Let’s face it – most of Europe is absolutely freezing during winter, and unless you’re one of the few who actually enjoy the biting chill, you’re probably desperate for a warm respite to tide you over until spring comes.
Thankfully, it’s only most of Europe that’s cold during the long winter months – a few pockets remain sun-soaked even while the rest of the continent is hibernating under a blanket of snow and frost.
Need to defrost? We’ve assembled a list of some of the best holiday destinations that didn’t get the wintertime memo and still have sun and warmth even in January. You can’t take the sun home, of course, but at least you can sit by the blue sea and pretend you live here all year round.
Best winter sun destinations in Europe
The Canary Islands, Spain
The coast of Tenerife
Fausto García-Menéndez
An archipelago of eight islands off the coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are a volcanic paradise and a wonderful winter sun destination. The islands offer a good mix of city life and swoonsome nature, and getting there is as easy as hopping on a quick four-hour flight from London. For those looking to relax and soak up the sun, there are plenty of beaches to choose from. Playa de las Teresitas (Tenerife), Sotavento Beach (Fuerteventura) and Papagayo Beach (Lanzarote) are all classic golden sand beaches with clear water perfect for the sun-seeking traveller. But if you’re looking for a unique beach experience, head to Charco Azul on La Palma – a natural volcanic pool complete with sun decks and views of the sea.
The islands are a great destination for more adventurous travellers, too, with volcanoes and marine life right at your doorstep. Grab your binoculars and board a whale-watching boat to catch a glimpse of the giants of the sea or hop on a kayak and paddle with dolphins. If you’re looking to make some aquatic friends, gear up and scuba or snorkel at one of the three marine reserves across the islands. Looking to stay on land? Don’t worry – there are plenty of magnificent hiking spots, too. Lace up your hiking boots and take in the views atop Teide, the highest summit in Spain.
Where to stay:
Friendship Travel offers stays at H10 Taburiente Playa as part of their Canary Islands holiday package; friendshiptravel.com
Cyprus
Petra tou Romiou, the Birthplace of Aphrodite
Dimitris Vetsikas
As an island nation in the Mediterranean, Cyprus is one of the best places to escape the chill and enjoy a heavy dose of winter sun. Known for its archaeological sites, alluring beaches and fantastic restaurants, it’s a great holiday destination for those looking to dive into clear waters and some local history. There’s no shortage of stunning swathes of sand on the island – Fig Tree Bay, Makronissos Beach and Nissi Beach are some of the best for tanning, snorkelling and water sports, but the must-visit is Petra tou Romiou (the Birthplace of Aphrodite). Legend has it that the goddess of love and beauty herself emerged from the water on these limestone-framed shores.
Venturing further inland, you can explore the history of the island through archaeological sites like the Tombs of the Kings, Nea Paphos or Kato Pafos Archaeological Park. Wander amongst the ruins and imagine what life was like thousands of years ago. If you’re more into castles than city ruins, there are plenty of those around, too… ten, to be exact. Or, if you’re keen to do some hiking, Pano Platres offers a great reward for the effort – powerful waterfalls.
Where to stay:
Friendship Travel offers stays at The Aquamare Beach Hotel and Spa as part of their Cyprus holiday package; friendshiptravel.com
Madeira, Portugal
Swimming in volcanic rock pools
Cliffside foliage above the water
A sommelier’s dream, Madeira is home to beautiful wineries, great restaurants and sunshine – even in January. Made up of four volcanic islands, Madeira is full of natural splendour that every traveller will enjoy, whether you’re keen to relax in the lava rock pools or try some of the local vinho (or both – we recommend both). From breathtaking views atop mountain Pico Ruivo to stretches of black and golden beaches, there’s a reason this rock in the Atlantic has been nicknamed the ‘Hawaii of Europe’.
If you’re looking to relax by the sea, the island has a myriad of beaches to enjoy – Praia de Calheta and Praia de Machico offer that classic, light sand experience while Praia Formosa and Seixal Beach offer bewitching black shores. If you’re not a fan of sand, check out Porto Moniz to take a dip in a volcanic rock pool. These natural wonders were formed over millennia of lava cooling and make the perfect (and Instagram-worthy) seaside excursion.
There’s plenty to explore on land, too. Check out some of the epic views on Cao Girǎo Skywalk, the highest cliff in Europe, or hike up one of the beautiful mountain trails scattered across the islands to feel like you’re king (or queen) of the world. If you’re heights-adverse, wander around the astounding Madeira Botanical Garden or explore the charming Casas de Santana for a glimpse into the area’s history. For thirsty travellers, lace your boots and head out on the Madeira Wines Route, which you can explore on your own or with a tour guide to check out the different wineries and sample the wares.
