Cheap Winter Sun Holidays From the UK

When the UK is cold and dark, a few days of sunshine can feel like a different life. The good news is that some of the warmest places in winter are only a few hours away, and many are served by budget airlines.

Canary Islands (Spain)

Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are the classic UK winter sun choice. The flight is about 4 to 4.5 hours and winter days are often around 20 to 22°C. There are flights from almost every UK airport and lots of choice of hotels and apartments, which helps keep prices down.

Tip: The south of Tenerife and Gran Canaria is usually sunnier than the north.

Madeira (Portugal)

A green, flowery island with mild weather all year, often around 19 to 20°C in winter. Good for walking, gardens and quiet relaxing breaks. Flights take about 4 hours.

Cyprus

Winters are mild, with many bright days. It is quieter in winter, so hotels can be good value. Flights are about 4.5 hours. The sea is cool for swimming in January, but fine for walks and sightseeing.

Malta

Only about 3 hours away, English is widely spoken and winter days are often mild. Better for sightseeing and food than beach days in winter.

Morocco (Agadir and Marrakech)

Agadir has a long beach and winter days are often warm. Marrakech is sunny but can be cold at night in winter. Flights are about 3.5 to 4 hours.

Egypt (Red Sea)

For real warmth in December to February, the Red Sea resorts like Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh are hard to beat, with sea water warm enough for snorkelling. Flights are about 5 hours. All-inclusive deals can be very good value. Check the entry and visa rules on the GOV.UK foreign travel advice page before you book.

How to keep the cost down

• Avoid Christmas, New Year and February half-term. Early December and January are usually much cheaper.
• An apartment with a kitchen can save a lot on food.
• All-inclusive can be cheaper than paying for every meal in resorts where eating out is expensive.
• Check flights from different UK airports on the same dates.

Information was checked when this page was updated. Prices, airline rules and travel rules change, so always check before you book.

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