Top Winter Sun Destinations to Escape the Cold

Winter in the UK can be long, dark, and chilly—but it doesn’t have to be! If you’re dreaming of warm beaches, blue skies, and a break from the frosty weather, a winter sun getaway might be just what you need. Whether you’re looking for the best winter sun destinations in Europe, affordable escapes, or long-haul paradises, we’ve got you covered.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top winter sun destinations, including cheap winter sun destinations, best-value spots, and the hottest places to visit from the UK—perfect for October through March.

Why Choose a Winter Sun Holiday?

Before diving into the best locations, let’s look at why a winter sun trip is worth considering:

• Escape the cold – Swap grey skies for sunshine.

• Boost your mood – Vitamin D does wonders in darker months.

• Avoid peak-season crowds – Enjoy quieter beaches and better deals.

• Perfect for short breaks – A long weekend can feel like a real escape.

Now, let’s explore the best winter sun destinations for every month and budget.

Best Winter Sun Destinations from the UK

1. Canary Islands, Spain

(Best for: October – March, cheap winter sun destinations, best European winter sun destinations)

The Canary Islands are a top pick for UK winter sun destinations, offering warm temperatures year-round.

• Tenerife – Great for families, with beaches and Mount Teide.

• Lanzarote – Stunning volcanic landscapes and sunny weather.

• Gran Canaria – Diverse scenery, from dunes to forests.

With short flights (4-5 hours) and plenty of affordable resorts, it’s no wonder the Canaries are a favourite.

2. Madeira, Portugal

(Best for: December – February, good winter sun destinations, best value winter sun destinations)

Known as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” Madeira boasts mild winters (18-22°C), lush landscapes, and fewer crowds than the Canaries. Perfect for hiking, wine tasting, and coastal walks.

3. Malta

(Best for: October – March, winter sun destinations Europe, historic charm)

Malta offers sunshine, rich history, and a relaxed vibe. Valletta’s architecture and Gozo’s beaches make it ideal for culture and sun seekers.

Best Long-Haul Winter Sun Destinations

4. Dubai, UAE

(Best for: December – February, hot winter sun destinations, luxury escapes)

If you want guaranteed heat (25-30°C), Dubai delivers with luxury resorts, desert safaris, and world-class shopping.

5. Cape Verde

(Best for: January – March, cheap winter sun destinations, beach & adventure)

Just six hours from the UK, Cape Verde offers African warmth, volcanic islands, and vibrant culture—great for a mix of relaxation and adventure.

6. Thailand

(Best for: November – March, best winter sun destinations December, tropical paradise)

For long-haul travellers, Thailand’s islands (like Phuket and Koh Samui) provide sunshine, stunning beaches, and affordable luxury.

Best Winter Sun Destinations by Month

October: Late Autumn Sun

• Cyprus (25°C) – Still warm, great for beach breaks.

• Morocco (22-28°C) – Marrakech for culture, Agadir for beaches.

November: Early Winter Escapes

• Canary Islands (23°C) – Reliable warmth close to home.

• Egypt (Red Sea, 26°C) – Sharm El Sheikh for diving.

December: Festive Sunshine

• Tenerife (21°C) – Christmas in the sun.

• Barbados (29°C) – A luxury Caribbean escape.

January & February: Peak Winter Getaways

• Madeira (20°C) – Ideal for nature lovers.

• Maldives (30°C) – Ultimate tropical retreat.

March: Spring Warm-Up

• Algarve, Portugal (18-20°C) – Early spring sun.

• Dubai (28°C) – Last chance for winter heat.

Cheapest Winter Sun Destinations

If you’re on a budget, consider:

• Turkey (Antalya, off-season deals)

• Greece (Crete, Rhodes – mild winters)

• Tunisia (Affordable all-inclusive resorts)

For best-value winter sun destinations, book early or look for last-minute deals.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re after best winter sun destinations in Europe, long-haul luxury, or budget-friendly breaks, there’s a perfect spot for you. From the Canary Islands to Thailand, escaping the UK winter has never been easier.