Winter Sun in Europe: 15 Warm Destinations to Escape
If you’re craving winter sun in Europe but stuck somewhere cold, grey, and damp — you’re not alone. That bone-deep chill of northern winters can feel endless. But not all of Europe freezes over. In fact, there are places with blue skies, sunny afternoons, and even beach days — all just a short flight away.
As someone who’s lived through plenty of UK winters, I’ve made it my mission to seek out Europe’s sunniest winter spots. Some are ideal for lazy coastal escapes, others are perfect for hiking in light layers or exploring ancient cities without the crowds. And no — you don’t have to fly halfway around the world to find warmth.
In this guide, I’ll share 15 of the best winter sun destinations in Europe — complete with average temperatures, travel tips, and the kind of personal insights you won’t get from a brochure.
Meet Me In Departures contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our Disclosure Policy for more information.
Why Choose Europe for Winter Sun?
Escaping to Southeast Asia or Central America for a couple of weeks in winter sounds great — in theory. But not all of us have the time, budget, or flexibility to pull off a long-haul trip every year.
Sometimes, you just want to plan a trip with a bit of sun — without the jet lag, the cost, or a full day of travel.
That’s where Europe delivers.
There are plenty of places — from southern Spain to Greek islands — that stay sunny and mild through winter. Sure, you might not be lying on the beach every day, but swapping grey drizzle for blue skies and light layers? That’s a win in itself.
Flights are short and often cheap, crowds are fewer, and prices drop compared to peak season. Plus, you still get the rich culture, great food, and unique experiences — just with better weather and less chaos.
👉 Money-saving tip: In winter, I’ve picked up return flights to Malta or Sicily for less than the price of a night out in London. Mid-week flights and booking a few weeks ahead make a big difference.
15 Best Winter Sun Destinations in Europe
1. Seville, Spain
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 16°C (61°F)
✅ Best for: Culture lovers, solo travellers, city breaks, slow travel
Seville is one of the warmest European cities in the winter months — and trust me, I live here.
While the rest of northern Europe shivers through grey mornings, if you’re visiting Seville during Christmas, you ll most likely wake up to crisp blue skies and golden light.
Visit after the 6th January (Kings’ Day – Día de los Reyes ), and you’ll be able to explore the Alcázar without the queues, grab a sunny table at a local café, and wander through the city’s historic neighbourhoods without dodging tour groups every five minutes.
This city is ideal for cultural breaks, solo wanders, and slow travel — easily one of the best warm winter destinations in Europe for anyone looking for atmosphere and sunshine.
👉 Insider tip: Even in winter in Seville, I often walk around in just a light jumper by mid-afternoon. And yes, you can absolutely eat outdoors here all winter.
2. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 21°C (70°F)
✅ Best for: Beach lovers, surfers, laid-back getaways, nature seekers
Fuerteventura is one of the hottest places in Spain in winter — and it shows. With wide open beaches, warm Atlantic breezes, and barely a cloud in sight, it’s an easy fix for anyone craving real winter sun.
The island has a raw, wild feel to it — all volcanic landscapes and windswept coastlines — and it’s much quieter than neighbouring Tenerife or Gran Canaria.
After the Christmas rush, this is a place to slow right down. Whether you’re into surfing, hiking sand dunes, or just soaking up the sun on empty beaches, Fuerteventura is all about a no-rush, no-fuss escape.
👉 Insider tip: Corralejo is my go-to — a relaxed little town with great surf schools, chilled beach bars, and a brilliant base for exploring the dunes and volcano trails.
3. Malta
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 16°C (61°F)
✅ Best for: History buffs, solo city explorers, short breaks, off-season culture
Malta might be small, but it’s one of the warmest places in Europe in winter — but one of the best things about Malta is that it’s got a surprising amount to offer for such a tiny island.
Think UNESCO-listed cities, prehistoric ruins, dramatic coastlines, and a blend of Mediterranean and North African influences. The bonus? January is low season, so it’s quiet, affordable, and there’s plenty of sun.
It’s ideal if you want a short, easy winter break with good weather and loads to see without needing a car. You can base yourself in Valletta or the Three Cities and explore most of the island by bus or ferry.
