where to travel in winter for sun

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best winter-sun destinations

By Olivia Morelli

Summer may be well and truly over in the UK as back to school season begins but it's just getting started elsewhere in the world. Or better yet, it's continuing in some places that are closer to home – where it's possible to grasp onto a sunny holiday right up until November. From tropical islands to desert escapes, we’ve collated the destinations that offer warm weather during the winter, as well as smart places to stay, covetable culture and a brilliant food scene. For more ideas, see our guide to the best winter sun destinations in Europe .

The Maldives

Flight time: 10 hours When to go: December–April Average winter temperature: 28°C

There is no bad time to go to the Maldives. There is nothing bad about going to the Maldives at any time ever. They are perfect little islands, whichever you choose – tiny castaway-fantasy sandy islets, mostly with one immaculate resort, with various levels of splendidness. Even people who think they will get bored in the Maldives end up loving the Maldives. They're family-friendly , and for blissed-out beachy nirvana, they're hard to beat. And they're at their best during the British winter, and a quite do-able 10 hours away.

Where to stay: It's hard to beat Gili Lankanfushi, which sits on what might be the most beautiful lagoon in the country. We also love Alila Kothaifaru on the natural island of Kothaifaru, with its spattering of jungle-y vegetation between villas creating a truly private retreat. For some of the best snorkelling around, the Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa is located in one of the Maldives’ deepest, most northern atolls, ensuring plenty of marine life to peek at among the fluttering corals. See more of the best hotels in the Maldives

See more of the best hotels in the Maldives

Flight time: 4 hours 30 minutes from London When to go: March–May; October–November Average winter temperature: 22°C

The eastern Mediterranean Sea around Cyprus may be chilly in winter, but the island gets plenty of sunshine all year, so there's a good chance you'll get T-shirt weather even in the coldest months. From March, the island's flowers start to bloom, and there's barely another visitor in sight. It's a great option for families too as it's only a short hop from the UK and there are plenty of child-friendly hotels once you're there.

Where to stay: Anassa in Latchi made our Gold List this year as one of the best hotels in Europe . The elegant series of white buildings is particularly beloved for its multigenerational appeal thanks to a super slick kid's club and effortlessly chic adult-only spaces. For a child-free stay, adults-only Amavi is a glossy beachside bolthole with a fantastic rooftop sushi restaurant. Foodies will like Cap St George , with its seventh-floor restaurant offering incredible sea views and a regular rotation of Michelin-star chefs flown in from across the globe. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Cyprus .

Flight time: 7 hours from London When to go: November–March Average winter temperature: 26°C

For year-round sunshine, spotless beaches and impeccable service a short hop away, Dubai is an obvious choice. The Palm, a manmade sweep of beach packed with superb hotels, each with its own immaculate patch of beach, is perfect for family holidays . It's not all glass and shopping malls in Downtown Dubai: the Old Souk is a warren of glittering jewellery and pots, and the peaceful Dubai Creek hints at a time before the seven-star hotels and indoor ski slopes. Two new creative districts (Dubai Design District and Al Quoz) have gained the attention of the international art scene, too. To see the city in its best light, go in November, when it's not too humid and you can happily bronze by the pool all day.

Where to stay: The newly-renovated Bab Al Shams now has a bright, contemporary aesthetic that remains true to its Arabian roots, with new restaurants and fantastic sunset views. For some old-world glamour, there's the maximalist marble-clad palace Jumeirah Al Qasr , which made our Gold List in 2023 . And it’d be remiss not to mention Atlantis the Royal , the self-described ‘most ultra-luxury experiential resort in the world’, which saw Beyoncé perform at its opening celebration. See our best hotels in Dubai guide for more.

Flight time: 16.5 hours from London When to go: Bali is hot year-round. It is rainiest (and thus cheapest) November–April; but even when it rains, it's in short, tropical bursts. Average winter temperature: 27°C

Bali is the heavenly island with earthly pleasures. Back-to-blissed-out spa retreats so fine that Bali has developed a style all of its own: clean and contemporary, dark wood and linen whites. Parties, from flip-flop full-moon raves in hidden-away coves to the cool Potato Head Beach Club and The Lawn at the boho beach spot that everyone's talking about, Canggu . There's glamping here now, and chic boutiques. There's art in Ubud . There are spas absolutely everywhere. There are beaches, of course. And the pools here are something else: a classy, jungly deep green, shrouded by tropical leafery. Those incredible horizon pools high up overlooking rainforest – that's classic Bali.

Where to stay: Book ahead and you could nab a night in one of the world's most popular Airbnbs, The Hideout , a magical looking two-story bamboo hut in Selat. In Ubud, Capella Ubud is an African-inspired jungle camp home to 22 one-bedroom suites with sprawling outdoor decks and private plunge pools. At the edge of the Uyung River, Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve has a gilded, glittering on-site temple, spacious villas with jungle views and spa treatments by renowned intuitive healer Ibu Ketut Mursi. See our edit of the best hotels in Bali for more.

Flight time : 13 hours from London to Mahé (including one stop) When to go : October–November Average winter temperature: 29°C

Adrift in the Indian Ocean , a thousand miles from the nearest coast of Africa , the Seychelles are the ultimate fantasy-island escape.  The archipelago has year-round heat and sunshine, as well as its fair share of rain. The wettest months in the Seychelles are November to March, but temperatures never get too oppressively hot (meandering around 24ºC at night and up to 29ºC in the daytime, year round). October is a great month to go for a hit of sunshine, before it gets too rainy, and the air is fresher.

Where to stay: Its private-island resorts – North Island , Denis Island , the Six Senses Zil Pasyon – are possibly the most sensational anywhere in the world, a honeymooner 's dream (even William and Kate honeymooned at North Island, though the hotel is too discreet to admit it). For more options, see our guide to the best Seychelles hotels . 

Flight time: 12 hours from London  When to go: May–December Average winter temperature: 28°C

What Mauritius has over its Indian Ocean neighbours, the Seychelles and the Maldives, is its size and natural diversity, and the fact that you can do it independently. Its beaches are still potted tropical paradises, and here you can rent a car and go exploring to find your own deserted cove, drive or hike up into its rainforested hills, take a boat out and go snorkelling or dive in its extraordinary underwater world. It has a bit of a reputation for overly groomed resorts – but it also has some of the finest beach hotels in the world, and you can find little boutique hotels right on the beach, too. Perhaps the best months to go to Mauritius are September, October and November, when it's hot but not too hot (averaging around 25-28ºC in the day, a cooler 17-19ºC at night), and at its driest (the rainy season in Mauritius is from January til April).

Where to stay: The most spectacular stay might be Shangri-La Le Touessrok , a private island escape with two pristine golf courses, a pagoda-style spa and a sushi restaurant. For a fun Soho house-style atmosphere try LUX* Grand Baie – there's a poolside DJ, a rooftop athletics track and a nightclub underneath its fabulous Asian restaurant Ai KISU. See our best hotels in Mauritius guide for more.

Canary Islands

Flight time: 3 hours 30 minutes from London When to go: Year-round Average winter temperature: 22°C

It's summer all the time in the Canaries, where temperatures average in the low-mid 20s all year round. As well as the well-known destinations – Gran Canaria , Tenerife , Fuerteventura, Lanzarote (pictured) – there are three smaller islands that are less visited and less spoilt: La Palma , El Hierro and La Gomera . They don't appear on the average British holidaymaker's mental world-map, and make for interesting exploring and winter sunshine.

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton in Tenerife made our Gold List in 2022 – a pastel-pink, Moorish palace mansion of a hotel with eight restaurants, a handful of swimming pools and a decadent spa.

Thai islands

Flight time: 13 hours from London When to go: November–March Average winter temperature: 32°C

The islands of Thailand are the stuff of castaway fantasies. White sand, rustic-chic beach shacks, a hammock gently swaying between two palm trees as a turquoise sea laps at the shore… There are dozens to choose from, and each offers something quite different, from the super-spas of Koh Samui to barefoot beach-bum in Koh Lipe, while Koh Lanta remains quietly chilled out with lovely places to stay on beaches that stretch for miles.

Where to stay: On Phang Nga, Six Senses Yai Noi has created the perfect castaway experience via a collection of stilted thatched-roof villas and a hilltop half-moon infinity pool. If you're headed to Phuket, Amanpuri has a special location on Pansea beach, plus an impressive selection of restaurants and a world-beating spa. For something the kids will love, the railway-themed InterContinental Khao Yai Resort has upcycled vintage railway carriages serving as suites, and an old-timey ticketing booth for a lobby. See the best hotels in Thailand for more.

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Adam Turner , CN Traveller

Connor Sturges , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

Flight time: 10+ hours from London When to go: November–March Average winter temperature: 24°C

Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, on the Atlantic Coast, has a magical mix of ancient and buzzy-right-now cultures. Swim in its green ceynotes, discover temples, salute the sun beneath the glitterball gods with fashionistas on the beach in Tulum . Mix it up in colonial Mérida . Go barefoot on Isla Holbox . The best time to come is during Britain's darkest months.

Where to stay: Beachside retreat Hotel Esencia , beloved by celebrities such as Bella Hadid and Lupita Nyong’o, made our gold list of the best hotels in the world for 2023. Likewise Habitas Bacalar , a small – just 34 rooms – off-the-beaten track stay that hosts local vendors for guests experiences and uses traditional Mayan cooking techniques within its restaurant. For more options, see our pick of the best hotels in Mexico .

Taghazout, Morocco

Flight time: 3 hours 50 mins from London When to go: December–March Average winter temperature: 21°C

Once a slightly rough-around-the-edges hippie town, Taghazout is now Morocco ’s top surf destination. The sleepy fishing village on the Atlantic coast hasn’t lost any of its old-fashioned charm, and goats still wander gormlessly through the dusty tangerine-coloured streets while fishermen haul in their daily catches from rickety blue and white boats. For serious surfers, winter marks the beginning of peak season, and as the swell rips up, the break-chasing crowds arrive. Temperatures usually hover around a very pleasant 20°C, but Saharan winds often push the mercury up much higher. The places to stay keep getting smarter, offering surf lessons in the day and rooftop yoga at sunset. And even if you’re not into surfing, there are plenty of beautiful hiking trails nearby, camel rides along the beach and excellent fishing too.

Where to stay: 15-room, Afro-inspired Munga Guesthouse is owned by former pro surfer Mounir Bouallaq.

Flight time: 7 hours from London When to go : October–March Average winter temperature: 24°C

The mid-Atlantic archipelago of Bermuda , mythical setting for Shakespeare's Tempest , is a land of pink beaches, pink houses and brightly coloured shorts. It is Caribbean in nature, though it's much closer to the UK – so shorter flight times – and has a distinctive character all of its own. Its pink-sand beaches are lovely, too. Those along the South Shore are the glory of the island. Horseshoe Bay is the best known and most crowded, though Warwick Long Bay, a short way along the coast, is just as alluring. At one end of Horseshoe there is a little patch of sand the size of a playground, cut off from the rest of it by a rocky hillock.

Where to stay: We like the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club , a 19th-century retreat set right on the capital's harbour.

Flight time: 10 hours from London When to go: Year-round Average winter temperature: 21°C

'The Golden State' is an appropriate nickname; California is one of the sunniest of US states, with mild winters, little rain and plenty of sunshine, especially in the south. For a classic USA road trip , hire a convertible and hit the Pacific Coast road. State Route 1 runs 550 miles from Leggett all the way down to Malibu. It has famously beautiful views much of the way, and the best section is that from San Francisco through Monterey and San Simeon to San Luis Obispo (where the road drifts inland), although north of San Francisco the route is wilder and less crowded. Aim to drive southwards, to be closer to the sea.

Where to stay: In Los Angeles, The Hoxton has brought a healthy dose of European flair to the West Coast. For a classic stay, Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica has come to embody the finest of So-Cal's barefoot luxury. In San Francisco, Proper is a buzzy stay beloved for its eclectic decor and perennially-packed rooftop bar, Charmaine’s. See our edit of the best hotels in California for more.

Bora Bora, Tahiti & French Polynesia

Flight time: One full day from the UK When to go: Year-round (though March is particularly rainy on Tahiti). Average winter temperature: 28°C

In both geography and spirit, just about as far from a drizzly British winter as you can get. French Polynesia is made up of 100-odd little islands in the South Pacific Ocean, the best-known of them Tahiti and Bora Bora. They are out of this world. Castaway fantasy, ringed by reefs; the water unbelievable shades of turquoise blue; the hibiscus flowers Gauguin bright; everything bright and light and hyper-real.

Where to stay: The Brando is the area's biggest-hitting hotel – owned by Marlon Brando and set on a stunning, living coral reef. 

South Africa

Flight time: 12 hours from London When to go : November–March Average winter temperature: 27°C

It might be in another hemisphere, but South Africa is in the same time zone as the UK – which means no jet lag. In Cape Town and beyond there is stunning scenery, breathtaking beaches, as well as world-class wines and fabulous food.The country's most celebrated stretch of coastline is the glorious Garden Route. However in the other direction, a road trip through the Western Cape makes a rewarding alternative and the weather is particularly good in December and January. The less-explored Overberg Coast has wide beaches, good restaurants and wineries, moody seas at the southernmost tip of Africa, and a sensational coastal reserve that even the locals don't know about.

Where to stay: In Cape Town, check into The Silo , which sits on top of the Museum of African Art. Just over an hour's drive away Leeu Estates (pictured) in Franschhoek is an arty stay for post-safari relaxation. 

Rajasthan, India

Flight time: 8 hours from London When to go: October–March Average winter temperature: 25°C

With its cities of pink, blue and gold, its romantic lakeside palaces and desert camps, Rajasthan is India 's brightest and most beautiful state. Go there and get carried away, whether you're getting stuck into the hustle-bustle streets of Jaipur , escaping into the desert around Jaisalmer, or floating wistfully across the lake in romantic Udaipur.

Where to stay: Six Senses Fort Barwara took almost a decade to transform the 700-year-old fort into a 48-suite hotel. Its small garden grows everything from desi roses to cauliflower, cabbage, guavas, and jamun, while the ancient temple spa blends Ayurveda with Six Senses’ inimitable touch. Read more at our Six Senses Fort Barawara review .

Flight time : about 10 hours from London When to go : November–December, and March Average winter temperature: 25°C

Once a hiding place for pirate treasure and prohibition liquor, Harbour Island in the Bahamas is a colourfully eccentric retreat where every night is a party and every day more vibrant than the last. The sand is pink, the turquoise water is home to green sea turtles and orange starfish, and yellow-throated birds fly about the trees. Days on the beach are long and lazy, and the time of day forgotten.

