Discover the Best Winter Sun Destinations in Europe

Currently housesitting in England (Yorkshire to be exact) we’ve had around 3 weeks of actual warm weather and we are exploring great winter sun destinations all over Europe.

Europe, is known for its diverse landscapes and climates, and it offers several sun-soaked destinations where you can escape the British cold and rain. From charming Mediterranean islands to the southernmost tips of the continent, these locations promise a perfect winter getaway.

As winter casts its chilly and wet spell over much of Europe, many of us yearn for a sun-soaked escape that offers a warm respite from the cold. Fortunately, a range of amazing destinations in Europe for winter sun can be discovered, where we can bask in mild temperatures and enjoy wonderful historic sites without being crushed with too many tourists and dealing with obnoxious heat and humidity.

These 20 warmest locales not only provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation but also boast some of the best beaches, making them ideal for a winter vacation. 

From the stunning coastlines of the Mediterranean to the enchanting islands that remain inviting year-round, these winter sun spots promise to rejuvenate your spirit and provide a much-needed escape from the winter blues. Whether you seek vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, or simply a sunlit beach to unwind, these destinations offer an unforgettable winter getaway.

From the UK getting to any of these destinations from major airports across the country is pretty simple. If you are flying in from North America you can easily take an extreme day trip of a day or so to many of these locations from airports such as Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, London Stansted, and Gatwick. They won’t cost you the earth either.

Winter sun destinations Spain

Winter sun in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands offer a perfect escape for winter sun seekers, boasting mild temperatures and abundant sunshine throughout the colder months. With their diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches to volcanic terrain, the islands provide a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, water sports, and relaxation by the sea.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Lanzarote, one of the Canary Islands, offers a unique volcanic landscape and beautiful beaches. Visit the Timanfaya National Park, explore the caves of Cueva de los Verdes, or relax on the sandy shores.The Canary Islands offer diverse landscapes and year-round sunshine, making them an ideal destination. 

Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest island, is home to Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, where you can explore volcanic landscapes and enjoy stunning views. The island also boasts beautiful beaches like Playa de las Américas and charming towns such as La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

La Gomera is one of the Canary Islands, is known for its rugged terrain, dramatic landscapes, and lush greenery. The island is famous for its ancient laurel forests, which are part of Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These forests are remnants of the prehistoric era and offer incredible hiking opportunities.

Andalusia, Spain

Andalusia, in southern Spain, is known for its historic cities like Seville, Granada, and Córdoba. With its mild winter temperatures, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the Sierra Nevada and Europes only inland desert Tabernas or exploring the Alhambra without the summer crowds. You can also enjoy some brilliant tapas and drinks in many of the beachside chirinquitos in places like Mojacer. Plan to explore the more unique places of Spain such as Ronda, Cartagena, or Salobrena.

Seville, Spain

Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is a city full of history, culture, and warm winter weather. Visit the famous Seville Cathedral, the Alcázar, and the Plaza de España. The city’s lively atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it a great winter destination. Don’t forget to take in a Flamenco performance.

Costa del Sol, Spain

The Costa del Sol stretches along Spain’s southern coastline and is famous for its sunny weather, even in winter. Marbella, Torremolinos, and Fuengirola offer a mix of beach life, nightlife, and cultural attractions.

Malaga, Spain

Malaga, a coastal city in Andalusia, offers a blend of culture, history, and beautiful beaches. Visit the Picasso Museum, explore the Alcazaba fortress, or take a stroll along the sunny promenades.

Balearic Islands, Spain

One of the best winter destinations is the Balearic Islands, located in the Mediterranean, with their mild climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, the islands offer a perfect escape. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, explore charming historic towns, and relax on sun-drenched shores.  

Best winter sun destinations Portugal

Southern Portugal with its stunning coastline and charming towns,  offers the warmest winter experiences in the country. Known for its hours of sunshine a day, this area is ideal for those seeking a winter sun holiday. The Algarve boasts some of the best places to visit during the winter season, making it a top choice for a winter city break or a relaxing getaway and a great opportunity to explore how you can live in this beautiful country.

Madeira, Portugal

Madeira, known as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” boasts a mild climate even in winter. The island is famous for its lush landscapes, botanical gardens, and the vibrant city of Funchal. Outdoor activities like hiking and whale watching are popular along with incredible festivals.

Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, is famous for its stunning coastline, picturesque towns, and mild winter climate. Enjoy golf, explore the cliffs and caves of Lagos, or relax on the beaches of Albufeira.

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Best winter sun destination Malta

Malta, located in the Mediterranean Sea, enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year. The island is rich in history, with ancient temples, fortresses, and the beautiful capital city of Valletta. Winter temperatures are mild, perfect for exploring the island’s natural beauty and historic sites.

Valletta, Malta

Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history. The city’s architecture, museums, and fortifications are fascinating to explore in the mild winter sun. Don’t miss the stunning views from the Upper Barrakka Gardens. With a bit of luck there may be a fabulous festival going on for you to enjoy, but if not sit at a cafe and try some of Malta’s best snacks with your coffee.

Gozo, Malta

Malta’s quieter sister island, is perfect for a peaceful winter escape. Visit the ancient Citadel in Victoria, stroll along the picturesque coastal paths, and enjoy the tranquil beaches like Ramla Bay. The island’s mild climate and scenic beauty make it an ideal winter destination.

Best winter sun destination Cyprus

Cyprus is another Mediterranean gem that enjoys a mild winter climate. The island offers a mix of cultural experiences, beautiful beaches, and mountains. Paphos, Limassol, and Ayia Napa are popular destinations, each offering a different experience, from ancient ruins to vibrant nightlife, incredible monasteries and stunning icon art.