👉 Insider tip: Sicily is quite spread out, so visiting in winter makes it the perfect time for a road trip around the island — there’s less traffic and parking is easier, especially in towns like Palermo, Trapani, and Noto.
4. Sicily, Italy
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 12–15°C (53–59°F)
✅ Best for: Foodies, ancient ruins lovers, slow travel, road trips
Sicily isn’t quite as warm as some of the other places I’ve included on the list; however, it is one of the most rewarding, which is why it’s worth putting gon your radar.
With mild temps, quieter roads, and barely any tourists around, winter is the perfect time to explore without the chaos of summer. Ancient temples, Baroque towns, volcanic hikes, and ridiculous amounts of food — this island is a dream if you’re into culture and road trips.
It’s a great pick for travellers who don’t need beach days but want to swap frost for sunshine, especially if you’ve got a week or more to explore – there’s a ton of stuff to see in Sicily.
👉 Insider tip: Sicily is quite spread out, so visiting in winter makes it the perfect time for a road trip around the island — there’s less traffic and parking is easier, especially in towns like Palermo, Trapani, and Noto.
5. Madeira, Portugal
☀️ Average Temp: (January): 18°C (64°F)
✅ Best for: Hikers, nature lovers, wellness retreats, scenic escapes
Madeira often flies under the radar, but it’s easily one of the best warm winter destinations in Europe. This volcanic island floats off the coast of North Africa, so even in January, it’s all sunshine, green peaks, and spring-like temperatures.
I’m not going to lie – you won’t get tropical heat, but it’s warm enough to hike the levadas, explore botanical gardens, or even take a dip if you’re brave.
It’s a solid choice for anyone who wants nature over nightlife and stunning scenery without crowds. You won’t find endless beaches here, but you will find waterfalls, rugged coastlines, and some of the most jaw-dropping viewpoints in Europe.
👉 Insider tip: The Levada do Caldeirão Verde trail is a must in winter — the waterfalls are full and the air feels crisp and clean, especially after a January rain shower.
6. Crete, Greece
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 15°C (59°F)
✅ Best for: Archaeology fans, road trippers, nature lovers, off-season explorers
Crete is the largest Greek island and one of the warmest European destinations in winter — but without the chaos of summer crowds. The winter season is quiet, local, and low-key, which means archaeological sites like Knossos and Phaistos feel almost surreal with no one else around.
You won’t be lying on the beach, but you’ll get blue skies, open hiking trails, and a real sense of the island’s slower rhythm.
Crete is ideal if you’re happy to explore by car, love ancient history, or want to mix coastal drives with inland mountain villages. Winter is when the island feels like Greece for Greeks — calm, authentic, and wildly scenic.
👉 Insider tip: If you’re planning to explore the Minoan palace of Knossos, get there early, and you’ll most likely have the entire place to yourself. You can’t put a price on that.
7. The Algarve, Portugal
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 16°C (61°F)
✅ Best for: Coastal walks, winter sun breaks, slow travel, food & wine lovers
The Algarve is one of the most reliable warm European destinations in winter. It’s not hot-hot, but you’ll get mild days, sunshine, and some of Europe’s most beautiful coastal scenery.
Most beach towns are quiet during the winter, but places like Lagos, Tavira, and Aljezur still have enough open to keep things interesting — without the crowds or inflated prices.
It’s a great spot if you’re after low-effort, good-value winter sun. You can hike along the clifftops, go wine tasting, or just relax in a sea-facing café watching the waves roll in.
👉 Insider tip: I always pack walking shoes for the Algarve — the coastal paths between beaches are stunning, and in winter, you’ve often got them completely to yourself.
8. Málaga, Spain
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 17°C (63°F)
✅ Best for: City breaks, art lovers, digital nomads, food-focused travel
Málaga sometimes gets overshadowed by the beach resorts along the Costa del Sol, but the city itself is one of the top places for winter sun in Europe — especially if you’re into culture and food.
Winters are calm but not sleepy, with plenty of locals out and about, sunshine most days, and daytime temps warm enough for al fresco tapas.