Where to stay: For a boutique stay, The Other Side is a small, gorgeous set of tents and shacks on Harbour Island. 

Tel Aviv, Israel

Flight time: 5 hours from London When to go: March–May; October–November Average winter temperature: 23°C

Israel enjoys around 300 days of sunshine a year – and although winter here may not be as scorching as some of the other big-hitters, if you come towards the beginning or end it’s still warm enough to lie on a beach. The modern Middle Eastern metropolis of Tel Aviv is just a five-hour flight from London, making it an easy long-weekend hop. With its skyscraper skyline, striking Bauhaus architecture, avant-garde art galleries, world-class restaurants and hedonistic after-dark culture, this is the Mediterranean’s very own version of Manhattan. Throw in 14km of beautiful coastline, and it’s easy to see why so many creatives are drawn to the vibrant city.

Where to stay: One-time 19th-century convent The Jaffa , in the city's Arabic district, is the most ambitious design hotel. 

Flight time: 5 hours 10 minutes from London When to go: February–May (south); March–May and September–October (north) Average winter temperature: 21°C

Jordan is full of surprises. The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, to give it its full name, has wonders both natural and ancient. It's true that much of the country is desert (seemingly endless Wadi Rum has even doubled as the moon in Hollywood movies), but there are also swathes of fertile land, bright and beautifully green. The waters of the Red Sea, off the coast of Aqaba, are bath-warm all year – and colourful, too, home to myriad fish, rays and turtles which make their home on the full-of-life coral reefs – and the best time to go for beach weather is February til May. Meanwhile, winters can be chilly in the north of the country, where snow caps the magnificent treetops of the Ajloun Forest Reserve; and the best months to go to ancient Petra, Amman and the north are March, April, May, September and October.

Where to stay: Feynan Eco-Lodge is one of the only places to stay under the stars at the Dana Biosphere Reserve.

Flight time: 7 hours and 15 minutes from London When to go: October–April Average winter temperature: 26°C

Oman is a less-glitzy, laid-back alternative to Dubai – only the landscape here is more dramatic: wide open spaces punctuated by oases and desert towns; valleys fragrant with rose and sandalwood; hidden coves with golden beaches and brilliant-turquoise water. The capital, Muscat dazzles in the year-round sunshine with its grand mosques and bustling souks. Up in the far north-east, the Musandam Peninsula has some of the best diving in the Middle East (whale shark and turtles are the big draw).

Where to stay: Six Senses Zighy Bay is on a golden sweep of sand backed by the impossibly steep Al Hajar Mountains. To feel truly isolated, camp in handmade Bedouin tents among the epic sand dunes of the Wahiba Sands south of Muscat – it's the best way to find authentic Oman.

Flight time: 13+ hours from London When to go: October–April Average winter temperature: 27°C

With its lovely Caribbean climate, guaranteed warm and sunny days and very little rain, Cuba ’s weather is at its most reliable during the UK winter. The beaches down on the south coast may get the best sunshine and draw the biggest crowds, but there’s plenty beyond the palm-fringed stretches of sand. Havana ’s got its colourful pastel-hued buildings, cigars and Cadillacs, while the perfectly preserved Spanish colonial architecture in UNESCO-protected Trinidad makes the city feel lost in time. Elsewhere, there’s no end of nature reserves, lush forests, mountains and tobacco plantations to explore.

Where to stay: Gardens Havana is a sweet guesthouse in a faded, renovated townhouse in Havana. 

Western Australia

Flight time : 20 hours from London When to go : November–March Average winter temperature: 35°C

The north-west coast of Western Australia is remote (it closed its boarders to the rest of Australia for over two years during Covid), beautiful and largely uninhabited. It has the least-visited of all Australia's coral reefs, Ningaloo Reef, a pristine 260km stretch of coral where thrilling encounters are fairly routine, whether you're diving or snorkelling. Turtles nest from November to March.

Where to stay: Como the Treasury in Perth is the city's smoothest stay, with a rooftop restaurant and beautiful bedrooms. 

Flight time: 14+ hours from London (via Johannesburg) When to go: November–March Average winter temperature: 27°C

Astonishingly, Namibia gets barely half a million visitors a year – while neighbouring South Africa receives almost 10 times that number. But as travellers are slowly beginning to discover, this is one of Africa’s most fascinating destinations: rugged, intrepid and dramatic. More than a dozen new camps and lodges have opened up over the past few years, each one rocking a more creative approach to conservation. Namibia is usually touted as a year-round destination, but in truth the searing summer temperatures can be oppressive. November to March may coincide with the country’s wettest months, but with the rain comes a stunning transformation of scenery. The arid desert morphs into a lush green carpet; swarms of migratory birds arrive, and animals start breeding. Rain is localised and comes in short, sharp bursts, so it’s unlikely to have too much of an impact on your trip.

Where to stay: Habitas Namibia offers an intriguing blend of safari , wellness and culture. For more, see our favourite off-grid safaris in Namibia .

Flight time: 16+ hours from London (via Houston) When to go: December–April Average winter temperature: 30°C

Belize ’s peak season coincides perfectly with the UK’s coldest months. Although temperatures remain high all year-round, January to March has the lowest chance of rain, making this an ideal time to explore this tiny adventure-packed nation. Bordered by Guatemala and Mexico, Belize attracts a fraction of the crowds of its neighbours, yet the natural and cultural diversity of this former British colony is truly compelling. It’s home to Mayan ruins, national parks, nature reserves and the Belize Barrier Reef (which forms part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the world’s second largest), all begging to be explored. The country’s jungly interior contrasts with a dazzling Caribbean coastline and hundreds of small cayes and islands, while a flurry of fresh hotels have all put eco-tourism at the top of their agenda.

Where to stay: At rattan- and plant-filled Itzana .

Lamu, Kenya

Flight time: 17+ hours from London, via Nairobi When to go: December–February Average winter temperature: 32°C

When the Foreign Office slapped a travel ban on Lamu after the 2011 Somali terrorist attacks, it fell off the map. But now with sanctions lifted, crowds are starting to flock back to this far-flung African island that still feels totally unchanged by time. It’s long been a popular beachy bolt-on after an epic Kenyan safari, attracting curious travellers rather than flag-following sightseers. There are no vehicles, just donkeys and dhows, and the heady mix of Arab, Persian, Chinese, Indian and European cultures is mesmerising. After a few days in the UNESCO-protected Old Town, head south to the deserted beaches or drift over by dhow to the nearby Robinson Crusoe islands of Manda and Kiwayu. From December to February, temperatures average a steamy 32°C, making winter the prime time to come and enjoy the postcard-perfect empty sands and Lamu’s laid-back rhythm.

Where to stay: Seafront Peponi was built in the 1930s and has been a hotel since the 1960s, with an incredible pool, shady verandah and a list of former guests that includes Mick Jagger and Jerry Hall. 

Zihuatanejo, Mexico

Flight time: 17+ hours from London (via Mexico City) When to go: December–April Average winter temperature: 30°C

Over on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, two beach towns sit side-by-side: Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo . They couldn’t be more different. Ixtapa, stacked with high-rise hotels and modern infrastructure was purpose-built for tourists, while, just round the bay, Zihuatanejo has kept hold of its old-world charm and sleepy-fishing-village feel. It’s a low-key beach retreat with genuine Mexican flair; fisherman flog their catches on the shore each morning, and the town centre is filled with historical cobbled streets and a buzzy market. Clutches of boutique properties sit right on the beach or overlooking the bay – which is a hit with surfers. It’s hot all year round, but October to April sees the least rain, making this a perfect spot for a hit of winter vitamin D.

Where to stay: We love the Thompson , which spotlights interiors from Mexico City-based studios.

Gulf of Chiriquí, Panama

Flight time: 13+ hours from London When to go: December–March Average winter temperature: 32°C

The Gulf of Chiriquí is nothing new – travellers have long been flocking to the white-sand beaches and dazzling turquoise waters of Panama ’s Caribbean archipelago. But the Pacific side is still significantly less discovered. There’s Islas Secas, a highly exclusive, privately-owned archipelago of 14 islands offering pristine beaches and one of the largest coral reefs in the Pacific, making it the perfect spot for diving and snorkelling. It's just under an hour from Panama City by twin-otter plane and is totally worth it for the privacy and seclusion once you arrive. The best time to come is from January to April, when the wet rainy season gives way to a few months of glorious sunshine and scorching temperatures.

Where to stay: Philanthropist Louis Bacon opened Islas Secas , home to four individually designed Casita sites and, three Tented Casitas, all located on one of the islands and sleeping up to just 24 guests.

São Tomé and Príncipe

Flight time: 20+ hours from London (via Lisbon and Accra) When to go: December–February Average winter temperature: 30°C

Marooned off the coast of Gabon, these tiny unspoiled islands together make up Africa’s smallest and least-visited country. But it’s thanks to the tiny tourist numbers that São Tomé and Príncipe still retain the allure of somewhere almost completely undiscovered. These jungly islands are home to more endemic species per square mile than anywhere else on earth – making them a bit like Africa’s very own Galápagos . January, February and March are the hottest months, when the dry and dusty winds blow straight in from the Sahara.

Where to stay: When South African billionaire Mark Shuttleworth opened up his first boutique hotel, Bom Bom , back in 2013, a new breed of luxury traveller arrived; since then, he’s opened two more, Roça Sundy and Praia Sundy . They’re all part of a wider project to create jobs and boost tourism – so you’ll be doing good while on holiday too. 

Flight time: 13.5 hours from London UK (via Johannesburg, South Africa) When to go: April–November Average winter temperature: 26°C

This southern African country has the most astonishing coast – the beaches of Mozambique are out of this world. Great stretches of sand, wild and dune-backed; lapped by the beautiful Indian Ocean where humpback whales breach, where you can swim with manta rays in the Mozambique Channel. In the little islands of Mozambique's Bazaruto Archipelago , a protected marine park towards the south, there are sand-floor bars and simple thatched lodges, and the most sensational sandy islets in bluer-than-blue waters, like wisps of cloud in a summer sky. On the beaches of northern Mozambique you feel as though you're at the end of the world; off this coast are the dreamlike Quirimbas Islands, including heavenly Vamizi

For those keen to tread where others have not, Mozambique has a certain caché – savvy travellers have been returning, in small numbers, to this coast for the past 20-odd years – and a few new spruced-up hotels are starting to appear – but are keen to keep it all a secret. We say go now, before the secret is out.

Where to stay: In one of the 17 prettily stripped-back bandas on the southern peninsula's tip at Machangulo Beach Lodge .

The Philippines

Flight time: 15.5 hours from London When to go: February–May Average winter temperature: 31°C

More than 7,000 islands. Deserted white-sand beaches lined with tilting coconut trees. Protected marine parks with pristine reefs like giant tropical fish bowls. Surf breaks so phenomenal they draw the world's best pros. Low-key but slick hotels and villas. And some of the friendliest people on the planet. This is the glory of the Philippines .

Where to stay: Amanpulo , in the Palawan archipelago, is a blissed-out private island hotel.

Bahia, Brazil

Flight time: 13 hours from London When to go : October–February Average winter temperature: 31°C

On Brazil 's Atlantic seaboard, far from the tourist trail, Bahia has deserted beaches, rainforests full of wildlife, cocoa farms, a surfers' town and several barefooty resorts that you'll never want to leave. Head to the small town of Itácaré for surfing, sailing, walking and birdwatching; to Trancoso for people-watching and beach-partying.

Where to stay: Built between a deserted beach and a black lagoon, Butterfly House is an eco-luxe guuesthouse made up of five green-grass-roofed bungalows on bamboo stilts, enveloped by thousands of citronella plants.

Flight time: 10 hours from London When to go: November–May Average winter temperature: 29°C

It may not the obvious choice for a beach holiday, but all the better for it: Senegal , in West Africa, has some beautiful golden sands, fantastic surf, great music and delta wildlife. Go for a holiday of life-changing experiences. 

Where to stay: Sobo Badé hotel in Toubab Dialaw is an utterly serene stay.

Flight time: 14 hours from London When to go: November–May Average winter temperature: 25°C

In Central America, the ancient Mayan cities of Guatemala , hidden deep in rainforests full of colour and exotic noise, make Rome seem as if it was built in a day. From jungle temples to beachfront bars, the delights of this magical country make for an unforgettable journey.

Where to stay: La Lancha is made up of 10 bungalows scattered on the hillside above Lake Petén Itzá.

Flight time: 18 hours from London When to go: Year-round. February is particularly good. Average winter temperature: 24°C

Yes, Hawaii is hot all year round. And yes, it has a lot of swanking five-star resorts that cater to your every whim and could be anywhere in the world. Some people – a lot of people – like those places; and why not? For others, there is everything else Hawaii has to offer. The real Hawaii. The best beaches, the best surf, the best walks through rainforests or up volcanoes.

Where to stay: Ask any Hawaii loyalist and a common answer is Mauna Lani , one of the most beautiful hotels in the US .

Kerala, India

Flight time: 9 hours from London When to go: November–March Average winter temperature: 27°C

Calm, cool and green: Kerala is not how you imagine India to be. A meandering voyage through the backwaters of this southern state is a wonderful way to see the subcontinent. Old Fort Cochin is bound to delight, and there are some lovely beaches, too.

Where to stay: Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort in Kovalam is one of our favourite spas in India .

Siwa Oasis, Egypt

Flight time: 5 hours and 15 minutes from London When to go: October–December Average winter temperature: 25°C

The oases of Western Egypt have always been havens of refuge in a beautiful but unforgiving landscape; and with the advent of small, low-key hotels in the area, designed to respect and reflect the local environment, their capacity to refresh is greater than ever. Head to Siwa Oasi s for its ancient temples, salt lake, hot springs, shimmering heat and big, shifting dunes.

Where to stay : Adrère Amellal , a simple hotel with 40 rooms in the Oasis. 

Flight time: 19 hours from London When to go: November–February Average winter temperature: 25°C

Everyone is seduced by Laos's misty, mystic mountainscapes and its historic city, Luang Prabang From the moment the country opened its doors to tourism in the 1980s, visitors have talked in reverent tones about the sleepy town far upcountry on the banks of the Mekong River. It captivates. It weaves a spell. It carries some flavour of Indochina before the modern world got there.

