Padel Holiday Planning Guide 2026
Everything you need to know about planning a padel holiday in 2026. From choosing the right villa to packing the right gear.
A padel holiday is the perfect way to combine your love of the sport with a luxury getaway. Whether you're travelling with family, friends, or a group of fellow players, the right villa makes all the difference.
Step 1: Choose your destination. Spain, Portugal, and Italy lead the way for padel villa availability. Spain has the most options, Portugal offers excellent value, and Italy provides a unique mix of culture and court time. Croatia and southern France are emerging alternatives.
Step 2: Decide on your group size. Padel villas range from intimate 2-bedroom retreats to sprawling estates sleeping 20+. A group of 4-8 is ideal ā enough for regular match rotations without anyone sitting out too long.
Step 3: Check the court details. Not all courts are equal. Look for: court surface (artificial grass is standard), whether the court has lighting (essential for summer evening sessions), and whether rackets and balls are provided.
Step 4: Compare booking platforms. We list prices from Booking.com, Vrbo, Airbnb, and direct host websites so you can find the best deal. Booking directly with the host sometimes offers better rates and more flexibility on check-in times.
Step 5: Pack smart. Bring your own racket if you have one (airline policies generally allow them in carry-on), padel shoes with herringbone soles, and a few cans of pressurised balls. Don't forget sun protection for outdoor courts.
Step 6: Plan your match schedule. Mornings and early evenings are the best times for padel in warm climates. Leave afternoons free for pool time, sightseeing, or simply relaxing.