This post is about some of the best winter sun destinations in Europe and beyond. It may contain affiliate links which means, if you book through them, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you and it’s truly appreciated as this blog is reader-supported.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE autumn! At the same time it brings me great joy, it brings me a lot of agony. It gets to this point, the leaves are nearly gone and I just know it’s going to be dark and grey for what feels like a very long time.
However, the good thing about living in Europe is that it’s really easy and pretty quick to get to sunnier shores to escape some of the sad winter. Ok, ok, winter is not that bad…it’s cosy and magical and a great time for hibernating! But once the holiday season is over, that Jan/Feb gloom just feels a bit endless.
If you need an escape to the sunshine, there are plenty of places in Europe and beyond where you can jet off to warmth, even in the colder months. Whether you’re looking for a city break, beach vacation or a cultural escape, here’s a list of top winter sun destinations.
Dreamy Winter Sun Destinations
Canary Islands, Spain
The Canary Islands are Europe’s fool-proof winter sun escape; warm, dry and reliably sunny even in January. This volcanic Spanish archipelago sits off the coast of Africa, so it enjoys year-round springlike weather. Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote are favourites for their beaches, natural parks and laid-back atmosphere.
Must-do: Hike Mount Teide in Tenerife, explore the volcanic landscape of Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote or simply enjoy tapas by the sea.
Average winter temperature: 18–24 °C (64–75 °F)
Where to stay: From stunning mountain views at Salobre Hotel Resort & Serenity to the adults-only Hotel Hacienda de Abajo on La Palma, there’s something for every mood. Hotel Alta Montaña is perfect for hikers, while Boutique Hotel Cordial Plaza Mayor de Santa Ana offers a livelier city stay. Check out booking.com for the best rates for your budget.
Madeira, Portugal
Often called the “Island of Eternal Spring,” Madeira is lush, dramatic and warm all year. You’ll see flowers blooming even in February and cliffs that plunge straight into the Atlantic. The island’s microclimates can surprise you; sunny in Funchal, misty in the mountains. But that unpredictability adds to the magic.
Must-do: Walk through the ancient Laurisilva forest, take the scenic cable car from Funchal, sip Madeira wine and watch the sunset from Cabo Girão viewpoint.
Average winter temperature: 17–20 °C (63–68 °F)
Where to stay: The Cliff Bay offers outdoor dining overlooking the ocean (and it’s right by the CR7 Museum if you’re a football fan). Families love Eden Mar for its pools and hot tub, while boutique travellers can find dozens of charming stays in Funchal’s old town.
Cyprus
Cyprus gets more than 300 days of sunshine a year, making it a solid choice for off-season warmth. Winter brings mild weather ideal for sightseeing, and you’ll have ancient ruins and turquoise beaches practically to yourself.
Must-do: Visit the Greco-Roman ruins at Kourion, swim at Nissi Beach, or take a jeep tour through the Troodos Mountains with a wine tasting stop.
Average winter temperature: 15–20 °C (59–68 °F)
Where to stay: For all-inclusive ease, head to Olympic Lagoon Resort. Couples love Amavi for its romantic vibe, while Columbia Beach Resort offers elegance without breaking the bank.
Malta
Malta is small but bursting with sunshine, history and cinematic landscapes. It’s been used as a filming location for Game of Thrones and Gladiator and once you see the honey-coloured stone towns, you’ll know why.
Must-do: Explore Valletta’s fortifications, boat to the Blue Lagoon in Comino, and wander the medieval alleys of Mdina.
Average winter temperature: 16–20 °C (61–68 °F)
Where to stay: The Malta Marriott Resort & Spa sits right on St Julian’s Bay for a relaxing seaside break. For apartment stays, Valletta and Harbour Views lets you self-cater easily, and The Phoenicia offers a luxurious historic stay.
Crete, Greece
Crete is Greece’s southernmost island and one of the few where you can dine outdoors in December. Winter is cooler than summer but still bright and comfortable for hiking and exploring ancient sites.
Must-do: Visit the Palace of Knossos, wander Chania’s Venetian harbour, and hike a stretch of the Samaria Gorge if conditions allow.