Where to stay: Rosewood Luang Prabang is made up of safari tents surrounded by jungle. 

Flight time: 14 hours from London When to go: November–April Average winter temperature: 32°C

If you want to see South-East Asia at its most beguiling, you need to head to Cambodia . Go to watch dawn break over the jungle temples of Angkor (pictured), and for the authentic traditions of its villages and laidback capital, Phnom Penh. But also go for its immaculate beaches.

Where to stay: Shinta Mani Wild consists of 15 tents across a private state. See our pick of where to stay in Cambodia for more. 

Flight time : 11 hours from London When to go : December–May Average winter temperature: 26°C

Ecuador is less developed than Costa Rica , so expect an adventure — one with everything its Latin cousin has to offer, and more besides. Want wildlife? Take a luxury cruise into the Ecuadorian Amazon. Want surf ? Ecuador’s 1,400 miles of Pacific coast has plenty of that. And then there’s Quito , a much smarter capital than San Jose: a heady blend of steamy salsotecas, grand Andean vistas, and fabulous hotels in ravishingly restored colonial mansions (none more elegant than the peerless Casa Gangotena). You may have heard of another of its under-the-radar destinations, the Galapagos, too. Ecuador’s different geographical zones have their own, distinct weather patterns, but Europe’s winter is when the weather is warmest in Quito and the Highlands; driest in the jungle; and sunniest on the coast. Above: Laguna de Quilotoa is a beautiful crater lake in a secluded location of the Ecuadorian Andes.

Where to stay: Want an eco-stay? The five-star Mashpi Lodge is a sustainable, all-glass stunner hiding out in a cloud forest.

The Andaman Islands

Flight time: 14 hours from London  When to go: January–March Average winter temperature: 29°C

Every bit as dreamy as the Maldives, but more satisfyingly off-radar, the Andaman Islands have smartened up. This tropical archipelago — geographically closer to Myanmar and Indonesia than its owner, India — has always been brochure-beautiful, but only recently blessed with luxury digs. Those far-flung beaches and impossibly pure waters were more reward for intrepid surfers and gap-year backpackers until now. But it was only a matter of time before this primitive paradise turned upscale. Havelock is the most developed of the 572 islands, the vast majority of which are off-limits to visitors (and populated by indigenous tribes). It’s here that Indian luxury hotel giant Taj has newly scattered 72 thatched villas under a rainforest canopy, fringing the fabled Radhanagar beach, widely said to be among the best in the world.   Winter is the clearest, driest time of year — particularly January to March — with temperatures around 29C.

Where to stay: Jalakara is a boutique, teak-and-concrete sanctuary tucked into a banana plantation, where there’s no WiFi, no TV — just utter, nature-swathed serenity.

Karnataka, India

Flight time : 9 hours from London When to go : October–April Average winter temperature: 27°C

Karnataka’s beach scene is every bit as beautiful, but rather less glowsticky, than Goa ’s, though it shares the same coast (the state of Karnataka is further south). Gokarna beach, often listed among India’s finest sandy crescents, is chilled-out, powdery and palm-fringed; beach-goers more hammock-swinging yogis than UV-painted ravers. Better still, there’s more to explore beyond browning and sun salutations. Hampi ’s magical, ancient temples and bizarre, perilously-stacked boulders have fascinated wanderers and vagabonds for hundreds of years.

Where to stay: Try trekking and then de-stressing at the Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa , in the emerald, coffee- and spice-planted hills of Coorg.

Flight time: 12 hours from London When to go: November–February Average winter temperature: 27°C

Vietnam may well be one of the most fascinating, beautiful and charming countries you will ever visit. Saigon is wonderful, colonial and quirky; Ho Chi Minh City has one of the world's best food scenes. And the coast of Vietnam – oh, the coast! The beaches are extraordinary. So much untouched beauty. Little islands and dramatic bays to explore by boat. Out-of-this-world beach-chic places to stay, right on the sand. And even though it's easy-going and luxury can be found everywhere, it still feels like a secret, still some sense of discovery about a trip there.

Where to stay: On a stretch of under-rated Vietnamese coastline, Regent Phu Quoc is a luxury gem with all the trimmings for an idyllic long-haul fly-and-flop.

Flight time: 7 hours from London When to go: October–March Average winter temperature: 28°C

Ghana’s ‘Africa for beginners’ reputation tips a hat to the ease of a trip here — stable politics, developed towns, functional transport. But it misses all the other things that make Ghana great. Like the capital, Accra, a spirited city stuffed to the gills with red-hot food, nightlife and art. See Urban Grill, Afro-Latin fusion helmed by Andrew DiCataldo, of Manhattan’s once-loved Patria; rooftop club Carbon, owned by Nick House of Mahiki; and Gallery 1957, with its knack for edgy homegrown shows that blow up on social media. Then there’s the beaches: bonfire parties and street food at Accra’s own Labadi. Winter months are hot — temperatures average around 28°C — so you’ll be glad of a bracing Atlantic dip. Alright, there’s no Big Five, but there are safaris: walking with elephants, world-class birding, humpback-whale-watching. Plus there’s that handy hour’s time difference in common with South Africa, with only half the flight time.

Where to stay: The soothing White Sands Beach Resort & Spa , an exclusive private members’ club just an hour’s drive from Accra.

Tangier, Marrakech

Flight time: 3 hours 40 minutes from London When to go: March–May Average winter temperature: 17°C

From the 1920s to the 1950s, port city Tangier was a playground for the maddest and baddest bohemians: Beat icons like Burroughs and Kerouac; glamorously demon-plagued playwrights from Tennessee Williams to Jean Genet. But it wasn’t just the romance of boxy white-washed buildings fanning along a too-blue African shoreline that brought them. The city’s status as a near-lawless ‘international zone’ made strong drugs, strong cocktails and other strongly sordid entertainments all-too-readily available. The Moroccan monarchy later enacted punishment: the city was left to rot. A new king and a new attitude have revived it, widespread restoration inviting a smarter vitality, where cafés-cum-bookshops and speakeasies retain a raffish-cool, without segueing into seedy. In a hilltop casbah, El Morocco Club is where the leisure class make easy work of looking beautiful while slurping oysters and sipping Mojitos. And though chaotic Marrakech isn’t short of designer riads to escape to, Tangier is an infinitely jauntier option, and with T-shirt temperatures to boot.

Where to stay: Hôtel Nord Pinus is all handmade fabrics, traditional Fez tiles and antique furniture. 

Read about our road trip in Morocco

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The world’s best places for winter sun, from October to March

From the deserts of Dubai to the beaches of Cape Verde, here are the best winter-sun destinations for warm weather and long, sunny days

Cold weather isn’t for everyone. Sure, there’s a certain cosiness to layering up, huddling around a fireplace or wandering around one of the world’s best Christmas markets . But plenty of us would much rather be on a deckchair, lazing around in toasty sunshine year-round.

If you’re feeling the chill right now and on the hunt for some proper winter sun, well, we’ve got just the thing. Based on factors like average temperatures, amounts of rain and snow, daily hours of sunlight and seasonal hotel costs (as well as the research of travel blog ParkSleepFly and money advice service Forbes Advisor ), we’ve come up with the best destinations for winter sun. (At least while it’s winter in the northern hemisphere.)

Some of the destinations featured are warm all year round; others win out by virtue of being in the southern hemisphere, meaning warmer temperatures when it’s cold up north. Keep reading to find out which winter-sun destinations came out top – and the average temperatures in each from October to March.

RECOMMENDED:

🏔️  Where to go this winter , according to travel writers ❄️ The best places to visit in December 🎊 The best places to visit in January 🫶 The best places to visit in February

An email you’ll actually love

The very best winter sun destinations

Average temperature: 21C / 69F

Best month to visit:  February

Have you ever seen a picture of Dubai where it isn’t really, really sunny? The UAE city boasts loads of sunlight (an average of 8.82 hours per day, in fact) and really high average temperatures – it’s a solid winter-sun choice.

Bangkok, Thailand

Average temperature: 18C / 64F 

Best month to visit:  December

Offering similar levels of sunlight and warmth to Dubai, Thai capital Bangkok is a little cheaper. It’s often better to visit Bangkok in winter, when it’s manageably warm, rather than springtime and summertime (when it’s really, really hot).

Cape Town, South Africa

Average temperature: 19C / 67F

From October to March, it’s summer in Cape Town. Being Africa’s southernmost city, at this time of year the South African destination also has long, sunny days (with 10.22 hours of daylight, on average) and a notable lack of rain – in other words, it’s a top winter-sun spot.

Cancun, Mexico

Average temperature: 25C / 77F 

Best month to visit:  November

Cancun might have a rep for party antics – but if you don’t go during spring break (ie. if you go in wintertime) you get all the beauty of this Mexican beach spot without the loutish young ‘uns. Dreamy, eh?  

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Average temperature: 16C / 60F

Best month to visit:  October

A little cooler than fellow Emirati winter sun spot Dubai, Abu Dhabi is remarkable for just how little rain it gets, getting just 0.3 inches per month. It is mostly desert, after all.

Gran Canaria, Spain

Average temperature: 18C / 65F 

Aside from being the biggest of the Canary Islands and having loads of fascinating volcanic landscapes and countless white sandy beaches, Gran Canaria is known for its winter warmth. There’s extra convenience here for Europeans, who can get here very easily and won’t need a visa to visit.

Bali, Indonesia

Average temperature: 28C / 82F

Hitting exceptionally toasty average daytime temperatures of 28C, the Indonesian island of Bali is also, just in case you didn’t already know, legendary for being a literal-heaven-on-earth sort of place. It also boasts an average of 12.5 daily hours of sunlight throughout winter.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Average temperature: 23C / 74F

Another southern-hemisphere spot, Buenos Aires has the highest average winter temperatures of anywhere else on this list. It also boasts long days (averaging 10.76 hours of daylight) and, as one of South America ’s biggest and buzziest cities, more than enough stuff to be seeing and doing .

Jaipur, India

Average temperature: 16C / 61F

The capital of Rajasthan state is semi-arid and not far from proper desert, so its winters don’t really get much rain – just 0.3 inches per month, in fact. Which means that the weather is usually perfect for seeing such renowned Jaipur sights like the majestic Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal, as well as all the rest of the Pink City’s numerous Unesco sites.

Krabi, Thailand

Average temperature: 28C / 82F 

Best month to visit:  January

From its temples and caves to its beaches, the resort town of Krabi on Thailand’s Andaman coast makes for a fab winter destination. According to Forbes Advisor, Krabi is made even more attractive by its low costs – on average, seven nights in a hotel here costs just over £50 ($61).

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Average temperature: 18C / 64F

Sharm is known for having turquoise waters and cloud-free skies pretty much all-year round – it’s no wonder this place is such a stalwart for European holidaymakers. The Egyptian city also has the benefit of being reasonably close to mainland Europe, providing a swift escape from the continent’s chilly north.

Phoenix, USA

Average temperature: 12C / 54F

It isn’t called the Valley of the Sun for nothing: Phoenix’s year-round sunshine is legendary. The largest city in  Arizona  gets a whopping 330 days of sunshine per year (more than any other US city) and it rarely gets too cold, either.

Alicante, Spain

Average temperature: 11C / 52F

Of course, it’s also possible to get some winter sun without leaving mainland Europe . Alicante, on Spain’s southern Mediterranean coast, is low on rain (1.02 inches per month) and high on sunshine (7.61 hours of daily daylight) throughout the season – plus, you’ll avoid most of the crowds that dominate the place during peak tourist periods.

Hat Yai, Thailand

Average temperature: 27C / 81F

Hat Yai is one of Thailand’s more under-the-radar destinations for no good reason at all. Aside from its ginormous buddha, spectacular Ton Nga Chang waterfall and beautiful beaches, the Thai city also has average temperatures of 27C – and winter (specifically January, February and March) is outside the rainy season, too.

Praia, Cape Verde

Average temperature: 22C / 71F

Out in Cape Verde, smack-bang in the middle of the Atlantic, Praia is one of the warmest and driest (averaging just 0.14 inches of monthly rainfall) destinations on the list. Its name translates simply as ‘beach’ in Portuguese, dropping a big clue to its appeal – but it’s also known for its historic neighbourhoods.

Veracruz, Mexico

Average temperature: 23C / 73F

It ain’t just the beach hotspots in Mexico that make for the best winter sun getaways. The port city of Veracruz – known for its rich blend of indigenous and Afro-Cuban cultures – is both warm and boasts little rain (between 0.5 and 1.5 inches per month) throughout November, December, January and February.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out Worldwide

• All Time Out Locations
• North America
• South America
• South Pacific

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

The Best Places to Visit This Winter for a Sun-Soaked Escape

By Hayley Maitland and Boutayna Chokrane

We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.

It's that time of year: We’re officially past the solstice—meaning some winter sun is most definitely in order. Here, find the best places to visit this winter for a much-needed hit of vitamin D.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Eden Roc at Cap Cana , the sole Relais & Châteaux property in the Dominican Republic, is an exclusive beachfront hotel on the white sands of Punta Cana, making it the ideal winter getaway. Go snorkeling in the wonders of the Caribbean Sea, embark on a zip-line eco-tour, or set sail on a catamaran into the sunset. The resort and beach club also boasts an equestrian center, tennis courts, and a Jack Nicklaus Signature Punta Espada, an 18-hole par-72 golf course. 

Seeking a wellness retreat? Eden Roc’s “Lifestyle” program beckons with Natura Bissé spa treatments, fitness classes, and serene activities like meditation, hypnosis, and beekeeping. When night falls, have drinks at Riva Bar with live piano music, and then dinner at La Palapa, perched on the oceanfront point. Plus, amid all that opulence, this sanctuary remains family-friendly: Enjoy complimentary bikes, culinary and mocktail-making classes, and a cinema night, among an endless list of other amenities. 

Cape Town, South Africa

By Tatiana Dias

By Charley Ross

A 20-minute road trip from Stellenbosch favorite,  Babylonstoren , Sterrekopje’s 11 rooms are set within 50 hectares of Edenic grounds—complete with vineyards and orchards where guests are invited to gather fruit at sunrise each day. (Even the spa products here are made using spices, herbs and other wonders from the gardens—think calming wildflower baths and olive-pip skin scrubs.) Founded by Dutch partners Nicole Boekhoorn and Fleur Huijskens (who also happen to be a couple), this is a place for a reset without restrictions; you can trek up Sterrekopje mountain in the morning before ending the day with a farm-to-table feast. Much is written about the activities on offer here, and with good reason—everything from pottery classes to yoga and breath work sessions are available—but it’s the interiors that truly won us over. A collaborative effort by founder Nicole and interior designer Greg Mellor, every room is filled with personal touches; take the antique writing boxes and stationery in each one, with guests encouraged to journal throughout their stay. Even if you only check in for the shortest two-night “journey” offered at  Sterrekopje , you leave feeling a decade younger.

