Escape the cold with these hidden European gems perfect for a winter sun getaway, with budget flights for £150 or less from the UK.
As the chilly weather and shorter days persist, you might be yearning for a dose of winter sun. More and more Brits are opting to escape abroad in the early months of the year.
Data from ONS1 shows that UK residents took 18.7 million overseas trips from January to March 2025, a significant increase from the 16.7 million recorded in 2024.
While well-known destinations like Tenerife and Corfu are undoubtedly favoured during this season, Europe also boasts a plethora of lesser-known treasures ideal for a winter retreat.
With this in mind, the travel experts at Eurochange have compiled a list of top winter sun spots that won’t break the bank, with flights from the UK costing £150 or less.
Cadiz, Spain
- Return flights: From £34 from London Stansted to Seville in January
- Accommodation price: Starting from £51 per person, per night
- Average January-March temperature: Highs of 17°C
The seaside town of Cadiz, just a brief train journey from Seville, is brimming with remarkable landmarks to explore, including the Castle of Santa Catalina and the Torre Tavira, which offers breathtaking views of the city. Nestled in one of Spain’s warmest regions, temperatures in Cadiz seldom dip below 10°C, even during the winter.
Formentera, Spain
- Return flights: From £57 from London Stansted to Ibiza in March
- Accommodation price: Starting from £62 per person, per night
- Average January temperature: Highs of 16°C
If you’re an Ibiza enthusiast seeking a quieter, more affordable, yet equally stunning alternative, Formentera could be your perfect match. Once a ‘hippie’ commune, the island retains a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquillity during their holiday.
Karpas Peninsula, Cyprus
- Return flights: From £62 from London Gatwick to Larnaca in March
- Accommodation price: Starting from £55 per person, per night
- Average Jan-March temperature: Highs of 16°C
Highlighting the Karpas Peninsula, also known simply as Karpass, the travel specialists said: “This much less densely populated area of Northern Cyprus stretches 80km to the northernmost tip of the island, and is a great winter sun destination that also offers seclusion.
“It is considered one of the most unspoiled places anywhere in the Mediterranean, with beautiful deserted beaches and natural beauty in the Dipkarpaz National Park. In terms of where to stay, there are lots of beautiful farmhouses in Iskele. But if you prefer to stay in a town, Rizokarpaso is a good option – a quaint beach town with plenty of ancient landmarks to explore and a beautiful marina.”
São Vicente, Madeira, Portugal
- Return flights: From £37 from London Stansted to Madeira Airport in January
- Accommodation price: Starting from £25 per person, per night
- Average January temperature: Highs of 19°C
Famous for its breathtaking landscapes, spectacular coastlines and superb wines, Madeira makes an ideal choice for those seeking to escape Britain’s chilly winter months. São Vicente, situated in the extensive Laurissilva region, is celebrated for its valleys and vineyards, and also boasts numerous hidden beaches waiting to be discovered.
Valletta, Malta
- Return flights: From £38 from London Gatwick to Valletta in March
- Accommodation price: Starting from £31 per person, per night
- Average January temperature: Highs of 16°C
Valletta, Malta’s capital, is an underappreciated European treasure, which the specialists have described as a “little oasis in the heart of the Mediterranean.” Dubbed the ‘sunny city’, Valletta enjoys an average of 2,957 hours of sunshine annually, making it an excellent winter sun escape.
Palermo, Sicily
- Return flights: From £35 from London Stansted to Palermo
- Accommodation price: Starting from £40 per person, per night
- Average January temperature: Highs of 15°C
“For those who want to sample an Italian city break with fewer crowds in January, Palermo should be top of the list,” say the experts. “Situated on the North-west coast of Sicily, the southernmost island in Italy, it’s a perfect winter sun destination.
“Palermo offers both city break and beach holiday vibes, with plenty of gorgeous beaches and cute seaside towns just a short drive from the city centre. Spend your days meandering the cobbled streets, exploring the stunning Gothic architecture and the many churches and cathedrals. No Italian city break is complete without sampling the local cuisine of course, and in Palermo, the Arancini is a must-try.”