Winter is here, and with it we ponder how to survive until spring? The snow-filled winters of the past have been replaced by relentless thawing spells. Our desire to escape to somewhere sunny, preferably affordable grows. Luckily, there are plenty of cheap winter sun destinations where you can soak up the sun without having to sell a kidney or blow your monthly rent.

With a bit of planning, you can enjoy a winter break in the sun at a reasonable price. Especially if you’re not hang up on direct flights, five-star hotels, tourist traps, or dining at overpriced restaurants. And to really save the pennies, we also put together top 14 tips how to travel on a budget.

So, grab your sunglasses, pack your beach towel, and let’s get started. Here are the top 8 cheap winter sun destinations promising low prices, doses of sunshine and great times.

1. Madeira, Portugal

Why go: Madeira is a subtropical paradise that has it all—beautiful hilly landscapes, the sea, and lush botanical gardens. It’s perfect for nature lovers and hikers, as well as those who want to explore historic towns. The capital, Funchal, is a great place to wander through cobbled streets and local markets, visit botanical gardens, or take a hike along the famous levadas (irrigation channels). End your day with a glass of local wine and a breath-taking view. Winter temperatures hover around 15-20°C, making it ideal for hiking, terrace lounging, and strolls in the countryside. The sea temperature is a cool 19-20°C, so it’s refreshing if you’re feeling brave enough to dip your toes.

Flights from the UK: Direct flights to Madeira from London take about 4 hours, with return flights starting from around €120. If you’re flexible, low-cost airlines like EasyJet or Ryanair offer deals from as low as €100 for return flights.

Local prices:

• Meal: €6–€10
• Coffee: €1.60
• Accommodation: Budget options start at €30 per night for a basic room. Mid-range hotels cost between €50–€70 per night for a 3-star hotel.

Getting around: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, although Portuguese is the official language. Public transport is reliable, and taxis are available. Renting a car is a good idea for exploring the island at your own pace.

2. Morocco

Why go: Morocco is the ultimate of the cheap winter sun destinations. It offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and exotic charm. Marrakech, Fes, Rabat, and Casablanca are full of wonders, from ancient medinas to modern districts and bustling souks. With warm winter temperatures around 15–20°C, it’s the perfect destination for exploring cities, lounging in riads (traditional Moroccan houses), and even riding camels in the Sahara desert.

Flights from the UK: Direct flights to Marrakech or Casablanca from London are around 3.5 hours. Return flights can be as low as €100-€120, especially with budget airlines.

Local prices:

• Meal: €4–€10 (tajine, couscous, bread)
• Coffee: €1.50
• Accommodation: Budget hotels and hostels start at €15–€25 per night. Mid-range options typically range from €35–€55.

Getting around: Arabic is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. Public transport is affordable and widely available. For a deeper dive into Morocco’s history, consider hiring a local guide, especially for navigating the medinas.

3. Montenegro

Why go: Montenegro is a hidden gem for nature lovers and history buffs. The country offers stunning beaches along the Adriatic coast and historic cities like Kotor and Budva. With temperatures averaging 15-20°C in winter, it’s perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and relaxing by the sea. Montenegro is known for its natural beauty and mountains, which are great for exploring on foot or by car.

Flights from the UK: There are direct flights from London to Tivat or Podgorica, which take around 2.5 hours. Return flights start from €80–€140.

Local prices:

• Meal: €6–€10
• Coffee: €1.50
• Accommodation: Budget-friendly hotels start around €25–€35 per night. Mid-range options range from €40–€60.

Getting around: Most locals speak Montenegrin, but English is common in tourist areas. Public transport is available, but renting a car is recommended for exploring the countryside.

4. Albania

Why go: Albania is a lesser-known gem that combines stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and fascinating history. Winter temperatures are around 10–15°C, making it great for exploring cities like Tirana or heading south to the beaches of Dhermi or Jale. Albania is known for its warm hospitality and low prices, perfect for budget travellers.

Flights from the UK: There are no direct flights to Tirana from the UK, but connecting flights via Vienna are available, and flight times are typically around 3–4 hours. Return tickets range from €80–€130.

