Travel expert Simon Calder has tipped Bulgaria, Montenegro and Albania as excellent European winter sun spots. These are budget-friendly destinations boasting average temperatures of approximately 17C during autumn.

Yet for those seeking a stunning and “very affordable” coastal getaway minus the throngs of tourists, southern Portugal should be top of the list. During this period, renowned seaside areas like the Algarve experience far fewer visitors compared to the summer season, “with an average daily maximum of 20C and an average daily minimum of 13C,” according to TUI. Speaking previously on BBC Breakfast, Simon revealed that Portugal ranks amongst the finest choices for bargain-hunters after a winter escape.

He said: “In Western Europe, it has to be Portugal and in Eastern Europe, Bulgaria – obviously a very popular package holiday destination.”

Club Med data shows that Faro, the Algarve’s capital, claims the title of Europe’s sunniest winter location, where visitors can bask in average sea temperatures of 17C.

Travel blogger Danflyingsolo highlights some of the finest “hidden gems” free from tourist hordes, including the towns of Silves, Alcoutim, Castro Marim and Cacela Velha.

The charming town of Silves, nestled in the Algarve, sits only “a short drive from the coast”, where “an afternoon – or even a day or more – in Silves is a joy”. The travel expert said: “Crowned by the best preserved Moorish castle in the Algarve, it’s quite a sight to behold. Ochre roofs climb the gently sloped hill, orange trees line the landscape, and a laid-back vibe permeates.”

Travel experts at Totheseastories explained that the Algarve in winter can be quiet, “especially the (smaller) beach towns that run on tourists in summer”. However, they cautioned that some restaurants and bars are closed which makes the towns less lively.

Some of the top towns to visit in Algarve during the winter months include:

• Lagos
• Praia da Luz
• Carvoeiro
• Ferragudo
• Portimão
• Faro
• Tavira