Luxe vs less: 14 great-value winter sun deals for all budgets

1. Cyprus

Cyprus is perfect for sunshine, culture and beach vibes come January – it might not be sweltering but the 17-20C temperatures are much more pleasant than the weather back home. After you’ve ticked off top sights like the Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos, make time to discover Cyprus’s secret side.

On a budget

Flying from London Luton on 19 January, you can get seven nights at Theo Sunset Bay Hotel with breakfast included for just £222pp. Not bad for a four-star hotel that offers sea views, modern rooms and a pool to chill by.

Treat yourself

Fly out a few days later on 22 January from the same airport and you can spend seven nights at the five-star all-inclusive Olympic Lagoon Resort Paphos for £614pp. Expect lagoon-style pools and six restaurants – perfect if you were hoping to indulge!

2. Tenerife

The Canary Islands are always a good bet for winter sun, and Tenerife is a top pick with temperatures often around 20-23C in January and February. Its golden beaches and volcanic landscapes make it an ideal place to relax or explore depending on what vibe you’re after.

On a budget

Flying from Bristol on 6 February, you can book seven nights on a self-catering basis at La Quinta Park Suites for just £256pp. With views of Mount Teide, two outdoor pools, an indoor pool and a bar, this peaceful hotel offers great value for money.

Treat yourself

If you fancy pushing the boat out instead, try seven nights at the four-star Gran Oasis Resort. Leaving Bristol on the same date for £894pp, the deal includes luggage, transfers and all-inclusive board. Lagoon-style pools, top dining and luxury amenities make this a great choice for a true treat-yourself break.

3. Marrakech

Marrakech is lovely in winter, with mild temperatures around 18-20C and rain that rarely lasts. Catch some rays by your riad pool or soak up some culture at one of the city’s many museums – the Yves Saint Laurent museum is brilliant even if you’re not a fashion fan. Haggling in the souks is all part of the fun, too.

On a budget

Flying from Birmingham on 25 February, seven nights at the three-star Riad Dar Nabila costs just £259pp with breakfast included. Charming and authentic, the riad offers the quintessential Moroccan experience in a quiet but central location.

Treat yourself

The four-star 2Ciels Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa is a splurge at £859pp for a seven-night half board stay. But with two pools, a wellness centre and a stylish atmosphere, this luxurious stay in the modern Gueliz neighbourhood is worth it for a treat.

4. Phuket

Searching for some sunshine and some heat too? With temperatures between 24C and 32C, Phuket in Thailand delivers just that. If you can drag yourself off its sandy beaches, there are plenty of things to discover, from epic waterfalls in lush rainforests to vibrant night markets.

On a budget

Given you’re travelling so far, it can be worth paying slightly more than bargain basement. But at just £1,048pp, a week’s stay at the four-star Briza Beach Resort Khao Lak (with direct flights from Manchester) still feels like a steal. The hotel includes breakfast, stunning gardens and two pools. Plus, you're a five-minute drive from Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park.

Treat yourself

If you’re after a beachfront resort, the four-star Apsara Beachfront Resort and Villa has got you. Departing on 18 March from Manchester, it starts at just £1,367pp – and that’s with all-inclusive board and your flights. Perhaps it's worth stumping up the cash?

5. Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria brings the heat in winter with temperatures that can soar to 24C. If you’re lucky enough to reach those highs, lazing on the island’s perfect beaches will be hard to resist. Cooler days are best spent exploring Gran Canaria’s mountainous interior and the buzzing capital of Las Palmas.

On a budget

Flying from Newcastle on 7 February, seven nights at two-star Caroni will cost just £279pp. It’s simple, sure, but it has great reviews and it’s located near the beach, which is where you’ll spend most of your time anyway. With local shops on your doorstep, it’s a fab budget option for a few days away.

Treat yourself

The five-star Hotel Cristina by Tigotan is an ultra-luxe alternative for £707pp. It is a room-only deal but its super stylish decor, heated outdoor pool and sun-drenched solarium explains the price hike. Oh, and its location right on the beach!

6. Dubai

Not only does Dubai deliver on the temperature – expect it to fall between 24C and 28C – but it’s got that not-too-long flight time of just seven hours. Plus, if you’re into shopping, Dubai delivers in spades.

On a budget

Dubai is rarely super cheap, but this is an excellent value deal for a five-night stay at the four-star La Suite Dubai Hotel & Apartments. Flying out of Glasgow on 16 January, you’ll get direct Emirates flights and checked luggage for just £786pp. It’s also got apartments if you’d like to save money on eating out costs.

Treat yourself

For all-inclusive luxury, five nights at Al Bandar Rotana Creek will set you back £1,072pp. It’s located by Dubai Creek and enjoys views that reach across the whole city. If you fancy a modern stay with great food (there are five restaurants and bars to choose from), you’ll love this hotel.

7. Madeira

The Portuguese island of Madeira is having a bit of a moment. It’s not hard to see why. The stunning island is a hiker’s dream, with trails scribbled all over its lush interior and along its rugged coast. Its mild winter temperatures (18C-20C) are thanks to its location in the North Atlantic Sea.

On a budget

Flying from Belfast on 20 January, you’ll stay seven nights at Estalagem do Vale from just £329pp. Bed and breakfast is included, and you’re located in the peaceful town of São Vicente on the north coast. Hiring a car will be useful to get out and explore.

Treat yourself

Flying on 13 January, you can score a half board stay at the five-star Pestana Grand Premium Ocean Resort from £624pp. With breathtaking views, luxury amenities and Madeira’s largest outdoor saltwater pool, it’s a great treat-yourself stay without having to break the bank.

*All prices correct as of 20 December 2024. Please note prices can fluctuate daily and may appear differently on provider site for this reason. Deals are subject to the partners' T&Cs.