Bali, Indonesia 

If you’re looking to reconnect with nature after months cooped up indoors, set your sights on Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape from March onwards, when the rainy season nears its end. Constructed entirely from recycled wood, the 16 mountainside lodges, or balés, at this eco-resort 40 minutes north of Ubud feature neither windows nor doors, meaning guests fall asleep in four-posters overlooking the forest canopy and soak in copper bathtubs while fireflies dance above them in the dusk. (There are also dedicated “Hideaway” spots scattered across the property, where guests are encouraged to meditate surrounded by birdsong and frangipani.) The food offering, meanwhile, aims to be zero waste, with Balinese chef Eka Sunarya heading up The Open Kitchen, a largely plant-based restaurant that champions produce from hyperlocal farms: think nourishing moringa soup, presented in a coconut shell, or vegetables wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over charcoal. As for the Toja Spa? It’s spread across several bamboo pavilions, all of which overlook the Ayung River. Opt for a restorative scrub—done with rice and ginger—or a meditation session at the foot of a private waterfall.

South Malé Atoll, Maldives

A drop of sand in the blue expanses of the South Atoll, Naladhu Private Island is the best place to live out Richard Branson fantasies—even in a crowded market of ultra-luxurious hotels. Just a 40-minute speedboat journey from Malé and yet a world unto itself, there are just 20 neo-colonial suites here, all of which come with 24/7 butler service (or Kuwaanu), and give out onto the water, where fish (and, yes, the occasional shark) dart through the shallows. You would be forgiven for never leaving the privacy of your own room; celebrated sustainable architect and designer Yuji Yamazaki masterminded a refurbishment in 2021, with every suite now boasting outdoor showers rimmed with lush tropical greenery; turquoise swimming pools where guests can enjoy floating breakfasts (a rite of passage in the Maldives) while the waves crash in the background; and deep standalone baths, which your Kuwaanu will fill with rose petals if the mood strikes. 

It’s worth braving the grueling two-minute stroll to the western side of the island to try the cuisine at The Living Room; the off-menu policy at Naladhu means you can go wholly off-piste, if nothing listed takes your fancy (although it would be a mistake to skip the Maldivian curry with lobster). And if you’re worried about cabin fever? Two other resorts owned by the Anantara group— Dhigu and Veli —are accessible via lengthy overwater walkways (although only residents are allowed on Naladhu). Get there before Daphne from  The White Lotus checks in.

Weligama, Sri Lanka

Last year proved rocky for Sri Lanka, but the country is welcoming tourists once again. This is one of those winter destinations that truly has it all, and you would be hard-pressed to find a lovelier place from which to explore it than Malabar Hill . Opened in 2022 on a rewilded cinnamon plantation just north of small town Weligama, its villas are spread across a 33-acre estate, which is home to more than 500 species, including mongooses and Malabar hornbills. The décor is a celebration of Indian craftsmanship and Moorish design, complemented by views of rice paddies, the Indian Ocean, and lush forests. It would be worth visiting just to have sundowners at the teak hotel bar before heading out onto the terrace for a local fish curry.

Tulum, Mexico

There’s a host of design-focused stays launching in the Yucatán in 2023, but Casa Chablé may well be the most impressive. To begin with, it’s set in the UNESCO-protected Sian Ka’an reserve south of Tulum, whose cenotes, reefs, and jungles are home to everything from ocelots to manatees. Powered by renewable energy, each of its 10 rooms is comprised from sustainable, local materials such as Zapote wood and Galarza stone—meaning the exteriors blend seamlessly into the landscape—while interior designer Paulina Moran has filled each room with natural textures. The majority of guests arrive by boat—it’s a 30-minute trip through the mangroves surrounding the resort to get to its private dock—but the islet on which the hotel’s 10 rooms stand can be reached via car or helicopter, too. There’s lots to do here , from star gazing to spear-fishing—but when the beach is this paradisiacal, why do anything else but laze?

Queensland, Australia

Sometimes it’s hard to figure out where to begin with Australia—three million square miles of diverse geographical wonders—but there’s no going wrong with a reservation at Silky Oaks Lodge . Reopened at the close of 2021 by the same team behind Kangaroo Island’s Southern Ocean Lodge , the 40-room escape is nestled amongst the blue quandong trees and “wait-a-while” vines of the Daintree Rainforest, whose tropical mangroves and billabongs date back an estimated 180 million years. Each of its treehouses is perched above the Mossman River, over which turquoise Ulysses butterflies flit through the ylang ylang-scented air; it’s worth the price of a room just to recline in your private hammock, listening to the roar of the cicadas with one of the hotel’s specialty gin-based cocktails in hand. If you do nothing else during your visit, make sure to at least join a guided First Nations tour, in which Kuku Yalanji guides introduce visitors to the history—and countless natural marvels—of the Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation.

Bahia, Brazil

Trancoso has lured an haute bohemian crowd since the ’70s, and 50 years later, the appeal of this Bahia hotspot has yet to diminish (helped by its 15 miles of gold sand beach, with fewer crowds than Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana). Enter the Fasano group, whose 40-room Trancoso property opened a 20-minute drive from the historic Quadrado at the beginning of 2022. Its elegant white bungalows are spread out over a nearly 750-acre property, a third of which constitutes a designated nature reserve—and the majority of suites offer views of Itapororoca beach from their rooftop decks. You can and should spend most of your trip in the Atlantic surf—taking a break occasionally for fresh ceviche and caipirinhas on the sand at the hotel’s beach kiosk—but there’s also a pool in view of the waves that’s worth your attention (and guaranteed to be lined with genetically blessed Brazilians sunning themselves in the 86-degree warm weather). If you missed out on Cancún in its heyday, make a point of visiting before the year is out.

Marrakech, Morocco

Just a three-and-a-half-hour flight from London, Marrakech is a mainstay on lists of the best places to visit in winter, and with good reason. Temperatures in Yves Saint Laurent’s erstwhile home hover in the seventies throughout the wintertime, and any chillier days can happily be whiled away indulging in some retail therapy in the souk or visiting world-class museums such as MAP Marrakech , home to more than 3,000 exquisite pieces of jewelry from around the world, or the Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden . The city’s grand dame hotels— Royal Mansour and El Fenn —remain as sumptuous as ever, but for something a little different, consider heading 45 minutes outside of the city proper to Caravan Agafay . The latest opening from the Habitas group is surrounded by the lunar landscape of the Agafay desert, with the Atlas mountains visible from its eco-luxe Berber-inspired tents.

San José, Costa Rica

Frequent travelers to Central America often sing the praises of Nicaragua, Costa Rica’s more laidback, affordable neighbor—but a trip to Hacienda AltaGracia is a good way to remind yourself why the world fell in love with Costa Rica in the first place. Opened in November 2021, this 50-room hotel on an old coffee farm in the foothills of the Talamancas is the embodiment of pura vida : a day here might include horseback riding through the Arabica trees and sugarcane fields of the hacienda, taking a river bath in the Calientillo River (with optional wild bergamot massage), or undertaking a birdwatching trip in search of caracaras and quetzals. In every direction, the landscape is mind-blowing in its beauty. (It’s no surprise to learn that AltaGracia is actually located beside one of the world’s Blue Zones, a place where the average human life is significantly longer than normal.) The real selling point here, though, is the 20,000-square-foot spa , designed in imitation of a greenhouse and filled with moss, bougainvillea, and ferns. Every visit begins with a Casa de Agua treatment, with herbal and local clay exfoliation, before guests move on to everything from maderoterapia—a wooden massage technique practiced across the region—to gong baths. 

More Great Living Stories From Vogue

The Best Places in the World for Solo Travel

Candice Bergen on What It Was Really Like to Attend Truman Capote’s Black and White Ball

Never miss a Vogue moment and get unlimited digital access for just $2 $1 per month.

The Curious Case of Kate Middleton’s “Disappearance”

Sofia Richie Grainge Is Pregnant! And It’s a….

Get updates on the Met Gala

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Vogue. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

DESTINATIONS , FEATURES

21 of the best winter sun destinations to escape the cold

Pack The Suitcases uses affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

I wanted to put together a post about some of the best winter sun destinations to give my readers some ideas for where to escape the miserable cold weather. When people say ‘winter sun’, it can conjure up images of somewhere tacky and rubbish, with little to see or do other than staying inside a hotel complex and lying around on the beach. That’s not my idea of a holiday at all. I want a bit of warmth on my bones in the depths of winter as much as the next person. But I don’t want to compromise on interesting things to do, culture, and great local food. So this list covers places that suit my wishes, and hopefully yours too.

This post is a bit different from my usual inane ramblings, by the way. As well as sharing my very very favourite of all the winter sun destinations that I’ve visited myself, I thought I’d get some inspiration for places I’ve not been to yet. So I asked around a handful of fellow travel bloggers and they kindly obliged me with plenty of ideas. So voila – here we have this huge list of the best winter sun destinations. I hope it helps you decide where to go to thaw out for a bit.

So put the kettle on, crank the heating up to get into the spirit of things, and have a read. It might take you a while to pick just one place out of all these sunny delights…

The best winter sun destinations: flight under 5 hours

1. madeira, portugal.

Wildly underrated, Madeira has all the ingredients you need for a relaxing break: culture, coastal views and a very mild climate year-round. Although it isn’t as blazing hot as some of the other winter sun destinations I’ve included here, Madeira’s temperatures even in the depths of January and February tend to be around 18 to 19°C. And it’s always bright and sunny. 

You can use the capital city of Funchal as a base, taking public transport for days out around the rest of Madeira to see traditional villages in the valleys and mountains or fishing villages around the coast. There are lots of hikes you can do around the island’s levadas (irrigation systems), with stunning views of the sea from many.

The city centre of Funchal itself is typically Portuguese. It’s more akin to the laid-back air of Porto than the bigger capital of Lisbon, with café culture and a relaxed pace of life. The food is wonderful and there are so many fantastic restaurants and bars to choose from. I won’t bang on too much about everything you can do in Madeira on a winter break here because I have it all in great detail in other posts. Have a read about:

• 45 things to do in Funchal, Madeira
• the best restaurants and cafés in Funchal
• the best bars in Funchal
• how to spend a week in Madeira: an itinerary
• the best beaches in Madeira .

As you can see, I’ve written absolutely loads about Madeira on the blog. I’ve become something of an expert on it after many years of visiting, and I just adore it. That’s why it’s first on this epic list.

Looking for where to stay in Madeira?

I massively recommend my favourite B&B, Quinta São Gonçalo , which is just outside the old town in Funchal. It’s a gorgeous old building and more importantly, it’s pink. I always stay there when I go and wouldn’t choose anywhere else.

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Eva from Not Scared of the Jetlag .

Morocco is a great destination for a winter escape from the UK. It is only a few hours away by plane and almost guaranteed to be sunny in the winter months. Your only problem will be to choose an area, as there are so many great places to visit in Morocco .

The Atlantic coast is amazing, with beaches for miles and almost no people at that time of year. Fresh fish is at every corner for yummy lunches or dinners. The best cities on the coast are Essaouira and Rabat. There is enough to see for a few days in both, and they’re easy to reach from the main airports in Casablanca and Marrakech. Temperatures will be around 15 to 20°C and it doesn’t get very cold at night.

If you are more of a big-city person, head to Marrakech or Fez. But beware, the nights will be very cold and houses are not insulated. So bring a warm jacket for the evenings. Sightseeing in these cities offers a lot of culture. In Marrakech, the main highlight is the Bahia Palace; in Fez, head to the Madrasa Bou Inania. Both show off traditional Moroccan architecture with beautiful tile work and wood carvings.

The Sahara is another great place to visit in winter. Again, daytime temperatures average around 15 to 20°C, but nights might drop down to the low single digits. The sunsets in winter are the most beautiful. The clearest skies you can imagine offer amazing stargazing opportunities. In mid-December, you might even get lucky and catch a big meteor shower.

Looking for where to stay in Morocco?

I’d go for one of these beautiful riads (traditional fancy guest houses): Numa Marrakech (around £125 a night) or Riad Antara (around £250 for a very swanky suite, great for a special treat). They are both in Marrakesh.

3. Malaga, Spain

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Joanna from The World In My Pocket .

One of the closest winter sun destinations from the UK is the South of Spain. Flights to Malaga from Manchester Airport usually take around three hours, and the airport on the Spanish sunshine coast is 10 minutes away from the city centre.

Malaga makes a fantastic winter sun destination because the temperature remains mild in the cold months and the city is famous for having over 300 sunny days a year. There are plenty of things to do in winter in Malaga. From the end of February, you can even sunbathe, as the temperature during the day reaches 20°C.

If you visit Malaga in winter, you’ll get a chance to experience the city without any big crowds. Malaga is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. The city has two museums dedicated to him, one in his memorial house and one hosting a large collection of his works. On Sunday afternoons, visiting the Picasso Museum is free of charge.

Visiting the Alcazaba is another must-do thing in Malaga. This is where you will get the most beautiful views over the city and the sea. Sometimes, on a clear day, you can see all the way to Morocco – as mentioned above!

Another great thing you can do in winter in Malaga is play golf. Because the summer months are too hot to walk around for hours, many golf lovers fly to Malaga in winter. There are seven golf courses around Malaga , the closest one being on the outskirts of the city.

When it comes to food, Malaga has some really good restaurants and tapas bars. One of them is El Tapeo de Cervantes, for which in summer is almost impossible to find a reservation.

Looking for where to stay in Malaga?

I’d go for Minimal Rooms (around £135 a night) or Be Mate Málaga Centro (around £100 a night).

4. Gran Canaria – one of the best winter sun destinations for an active getaway

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Yulia from Miss Tourist .

With 320 sunny days annually, it’s pretty hard to compete with Gran Canaria as one of the best places to go for a warm winter holiday. Golden sand beaches, clear blue water, volcanic landscapes, world-class resorts, interesting culture and mouth-watering foods, you name it and Gran Canaria has it.

One of the best things about Gran Canaria is that there are many different regions of the island and every one of them is different. You could holiday there for years and years and never get tired of this unique destination.

