Mallorca has been crowned the best family destination for Brits thanks to its beaches, waterparks and short flights from the UK. The sun-soaked Mediterranean island has been named Europe's best destination for a family holiday in a new index released by easyJet and easyJet Holidays ahead of the Easter holidays.

The Family Holiday Index ranks the destinations that make travelling with children easiest and most enjoyable, with Spain netting six of the top 10 picks. It analyses factors such as flight times of four hours or less, access to beaches and pools and the density of family-friendly attractions like waterparks and mini golf.

It also takes into account travel logistics, everyday holiday costs and airport ease. Taking the top spot is Palma de Mallorca, the Balearic island capital that combines golden beaches with an abundance of family activities, all within easy reach of the airport.

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From sprawling aquariums to waterparks and boat trips along Mallorca's dramatic coastline, the island offers families a near-perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Nipping at its heels in second place is the Algarve, famous for its honey-coloured cliffs, calm Atlantic beaches and warm hospitality.

The coastline is dotted with seaside towns where dolphin-watching excursions, cliff-top walks and sprawling waterparks make it a perennial favourite with British families. Spain's Costa del Sol takes third place, where wide sandy beaches stretch along the Andalusian coast.

Family-friendly resorts such as Fuengirola and Benalmádena offer everything from wildlife parks and aquariums to beachfront promenades perfect for evening strolls and ice-cream stops. Further down the ranking Mediterranean island escapes feature strongly, with destinations prized for their family-friendly beaches and relaxed resort life.

Italy’s Sardinia, which ranks sixth, charms with its crystal-clear waters and calm, shallow beaches that are perfect for younger swimmers. Crete takes seventh place thanks to its sprawling coastline, welcoming resorts and wealth of family attractions from waterparks to boat trips along the island's sun-drenched shores.

Elsewhere in the top ten, destinations including Costa Blanca, Ibiza and Barcelona's coastal resorts highlight Spain's continued dominance as the go-to destination for UK family holidays. Kevin Doyle, easyJet's UK Country Manager, said: "Family holidays are all about simplicity - easy flights and packages, easy transfers and resorts and destinations where there's plenty to keep children entertained.

"Our Family Holiday Index highlights some of the destinations across Europe where pools, beaches, waterparks and great value come together to create the perfect family break. With Easter approaching, it's the perfect time for families looking to plan a last-minute getaway to book - with lots of affordable choices still available across a fantastic range of European destinations."