Christmas in the sun don´t come cheap

Any of the five Canary Islands hold the highest temperature in Europe

Christmas and New Year holidays are popular time to get away for a dose of winter sun and some fun. Here are a few ideas, but remember this is high season and flights, hotels and charter tours don´t come cheap this part of the year. They are all overpriced just because it`s the end of December.

Click big photos of Christmas

Andalucía. Don´t overlook Andalusia as an option for winter sun. Malaga and Costa del Sol have many costal resorts and this area of Spain has pleasant winter temperatures. Visit Malaga or walk the streets of Seville, known as the city of Flamenco or walk Sierra Nevada mountains. As for Christmas, never underestimate Andalucía’s appetite for a fiesta.

Madeira. This island is located just off the coast of Africa, meaning temperature can still reach pleasant double figures even in winter.

Cyprus. This island has guaranteed sunshine and is a winter favourite for many Britain and Germans. Here Christmas traditions include carols and pie. Northern Cyprus is a part of the island that most tourists don´t visit.

Malta. This tiny island with a historic capital and perfect winter climate is another choice in the Mediterranean. Expect glittering decoration, carol singing and traditional displays around every corner. Take a boat trip to Gozo island or simply relax on a sandy bay. Malta is perfect for doing as little as you like – and that´s what holidays are all about.

The Canaries. When it comes to Christmas and New Year, any of the five Canary Islands hold the highest temperature, the sun and hot sea in Europe this time of the year. Swap snow for sand and temperatures that can reach up to 25 degrees. Take part in Canarias tradition and remember these three words: “La Noche Viejga”, the name for New Year Eve in the Canaries.

Speed up. Whatever destination, you need to get booking faster than Santa squeezing down the chimney – or else Christmas sun will be even more overpriced.