When planning a holiday in Gran Canaria, the first thing you should decide is where to stay depending on what interests you have. For a quick rundown, Gran Canaria can be easily divided in half. In the northern part of the island, you will find lush green mountains and forests, whereas the southern part boasts desert landscapes with sand dunes and interesting rock formations.

Wherever you decide to spend your holiday, it is easy to rent a car and take day trips to experience all that Gran Canaria has to offer. It takes less than an hour to drive across the whole thing!

Although you might be tempted to spend your entire winter holiday lying on the beach with a cocktail in hand (nothing wrong with that), try to find some time for adventures. Go snorkelling on Las Canteras Beach, visit the Reserva Natural Especial de Las Dunas de Maspalomas to check out the sand dunes and spend at least a day in Las Palmas to visit some museums and appreciate all the historical buildings of the town.

Looking for where to stay in Gran Canaria?

I’d go for Hotel THe Lumm (around £90 a night) or VEINTIUNO Emblematic Hotel (around £140 a night). They’re both in Las Palmas, the capital of the island.

The best winter sun destinations: flight under 10 hours

5. praia, cape verde.

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Vicky from Buddy the Travelling Monkey .

The island nation of Cape Verde, also known as Cabo Verde, is made up of 10 islands and eight islets. It’s in the central Atlantic Ocean, roughly 385 miles (620 km) off the western coast of Africa. Santiago is the largest of the islands and on it is the city of Praia, Cape Verde’s capital.

Praia is a great destination to visit for a winter sun holiday. The rainy season in Cape Verde ends in October, so you don’t have to worry about that. Average temperatures range between 21 and 27°C.

There are a lot of things to do in Praia , as well as in the surrounding area. One of the top attractions is the Dona Maria Pia Lighthouse. Built in 1881, the octagonal lighthouse was recently renovated and there are plans to add a small museum. Praia’s historic centre is also popular; it has a pedestrian street named Rue 5 De Julho (Avenue 5th of July) that has colourful buildings, shops and restaurants.

While in the historic centre, visit the Museu Etnografico Da Praia (Ethnographic Museum of Praia). The museum is small but packed with so many great artefacts. On display are everyday items related to basketry, pottery, agriculture, and fishing. Praia also has a great beach, Quebra Canela Beach. It’s very popular with locals, and you’ll see families playing, couples hanging out, and people exercising. It is also very clean.

Cape Verde has four international airports, including one in Praia. Most flights have a layover in Lisbon.

Looking for where to stay in Praia, Cape Verde?

This is one of the more affordable places to stay and you can get some really lovely places that won’t set you back too much at all. I’d go for Hotel Cesaria (around £50 a night) or Casa Privada do Plateau (around £45 a night).

6. Cuba – one of the best winter sun destinations for a more unusual break

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Dave from Man Vs Globe .

Seemingly stuck in the 1950s due to an embargo-induced time warp, Cuba has been fascinating tourists with its retro aesthetic and revolutionary past for over half a century.

No trip to Cuba is complete without a visit to its bustling, colour-soaked capital of Havana. In the heart of the city, the pastel-hued streets of Habana Vieja remain much as they were in the days before the revolution, albeit a little more dilapidated. The American cars that cruise the streets and the neon signs advertising the nearest drinking spot give the feel of a country frozen in time. Beyond the vibrancy of the city streets, Havana is dripping in historical sites and fascinating museums that are a must-visit for history buffs.

Outside of the Island’s most famous city, visitors can experience a more laid-back approach to life in the lush greenery and tobacco plantations of Viñales or visit some of the Caribbean’s best-preserved colonial cities – Trinidad, Cienfuegos and Camagüey – where the ornate squares and cobbled lanes have changed little since the days when swashbuckling privateers occupied the island.

Although many tourists visit for the stunning resorts and powdered white sand beaches that occupy Cuba’s north coast, its true appeal is the nation’s atmosphere and culture. It’s a country that moves to a rhythm of Son Cubano, where you can start the evening watching a world-class ballet performance in a grand old theatre and end the night dancing salsa in a back-street bar; a country where art, literature, and poetry are ubiquitous and omnipresent.

Cuba is at its best from December to May when the sun almost perpetually shines. Post-Christmas, when northern Europe is feeling a sharp chill, Cuba enjoys blisteringly warm weather.

Looking for where to stay in Cuba?

It’s fairly tricky to find accommodation in Cuba, but El Candil Boutique Hotel in Havana (around £110 a night) is a good option.

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Kirsten from Kirsten Alana .

Egypt may not sit on the equator but it has no shortage of winter sun. It’s one of the sunniest places on Earth, where clear skies are the norm. In winter, there are more than 10 hours of sunlight on average per day, and temperatures often exceed 22°C. 

A good way to take full advantage of the sun and to see more of Egypt than you would by staying in one destination is to book a Nile river cruise. This is ideal for both solo travellers who want to make friends on board and couples who want a romantic way to visit Egypt. Companies such as Abercrombie & Kent offer itineraries that incorporate plenty of time aboard their aptly named Sanctuary Sun Boat IV. The sprawling rooftop comes with a pool and bar, which affords views of river banks that are emerald green year-round and colourful sunsets come evening.

On the way to Aswan, a Nile cruise will allow you to see the Necropolis of Thebes, the Colossi of Memnon, the Temple of Hatshepsut and more. The stops will provide almost more sun than most visitors can handle as shade is often lacking!

Don’t miss trying traditional koshari while in Egypt. Egypt’s national street-food dish consists of rice, lentils and pasta topped with tomato sauce and fried onions.

Looking for where to stay in Egypt?

If a cruise doesn’t take your fancy to see lots of Egypt and you’d rather stay in one or two places, check out New Memnon Hotel in Luxor (around £21 a night) or Eco Nubia in Aswan (around £70 a night).

The best winter sun destinations: flight over 10 hours

8. curacao, the caribbean.

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Elena from The Carry-On Chronicles .

The Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao is an ideal place to beat the winter blues. With a year-round, semi-arid tropical climate, travellers can enjoy comfortable temperatures around 28°C even in December, the island’s coldest month!

Curacao is a true paradise for nature lovers, offering numerous outdoor activities to help stave off cabin fever. First and foremost, those seeking some ‘Vitamin Sea’ will love swimming in the island’s warm turquoise waters. With nearly 40 beaches scattered throughout the island, there’s something for every beachgoer, from secluded Playa Gipy in Northern Curacao to popular party hotspots in the Jan Thiel neighbourhood . In addition, animal enthusiasts will love swimming among the majestic sea turtles at Playa Piskadó or seeing the beach pigs at Playa Porto Mari.

Beyond the sand and surf, Curacao is plentiful in natural wonders, from Watamula Hole, to the Jan Thiel Salt Flats, to Tomasito Cave and Hato Cave, to Christoffel National Park, the largest national park on the island. If you want to hike in the park, you’ll need to purchase entry tickets before 10am in order to avoid heat-related complications.

You should also pay a visit to Willemstad, the island’s colourful capital city. This UNESCO World Heritage site is most known for its historic port, colourful Dutch-inspired architecture, and Queen Emma Bridge, the island’s famous pontoon bridge.

Although Curacao isn’t necessarily regarded as a foodie destination, there are plenty of wonderful restaurants to enjoy on the island. For instance, BijBlauw is a perfect breakfast spot, serving up delicious banana pancakes and laid-back Mediterranean vibes. In the evening, travellers can catch a stunning sunset from atop Fort Nassau , one of the island’s top-rated restaurants, in a former 18th-century fort!

Looking for where to stay in Curacao?

I’d go for BOHO Bohemian Boutique Hotel (around £135 a night) or Terra Boutique Hotel Curaçao (around £130 a night).

9. Hawaii – one of the best winter sun destinations for nature

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Candice  from CS Ginger .

If you’re looking for one of the further afield winter sun destinations, Hawaii is a great option. From November to April, the temperatures range from 23 to 26°C. The rain does start in March and April so if you want to miss it, head over earlier in the year. 

There are six different islands in Hawaii that are considered tourist destinations: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and the Big Island. Each island has different activities as well as its own personality.

Oahu is considered to be the ‘Heart of Hawaii’ and is a common destination for first-time visitors to Hawaii. There are so many fun things to do on Oahu like Waikiki Beach, the North Shore, Hanauma Bay, and Pearl Harbor. It is the most touristy island though, so keep that in mind.

Another fun island to visit is the Big Island. The Big Island is home to Volcanoes National Park, the beautiful Hilo waterfalls, and dreamy Kona for beaches. There are so many adventurous things to do on the Big Island . One really fun adventure to do is a night dive with the manta rays!

Kauai is a great island to head to if you are looking to be in the great outdoors. It is full of valleys, mountains, waterfalls, and cliffs with plenty of exploring to do. Waimea Canyon is a popular spot to visit on Kauai.

No matter which island you choose, there are some activities in Hawaii you should not miss. Attending a traditional Hawaiian luau is a great cultural activity. Hawaii also has some of the best snorkelling in the world and is a great way to spend a day. Each island boasts many hiking trails through the lush rainforests, often ending at a waterfall.

Looking for where to stay in Hawaii?

I’d go for Hampton Inn & Suites Oahu in Oahu (around £180 a night) or Sea Mountain apartment in Punaluu (around £150 a night).

10. Belize 

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Nikki from She Saves, She Travels .

One of the best winter sun destinations is Belize. This small Central American country, just to the south of Mexico, is the perfect getaway for couples, solo travellers or a group of friends. It’s a tiny footprint, but it packs a punch!

Lush jungles are perfect for hiking and chasing waterfalls. Beautiful, palm-tree-lined beaches just beg to be explored. Ancient Mayan ruins fill pockets of the country, and tours provide a unique look into the history.

Belize City is home to the largest commercial airport. The country is friendly to tourism and very drivable, if you feel comfortable doing that. Otherwise, take public transport or arrange for a private transfer to your accommodation.

A stay in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye is the most common tourist destination. It’s a bit of a party city but gives all the beachy, warm winter vibes you’ll need for an excellent getaway.

For jungle adventures, consider San Ignacio. Tour the amazing Xunantunich Mayan Ruins where you can still feel the power of the temples today. Or take a chocolate-making class to learn the ways of the ancient Mayans.

A stay in Placencia is off the beaten path and offers the best of both worlds: easy access to gorgeous beaches and nearby jungles with waterfalls. Find the best snorkelling reefs at Laughing Bird Caye , a short boat ride from Placencia.

Belize is a delightful destination that’s the perfect escape in winter!

Looking for where to stay in Belize?

I’d go for PUR Boutique Cabanas (around £150 a night) or Alaia Belize Autograph Collection (around £330 a night), which are both in San Pedro.

11. Montego Bay, Jamaica

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Daniel from Layer Culture .

When on the lookout for the best winter sun destination that has direct flights from the UK, Montego Bay in Jamaica makes a great choice for anyone fancying a Caribbean getaway. Aside from spending your days relaxing on the lush white sands and swimming in turquoise blue waters, there are many other activities that you can take part in.

One of the popular things to do in Montego Bay is to take a stroll down the hip strip where you will find some of Montego Bay’s most exclusive shopping venues. This oceanside street is easily walkable and with venues such as Margaritaville , you can treat yourself to a reggae rum punch, some flame-licked jerk chicken, or any other dish that is bound to get you fired up for the rest of the day.

During the evening time, after you have watched the sizzling hot sun drop off the horizon, you can join one of the vibrant nightlife venues that stay open right up into the early hours of the morning. On Friday nights, Pier 1 is open to both tourists and locals for one of the liveliest parties that you’ll find, and it’s perfect if you like to listen to reggae music and want to experience the real Jamaican spirit on the dance floor.

Whether you visit in November or in the middle of January, a visit to Montego Bay can offer you some terrific winter sun and has something in store for anyone who is interested in visiting the Caribbean region. 

Looking for where to stay in Montego Bay?

I’d go for Polkerris Bed & Breakfast (around £140 a night) or Secrets St. James (around £490 a night for a special treat).

12. Bali, Indonesia 

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Jenifer from The Evolista .

If you’re looking for warm weather during winter, Bali definitely has it. They also have some rain too but it won’t stop you from having an amazing trip. Typically the winter rains come and go quickly leaving you with plenty of time in the sun.

One of the best things about a winter trip is taking advantage of low-season hotel rates (except the week from Christmas to New Year). It will also give you a chance to have a more authentic Bali experience without the crowds.

The island is split into distinct areas and a 7-day Bali itinerary will allow you to sample the best Bali has to offer. If you can stretch your trip a few more days, a trip to Nusa Penida, just off the Bali coast is a good addition.

Uluwatu is known for lovely beaches, surfing and beautiful clifftop views. One of the places with the best views is Uluwatu temple, perched high above the sea with an evening show that’s definitely worth a visit.

Ubud is known for amazing temples, hotels in lush settings, and the stunning Tegalalang rice fields. During the wet season, the rice fields are emerald green and gorgeous. Ubud is also a great place to chase waterfalls. Don’t miss Tibumana and Tukad Cepung waterfalls.

Canggu, known for its surf culture, has a cool, laid-back vibe, beach club parties, and amazing restaurants. For the ultimate foodie experiences, try Sa’Mesa and Ona Canggu . Not far from Canggu, Tanah Lot Temple is one of the prettiest places on the whole island. It’s an absolute must-see, especially at sunset.

Bali is a perfect place to warm up during winter and have an incredible holiday of a lifetime.

Looking for where to stay in Bali?

I’d go for Ubud Paradise Villa in Ubud (around £60 a night) or Udara Bali Yoga Detox & Spa in Canggu (around £36 a night).

13. The Maldives – one of the best winter sun destinations for a luxury escape

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Kerry from VeggTravel .

If you’re looking to escape for winter, then consider a luxurious break in the Maldives. Located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is made up of 26 atolls, which are chains of small islands made of coral reef. Not only does this mean that there are many different destinations to choose from, but it also means that there is a variety of hotels and resorts to suit different budgets and experiences.

Many people mistakenly assume the Maldives is a couples destination only, but it can also appeal to solo travellers wanting to get away. The pools, bars and even the beach are great places to meet people and it is easy to spark up a conversation. The best time to visit the Maldives is from November to April as this is dry season. The later you visit in these months, the dryer and sunnier the climate. The heat can actually be unbearable in the Maldives, and you will be isolated on your particular resort, so make sure you take plenty of high-factor sunscreen.

