Discover the best winter sun destinations for your next getaway

12 incredible winter sun destinations from the UK

As the days draw in and temperatures drop, why not boost your mood and your vitamin D levels with some winter sun destinations? Whether you fancy days on the beach, the peaceful countryside, city sightseeing or some combination of the three, there are plenty of winter sun holidays to consider. And, while long-haul is always an option, several short-haul destinations also promise some elusive sun rather closer to home.

1. Canary Islands
2. Balearic Islands
3. Madeira
4. Malta
5. Egypt
6. Maldives
7. Dubai
8. Mexico
9. Dominican Republic
10. California
11. Barbados
12. Seychelles

Furthermore, for those looking for a quick and vibrant getaway, city breaks offer the perfect solution. These breaks allow you to immerse yourself in the culture, cuisine, and character of a new city, often without the need for lengthy travel. From exploring the historic streets of European capitals to enjoying the bustling markets and nightlife of more exotic locales, city breaks are an ideal way to experience something new and exciting, even during the winter months.

Best winter sun destinations in Europe

1. Canary Islands

Canary Islands holidays are a popular winter sun destination year-round choice, celebrated for their dramatic volcanic landscapes and unique black sand beaches, offering a distinct and memorable getaway.

Sunseekers fleeing colder northern climes should head to Gran Canaria and Tenerife, which both enjoy average winter temperatures of 22°C. Party-lovers might consider trading the slightly lower average temperatures of Lanzarote for some of the island’s famous nightlife.

Meanwhile, Fuerteventura, and particularly the dunes and expansive beaches of Corralejo National Park, is a great choice for a more peaceful break in the Canary Islands.

How long's the flight?

4 hours 30 minutes from London

2. Balearic Islands

With winter temperatures averaging between 14°C and 16°C, the Balearic Islands are a great choice for travellers looking to escape the rain, sleet and snow. Winter is the perfect time to explore the islands on foot or by bike, and also a great opportunity to see some of the best attractions, such as the cathedral in Palma or the pretty port of Mahón, without having to trek around in the scorching heat.

Majorca holidays are renowned within the Balearic Islands – which also include Minorca, Ibiza, and Formentera – for offering extensive hiking trails and world-class cycling opportunities. In Majorca, try the route from Port de Pollensa to Cap de Formentor for stunning views and an unrivalled workout.

How long's the flight?

2 hours 15 minutes from London

3. Madeira

While Madeira might not be a sun and beach spot in winter, it certainly promises some sunshine with temperatures hovering around the mid to late teens throughout the winter.

Visit the annual Christmas market in the capital, Funchal, for a seasonal experience you won’t find in colder northern climes. And, whether viewed from land or the deck of a boat, the New Year’s Eve firework display is just as unmissable.

Boat trips around the island are as popular in winter as at other times of year, while hiking through Madeira’s lush semi-tropical forests is often most comfortable during the cooler months.

How long's the flight?

3 hours 55 minutes from London

4. Malta

Enjoying around twice as many hours of sunshine annually as London, Malta is well worth considering for a winter break. Average winter temperatures of between 17°C and 20°C are ideal for enjoying the island in the absence of its summertime crowds.

The tiny capital, Valletta, with its grand Baroque architecture, is easy to explore on foot. Alternatively, a guided Segway tour offers a rather different means of locomotion. The winter months are ideal for climbing, both on Malta and its smaller neighbour, Gozo. Try the gorge in Mgarr ix-Xini for spectacular sea views.

How long's the flight?

3 hours 15 minutes from London

5. Egypt

December in Egypt, with its temperate 21°C average, is ideal for visiting. The Red Sea resorts like Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada are less crowded, perfect for diving enthusiasts who frequent spots like Thistlegorm and the Blue Hole. Sharm El Sheikh offers vibrant nightlife and pristine beaches, while Hurghada is famed for its water sports and sandy shores.

Inland, the ancient Pyramids at Giza and the Valley of the Kings near Luxor are must-sees, revealing the country's pharaonic past. A Nile cruise offers unique views of Egypt's heritage and landscapes, while Cairo's museums, particularly the Egyptian Museum, provide deep insights into its history.