Paphos

Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history and archaeological wonders. The city enjoys mild winter weather, making it perfect for exploring ancient sites and enjoying the coastal scenery. The city also has many ex-pats who live here full time where you can find out how to move to Cyprus.

Limassol

Limassol is a vibrant city that combines modernity with tradition. It’s known for its beautiful promenade, lively atmosphere, and rich history.

Larnaca

Larnaca is a laid-back coastal town with a rich cultural heritage and lovely beaches. The city offers a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of winter sunshine.

Nicosia

Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is the last divided capital in Europe. It’s a fascinating city with a mix of modernity and history, offering unique cultural experiences.

Best places for winter sun in Europe – Greece

For those seeking the warmest winter sun, Greece stands out as one of the best winter-sun destinations in Europe. With a climate that offers an average of hours of sunshine a day, it boasts some of the best places to visit during the winter season. Islands like Naxos, Crete and Rhodes are among the warmest destinations, perfect for a winter sun holiday. These locations provide a delightful escape from the chill of northern Europe in winter, making them popular winter spots for travelers. Not only is Greece a fantastic choice for those wanting to soak up the sun, but it also features some of the best places in Europe for a winter city break.

Crete, Greece

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is a fantastic winter destination with its mild climate and diverse landscapes. Explore the ancient ruins of Knossos, hit the beaches in Chania, hike through the Samaria Gorge, or relax on the stunning beaches of Elafonissi.

Rhodes, Greece

Rhodes, one of the largest Greek islands, offers a mix of history, culture, and beautiful beaches. The medieval Old Town of Rhodes and the ancient ruins of Kamiros are must-see attractions, and the island’s mild winter weather makes it a perfect retreat.

Athens, Greece

Athens is an ideal winter sun destination for those interested in history and culture. The city is less crowded in winter, making it easier to explore iconic sites like the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora. The mild weather is perfect for outdoor sightseeing – my advice take a good tour and enjoy the culinary delights of Greece.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini, with its iconic whitewashed buildings and stunning sunsets, is a dream destination even in winter. The island is much quieter during this season, allowing you to explore its beauty without the summer crowds. Enjoy the views from Oia, visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, or relax in a hot spring.

Best places for winter sun in Europe – Italy

When considering a winter sun holiday in Italy, you’ll find some of the best winter-sun destinations in Europe. The southern regions, particularly Sicily and the Amalfi Coast, offer the warmest winter temperatures, making them one of the warmest places to visit during the winter season. With an average of 5 to 7 hours of sunshine a day, these areas are perfect for those seeking a sunny escape from the chill of northern Europe.

During the winter, these Italian destinations from Genoa to Calabria not only provide a beautiful backdrop but also an array of activities, from exploring charming coastal towns to indulging in local cuisine. If you’re planning a winter city break, consider combining your stay with a visit to some of the best places to visit in Italy, where you can enjoy both the fantastic food, culture and historic sites and even decide if you want to live in Italy.

Sicily, Italy

Sicily offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, cuisine, and natural beauty. In winter, you can explore the ancient city of Syracuse, hike up Mount Etna, or visit the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, all while enjoying pleasant weather.

Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rugged interior landscapes. In winter, you can enjoy hiking, exploring ancient nuraghi, or relaxing in the quaint coastal towns.

Best places for winter sun in France

France offers several regions that enjoy mild winters and plenty of sunshine, making them perfect for a winter getaway. Here are three of the best places in France to enjoy winter sun:

Cannes

Cannes, another gem on the French Riviera, is famous for its glamorous film festival, but it’s also a fantastic winter sun destination. The city enjoys mild winters, with temperatures often around 10°C to 14°C (50°F to 57°F), making it ideal for exploring the city’s elegant streets and beaches.

Nice, France

Nice, located on the French Riviera, enjoys a mild winter climate. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, explore the Old Town, or take a day trip to nearby Monaco. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, incredible food and Mediterranean charm.

Corsica, France

Corsica, an island in the Mediterranean, offers a mix of rugged mountains and beautiful beaches. In winter, you can enjoy hiking in the interior or exploring the coastal towns without the summer crowds. The mild climate makes it a great destination for outdoor activities.

Menton

Located on the French Riviera near the Italian border, Menton is known for its mild climate, beautiful gardens, and charming old town. Menton is a delightful winter destination with its mild climate, vibrant Lemon Festival, beautiful gardens, and charming old town. Menton enjoys a microclimate that is one of the mildest in France, with winter temperatures typically ranging between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The town is often referred to as the “Pearl of France” due to its sunny weather, even in winter.

Best places for winter sun in Croatia

Croatia, with its stunning coastline and Mediterranean climate, offers some fantastic options for winter sun. Enjoy sitting at an outdoor cafe trying some amazing Croatian food and think about what it would be like to live here. Here are two of the best places in Croatia for soaking up some winter sunshine:

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a stunning coastal city with a mild winter climate. Wander through the historic Old Town, walk along the ancient city walls, or take a boat trip to nearby islands and visit Split. The mild winter temperatures, usually around 10-15°C (50-59°F), make it perfect for outdoor activities.

Hvar Island

Hvar is known for being one of Croatia’s sunniest spots, with over 2700 hours of sunshine annually. Even in winter, the island enjoys mild temperatures, making it a great place to enjoy some winter sun. Hvar offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and laid-back island life.

Europe offers a wealth of sunny destinations where you can escape the winter blues and I’ve been to many of them but this list includes a few more on my bucket list. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of a city or the tranquility of a coastal retreat, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you. From the Mediterranean islands to the southern coasts, these 20 winter sun destinations provide the warmth and beauty needed for a refreshing winter break.

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