People generally visit the Maldives to relax and escape from the world. Your holiday will likely consist of lots of beach time and plenty of water-based activities like snorkelling, kayaking, paddle boarding or scuba diving. Don’t just stay in the resort though. Any reputable Maldives travel guide will also encourage an excursion to discover more of the country. Consider taking a boat trip to snorkel in the deep blue sea, visit secluded islands or find dolphins.

The stunning white sands, turquoise waters and vibrant marine life make the Maldives one of the best winter sun destinations. With so many atolls to choose from, it’s a place you can visit again and again.

Looking for where to stay in the Maldives?

I’d go for Nalaveshi Inn in Huraa (around £100 a night) or La Palma Villa in Ukulhas (around £300 a night).

14. Tulum, Mexico

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Sean from LivingOutLau .

If you are looking to escape the gloomy and cold winter, there is no better place to do it than the glorious Maya Riviera in Mexico, namely the small town of Tulum. The temperature is warm enough to enjoy sunbathing on one of Tulum’s fabulous beaches, and the water (though cooler than summer) is still ideal for swimming, especially during the midday heat. Winter also signals the end of the post-hurricane season, meaning that it is rare to encounter rain. Lastly, in low season, accommodation is plentiful and often cheaper.

Besides being absolute heaven for beachgoers, there are many reasons to visit Tulum. Tulum is home to some of the most spectacular cenotes in the Riviera Maya , namely the Gran Cenote, Cenote Dos Ojos, and more. These natural sinkholes offer picturesque landscapes and opportunities to swim in freshwater. Tulum is also surrounded by the mystic Mayan jungles, and you can take advantage of this biodiversity by visiting Sian Kaʼan Biosphere Reserve.

Tulum is also an excellent base to explore some of the Mayan archaeological ruins. You can learn more about the mighty ancient civilization of the Mayans and all their traditions and culture. The most famous Mayan Ruins in the region is undoubtedly Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In the summer, Chichen Itza is flooded with tourists. But in the winter, the smaller crowds allow visitors to enjoy this historical site in peace.

With warm temperatures, cheaper accommodations, and plenty to do, there is no reason why you shouldn’t visit Tulum in the winter!

Looking for where to stay in Tulum?

I’d go for Casa Altamar (around £400 a night if you want to splash out for a special treat) or Elements Tulum Boutique Hotel  (around £120 a night).

15. Naples, Florida, USA

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Lori from Naples, Florida, Travel Guide .

When it comes to finding a perfect winter sun destination, it’s hard to beat Naples. No, not the one in Italy…! This Naples is on southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, USA. When the year-round temps hover around 26°C, there’s no better place to put your toes in the sand and blow away the winter chill.

You can fly into Southwest Florida International Airport, and then it’s just minutes to gorgeous beaches and the wild Florida Everglades.

There’s plenty to see and do in Naples, from enjoying uncrowded beaches and finding the perfect seashells among the millions that wash up on the shore every day. Enjoy a variety of fun boat tours you can take, from shelling cruises to sunset catamaran tours. There are also many water sports, from kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding to jet-skiing or riding water buggies.

When you’re done at the beach, take your pick of the hundreds of great eateries (many within walking distance of a beach) or go shopping on downtown’s 5th Avenue South. Outdoor lovers can easily escape to a quiet place on the nearby trails of the Everglades or in the Ten Thousand Islands.

If you visit Naples in December, you can experience the festive Christmas events going on around the holidays. Christmas in Naples, Florida , is unlike any other place in the world. Father Christmas arrives by boat in the annual Naples boat parade and palm trees twinkle with fairy lights.

January is a great month to visit for arts and culture lovers, with dozens of outdoor art and music festivals to enjoy.

Looking for where to stay in Naples, Florida?

Just to warn you, this is one of the most expensive places for accommodation in this list. If you want to really splash out for a special occasion, I’d go for The Inn on Fifth (around £530 a night); one of the cheaper options I could find was The Gondolier Inn (around £170 a night).

16. Kerala, India 

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Ellie from Soul Travel India .

When the gloomy winter rolls in, few destinations could be more appealing than Kerala , southern India, for those in search of beaches, tea plantations, jungles and much more.

Located in the southwestern corner of India, Kerala is one of the wealthiest states of India. It boasts plenty of tourism riches too. Historically an important trading hub for the spices that grow in abundance here, Kerala is best known for its beautiful backwaters, historic forts and temples, coconut-infused (but spicy) cuisine, spice plantations, beaches and Ayurveda wellness retreats.

Kerala is the perfect place to visit if you’re planning your first trip to India. It’s much less noisy and polluted than northern India, and it’s also much less hassle. You won’t find as many tourist scams there.

One of the biggest attractions you won’t want to miss is the Kerala Backwaters. Stretching from Alleppey in the north to Kollam in the south, one of the best ways to experience these is to stay in a resort on the backwaters. I recommend skipping the overpriced houseboats, given the amount of pollution and other problems they cause. You can also travel around on the public ferries, or rent a boat to explore some of the smaller inlets and visit backwater villages.

You’ll also want to spend some time in Fort Kochi. This famous former Dutch trading post is full of charming homestays and heritage villas, giving it plenty of charm with cute cafes and art galleries. Nature lovers can head inland to Thekkady for Periyar National Park, which holds the distinction for being the only national park in India you can walk into, or take a rafting trip on the lake (keep your eyes out for the Ellies!).

Looking for where to stay in Kerala, India?

I’d go for Eighth Bastion – CGH Earth (around £150 a night) or Forte Kochi  (around £95 a night).

17. Con Dao Island, Vietnam – one of the best winter sun destinations for relaxing

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Caitlin from The Country Jumper .

Con Dao Island , off the southeast coast of the Vietnam mainland, is sunny year-round. Northern hemisphere winter (November to February) is the best time to visit as it’s dry season, so you’ll miss out on even the few hours of rain that come in rainy season (the other half of the year).

Con Dao is amazingly not very popular, yet. And many tourists focus their Vietnamese beach efforts on Phu Quoc. But Brad and Angelina didn’t get that memo, so if you want to follow in their footsteps, Six Senses is the place to stay on the island. Do be warned, it will set you back Brangelina style. There are plenty of other lovely spots to stay, with a more reasonable price tag. In the same area is Poulo Condor , and in town are a myriad of guesthouses. The good thing about booking at a beachside resort is that they have beach access that you otherwise won’t be able to get. Outside of the resorts, the best beaches are on the other islands of the archipelago, which you can get to with a day boat tour. You can book these at the Con Dao Travel office in town.

In addition to beach, sea and seafood, Con Dao is a highly spiritual place for the Vietnamese. It was home to a deadly prison throughout much of recent history. You can now visit that prison and see the infamous tiger cages. You can also go to the graveyard where war hero Vo Thi Sau is buried, and witness many of the Vietnamese spiritual rituals in play. Know that you are very welcome in these spaces, but don’t interfere with what people are doing.

Looking for where to stay in Con Dao, Vietnam?

If you don’t want to go wild and go for celebrity-style prices, I’d pick Lan Anh’s Home (only £14 a night) or Khách Sạn Minh Thắng (around £190 a night).

18. Costa Rica

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Haley from Gathering Waves .

Costa Rica is one of the most wonderful winter sun destinations out there. It has great weather and is full of beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and some of the most friendly locals.

Due to its proximity to the equator, Costa Rica only has two seasons: dry and rainy. They are both warm, but the main difference is between November and April it is quite dry, and between April and October the country gets tons of rain. This makes Costa Rica the perfect winter destination because in the coldest months of the year in many other places, Costa Rica is warm and sunny!

Some of the best places to visit in Costa Rica are Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, and Guanacaste. Manuel Antonio is a large park where people can walk through the jungle and spot lots of wildlife like sloths and monkeys. Manuel Antonio also has crystal clear beaches. Monteverde is where the cloud forest in Costa Rica is. The cloud forest is incredible, and Monteverde offers many hikes and walking tours through it, as well as ziplining! Guanacaste is a region in the northwestern part of Costa Rica, and it has some of the best beach towns in the country. Tamarindo, Nosara and Samara are three of these best beach towns. Each of them has something unique to offer, from excellent surfing to yoga retreats, as well as a relaxing beach vibe.

One special tip for anyone planning a holiday to Costa Rica is to eat at the local sodas . Sodas are restaurants that serve the traditional food of Costa Rica, including gallo pinto and casados . The local food is tasty and far less expensive than more touristy alternatives. 

Looking for where to stay in Costa Rica?

I’d go for BoHo Tamarindo (around £160 a night) or Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel (around £130 a night), which are both in Tamarindo (as the names suggest!).

‘Cheating’ winter sun destinations: where it’s actually their summer!

19. cape town, south africa.

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Roxanne from Faraway Worlds .

If you’re looking for some mid-winter sun, there’s nowhere better to head than the summer hemisphere. Cape Town is at its best between February and April, with beautiful weather and long stretches of white, sandy beaches to enjoy. While Cape Town is also lovely in December and January, going a bit later means that local children are back at school and you’re more likely to have some of the major attractions (and beaches) to yourself.

One of the benefits of visiting South Africa is that it’s in the same time zone as Europe, so jetlag typically isn’t a problem and you can make the most of your stay. Of course, you’ll want to make the most of the good weather and relax at the beach or near a pool, but there’s lots more to see and do in Cape Town. Be sure to head up Table Mountain and see the amazing views, drive along the coast and see the adorable penguins at Boulder’s Beach. The Kirstenbosch Gardens are at the foot of Table Mountain and are beautiful at this time of year. You can also head to Cape Point to see the waters of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans mingle.

Nearer the city centre, there are several neighbourhoods in Cape Town that are well worth exploring. Spend some time at the V&A Waterfront, venture into Bo-Kaap for some delicious Cape-Malay food and explore the coastal suburbs with small restaurants, great coffee and spectacular views. If you have time, head out of the city and sample the wines in the Cape Wine Country – and admire some colonial Dutch architecture en route.

Looking for where to stay in Cape Town?

I’d go for NOAH House (around £125 a night) or Pineapple House Boutique Hotel (around £118 a night).

20. Melbourne, Australia

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Bec from Explore Victoria, Australia .

If you’re needing to escape the cold UK to one of the best winter sun destinations where it’s their summer, then a trip down under to Melbourne is in order! During the UK winter months are the Australian summer months. The weather is either hot, hot, hot or beautifully perfect to warm those cold bones.

There is so much to do in Melbourne when you visit. Voted numerous times as the most livable city in the world, it shines in the warmer months. Visit a museum to escape the heat or take an epic day trip to some of the most unique places on earth. The Great Ocean Road is on top of the list of places to visit. These ancient sandstone stacks rise from the waves and are one of the most photographed places near Melbourne. In the other direction, you can visit the famous Phillip Island. Here you can see the Little Penguins the island is known for waddling up the beach every night to find their way back home. Wander the reserves and see some wallabies or go back in time to Churchill Island to see what colonial Australia was like. 

A trip out to St Kilda will have you riding the oldest continually running wooden rollercoaster in the world at Luna Park. You can also spend the day at the beach there getting the sand between your toes.

Southbank is a great area to wander at night, with a fire show from the Crown Casino lighting up the walkway that runs right along the Yarra River. Here you can find amazing restaurants, but if you prefer fewer crowds and less noise, find one of the little lanes that Melbourne is also famous for to sit and enjoy an intimate, quiet meal.

Melbourne is an easy walking city and public transport is free.

Looking for where to stay in Melbourne?

I’d go for Zagame’s House (around £100 a night) or QT Melbourne (around £150 a night).

21. North Island, New Zealand – one of the most spectacular winter sun destinations

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Cassie from Cassie The Hag .

Anyone who’s been to New Zealand will tell you it’s well worth the flight. And if you’re looking for a break from the cold winter in Europe, there’s no better time to visit. Summer is well underway in the Southern hemisphere by December, meaning that the roads are safer and the mountains more visible. It’s also a good time hike, providing you bring plenty of sunscreen. Make it reef-safe and don’t forget a rash guard if you’re planning on spending time in the ocean.

And gosh, are New Zealand’s beaches underrated. On the North Island, there are some fantastic coastlines to explore. Piha Beach, Mangawhai, and the Coromandel are among the hundreds to choose from. Those who love snorkelling or scuba diving will also be spoilt for choice, with many popular dive sites.

A short drive from Auckland (a popular entry point to New Zealand) you’ll find Hobbiton. For volcanic scenery, head further south to visit the steaming natural hot pools and geysers in Rotorua and Taupo. Hiking enthusiasts won’t want to miss the nearby Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a fantastic day hike that passes ‘Mount Doom’. Lord of the Rings fans will know the one!

Perhaps one of the most stunning areas in the North Island of New Zealand is Taranaki, home to Taranaki mountain. Those who love hiking, coastal rock formations or photography will also adore these beautiful Taranaki viewpoints . If you prefer museums, cute cafes and culture, check out the capital city Wellington before flying home.

Looking for where to stay in New Zealand?

I’d go for Andelin Guest House (around £115 a night) in Auckland or Wild Thyme (around £200 a night, lovely for a special occasion) in Oneroa.

Save and share: 21 of the best winter sun destinations

If you found this huge post about the best winter sun destinations useful for a wee bit of inspiration, why not pin it to your Pinterest board?

If you’d like an email alert when I publish a new post, subscribe using the box at the side (if you’re on a laptop) or at the bottom (if you’re on a mobile or tablet).

You may also like my blog posts on different holiday ideas:

• 32 cheap European city breaks for an affordable getaway
• 36 alternative, unusual European city breaks
• 18 of the best UK city breaks .

And if you enjoy my blog, you can also buy me a drink . Cheers.  

Share this post

You may also like

A guide to the best beaches in Madeira and how to reach them

A perfect one-day itinerary for Zagreb, Croatia

One day in Dean Village and Stockbridge, Edinburgh

29 comments.

Such a nice list! Thank you for putting all these places together. I recently came back from a wellness staycation in Kerala, and can’t tell you how lovely the experience was.

Oh I’m so not a winter person at all and here in Austria, it can get super cold sometimes! This is such a great post, I’m definitely trying to escape the cold this year and fly to one of these destinations 🙂

Thanks! Hope you manage to get somewhere warm.

Amazing list.having explored Kerala well I totally resonate with the thoughts expressed here. Would love yo visit aus and NZ during our winters

Me too, especially NZ.