Average winter temperature: 12–17 °C (54–63 °F)
Where to stay: Chania Flair Boutique Hotel offers breathtaking sea views, Amirandes Grecotel Boutique Resort pampers with a spa and seven restaurants, and Malmo Historic Hotel puts you right in the middle of Chania’s old town charm.
Algarve, Portugal
Portugal’s southern coast is an evergreen winter favourite. The Algarve enjoys plenty of sun, photogenic cliffs and endless beaches where locals still stroll in T-shirts while the rest of Europe shivers.
Must-do: Explore the beaches of Lagos, take a boat tour to visit the Benagil Cave and stroll through Faro’s old town. I also highly recommend walking the coastal paths such as the walk from Baía dos Segredos in Lagos to Ponta da Piedade or the Fisherman’s Trail from Lagos to Luz – I’ve been all over Algarve and that’s where I found my favourite beaches! Bonus tip: if you find yourself at Praia de Porto Mós (between Lagos and Luz), the restaurant O António has super wholesome homemade-like food for incredibly affordable prices! (last I went there a plate of succulent chicken and chips was under £10)
Average winter temperature: 12–18 °C (54–64 °F)
Where to stay: I’ve stayed in simple hotels, fancy ones with semi-private beaches, boutique hotels and, so far, one of my favourites has been Hotel Algarve Casino in Portimão (semi-private beach, incredible breakfast buffet with unlimited Mimosa included! and we had a great oceanfront room with private balcony). Another great find was the adults-only more boutique Guest House Dom Manuel I in Lagos; another incredible breakfast (think about 5 different cakes every morning, different pastries and bakes and outdoor seating). It’s a bit further away from the town centre but we walked up and down with no trouble. Besides, that’s how we found the Fisherman’s Trail which ended up being our favourite area! I’ll also add Belmar Spa & Beach Resort for a closer walk to Praia de Porto Mós.
Sicily, Italy
Sicily combines sunshine, archaeology and some of the best food in Europe. Winter means quiet temples, short queues for cannoli, and crisp air that makes exploring a pleasure.
Must-do: Visit Mount Etna, the Valley of the Temples and Palermo’s bustling Ballarò Market.
Average winter temperature: 10–16 °C (50–61 °F)
Where to stay: if you want the White Lotus experience (minus the killing, the lying, cheating, extortion, etc), you’ll have to head to the out-of-this-world-expensive Four Seasons. However, if you’re looking for more down to earth options that’s more middle class-luxury, head to the family-friendly B&B Palazzo Degli Antoci, the boutique hotel Villa Taormina, the beachfront Unìco Boutique Hotel d’Arte in Palermo or a more affordable option, Ballarò Hotel right in the centre of Palermo.
Costa del Sol, Spain
Malaga and Marbella remain balmy all winter, drawing everyone from digital nomads to retirees chasing vitamin D. Expect blue skies, beach walks and plenty of Andalusian culture.
Must-do: Visit the Picasso Museum in Malaga, stroll Marbella’s old town and enjoy tapas by the sea.
Average winter temperature: 14–18 °C (57–64 °F)
Where to stay: Vincci Selección Aleysa offers upscale beachfront comfort, La Zambra Resort is perfect for spa lovers, and Palacio Solecio puts you in the heart of Malaga’s old town.
Dubai, UAE*
If you want guaranteed heat, Dubai delivers 25 °C in the middle of winter. It’s glamorous, efficient and packed with attractions — from the Burj Khalifa to golden deserts and futuristic shopping malls.
Must-do: Go up the Burj Khalifa, shop in traditional souks, and take a desert safari at sunset.
Average winter temperature: 20–25 °C (68–77 °F)
Where to stay: Grosvenor House for luxury near Marina Beach, XVA Art Hotel for artsy affordability or Sheraton Dubai Creek for a balance of comfort and price.
*Don’t forget to check rules and regulations when visiting the UAE!
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech mixes warm winter days with vibrant culture and history. The Medina buzzes with spice-scented alleys and mosaic courtyards, and the Atlas Mountains loom in the distance.
