When deciding on a winter getaway, sometimes price can be a factor when choosing your location. For those not wanting to spend the time or their finances on a long-haul trip, a European holiday could be the perfect solution.

Most recently, new research from Travelbag revealed the best European destination for beaches. The European country has an impressive 3,313 beaches but, better still, more than half of those beaches have five-star amenities.

Travelbag crowned Italy as having the best beaches in Europe, after online ratings averaged the sandy shores above seven out of 10 stars.

In Southern Italy, such as Sicily and Naples, the daytime temperatures can reach as high as 20C in November.

While some may say this isn’t hot enough to tan on the beach, others will enjoy the gentle warmth the sunshine brings and would happily take a walk along the coast.

Sicily, for example, is a large island in the Mediterranean Sea “that enjoys warm weather throughout November”, travel agent Thomas Cook noted. “It’s still a great time to visit for soaking up the sunshine on the beaches and doing lots of sightseeing.”

One of the perks of visiting Sicily in the winter months is that you can sightsee without the hoards of tourists. Some of the best cities to explore include Palermo, Catania, or the Ortigia area of Siracusa.

In December, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the Christmas markets in the major cities without the fear of a frosty cold snap.

If, however, you look forward to a long-haul destination, Travelbeg crowned Madagascar as the exotic destination with the best beaches in the world.

Susan Horton, the Destination Manager of Africa and Oceania at Travelbag, said: “It’s no surprise that Madagascar tops the ranking for its beaches.

“From gaping canyons to the soft, white beaches, this island has something to offer every new visitor.

“You can dive among the coral reefs in the morning and explore the makeshift cemeteries of 17th-century pirates in the afternoon. Africa’s largest island has something for everyone.”