IF you're looking for an excuse to get away this month, there are beach holidays costing less than return train tickets.
We've rounded up some of the best deals to sunnier destinations, with seven-night stays for less than £200pp.
According to the RadioTimes, a single train ticket from Manchester to London in the morning costs as much as £148 in December.
And loveholidays has released beach holiday deals from £135pp, including return flights.
The holiday company flies from more than 25 airports across the UK, making it much easier to choose your nearest one.
How to de-clutter if you have a beauty stash to last you a lifetime
- Check out the cheapest beach holidays this December here
The best deals are available in Portugal, Spain and Malta.
Although temperatures won't exceed 21C, the destinations will be much sunnier and warmer than the UK.
Malta
The island country boasts more than 300 days of sunshine yearly, although December temperatures can go as low as 13C.
That said, there are six hours of sunshine and plenty of things to do and see during winter.
For instance, nature lovers can explore the many hiking trails or even go on a segway tour at Golden Bay - one of the country's best beaches.
Walking tours are also a big hit this time of year, as you can roam around without the scorching temperatures.
However, those wishing to stay indoors could visit MUŻA National Museum of Fine Arts or the National Museum of Archaeology, which has a collection of artefacts from Malta's prehistory.
Elsewhere, the Malta Maritime Museum is the largest in the country, and it's home to more than 20,000 artefacts from more than 7,000 years of history.
Meanwhile, foodies might want to go over to Gozo for a day, as it's the hotspot for Maltese cuisine.
I’m a savvy shopper – best time to shop for Xmas 2023 is sooner than you think
Eating out in Malta is also relatively cheap, and favourite dishes among the locals include 'bragioli' (beef olives), stewed rabbit in wine, and 'kapunata', a local spin on ratatouille.
Here are the best holiday deals we've found in Malta this month:
- 7 nights room-only at Coral Hotel in St Paul's Bay, Malta - from £196pp
- 7 nights room-only at Cardor Holiday Complex in St Paul's Bay, Malta - from £202pp
- 7 nights room-only at Sprachcaffe International Aparthotel Pembroke in St Julian's, Malta - from £211pp
- 7 nights self-catering at Luna Holiday Complex in Mellieha, Malta - from £213pp
- 7 nights room-only at Topaz Hotel in Bugibba, Malta - from £214pp
- 7 nights room-only at Relax Inn Hotel in St Paul's Bay, Malta - from £218pp
Portugal
The Algarve in Portugal is still charming in December thanks to milder temperatures of around 15C.
Even though beach activities won't be as tempting as during the summer, there are still plenty of other experiences.
Visitors can explore Lagos's old centre or the historic Church of Saint Anthony and the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira.
Another must-see is Faro's Old Town, where you can get a taste of local culture. Here, you'll find local markets selling fresh produce and crafts made in the area.
Nature lovers won't want to miss The Ria Formosa Natural Park, described as a natural maze with canals, sandy beaches and islands, also renowned for its varied species of birds.
In December, there are many festive celebrations too.
For instance, the Faro Christmas Market has stalls with handmade stocking fillers, local bites and drinks, and even Santa meets.
The mediaeval town of Silves has another Christmas market with live music, seasonal foods and many stalls.
These are some of the best deals we've found for a holiday in Portugal this month:
- 7 nights self-catering at Studio 17 by Atlantic Hotels in Portimao, Algarve, Portugal - from £135pp
- 7 nights self-catering at Tarik by Atlantichotels in Praia da Rocha, Algarve, Portugal - from £138pp
- 7 nights self-catering at Plaza Real Atlantichotels in Praia da Rocha, Algarve, Portugal - from £144pp
- 7 nights self-catering at Vale Carros by Umbral in Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal - from £158pp
- 7 nights self-catering at Pateo Village Apartments in Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal - from £177pp
Spain
Spain also makes for a sunnier destination away from the gloomy UK.
The destinations for those wishing to stay closer to home instead of heading for the Spanish islands are along the coast.
Costa Blanca offers comfortable weather this time of year, with an average of 10 to 17C. Here, you can visit the landmarks of the Church of La Mare de Déu del Consol and the beach town Altea.
Meanwhile, the Castillo de Santa Bárbara is a must-see for panoramic views.
Costa del Sol is slightly warmer, with temperatures ranging from 12C to 18C.
You could also see some great views from the Puente Nuevo bridge in Ronda, which is recognised for its incredible architecture.
You'll also find plenty of festive celebrations across the regions, with many Christmas markets in Benidorm, Costa Blanca, Marbella, and Costa del Sol, with celebrations, light displays, and performances.
The Spanish destinations blend cultural discovery and festive celebrations with the help of mild winter sun weather.
- 7 nights self-catering at Mediterraneo Apartments Nerja in Nerja, Costa del Sol, Spain - from £171pp
- 7 nights self-catering at Hotel Abades Loja in Granada, Andalucia, Spain - from £187pp
- 7 nights self-catering at Don Gregorio Apartments in Benidorm, Costa Blanca, Spain - from £198pp
- 7 nights room-only at BLUESEA Al Andalu in Torremolinos, Costa del Sol, Spain - from £205pp
For a holiday in January, we found long-stay beach holidays that are cheaper than staying home.
We've also revealed the cheapest Caribbean island for all-inclusive holidays, with direct flights and 29C temperatures
And how to book Royal Caribbean cruises to Spain and Portugal with £0 deposit and low monthly payments.