There are plenty of things to see in Malaga. You’ve got world-class museums (including the Picasso Museum), Moorish architecture, a castle with sea views, and a buzzing food scene that doesn’t shut down in winter. It’s easy to reach, walkable, and ideal for a low-stress city break with sun.
👉 Insider tip: The citrus trees lining the old town burst with colour from the end of December through to January — and although the fruit’s not for eating, it makes wandering about the city even more vibrant.
9. Lanzarote, Canary Islands
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 20°C (68°F)
✅ Best for: Design lovers, volcano geeks, offbeat beach breaks, winter wellness
Lanzarote is warm, dry, and easily one of the best places for winter sun in Europe. Beyond the beaches, it’s got a unique aesthetic thanks to local artist César Manrique, who shaped everything from architecture to viewpoints.
The island blends natural drama — volcanic craters, black sand beaches, otherworldly caves — with a calm, creative vibe.
It’s ideal for winter if you want a laid-back escape with a bit of edge – although I’d skip the Christmas rush. Popular things to do here are join yoga retreats, go for scenic drives, and Atlantic coast hikes.
👉 Insider tip: If you’re into landscapes that feel like Mars, head to Timanfaya National Park in the afternoon — the light hits the lava fields just right, and it’s often crowd-free in winter.
10. Tenerife, Canary Islands
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 21°C (70°F)
✅ Best for: Winter warmth, scenic drives, hiking, beaches with a side of volcano
Tenerife is one of the best places to catch winter sun in Europe — and it’s a favourite for good reason. The island has year-round sunshine, a huge variety of landscapes, and plenty of options, whether you want to flop on a beach or hike a volcano.
The south (around Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje) is the warmest and driest, while the north is greener and more local-feeling.
It’s a good all-rounder for a winter break — especially if you’re a fan of adventure sports and want a bit of everything: beaches, mountains, day trips, and even a bit of nightlife if that’s your thing.
👉 Insider tip: Mount Teide looks snowy in winter, but don’t let that put you off — the cable car still runs, and the views above the clouds are unreal on a crisp winter’s day.
11. Cyprus
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 17°C (63°F)
✅ Best for: History lovers, winter hiking, solo escapes, low-key coastal breaks
Cyprus has a good mix of culture, coastline, and countryside. And if you visit during the winter season, the beaches are quiet, the trails are empty, and you can still get sunshine most days.
Towns like Paphos and Limassol stay lively year-round, and there’s loads to explore: Roman mosaics, mountain villages, sea caves, and even the occasional flamingo in salt lakes.
It’s a brilliant pick if you want warmth without going too far — especially for solo travellers or those looking to explore at a slower pace.
👉 Insider tip: The Akamas Peninsula is perfect in winter — fewer people, cooler hiking weather, and the trails are carpeted with wildflowers by late January.
12. Balearic Islands (Mallorca)
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 15°C (59°F)
✅ Best for: Nature escapes, quiet villages, cycling, off-season slow travel
The Balearics might scream “summer holiday,” but Mallorca in winter has a totally different feel — and it’s surprisingly lovely. You won’t be sunbathing, but you will get sunshine, mild temperatures, and peaceful countryside without the usual crowds.
The winter months are a great time for hiking the Tramuntana Mountains, exploring hilltop towns like Valldemossa, or cycling quiet coastal roads.
It’s a solid pick for anyone looking to recharge in nature, especially if you prefer a rustic, local vibe over beach bars and nightclubs.
👉 Insider tip: Winter is prime time for cycling in Mallorca — the roads are empty, the air is cool, and the scenery around every corner is ridiculously good.
13. Marbella, Spain
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 16°C (61°F)
✅ Best for: Coastal walks, wellness breaks, slow travel with a luxe edge
Marbella might be known for its glitzy summer scene, but despite being one of the most popular places in southern Spain it winds down in winter into something far more relaxed — and way more enjoyable.
With palm-lined promenades, stylish cafés, and views of the snow-capped Sierra Blanca, it’s still sunny enough for outdoor lunches and beach walks, just without the peak-season buzz.
It’s perfect for travellers who like the idea of a slower, slightly more upmarket winter escape — great weather, no stress, and enough open to keep things interesting without feeling touristy.