Must-do: Explore the Jardin Majorelle, visit the Bahia Palace and stay in a traditional riad.
Average winter temperature: 13–20 °C (55–68 °F)
Where to stay: From the £1,500-a-night Royal Mansour to stylish, affordable options like Riad Idra or Riad Nolita & Spa Kasbah, there’s a stay for every budget.
Puglia, Italy
Puglia is Italy’s sunny heel, a region of olive groves, whitewashed villages and Adriatic light that glows even in winter. While it’s not quite swimsuit-warm, it’s ideal for slow travel, wine tasting and long seaside walks under blue skies.
Why visit: Winters here are mild, the food is phenomenal and without the summer crowds you can wander Alberobello’s trulli or Lecce’s baroque streets in peace. Local trattorias stay open, serving orecchiette pasta, fresh seafood and regional wine. I had one of the best dinners of my life there! So simple but the most indulgent, succulent meat paired with the most delicious wine.
Must-do: Visit Polignano a Mare’s clifftop old town, explore Ostuni’s hilltop alleys, and enjoy olive-oil tastings or vineyard tours.
Average winter temperature: 13–17 °C (55–63 °F)
Where to stay: Masseria Morcavallo near Torre Mozza offers rustic-luxury charm, Palazzo Daniele in Gagliano del Capo* blends art with history, and Itria Palace Hotel in Ostuni provides boutique comfort close to cafés and viewpoints.
Cape Verde
Off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde feels like a Caribbean secret. Turquoise water, endless beaches and a mellow Creole rhythm. English is widely spoken, making it easy for European travellers.
Must-do: Relax on Santa Maria Beach, hike the volcanic island of Fogo, and dance to morna music with locals.
Average winter temperature: 23–27 °C (73–81 °F)
Where to stay: Melia Llana Beach Resort & Spa for adults-only all-inclusive, Kira’s Boutique Hotel for cultural charm or Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort for beachfront luxury.
Seville, Spain
I don’t know a single person who’s been to Seville and didn’t love it. It’s one of Europe’s warmest cities in winter and easily one of its most beautiful. Orange trees line the streets, tapas bars spill onto sunny squares and the light has a golden glow that feels almost cinematic.
Must-do: Visit the Alcázar Palace, watch flamenco in Triana and stroll through Plaza de España. Don’t miss Mercado de Triana and Mercado Lonja del Barranco for local bites.
Average winter temperature: 10–18 °C (50–64 °F)
Where to stay: Vincci La Rábida offers a rooftop restaurant with cathedral views (loved my stay there! And yes, superb breakfast buffet with patio seating!). Or you can go for an option with a pool like the usually reliable Radisson or the uber fancy Casa de Triana Luxury Suites by Casa del Poeta.
Bonus: if you’ve got time, I HIGHLY recommend the trip to neighbouring Cádiz! You can even go just for a day and enjoy a little bit of beach, walk around the old town, maybe grab some local food at the Mercado Central or the most delicious Argentinian at Méson de las Américas.
Tunisia
Tunisia offers a gentle dose of warmth with heaps of history. Winter brings bright skies and fewer tourists, making it a great time to explore ruins and markets.
Must-do: Visit Carthage’s ruins, wander Hammamet’s beaches and medina, explore Sousse and Djerba Island and ride a camel in the Sahara.
Average winter temperature: 16–20 °C (61–68 °F)
Where to stay: Dar Antonia in Medina de Sousse for boutique charm, Sousse Pearl Marriott for spa luxury or Hasdrubal Thalassa & Spa in Hammamet for beachfront relaxation.
Final Thoughts
Whether you crave the volcanic drama of the Canaries, the coastal calm of Puglia or the golden glow of Seville, there’s no reason to stay cold all of this winter. These winter sun destinations prove that sunshine, culture and good food are only a few hours away and there’s nothing quite like landing somewhere warm while the rest of Europe is still trying to defrost.
If you’re after budget-friendly but fabulous destinations to visit across Europe, head over to this list of exciting recommendations.
This was a post about some of the best winter sun destinations in Europe and beyond.