Some places I’d never thought of here! Fabulous. I like your idea the best though obviously 😉 x

Thank you 🙂 x

I would definitely recommend heading to Málaga in the winter! Great idea to go to Portugal too, I’ll have to look into that.

I hear a lot of good things about Malaga.

Ah so many of these destinations are on my bucket list! And I’m craving some winter sun too! Maybe it’s time to book at trip! Thanks for the great guide!

A good time to have something warm to look forward to 🙂

Thanks for including me in this awesome round-up! I will definitely be keeping this awesome guide handy as I abhor the cold and am always looking for somewhere warm to escape to (especially in Europe)!

No problem Elena. I always love your posts 🙂

These are some amazing destinations! I really love Bali so I’m glad to see it on your list. Morocco is one of the top places I hope to visit next year.

I’d like to go there too.

I must admit that I am craving a winter sun destination to escape the cold as winter approaches in Canada. We typically think of the Caribbean Islands. But we were thinking about Portugal. Maybe our trip needs to included Madeira too! And if we planned a splurge trip we would definitely want to consider the Maldives! Gotta get planning.

Madeira is the best 🙂

These are all such great suggestions! We had a trip planned to Egypt before the pandemic hit. This just reminded me that I need to schedule that again!

Love this post! I always enjoy escaping the cold winters 🙂 I love your photos too!

Great collab post. So many places that I want to visit. Aren’t we all just ready to get back to travel! Anywhere. Cuba always intrigues me because of the colorful cars and buildings.

Cuba is high on my list too.

Goodness I love Bali. I have been there five times. It is one of my favorite places in the world. What a good vibe there. The people are so kind and natural beauty is amazing. Plus it feels unlike anywhere in the world.

Bali looks great.

Love this post! We must admit that many of those destinations are on our bucket list. We would also add Saint Lucia and Tobago in the Caribbean. Costa Rica, Cuba and Jamaica are excellent options – we visited those gorgeous countries many times, there is so much to see.

Good ideas! Quite expensive to get to from the UK sadly!

• Pingback: Holiday destinations of the rich and famous

Leave a reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The best winter sun destinations for 2024

Warm up with these brilliant ideas for winter holidays, from sun-kissed American cities to scenic European islands

Perhaps a January holiday in Marrakech or a sun-kissed Christmas break in the Canaries takes your fancy. Well, these winter sun destinations will have you topping up your vitamin D in no time.

From short-haul European islands where the weather remains mild during the winter months, to the heavenly sands of long-haul beach locations that are best experienced between November and March , you'll want to keep reading for the places to soak up the warmest temperatures.

Our pick of the best holiday destinations for winter sun take you all around the world, whether it's a sun-kissed American city, an Indian Ocean paradise or a culture-packed Mediterranean island you wish to explore.

Check out the best winter sun destinations for 2024.

Famous for its black sand beaches, stark volcanic landscape and balmy Mediterranean climate, Lanzarote is a winter holiday hotspot. Located 80 miles off the northwest coast of Africa, it's the northernmost of the Canary Islands and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Beautiful beaches and resorts daisy chain along the south of the island, while the Timanfaya National Park is the volcanic centre where you'll find stark black lava fields from the eruptions of the Timanfaya volcano. Once the home of Spanish artist and architect, César Manrique, don't miss a visit to the César Manrique Foundation, a museum and gallery set in giant lava bubbles.

Where to stay: Swerve the larger beach resorts for a stay in Hotel Villa VIK , a charming boutique property in Playa del Cable, just outside Arrecife. It's a quiet, relaxing spot set in lush subtropical gardens dotted with palm trees and Jacarandas. Aside from its 14 suites, it offers a range of spa treatments using hot volcanic stones.

Beachfront views, volcanic gardens and even a mini golf course, Hotel Lava Beach in Puerto del Carmen is another easy option for some delicious Canary sunshine. Many of the bright rooms have balconies and views over the Atlantic, while a handful of cool dining options, include Canarian specialties gives it an authentic Spanish feel.

READ OUR REVIEW AND BOOK

Vietnam and Cambodia

Southeast Asia is a dreamy place to escape the British winter gloom. It's far less humid than during the summer months, yet still promises plenty of sunshine and winter warmth. If you're looking for culture rather than a beach escape, consider a two-centre holiday to Cambodia and Vietnam, and then throw in luxury river cruise down the Mekong which links the two.

In Cambodia, explore the vast Angkor Wat temple complex in Siem Reap, see the floating villages on Tonlé Sap Lake, and pay homage at the Killing Fields in Phnom Penh. Vietnam is more about the lush paddy fields of the Mekong River Delta, the lantern-lit streets and tailor shops of Hoi An, and the atmospheric Old Quarter in Hanoi, but together, they make the perfect winter adventure.

How to visit: An easy way to see the best of both countries is on Good Housekeeping's 17-day adventure through Cambodia and Vietnam which has dates departing in December, February and March. A highlight of the trip is a seven-day cruise down the Mekong River. Sailing on the Mekong Jewel, a luxury riverboat with two pools and an alfresco restaurant, you can relax and watch life unfold along the longest river in Southeast Asia.

FIND OUT MORE

Costa Rica is a country blessed with a bounty of wildlife, from monkeys swinging in lush rainforests to vibrantly colourful coral reefs in its surrounding waters. It’s a great location for anyone looking to escape the grey and gloom of the UK winters, with warm weather year-round.

To experience a true tropical paradise you might want to visit Costa Rica’s Tortuga Island, where giant coconut palms frame powder-soft white sand beaches lapped by crystal clear turquoise waters - the perfect location for soaking in some winter sun.

How to visit: Plan ahead for Good Housekeeping's nine-day cruise in January, February or March 2024 and you’ll visit Tortuga Island and several other breathtaking destinations in Costa Rica. You’ll sail on the glorious Star Clipper, a traditional tall ship with 36,000 feet of billowing sails, where you can relax with other like-minded travellers in the dining room, Piano Bar, on the lively Tropical Bar.

While not scorching hot, in winter the Algarve is one of the warmest places in Europe. And the great weather isn’t the only reason to visit Portugal's southern region: the beaches are particularly picturesque, with their golden sand backed by limestone cliffs. Some of the best are Marinha Beach, Praia da Rocha and Praia do Camilo. As for where to make your base, choose Tavira for its whitewashed homes and medieval castle, Silves for its terracotta-roofed homes and the Moorish Silves Castle, and Vilamoura for teeing off in the winter sun – the Portuguese region has an impressive 31 golf courses – and luxury accommodation.

Where to stay: Set in 50 acres of beautiful subtropical gardens, there is no finer place to banish the winter blues than in Vila Vita Parc . Designed like an old Portuguese village, this luxury family resort is minutes from several beaches, including Benagil, which is renowned for its rugged sea caves. Infinity pools, a luxe spa and kids' clubs keeps everyone entertained by day, while restaurants like the two Michelin-starred Ocean, and Cave de Vinhos, an adults-only wine cellar situated eight metres underground are perfect for evenings.

Or the Grand House , originally built in 1926 on the banks of the Guadiana River, is a beautifully restored Belle-Époque house with just 26 rooms and suites. Located steps from the beach and the historical town of Vila Real de Santo António, it's a charming place for some much needed winter sun. Relax on the rooftop terrace and watch the sunset, before dining on organic, locally sourced food in the waterside restaurant.

Mosques, medinas and Moorish minarets, Marrakech is one of the most evocative cities in the world. One of Morocco's four imperial cities, with its traditional riads, bustling souks and fascinating history it ignites all the senses.

The beating heart of Marrakech is the medina – the old walled town – and Djemaa el Fna, the main square where everyone from snake charmers to acrobats, musicians to magicians flock to entertain the crowds. For a quiet moment away from the throng, take a stroll through the colourful Majorelle Gardens, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent.

Where to stay: For the ultimate romantic stay, head to the Royal Mansour , a palatial hotel near the gardens owned by the King of Morocco. From its elegant walled gardens to the dusky pink riads surrounded by tall palms and water fountains, this atmospheric hotel is the essence of luxury.

Sun-drenched beaches, an eclectic dining scene and some of the world's most iconic sights – Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, the Harbour Bridge – Sydney is simply the dream destination for a winter sun holiday.

Go beach-hopping around the eastern suburbs of Coogee, Bronte and Bondi, soak up the cosmopolitan vibes in Surry Hills and Darlinghurst or explore the natural side of Sydney in Ku-ring-gai National Park with its sweeping views over the harbour. A trip Down Under is a guaranteed way to ban those winter blues.

Where to stay: With a rooftop pool and views over Sydney Harbour and the Opera House, you simply can't beat the Park Hyatt for location. Located in The Rocks, Sydney's historic waterfront district, it's within walking distance of Circular Quay, Sydney Opera House and the Botanical Gardens. After a busy day exploring the city, kick back in the spa for some Sydney-style pampering.

Alternatively, perched at the base of Sydney Harbour Bridge, Pier One Sydney Harbour also has sweeping views of the world's most famous harbour. Upgrade to a waterfront room or suite and get a private terrace with an outdoor bath and views over the bridge. For a real treat, order oysters and champagne in Pier One's waterfront bar and watch the sunset.

Thanks to its strategic position in the Mediterranean Sea, Malta has been ruled by Romans, Moors, French and British over the centuries, which has given it a wealth of historic sites and influences.

Add to these magnificent Baroque cathedrals, stunning rock formations, fascinating museums and ancient ruins, and you’ll find that the world’s 10th-smallest country punches far above its weight. With highs of 17C in winter, the island is ideal for a mild weather getaway close to home.

Where to stay: Housed in a historic 17th-century palazzo, the Xara Palace is one of the most elegant and charming hotels in Mdina. Located within the medieval city walls, stay in one of the opulent suites, enjoy cocktails on the roof terrace and dine out in Modion, the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant.

Alternatively, head to the neighbouring island of Gozo and stay at the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz . Situated a little inland from San Lawrenz, it makes a good base for exploring the island. Or, with its multiple pools, palm-lined gardens and excellent Gozo cuisine, why not just kick back and enjoy some winter sun?

Palm Springs

A notorious hangout of the Rat Pack in the Fifties and Sixties, Palm Springs with its elegant palm tree-lined boulevards, mid-century modern architecture and kitsch hotels is perfect for a warm winter getaway. Promising no less than 350 days of sunshine a year, soak it up in a slew of stylish hotels and retro motels, many with piano shaped pools and cutesy Tiki bars.

While there are no direct flights from the UK to Palm Springs, it's an easy two-hour drive from Los Angeles International Airport, yet feels a world away from a dreary winter in Britain.

Where to stay: For a real treat, stay in the beautiful Villa Royale which has been charming the LA weekend crowd since it opened in 1947. This adults-only hotel brings a mix of Spanish revival – whitewash walls and plenty of terracotta – and old school Hollywood with over 50 specially-commissioned paintings including portraits of Lana Turner, Clark Gable and Debbie Harry. After exploring the desert city, dine out on Spanish tapas and craft cocktails in Del Rey, the hotel's intimate restaurant.

Or, glamorous boutique Fleur Noire Hotel has a charming French vibe. Originally opened in the 1940s, the fully restored hotel is made up of 21 casitas set around a beautiful desert garden and pool. After lusting over Palm Springs' mid-century modern architecture, relax with sushi in Sandfish or cocktails in La Boisson, the hotel's cool speakeasy bar.

Madeira ’s climate is agreeable year-round – so much so that it’s fondly described as the 'Eternal Spring'. Nevertheless, winter is a particularly good time to visit as the island becomes less crowded and the price of accommodation drops.

The scenery on this Portuguese island is incredible, and the best way to experience it is to go hiking among the subtropical forests, taking in small villages and waterfalls along the way. On the coast, look out for the species of dolphin and whale that visit in winter.

Where to stay: Love golf? The PortoBay Serra Golf is right by the 27-hole Santo da Serra course, and is housed in a whimsical building that dates back to the 1920s.

Meanwhile, perched on the cliffs on Madeira's east coast, Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club is a beautiful mid-century modern boutique hotel near Santa Cruz. While it has plenty of bright, comfortable rooms and offers some excellent Canarian dining, it's the spectacular clifftop pool which really sets this hotel apart from the others.

Or, for sweeping views over Funchal Bay, a two-Michelin starred restaurant and a fancy spa, The Cliff Bay is just the ticket for relaxing winter sun holiday. Set in sprawling gardens dotted with ancient palm trees, the five-star hotel does have an outdoor heated pool, along with direct access into the Atlantic Ocean for the brave.

Ostentatious hotels, colossal shopping malls and record-breaking architecture, it's no surprise Dubai is dubbed the Vegas of the Gulf. Once a dusty fishing village, since the discover of oil in the Sixties Dubai has expanded at a rapid pace. Dominating Dubai's ever growing skyline is the 830m-tall Burj Khalifa, still the tallest building on the planet.

A popular place for some winter warmth, enjoy the turquoise sweep of the Persian Gulf from the white-sand fronds of the world's largest artificial island, the Palm Jumeirah.

Where to stay: The pleasingly ostentatious Palazzo Versace Dubai is one of Dubai's most opulent and impressive hotels. Grand and gilded, it's designed like a neoclassical palazzo reminiscent of those found in 16th century Tuscany. Rooms and suites are awash in Versace Home Collection, while the nine bars and restaurants are all decked out in its signature style.

Alternatively, curved around a private white-sand beach, the Waldorf Astoria Dubai on Palm Jumeirah is perfect for a sun-drenched winter holiday. With views over the Burj Al Arab, this relaxed beach hotel on the Palm Jumeirah is well-placed for exploring the Palm's fronds. Equally, it's just as as nice to relax by the pool or in the spa before dinner at Social, which offers a modern take on authentic Italian cuisine.

Panama is renowned for its incredible beauty and biodiversity, with protected rainforests and marine parks to explore. It’s a great country to visit if you’re looking for warm weather in January or February, when you can expect hot weather and little rain - ideal conditions for basking on the pristine beaches.

Nature lovers will want to stop off at Coiba Island, one of the 38 islands which make up Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The surrounding waters support the eastern Pacific's second largest coral reef.

How to visit: Good Housekeeping’s nine-day cruise in Panama and Costa Rica in January, February or March 2024 will take you to Coiba Island, as well as Parida Island, where you might spot howler monkeys, nesting sea turtles, and 280 recorded bird species.

Sun, sea and good times are on the menu in Tenerife , where colourful beach bars spill out onto sandy beaches. But away from the tourist hotspots of this Canary Island, you’ll also find wonderful scenery in the interior, in the Parque Nacional del Teide’s pine forests, which surround the highest mountain in Spain, Mount Teide – take the cable car up for the best view on the island.

