Travel expert Simon Calder recently suggested Bulgaria, Montenegro and Albania as great European winter sun destinations for 2024. They are affordable holiday spots with an average temperature of around 17C in autumn.

However, if travellers want to visit a beautiful and “very affordable” seaside destination, but without the crowds, they should head to the south of Portugal.

At this time of the year, popular coastal regions such as the Algarve are quiet compared to the summer months, with “an average daily maximum of 20C and an average daily minimum of 13C,” according to TUI.

Previously speaking to BBC Breakfast, Simon explained that Portugal is one of the best options for those looking for a cheap winter break.

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

According to Club Med, Faro, the capital city of the Algarve, is the sunniest location in Europe during the winter months, where holidaymakers can enjoy an average sea temperature of 17 degrees.

According to travel blogger Danflyingsolo, some of the best “hidden gems” without tourists are the towns of Silves, Alcoutim, Castro Marim and Cacela Velha.

The pretty town of Silves, in Algarve, is only “a short drive from the coast”, and “an afternoon – or even a day or more – in Silves is a joy”.

The travel expert explained: “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 warned that some restaurants and bars are closed which makes the towns less lively.

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

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