These five European destinations are perfect for a getaway in 2025 and in January you travel to them for less than £40.
With the Christmas festivities well and truly over, but the shorter days and cold weather still going strong in January, many Brits begin to look for a holiday.
These lesser-known, and less in demand destinations offer the same glorious winter sun, without the tourist crowds.
Travel experts at eurochange have revealed some of the best winter sun ‘hidden gems’ in Europe.
Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital and engagement at eurochange said: “There are so many great destinations you can visit across Europe if you’re keen to feel that little bit of warmth in January.
“Places such as Cadiz in Spain and Northern Cyprus, away from the popular tourist spots like Paphos and Larnaca, have so much to offer, and are so much quieter.
“Temperatures can reach up to 18 degrees in the southern regions of Europe in January, so it will certainly be a welcome contrast to the UK weather.”
Cadiz, Spain
Return flights: From £41 from London Gatwick to Seville
Accommodation price: Starting from £51 per person, per night
Average January temperature: Highs of 16C
If you fancy a warm city break in the new year with a relaxed vibe, Cadiz is a fantastic option.
A beautiful city on the southern tip of Spain just a short train ride away from Seville, the city is in one of the hottest regions in the country. Temperatures rarely dip below 10°, even in the winter months.
This coastal town is incredibly rich in history, with plenty of stunning landmarks to visit, including the Castle of Santa Catalina, and the Torre Tavira, which offers amazing views of the city.
Karpas Peninsula, Cyprus
Return flights: From £55 from London Luton to Larnaca
Accommodation price: Starting from £55 per person, per night
Average January temperature: Highs of 15C
Also known as the Karpass, this much less densely populated area of Northern Cyprus stretches 80 km to the northernmost tip of the island, and is a great winter sun destination that is guaranteed to offer seclusion too.
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.
São Vicente, Madeira, Portugal
Return flights: From £54 from London Stansted to Madeira Airport
Accommodation price: Starting from £25 per person, per night
Average January temperature: Highs of 19C
Madeira is renowned for its incredible landscapes, stunning coastlines and excellent wines. It’s a great way to experience Portugal on a budget, with very affordable prices too.
Sao Vicente, in the vast area of Laurissilva, is known as the land of valleys and vineyards, with lush vegetation, volcanic caves, and beautiful picturesque villages.
You can visit the famous volcanic caves, which are 890 thousand years old and trail around 700 metres long.
Valletta, Malta
Return flights: From £58 from London Luton to Valletta
Accommodation price: Starting from £31 per person, per night
Average January temperature: Highs of 16C
Valletta, the capital of Malta, is an underrated European gem. The smallest and southernmost capital city in Europe, it is one of the cutest but warmest cities in the continent.
A little oasis in the heart of the Mediterranean, Valletta is also known as the ‘sunny city’ as it basks on average 2,957 hours of sunshine each year, so it makes for a brilliant winter sun getaway.
Agios Nikolaos, Crete
Return flights: From £119 from London Gatwick to Chania
Accommodation price: Starting from £33 per person, per night
Average January temperature: Highs of 15C
Just an hour away from the capital of Crete, Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos is a vibrant beach town with lots to offer visitors.
The capital town of Lassithi, Agios Nikolaos surrounds a beautiful salt lake, Voulisemni, which connects to the sea.
An imposing backdrop of red rock and trees adds to the natural beauty of the surrounding scenery.
Clear, white sand beaches are lovely walking or picnic spots in January, or enjoy a relaxing afternoon bar hopping at the marina.