Is it just us or do these icy mornings seem to be less bearable than ever? With winter in full swing, you can get that summer feeling back with our last minute holidays to some of the best winter sun destinations. Luckily, there are plenty of warm winter destinations in Europe for you to choose from!
If you’re thinking ‘where’s hot in December in Europe’ then you’ve come to the right place. There are still toasty destinations to be had in November, December, right through to the chilly nights of January!
Finding a sunny shore doesn’t mean you have to sit on a long-haul flight to the other side of the world. When looking where to go for winter sun luckily for us in the UK we don’t have to look much further than our next door neighbours in Europe.
Malta
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Although it may not seem like a typical winter holiday destination, did you know Malta is blessed with more than 300 days of sunshine every year? That’s right, some of the highest average hours of sun in Europe with temperatures of up to 23 degrees. Not only that, its 6000 years of history makes it one of the best places if you’re looking for some winter sun with a cultural twist.
A quick 3 hour flight is all it takes and you could be wandering the stunning streets of Valletta, island hopping between Gozo and Comino or experiencing the famous Blue Lagoon. What’s even better is during the winter months you can do it all crowd-free. So why not book a last minute holiday to Malta today?
Cyprus
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Having one of the mildest winters in the Med, the island of Cyprus can quite easily steal the show when it comes to European winter sun destinations and is one of the best places to spend winter in Europe. Catching nine hours of rays a day with average temperatures of 24 degrees, it’s a safe bet for everyone after some off-season sun.
In less than 5 hours you could be building yourself a winter tan on one of its many beaches. Not only that − uninterrupted views, less crowds and minimal chance of people photo-bombing your holiday snaps make the winter season an ideal time to take in the islands age-old sights.
Costa del Sol
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Trade in the summer’s crowded coastline of tourists for an authentic winter getaway in Costa Del Sol. Soaking up around 320 days of sun every year, there’s no wonder it’s named Spain’s Sunshine Coast. Its winter sun holiday temperatures reach up to a pleasant 16 degrees and can be found after an effortless 2.5 hour flight.
Although the sea may not be warm enough to swim in at this time of year, visiting Spain during the winter means you’ll pretty much have the beach to yourself. Whether it be for strolling, sunbathing or dipping your toes in, you can enjoy it in the peace and quiet. Beaches and sunshine aside, you’ll also have plenty of sightseeing opportunities, a day trip to Gibraltar is a must.
Canary Islands
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With sunshine guaranteed almost all year round, the Canary Islands hold their title as one of Europe’s best winter sun destinations. As well as 20 degree heat, the islands have a winning combination of action-packed activities, making a fantastic winter sun destination for family holidays.
Whether you fancy camel riding in Gran Canaria’s desert-like landscapes, access to a whole new world in Lanzarote’s underwater sculpture museum or a ride on the rapids at Europe’s largest waterpark in Tenerife − the Canary Islands have got it covered. You can grab yourself a deal by booking a last minute holiday to the Canary Islands and with a flight time of 4 and a half hours, you’ll be there in no time. Check out our full guide here and see which one tickles your fancy.
So, if you’re in need of some Vitamin D and want to jet off on a winter escape in Europe, then check out our last minute getaways. Your next holiday is closer than you think…
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