👉 Insider tip: January is the best time for wellness retreats around Marbella — many local yoga and wellness centres offer off-season discounts and smaller, more personalised classes.
14. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 21°C (70°F)
✅ Best for: Beach holidays, solo chill time, easy winter sun, varied landscapes
Gran Canaria, like the rest of the Canary Islands, is one of Europe’s most popular winter destinations, making it an easy win if you’re simply chasing warmth.
The south of the island — places like Maspalomas and Puerto Rico — gets the most consistent sun, while the north is cooler and more local. It’s popular, yes, but except for the holidays, it’s far more relaxed than peak season.
You’ll find golden beaches, dramatic sand dunes, volcanic hikes, and even cute mountain towns like Teror — all within reach thanks to decent roads and local buses. It’s especially good if you want winter sun with zero effort.
👉 Insider tip: The sand dunes at Maspalomas are stunning at golden hour — go late in the day when the light softens and the day-trippers have cleared out.
15. Turquoise Coast, Türkiye
☀️ Average Winter Temp: 15°C (59°F)
✅ Best for: Off-season adventures, coastal walks, ancient ruins, budget-friendly escapes
Türkiye’s Turquoise Coast (around Antalya, Kas, and Fethiye) is one of the most underrated warm winter destinations in Europe in winter.
While it’s not beach weather, the winter season brings crisp, sunny days, barely any tourists, and prices that are a fraction of what you’d pay in summer.
It’s perfect for slow travellers, history lovers, and those chasing a quieter, more local side of the Mediterranean. Ruins like Termessos and Patara feel wild and untouched in winter, and many coastal trails are still walkable without overheating.
👉 Insider tip: Kas in January is wonderfully mellow — plenty of open cafés, sea views on your doorstep, and hiking trails that feel completely untouched.
Where to Stay for Winter Sun in Europe
Not everywhere in Europe is buzzing in winter — especially in the more touristy beach towns. But there are still plenty of places that stay open and welcoming, even in the quietest months.
📌 Heads up: Most of these destinations do get a short spike around Christmas and New Year — expect higher prices and more visitors during that window. But travel outside those peak dates, and you’ll get cheaper flights, better accommodation deals, and far fewer crowds.
Here’s how to choose the right kind of base for your winter sun break:
For city breaks with sunshine:
- Go for: Seville, Málaga, Valletta, or Nicosia
- Why: Lots to do year-round, great food scenes, and plenty of cultural sights without summer crowds
- Stay in: Boutique guesthouses, local-run hotels, or central apartments
For island escapes with variety:
- Go for: Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Crete, or Madeira
- Why: Mild temps, lots of sunshine, and you can mix nature, towns, and beach walks
- Stay in: Independent hotels, eco-stays, or Airbnbs hosted by locals
For slow travel and nature:
- Go for: Algarve, Cyprus, Mallorca, or Türkiye’s coast
- Why: Scenic hikes, peaceful coastal paths, and a chance to really unplug
- Stay in: Guesthouses, small pensions, or rural homes — often cheaper and cosier in winter
Quick Travel Tips for Winter in Europe
Research the weather
Even the “warm” places can have rain spells or cooler days — especially in the evenings.
- Check local weather patterns for Nov–Feb, not just January.
- Look at both average temps and sunshine hours — they vary a lot even within the same country.
- Islands (like the Canaries and Madeira) tend to be more reliable than mainland spots.
Book flights and stays early (but not too early)
- Avoid the Christmas–New Year spike unless you’re set on it — prices can double.
- Midweek flights are often cheapest.
- For most places, booking 4–6 weeks in advance hits the sweet spot for price vs flexibility.
👉 Money-saving tip: I usually set price alerts in October for late-Nov to early-Feb trips. I’ve scored winter flights to Cyprus, Malta, and the Canaries for under £50 return
Plan your trip around your interests
- Love hiking? Go for Crete, Madeira, or Cyprus.
- Into museums, food, and culture? Málaga, Seville, or Palermo are ideal.
- Want to just chill and soak up the sun? The Canaries or the Algarve are your best bet. Tailor your destination to your energy — winter is a great time to slow down.
