If you’re looking for a budget-friendly holiday destination, then look no further than the sun-drenched island of Madeira. This Portuguese gem, known for its lush rainforests and stunning beaches, has been named Europe’s cheapest destination for Brits.
The capital city, Funchal, is nestled amidst the island’s mountainous landscape, offering a warm winter climate similar to the Canary Islands. But unlike other popular sunshine spots, Funchal has become even more affordable over the past four years.
In fact, late January flights from the UK to this island paradise have dropped in price by 20 percent since 2020. Back then, a trip to Madeira would have set you back £259, but now it’s just £207.
This is a significant saving, especially when you consider that UK inflation has risen by 30 percent since 2020. If flight prices had followed the same trend, a return fare would now cost £338. That’s a saving of £121.
Madeira isn’t just about affordability though. The island boasts breathtaking mountain landscapes, quaint towns filled with colourful buildings, rich history, delightful wine routes, and beautiful botanical gardens.
History enthusiasts will love exploring Funchal’s Old Town, with its intricate architecture and vibrant buildings. Art lovers should also make a beeline for Rua de Santa Maria, where doors and walls have been transformed into stunning street art.
Other must-see spots include the Madeira Botanical Gardens with its stunning flower displays, Funchal Cathedral for a bit of history and the Mercado dos Lavradores, a big market where you can buy everything from flowers to fresh fruit and veg.
Don’t forget to take a ride on the Funchal Cable Car which goes from the city to Monte – the views are really amazing.
If you like a nice drink, then you’re going to the right place. Madeira has been making wine for 600 years since it first started sending the drink to Portugal.
Tourists can follow the wine routes with trips to the little vineyards, with lots of wine bars and wine shops along the way where you can book tastings and learn all about the history.
Earlier this week, a study of plane ticket prices done for The Mirror by comparison site Hopper showed the routes where holidaymakers are not getting good value for their money, and those where prices are actually beating inflation.
Comparing flights from more than 200 airlines to and from European holiday places now and in January 2020 shows that some routes have gone up a lot while others have become cheaper.
This is happening at the same time as high inflation around the world and in the UK, where the cost of things and services has gone up by 30 percent in the last four years, according to Hargreaves Lansdown.
Looking for another winter sun hotspot? Check out the beautiful Italian island that’s warm in February.