With our cheap holidays to the Maldives, you could have some extra spending money!

What's the time difference between the UK and the Maldives?

Maldives Time (MHT) is five hours ahead of the UK.

When is the best time to go to the Maldives?

The best time to visit the Maldives is the dry season between November and April.

How long should you stay in the Maldives?

It's recommended to stay in the Maldives for a week or more to allow time to relax, explore and indulge in some water sports or other activities.

Can you fly direct to the Maldives?

You can currently find direct flights from the UK to the Maldives from London Heathrow Airport. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic both operate direct flights all year round.

How long does it take to fly to the Maldives?

A direct flight from London Heathrow to Malé in the Maldives takes approximately 10 to 11 hours. Flights from other destinations with a connecting flight are available.

What are the passport requirements for the Maldives?

British passports must have an expiry date at least one month after the date of your arrival. Damaged passports may not be accepted as a valid travel document.*

Do I need a visa for the Maldives?

Visitors to the Maldives are issued a 30-day tourist visa for free.*

*Please note that it is your responsibility to check for any changes to entry requirements, and ensure all of your documents are valid for travel

.

What language is spoken in the Maldives?

The national language of the Maldives is Dhivehi.

Can you travel between islands in the Maldives?

Yes, island-hopping in the Maldives is an option for those holidaying in the Indian Ocean! You can travel between islands by seaplane, ferry, speedboat, luxury yacht or a local dhoni boat.

What is the weather in the Maldives?

The Maldives has a tropical climate, so it enjoys hot weather all year round. There are distinct dry and wet seasons, with the time between December and April experiencing the least amount of rain and the longest sunny days. The monsoon season falls between May and November.

Is the Maldives safe to visit?

Maldives resort islands and hotels are generally safe. As with any other country, it’s important to make sure you don’t leave your belongings unattended.

How many Maldives islands are there?

There are 1,190 islands in the Maldives.

What is the capital of the Maldives?

Malé is the capital of the Maldives. The city is found on the south coast of the North Malé Atoll.

Does the Maldives have mosquitoes?

There are mosquitoes in the Maldives, though most resorts use mist and fog to clear them from their islands, so you'll probably not notice them. It's a good idea to take insect repellent just in case.

Are Maldives plugs the same as UK plugs?

Many resorts in the Maldives have UK three-pin plug sockets, but not all do. While you can use UK appliances as the Maldives uses the same standard voltage (230V) as the UK, you may need to take a UK-Maldives plug adapter with you – they're often listed as UK-Sri Lanka or UK-India plug adapters.

Fancy some inspiration?
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