As the nights draw in, many Brits dream of swapping the early commute for lazy days by the sea.
Far-flung summer holidays fade to a distant memory as we count the pennies for Christmas.
But according to one travel company, it is possible to fit in a last gasp of sun without breaking your budget.
Research from TravelSupermarket has found the most affordable short-haul city breaks offering winter sun.
Tucked in the central Mediterranean between Sicily and the North African coast is the island of Malta.
Its Unesco-listed capital, Valletta, has been awarded the title of the most affordable short-haul city at just £222 per person for a two-night stay.
The walled city was established in the 1500s on a peninsula by the Knights of St. John, a Roman Catholic order, and was designated the European Capital of Culture in 2018.
Valletta was also given the accolade of best city in the world at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2025.
The UNESCO-listed capital of Malta, Valletta, has been awarded the title of the most affordable short-haul city
The walled city was established in the 1500s on a peninsula by the Knights of St. John, a Roman Catholic order, and was designated the European Capital of Culture in 2018
Pictured: A cityscape of Valletta, Malta, surrounded by the sea in the evening
And it’s an affordable place to consider for your next holiday.
A beer in the city will only set you back around €2.12 (£1.85), according to Holidays in Malta.
What’s more, due to its ties with Britain, the vast majority of people in Malta speak English. This means you won’t have to navigate a substantial language barrier if you travel there.
Best of all, the weather is warm enough to ditch your coat with average temperatures of 21 to 14C.
Anna Hardy of TravelSupermarket said: ‘Valletta’s warm weather isn’t the only ace up its sleeve when it comes to a winter city break.
‘The pint-size capital, packed with architectural wonders and encased within 16th-century walls, can feel full to the brim with tourists in summer.
‘They all but disappear in November, meaning your chances of sightseeing in peace – and finding affordable accommodation deals – are at their best.
‘If you’ve only got a couple of days here, St John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master’s palace are must-see masterpieces, as are the Archaeological Museum’s incredible prehistoric artefacts.’
Valletta was given the accolade of best city in the world at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2025
She added: ‘Evenings are best spent dining on delicious seafood overlooking the grand harbour.’
Elsewhere, Gozo, the quieter and greener sister island to Malta, is a popular destination for both day trips and longer stays.
It features historical sites, rugged coastlines and a relaxed atmosphere.
The average flight time is three hours and 20 minutes from London to Malta International Airport.
Prices can start from as little as £36, too – making Valletta a cheap and convenient travel option for winter sun.
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The island capital that is the cheapest short-haul winter sun city break
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