Pack for layers, not beaches
Even if it’s sunny, you’ll want layers — especially in the evenings.
- Bring a light jacket, closed shoes, and something windproof.
- Leave the beachwear unless you’re heading to the southern Canaries.
Europe Winter Sun FAQs
What are the warmest places in Europe in December?
The Canary Islands (especially Tenerife and Gran Canaria) consistently top the list, with daytime temps around 21°C. Madeira, Cyprus, and parts of southern Spain and Portugal also stay mild, with plenty of sunny days.
What are the warmest cities in Europe in January?
Seville, Málaga, and Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) are among the warmest — think clear skies and temps hovering between 16–21°C. Ideal if you want a city break with outdoor cafés and no frost.
Where is the warmest place in Europe in winter?
Technically, the southern Canary Islands are the warmest — specifically Tenerife South, Gran Canaria, and Fuerteventura. These spots are closest to the equator, so they feel almost spring-like even in mid-winter.
Which part of Spain is warmest in winter?
The Canary Islands win for heat, but on the mainland, Andalucía (especially Seville, Málaga, and Marbella) has some of the mildest weather. The Costa del Sol lives up to its name.
What is the sunniest place in Europe in winter?
Tenerife and Gran Canaria clock the most sunshine hours. Seville also gets loads of winter sun — I’ve lived there and had weeks of back-to-back blue skies in January.
So, Where Will You Find Winter Sun This Year?
You don’t need to go far — or spend loads — to escape the cold. You’ll find some great destinations for winter sun in Europe.
Whether you’re after a cultural city break, a hiking trip with sea views, or just somewhere warm enough to sit outside with a coffee, there’s a spot on this list that’ll do the job.
Avoid the Christmas rush, pack smart, and you’ll have your pick of quiet beaches, scenic trails, and local cafés — all with fewer crowds and better prices.
👉 Want more details? I’ve written in-depth guides to many of these spots — click below to start planning your trip.
Start here:
- My Winter in Europe Packing List
- The Sunniest Places in Spain in Winter
- Or browse all my Europe travel guides for ideas, tips, and destination inspiration.
Have a question? then don’t forget to join our free Facebook Group and ask the community.
Want to discover more about Spain? then check out these other great articles to find out more.
General Spain Travel
- Ultimate 10 Days In Spain Itinerary
- 2 Week Spain and Portugal Itinerary
- How Many Days Should I Spend in Spain and Portugal?
- 50+ Best Experiences for Your Spanish Bucket List
- 38 Most Famous Landmarks in Spain
- Can You See Morocco From Spain?
Andalucia and South Spain
- Southern Spain Itinerary: Best 7 Days in Andalucia
- Local’s Guide To Seville in 3 Days
- 35+ Top Things To Do In Seville
- 23 Best Day Trips From Seville, Spain
- How to Do A Seville to Cordoba Day Trip
- Where Is the Nearest Beach to Seville?
- How To Spend One Day in Granada
- Best 2 Days in Granada Itinerary
- The Best Cordoba in One Day Itinerary
- 5 Places for the Best Glamping in Spain’s Southern Coast
Barcelona
- 32 Best Things to Do in Barcelona, Spain
- Barcelona 5 Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
- Should You Visit Barcelona or Lisbon?
- Montserrat Day Tour With Tapas and Wine From Barcelona
Madrid And Surrounding Area
- Is Madrid Worth Visiting?
- 28 Best Things to Do in Madrid, Spain
- Best Madrid 2 Day Itinerary By A Local!
- 30 Things to Do In Winter in Madrid
- Madrid vs Lisbon Comparison Guide
- How to Visit Segovia From Madrid in a Day
- A Day Trip to Toledo from Madrid
Basque Country and North Spain
- An Epic 5 Days Road Trip in Aragón Itinerary
- 15 Best Things to Do in Aragon, Spain
- Is Zaragoza Worth Visiting? Everything You Need To Know
- The Best Things to See in Zaragoza, Spain
- Is San Sebastian Worth Visiting? The Pros and Cons
- San Sebastian Food Tour Review With Devour Tours
- Is Bilbao Worth Visiting? 12 Reasons To Visit Bilbao