The Best Places For A Cheap Winter Sun Holiday

Do you want to swap cold and dark winters for hours of blissful sunshine and exotic adventures? If you do, we’ve got you covered.

Jet off and follow the sun for an extraordinary Christmas, a sensational New Year’s, or a magical escape from the January blues. Whether you are a family seeking excitement, a couple searching for peace and quiet, a group of friends wanting to make timeless memories, or a solo traveller yearning for a taste of culture, there is an affordable option for everyone. Island hop around the sun-kissed Canaries or the luxurious Caribbean, choose an all-inclusive holiday in Egypt, jet off to Mexico for flavourful delicacies, or soak up the captivating history of Tunisia. Wave goodbye to dreary skies and short-lived days, and say hello to a world of endless possibilities. Read on to discover more about our top picks for the best places for a cheap winter sun holiday.

The Canaries

Just off the north-west coast of Africa, the Spanish Canary Islands are a popular choice for British holidaymakers due to their affordability and glorious sunshine that lasts all year long. Tenerife, the largest and most populated Canary Island, is not only a beach lover’s dream and boogie wonderland, but also a golfer’s paradise. You’ll find an abundance of picturesque coastal towns with plenty of 5-star family resorts, adults-only hotels, bustling bars and international restaurants. Consider staying in Costa Adeje and Playa de Las Americas for all of this and more, or choose Costa del Silencio for a quieter experience. Smaller but equally beautiful, Lanzarote offers shades of blue you’ve never seen before. Explore Costa Teguise and bask in the crystal-clear waters of Playa del Jablillo. If you’re staying in Playa Blanca, a quick 30-minute ferry ride takes you to Fuerteventura, a splendid Canary Island known for its excellent restaurants and thrilling water sports. For those seeking a year-round lively atmosphere and winter temperatures averaging highs of 22°C, Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria is another fantastic haven.

Tunisia

Resting on the remarkable coast of North Africa, Tunisia is a sun-drenched treasure with something for everyone. Offering rustic architecture, stunning landscapes and delicious traditional cuisine, Tunisia is a sensational destination for everyone. Venture down south to discover the film sets of Matmata and Tataouine, better known by Star Wars fans as ‘Tatooine’. With warm weather all year round, the winter months are ideal if you want to experience enthralling historical landmarks and archaeological ruins under invigorating sunshine. Tantalise your taste buds with Chakchouka (Shakshuka), a tasty local dish of eggs cooked in an aromatic tomato sauce. Hammamet, a charming town situated on the North-East coast of Tunisia, provides ultra-modern hotels and a host of exhilarating water sports. Kick back in the sun on the quaint island of Djerba, a popular tourist destination with glorious beaches, bustling souks and dramatic sunsets. Whether you want a unique city break or a lazy beach holiday, this magnificent country does not disappoint.

Egypt

Winter in Egypt offers an ideal escape with fewer crowds, allowing for a more intimate connection to its rich history and culture. November is a great time to top up your tan as temperatures can still reach 28°C, while December and January bring milder weather which is perfect for exploring ancient wonders like the Pyramids of Giza and the Luxor Mummification Museum. For those craving luxury or family-friendly entertainment, Sharm El Sheikh is the place for you. Located on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, this is one of the most popular locations for a relaxing beach holiday. Dive into the Red Sea and discover enchanting shipwrecks and tropical coral reefs, embark on Bedouin-led hikes in the rustic wilderness, or shop for handmade jewellery in bustling bazaars. Once a small fishing town, Hurghada now thrives as a tourist hub of modern hotels, many with private beaches. Try your hand at kitesurfing, explore awe-inspiring diving spots, visit the historical El Daha old town, or take a day trip to the beautiful Giftun Islands. After a magical sunset, enjoy delectable dining by the marina or join the lively party scene.

The Caribbean

Immerse yourself in tropical island living with a Caribbean getaway during its idyllic dry season. Bathed in glistening sunshine, these stunning islands are just what you need if you are yearning for a stress-free holiday. Discover the beauty of the Dominican Republic, a wonderful choice for families and couples alike. Drenched in swaying palm trees, indulgent eateries and lively bars, Punta Cana and La Romana are popular resorts for tourists. The pristine beaches of Barbados are a must-see, such as Crane Beach, Carlisle Bay and Bottom Bay. Surfing pros should head to the South Coast for impressive waves, while couples can enjoy the calmer beaches and sophisticated romance of the glamorous West Coast. Jamaica provides an authentic experience for many tourists every year, with friendly locals, mouth-watering cuisine, local rum tastings, and rhythmic reggae performances. Unlock a series of other special moments around the Caribbean, such as ziplining through St Lucia’s rainforest, uncovering mystical waterfalls in Grenada, and attending the renowned full moon party on the Mexican’s island of Isla Mujeres. Although the Caribbean can be a slightly pricier option, the average daytime temperatures of 30°C make these holidays a no-brainer.

Mexico

Escape the dark days and embrace the vibrant traditions of Mexico, where the wintertime promises high temperatures of 30°C and plenty of sunshine. Blending heavenly pleasures with local authenticity, the Caribbean coastline of the Yutácan Peninsula is home to some of the best beach resorts for a sun-soaked adventure. Groups of friends can head to the exotic hub of Cancún for a lively atmosphere and endless tequila-infused cocktails, while families can choose from a series of 5-star resorts. Couples will love the serene ambience and upmarket feel of Playacar, where they can stroll along palm-fringed beaches and indulge in a relaxing massage. Playa del Carmen is an excellent choice for solo travellers, with amazing day activities like the bewitching cave system of Rio Secreto, and exciting nightlife after dark. In between Playacar and Tulum lies the secluded bay of Akumal Beach, arguably the best beach on the Riviera Maya, where you can swim with majestic turtles. Whether you want to spend your days uncovering fascinating culture, topping up your tan in the sunshine or feasting in world-famous cuisine, mesmerising Mexico could be the right place for you this winter.