In short, Egypt in December blends adventure with cultural exploration, making it a compelling destination for divers, history buffs, and those seeking the warmth of its sunny climes.

How long's the flight?

4 hours 45 minutes from London

6. Maldives

Winter temperatures rarely drop below 24°C in the Maldives. With around 1200 islands, there’s plenty of choice: try Cocoa island for diving over coral reefs or Landaa Giraavaru for sea turtles.

Maldives holidays, known for their idyllic private islands like Baros, are perfect for romantic getaways, with Veligandu island boasting some of the most picturesque overwater bungalows. Away from the beaches, attractions like the Grand Friday Mosque and the fish market in Male, the capital, offer interesting and diverse excursions.

How long's the flight?

10 hours 25 minutes from London

7. Dubai

For guaranteed winter sun and average daily temperatures of 25°C, Dubai holidays offer an unparalleled experience.

Whether you fancy paddleboarding, camel riding or splashing in the sea, its Arabian Gulf beaches have something for everyone. Try Kite Beach for amazing views of the Burj Al Arab or why not combine shopping with sunbathing at La Mer.

Away from the beach, Dubai’s shopping malls, restaurants, and nightlife are legendary, and a trip into the desert to see the sunrise over the dunes is simply unmissable.

When planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates, researching the best areas to stay in Dubai is essential for an unforgettable experience.

How long's the flight?

7 hours from London

8. Mexico

With average temperatures rarely dipping below 22°C, Mexico is an excellent choice for a winter sun holiday.

As well as cocktails on the beaches of Cancún and Cozumel, why not visit some of Mexico’s Mayan ruins, trek in the Sierra Norte Mountains or swim in the man made pools at the petrified waterfall of Hierve el Agua? Located near Oaxaca, the white rock cliffs that form this waterfall are as Instagram-ready as anything you’ll ever see!

For a truly unique experience, consider Tulum holidays, where the allure of ancient ruins meets the serenity of beachside relaxation, offering an enchanting escape from the ordinary.

How long's the flight?

10 hours 40 minutes from London

9. Dominican Republic

Average daily temperatures in winter in the Dominican Republic regularly top 28°C. This makes the beaches an obvious draw for holiday makers: try Punta Cana if you like combining your sunbathing with golf, or Cabarete Bay for water sports.

And don’t miss exploring the spectacular interior of the island, which includes Pico Duarte, the tallest mountain in the Caribbean. The colonial architecture, and especially the Gothic cathedral, make the Dominican Republic’s capital, Santo Domingo, another must-see.

How long's the flight?

8 hours 30 minutes from London

10. California

The sheer size of California means there’s plenty of it to explore. Average winter temperatures vary across the state but, if around 25°C sounds good, try Greater Palm Springs in the Coachella Valley, south of Los Angeles.

Filled with palm trees, surrounded by mountains and overlooked by an aerial tramway, it’s the place to go for some 1950s-style Hollywood glamour. Alternatively, why not go further north to Sonoma County and explore California’s wine country?

How long's the flight?

10 hours 30 minutes from London

11. Barbados

If it’s heat you’re after, what about Barbados? Averaging 29°C in winter, you’ll surely want to spend all day lounging on its glorious beaches.

In terms of sightseeing, the crystallised limestone formations in Harrison’s Cave are one of the most popular attractions, as are tours exploring the island’s colonial-era past.

Back on the coast, try Shark Hole for one of the island’s most dramatic beaches or Carlisle Bay for scuba diving.

How long's the flight?

8 hours 50 minutes from London

12. Seychelles

Winter temperatures in the Seychelles hover around 27°C. Understandably, most visitors come for the beaches, and there’s plenty of choice across the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles’ archipelago.

The beautiful and isolated Petite Anse is well worth seeking out, especially if you like snorkelling or have young children. Other attractions include giant tortoises and the mountain rainforests of the Morne Seychellois National Park.

If you want to island-hop, Mahé is a good initial base and also lets you visit the capital, Victoria.

How long's the flight?

10 hours 15 minutes from London