Where to stay:
Belmond Reid’s Palace; belmond.com
Malta
The capital of Malta, Valletta
Pham Ngoc Anh
Situated in the Mediterranean between Sicily and the Northern coast of Africa, Malta is an archipelago nation known for its archaeological sites, beautiful beaches and sunshine. Even in the middle of winter, Malta offers a warm respite from the chill of Northern Europe whether you’re exploring by land or sea.
As a small island nation, it’s no surprise that Malta is famous for its 30+ beaches. Golden Bay, Blue Lagoon, Fomm ir-Riħ and Għajn Tuffieħa are some of the best for those looking to relax on the sand and enjoy the bright blue sea. If you’re in the mood for a more adventurous beach day, Mellieħa Bay is a great spot for water sports. If you’re looking to blend the past and present, the capital, Valletta, offers an intriguing mix of ancient buildings and modern architecture rolled into one stunning city. The best way to see this island nation? From the water – there are plenty of boat tours available to help you gain a unique perspective, whether you’re keen to see the fortresses by the sea at Grand Harbour or simply motor past the epic coastline.
Where to stay:
Kirker Holidays offers stays at The Phoenicia, Valletta as part of their Malta package; kirkerholidays.com
Seville, Spain
The Plaza de España in Seville
Alp Cem
The capital of Spain’s Andalusia region, Seville, offers a culturally unique winter sun getaway. The city is home to excellent galleries, museums, historic buildings and delicious cuisine for anyone looking for a warm reprieve. Given the plethora of ancient architecture and information centres, it’s certainly a stellar choice for the sun-seeking history buff.
Start your trip by soaking up some royal history – one measly palace might not be something to write home about, so thankfully Real Alcázar is a sprawling, multi-palace complex that’s sure to spark jealousy in those receiving your postcards. If you’re looking for something with a bit more glory, check out the Amphitheatre of Italica and pretend you’re a gladiator. Or, if you’re more of the indoor type, head to Museo de Bellas Artes, one of Spain’s most famous art museums, to get your cultural fill. For the hungry traveller, the city is known for its tapas – indulge in some jamón ibérico (a cured ham dish) or espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas in a tasty tomato sauce), some of the local favourites. Pair your meal with a glass of Manzanilla sherry to dine like a true Sevillano.
Where to stay:
Kirker Holidays offers stays at Casa 1800, Seville as part of their Seville holiday packages; kirkerholidays.com
Crete, Greece
The city harbour of Agios Nikolaos, Crete
Alex Staudinger
It comes as no surprise that Greece is a prime destination for winter sun. The largest Greek island, Crete, offers a delicious mix of natural beauty, historical sites and unmissable food that means there’s so much more to draw you here then just the promise of January temperatures above 10 degrees. If the temperatures really provide, set your coordinates for Balos Beach or Elafonisi Beach, which are rightfully two of the most popular spots for catching some sun and will be free from the summertime crowds. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a jet ski and take to the sea, scuba or snorkel off the coast or even get your zen on with some paddleboard yoga.
For those looking to work up an appetite, the island has a wealth of natural wonders and historical sites to explore on foot – one unique and not-to-be-missed hike is the Samaria Gorge – the longest gorge in Europe and a breathtaking journey through a rocky passage. For the history buffs, there are plenty of sites around the island that will transport you through time. The Fortezza of Rethymnon, built in the 16th century, can give you a glimpse into life in the ancient citadel. For anyone recently hooked on Netflix’s KAOS, the Palace of Knossos, associated with the myth of Theseus and the minotaur, is not to be missed.
Where to stay:
The Royal Senses Resort & Spa; hilton.com
Porto, Portugal
The city of Porto from the water
Luiz Costa
A coastal city in northwest Portugal, Porto is renowned for its colourful buildings, cobblestone streets and port production (cheers, anyone?). Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, boat aficionado or an architecture enthusiast, Porto has something for you. There’s lots to do on and by the water here – head to Matosinhos Beach to relax and watch the bright blue waves crash against the shore. Hop on a boat cruise to see the six famous bridges across the Douro River, or combine two of the city’s draws and opt for a port river cruise, which will have you tasting the nominal fortified wine as you cruise the placid waters.
Line your stomach with a francesinha – a behemoth of a sandwich packed full of meats and cheese and topped with a gravy-like sauce – or head to restaurants like Cozinha das Flores, Semea by Euskalduna and Tábua Rasa to get a feel for how young chefs are cooking modern Portuguese food in the city. Once you’ve worked up a thirst, head to Kopke, the oldest port wine house dating back to 1638, or Cockburn, one of the largest wine caves in the area, to try some of the local tipple.
Where to stay:
Torel Palace Porto; torelpalaceporto.com
