Simon Calder shares affordable European destination that's 20C in November

Travel guru Simon Calder recommended Bulgaria, Montenegro and Albania as brilliant European winter sun getaways.

These arebudget-friendly holiday destinations boasting average temperatures of approximately 17C during autumn.

Yet if holidaymakers fancy visiting a stunning and "very affordable" coastal retreat without battling the masses, they ought to venture to southern Portugal.

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During this period, renowned seaside areas like the Algarve remain tranquil compared to the bustling summer season, offering "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 among the finest choices for those seeking an economical winter escape, reports the Express.

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

Club Med reports that Faro, the Algarve's capital, stands as Europe's sunniest spot throughout winter, where visitors can relish average sea temperatures of 17C.

Travel blogger Danflyingsolo highlights some of the finest "hidden gems" free from tourists, including the settlements of Silves, Alcoutim, Castro Marim and Cacela Velha.

The charming settlement of Silves, nestled in the Algarve, sits merely "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