Where to find last minute winter sun in Europe

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!

Whether you’ve got annual leave left over or you just need to escape these gloomy evenings, there’s plenty of toasty destinations and they don’t need to invovle a flight to the other side of the world!

Check out our top picks for some last minute winter sun in Europe. Plus, we’ve got some great deals!

Malta

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 European winter sun with a cultural twist.

A quick three 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 and swap the dark evenings for fascinating sights?

 

Cyprus

Having one of the mildest winters in the Med, the island of Cyprus can quite easily steal the show when it comes to a spot of winter sun in Europe. Catching nine hours of rays a day with average temperatures of 24 degrees, you’ll be returning home with a golden tan. There’s views, history, culture and of course plenty of chance to party, why wouldn’t you take advantage?

Cyprus’ beaches are truly a wonder too, offering somewhere to lay out your towel and sip away at cocktails with a gorgeous view. Not only that − less crowds and minimal chance of people photo-bombing your holiday snaps make Cyprus a great pick for winter sun, and an affordable one!

 

Costa del Sol

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 and is one of the most popular areas for a holdiay in Spain. 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, swimming 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, – and for this, a day trip to Gibraltar is a must!

Canary Islands

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, and family-friendly hotels making the Canaries a fantastic winter sun destination for families. What’s more, you’ll reach all of the islands within a 4 hour flight meaning it’s not too far if you’re travelling with young ones.

Gran Canaria offers a great selection of holiday resorts and some seriously gorgeous beaches ripe for sunbathing – even in the winter! What’s more, being an UNESCO World Heritage as a Biosphere Reserve, Gran Canaria boasts spectacular landscapes with numerous wildlife and plants so there’s much to see for those adventurous holiday types.

Lanzarote is another great pick and is ideal for winter sun for the family. Home to several parks, including the popular Rancho Texas Park and Aquamarine, all the family can be kept happy. There’s natural sights too like the impressive Timanfaya National Park – and holidaying here in the winter means much less crowds at all these attractions.

Speaking of less crowds, a spot of winter sun in Tenerife is always good as it means less queues for the rides at Siam Park, which is in fact, Europe’s largest waterpark.

 

So, if you’re in need of some Vitamin D and want to jet off on a winter holiday in Europe, then check out our incredible last minute deals and make the most of the exclusive savings you’ll make through Holiday Hypermarket. Your next holiday is closer than you think…