Local prices:

• Meal: €6–€10 (grilled meat, local dishes)
• Coffee: €1.20
• Accommodation: Budget stays start at €15–€25 per night, with mid-range hotels averaging €30–€50.

Getting around: Albanian is the official language, but English is becoming more common, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Public transport is affordable and efficient. Renting a car can be useful if you plan to explore the countryside.

5. North Macedonia

Why go: North Macedonia offers a tranquil atmosphere, beautiful nature, and rich history. With temperatures around 10–15°C in winter, it’s perfect for a relaxing yet enriching holiday. Visit the capital Skopje, explore the UNESCO-listed Ohrid Lake, or enjoy scenic mountain hikes.

Flights from the UK: Direct flights to Skopje are available, with a flight time of around 2.5 hours. Return tickets typically start from €60–€100.

Local prices:

• Meal: €5–€8 (grilled meats, salads)
• Coffee: €1
• Accommodation: Budget options start from €15–€20 per night, while mid-range hotels typically cost €30–€50.

Getting around: Macedonian is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. Local transport is affordable and reliable, and taxis are widely available. Renting a car is a good idea especially if you want to venture to Ohrid and surrounding countryside.

6. Malta

Why go: Malta is a great option for a winter sun getaway. With 300 days of sunshine a year, you can enjoy pleasant winter temperatures between 15–20°C. The island offers a fantastic mix of history, culture, and beaches. Visit Valletta, the capital, stroll along the Blue Lagoon, or explore ancient megalithic temples.

Flights from the UK: Direct flights from London to Malta take around 2.5 hours. Return flights start at €100–€160.

Local prices:

• Meal: €8–€15 (local dishes like pastizzi or roasted lamb)
• Coffee: €1.80
• Accommodation: Mid-range hotels typically cost €40–€60 per night, with budget options starting around €25–€40.

Getting around: English is an official language in Malta, making communication easy. Public transport is effective, and buses are a great way to get around the island. Renting a car is also an option for more flexibility.

7. Cyprus

Why go: Cyprus enjoys a mild winter climate, with temperatures ranging from 15–20°C. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers. Explore ancient ruins like Kourion and the UNESCO site in Paphos, or enjoy a hike in the Troodos Mountains. With a combination of culture, nature, and beaches, Cyprus is a great all-round destination.

Flights from the UK: Direct flights to Larnaca or Paphos take around 4 hours. Return tickets start from €80–€130.

Local prices:

• Meal: €8–€15 (traditional Cypriot dishes like souvlaki or halloumi)
• Coffee: €1.80
• Accommodation: Budget options are available from €30–€50 per night. Mid-range hotels typically cost between €50–€80.

Getting around: Greek and Turkish are the official languages, but English is widely spoken. Public transport is good, and buses cover most major areas. Renting a car is recommended for exploring more remote parts of the island.

8. Tunisia

Why go: Tunisia is an affordable winter sun destination with rich history, exotic culture, and beautiful beaches. Visit the ancient city of Carthage, explore Roman ruins in El Djem, or relax in resorts like Sousse and Hammamet. The temperatures hover around 15–18°C in winter, making it perfect for sightseeing or lounging on the beach.

Flights from the UK: Direct flights from London to Tunis or Djerba are available, with a flight time of about 2.5–3 hours. Return flights start from €90–€150.

Local prices:

• Meal: €5–€10
• Coffee: €1
• Accommodation: Budget stays start from €20–€30 per night. Mid-range hotels cost between €35–€50.

Getting around: Arabic is the official language, but French and English are widely spoken in tourist areas. Public transport is affordable, and taxis are available. Renting a car is a great way to explore Tunisia’s diverse regions.

Conclusion

Anyone looking for cheap winter sun destinations is spoiled for choice. Our 8 top pics offer a fantastic mix of sunshine, culture, and value for money, so you can escape the chill without breaking the bank. Whether you’re after a beach holiday or a cultural exploration, these winter sun spots promise great experiences at a fraction of the cost of traditional tourist hotspots. Especially if you follow some easy budget travel tips. And don’t forget, in today’s world of budget airlines travelling light means travelling more affordably. So pack smart with great travel gear like sustainable beach towels, ultralight water bottles, and foldable travel mats that are not only practical, but will help you have a fuller and better experience.