Elsewhere, historic towns such as La Orotava and Puerto de la Cruz abound with delicious Spanish and seafood restaurants.

Where to stay: Perched on Santa Cruz de Tenerife's main rambla, the Occidental Santa Cruz Contemporáneo is a stylish city hotel well situated to explore the old capital. Rooms are simple but smart, and some have balconies with far-reaching views of the Atlantic Ocean. While it's only a 10-minute walk to the Museo Histórico Militar de Canarias, it's just as tempting to soak up the winter sun from the rooftop pool.

For old-school Canarian charm, look no further than La Quinta Roja in Garachico, with its rustic-chic rooms, a rooftop hot tub and an authentic Canarian restaurant. Handily, it's only a few minutes' walk from the beach and the town's famous lava rock pools making it a comfortable base for exploring this fascinating corner of Tenerife.

Sun-drenched beaches and a hip-to-the-hilt dining scene, it’s easy to see why Cape Town tops the hit list for winter sun escapes. Dominating the pointy nub at the very bottom of Africa, Cape Town brings both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans together at the Cape of Good Hope.

Originally developed as a holding port by the Dutch East India Company, the city mixes traditional Cape Dutch architecture, a buzzing beach scene with a modern skyline giving it a distinctly European appeal.

Where to stay: Opened in 1899 by shipping magnate, Sir Donald Currie, Mount Nelson is one of Cape Town's most historic hotels. Although it lacks the waterfront views other properties may boast, the luxury hotel is set in eight acres of lush subtropical grounds and its opulent rooms, grand spa and brace of pools set it aside from the rest.

Meanwhile, overlooking Table Mountain and the V&A waterfront, the super-swanky One&Only is decorated by local artists and craftspeople giving its a real vibe of Africa. Add in the infinity pools, a cool kids' club and the only Nobu restaurant in Africa, and the One&Only could well be the only place to stay in Cape Town.

The heavenly Maldives is the place to go for an idyllic island retreat. The shallow, clear waters that surround each of the coral islands in the archipelago are rich in sea life, with clownfish and rays visible near the shore.

Take a boat out to spot dolphins and manta rays, or simply snorkel leisurely around your island, looking out for turtles and eagle rays. No matter how you choose to spend your time, the islands’ all-inclusive resorts make it easy to completely unwind.

Where to stay: In the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll, enjoy good food and great value at Reethi Beach Resort , where you can choose from villas that open out directly onto the sand and overwater villas on stilts.

In the same atoll, relax in the overwater spa, take a sunset cruise, go wine tasting, or enjoy a stargazing dinner at the Anantara Kihavah – that’s if you can tear yourselves away from the luxurious overwater villas.

Picture an island paradise, and it would look a lot like Barbados. And with its palm-fringed beaches, flavoursome Bajan cuisine, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s one of the best winter destinations for a chilled-out holiday.

Luckily, from December to April, the weather in Barbados is dry and sunny, hovering around 30C, making lying back on a sun lounger with a rum cocktail in hand even more tempting.

Where to stay: Go all out with a suite at the pink hotel Cobblers Cove , which lies right on the beachfront and serves fantastic food – some of the best on the island – at its Camelot restaurant.

Less crowded than Dubai, but still offering sleek shopping malls, desert safaris and luxurious places to stay, Abu Dhabi is a superb Middle Eastern alternative. There’s plenty to keep you busy: the last race of the Formula 1 calendar takes place here each November; Warner Bros World is a great stop for those travelling with children; and there’s art and culture at the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Dry, sunny days make winter the best time to visit Abu Dhabi, as in summer the emirate state's temperatures rise to a stifling 40C or more.

Where to stay: For its eye-catching design alone, the Bab Al Qasr Hotel is worth staying in. Add a location right on the beach, spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, and well-equipped kitchens, plus a spa and restaurant, and you’ll have everything you need for a stress-free stay in Abu Dhabi.

Once a stop on the Spice Route, Mauritius has been influenced by the French, African, Indian and Chinese cultures. This means that the food is brilliantly varied, with curries, dim sum and croissants all waiting to be tried in waterside restaurants and cafes across the island.

What’s more, fresh ingredients abound, and you’ll find yourself winding past tea and sugar cane plantations, walking through fragrant markets piled high with pineapples, and wandering along fields of bananas as you explore the island.

Where to stay: Embrace Mauritius’ great outdoors at the Bubble Lodge Bois Chéri Plantation , where glass domes make for a quirky yet sophisticated place to stay among the tea leaves.

Alternatively, the child-friendly Zilwa Attitude on the island’s north coast offers an impressive array of activities, with sunrise pirogue trips, an aqua gym, tai chi lessons and pétanque.

With its palm-lined boulevards, slick high rises, vibrant neighbourhoods, tropical climate and famous beaches, Miami has an irresistible allure. As you’d expect, there’s a rich arts and cultural scene, with museums and modern art galleries to keep you busy.

And you’ll eat well too, with a diverse food scene that takes in cuisines from all over the world. As if that wasn’t enough, the 35 miles of beach will give you plenty of space to chill out away from the throngs in the busiest areas.

Where to stay: Feel like you’re in the heart of the action as you laze in the poolside cabanas at the SLS Lux Brickell , featuring sumptuous rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking downtown Miami.

In a Beaux Arts building that dates back to 1925, the Eurostars Langford is a smart hotel, with parking and a rooftop bar.

On a list filled with destinations that are blessed with picture-perfect beaches, those of the Seychelles still manage to stand out. Here, lush greenery undulates down from the archipelago’s mountains, leading to bays of soft, white sand that curve onto the crystal-clear Indian Ocean.

The north-west trade winds between December and January cool the island’s temperature to a comfortable 27 or 28C.

Where to stay: From the apartments at Treasure Island Retreat on Praslin, which have fully equipped kitchens and access to a barbecue, you can step right out onto the beach and walk to local restaurants.

To really get away from it all, the Denis Private Island Seychelles feels truly remote, with a shallow lagoon where you can spot turtles, lots of birdlife, and nature tours, plus a restaurant serving food made from produce grown on the island.

One of the lesser known Canary Islands, La Palma is one of Europe's starry eyed secrets for a winter sun holiday. By day, you can hike through the rainforest or around spectacular volcanic ridges, paddle in the Atlantic waters or simply wander along its black sand beaches. However, this verdant volcanic island is renowned for it exceptional night skies and the winter's clear nights are the perfect time to explore the celestial world.

Don't miss a visit to Mercadillo de Argual, a bustling weekend market in Los Llanos de Argual. The shady, tree-lined square is lined with incense stalls and tie-dye merchants, while the live Cuban music and rum shacks make it feel like a slice of the Caribbean in Europe.

Where to stay? A 10-minute drive from the island capital, Hacienda San Jorge is one of La Palma's more traditional beach hotels. Designed by celebrated Spanish artist, Facundo Fierro, this colourful hotel set in lush gardens of giant ficus, palm and dragon trees has more than a touch of the Caribbean about it.

Alternatively, stay in Faro Punta Cumplida in Barlovento, a chic boutique hotel set in the oldest lighthouse on the island. Climb the 158 steps to the top for a sundowner in the Sky High mini bar or relax by the gorgeous infinity pool on the lower terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Travel

Glacier Express: Everything you need to know

Cruise to Japan's cherry blossom displays with GH

Everything you need to know about Japan in spring

The best hotels in Sydney

Our guide to Danube river cruises

The best river cruises

The best cruises for 2024

5 amazing holidays to Japan

The best spring holidays for 2024

Lake Orta is the hidden gem of the Italian Lakes

Best time to visit Japan: Here's when to go

Accessibility Links

27 of the best winter sun destinations

Looking to warm up the winter months and swap snow for sandy beaches here are the best places to head between november and february to top up on that all-important vitamin d.

A s winter tightens its grip on the northern hemisphere, there’s no need to shiver through the season — travellers can get a dose of vitamin D in a diverse range of exciting destinations. Fancy long haul? Head for Miami to cruise past alligators in the Everglades; visit the likes of Mexico, Zanzibar or Antigua for diving, touring and boat trips; see southern Sri Lanka and take in tea-tasting and temple-touring. Want some heat closer to home? Madeira and the Canary Islands will supply rays on sunny days while the rest of Europe pulls on five layers of clothing; or try the excellent resorts and reserves of the Gambia. And there’s much more — here’s our pick of the best winter sun destinations.

Main photo: long-tail boats on Tup Island in Ao Nang, Krabi, Thailand (Alamy)

1. Cape Town, South Africa

Average winter temperature 22C As South Africa ’s beautiful cultural metropolis is just two hours ahead, jet lag is unlikely. That’s ideal, as there’s much for visitors to do in Cape Town : be it climbing or riding the cable car up Table Mountain, spotting penguins at Boulders Beach, exploring Nelson Mandela’s cell on Robben Island or touring the V&A Waterfront’s museums and restaurants. Vintners litter the nearby Cape Winelands, while many holidays are extended to encompass a world-class safari and the glorious Garden Route. For cool and a convenient location, try the leafy, arty Dorp on Signal Hill.

• Best things to do in Cape Town

2. Fuerteventura

Average winter temperature 18C Much nearer Africa than Europe, the Spanish-overseen Canary Islands make for a reliable winter sun holiday. While the better known Lanzarote and Tenerife remain busy, Fuerteventura offers a nice balance; it’s certainly not deathly quiet or shut up, but nor will you encounter those other isles’ heaving crowds. That’s true of the sandy, surfy shores peppering its south (and sunniest) coast, and of its wild, desert-style interior. As laid-back as its name suggests, Costa Calma specialises in terrific sunsets; you can view them from the landscaped gardens and designer sunbeds of Hotel Cooee Taimar.

Advertisement

• Best villas in the Canary Islands • Best places for winter sun in Europe

3. The Maldives

Average winter temperature 27C With plenty of sunshine constantly on offer, practically any time of year is good for a tan-topping Maldives break. The European winter is an especially savvy time to head to this immaculate Indian Ocean archipelago of white-sand islands and palm-lined atolls, though. That’s because it’s unlikely to be at all wet — and therefore ideal for snorkelling, one of the great pursuits here. The others — such as yoga, scuba diving and canoeing — are all available too. The relatively affordable Bandos island resort is ringed by a house reef, enabling snorkelling straight from shore.

• Best overwater villas in the Maldives

4. Funchal, Madeira

Average winter temperature 16C Tellingly nicknamed the “island of eternal spring”, tiny Madeira sits close to the Canaries and can be sun-drenched when much of mainland Europe shivers. As well as the subtropical weather, go for the thrilling volcanic geography and lush hiking, the stellar seafood, the dolphin-watching and the black-sand beaches. Most novel is the chance to attend a Christmas market — one is held in Funchal, the likeable capital — wearing shorts. Just outside Funchal, the glamorous Reid’s Palace once welcomed Sir Winston Churchill.

• Best hotels in Madeira • Best things to do in Madeira

5. Miami, US

Average winter temperature 20C Though Florida enjoys continental America’s mildest winters — this is the Sunshine State, after all — Miami always remains ice-cool. From South Beach’s bronzed bodies and art deco hotels to world-famous nightclubs and charismatic Latin culture, pizzazz proliferates. So does great sailing in the vicinity, while anyone cruising past alligators in the Everglades at this time of year will find bugs at their least bothersome. Should you fancy a beachy road trip, the Florida Keys’ sandbar isles stand ready. The Moxy South Beach is playful, unpretentious and joyfully open-air when possible.

• Best things to do in Miami • Best hotels in Miami

6. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Average winter temperature 27C Normally appended to the end of a trip featuring national parks — Lake Manyara, Tarangire or the famous Serengeti — Zanzibar’s tropical climate includes a short dry season in January and February. While leaving time to explore the Moorish architecture and spice-scented alleys of atmospheric capital Stone Town, you’ll mainly want to spend sunny days blissing out on the island’s bone-white beaches, enjoying water sports or boarding white-sailed dhows for romantic, castaway-style picnics. All plunge pools and overwater cabanas, the beachside Melia Zanzibar pairs seclusion with proximity to Stone Town.

• Best Indian Ocean holidays • Where is hot in February?

7. Canggu, Bali, Indonesia

Average winter temperature 28C Canggu is a relaxed, more authentic world away from Bali ’s glitzy, nightlife-happy Seminyak and Kuta — despite being only a few miles up the coast. Head inland from the black-sand, surfer-lined shore and you’ll find boho beach clubs such as the Lawn, then yoga dens, hip galleries and health food cafés, all interspersed with a beguiling mix of mopeds and murals. It’s not far inland, past rainforest and waterfalls, to wellness hub Ubud or to Tanah Lot’s island temple. Like your hotels to blend clean white linens and sleek dark woods? Then you’ll love opulent Como Uma Canggu.

• The best hotels in Bali • Best luxury villas in Bali

8. Soufrière, St Lucia

Average winter temperature 26C St Lucia ’s northwest has the sunning Rodney Bay beach, but it’s still not as spellbinding as this Caribbean island’s quieter southwest. Down there, above the enchanting old colonial-style town of Soufrière, loom the pointy Pitons: two rainforest-covered volcanic cones that hikers can conquer. Also in the vicinity are easy waterfall walks, hot springs, a protected marine reserve and some especially romantic coves. January and drier February’s refreshing trade winds make them the perfect times to explore. Facing the Pitons from its jungle-like estate, above a beach and that marine reserve, Anse Chastanet delivers a spa and impressive cuisine.

• Best things to do in St Lucia • Best hotels in St Lucia

9. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Average winter temperature 19C With the mercury likely to exceed 40C in summer, winter is decidedly the best time to visit the Middle East’s most glamorous city. Trips to Dubai might include abra boat rides along the Dubai Creek, photo-snapping from the record-breaking Burj Khalifa’s 125th floor or thrills inside IMG Worlds of Adventure. Don’t miss the shopping malls — raised to an art form here, they feature aquariums and entire VR parks — and sandy beaches along the three artificial Palm islands. Tennis courts, kids’ clubs and flexible restaurants help family-friendly Le Royal Meridien stand out from the beachside hotel crowd.

• Best things to do in Dubai • Best hotels in Dubai

10. Tangalle, Sri Lanka

Average winter temperature 27C Tangalle is the optimal spot for exploring southern Sri Lanka in the winter months. From this low-key beach town and its fudge-coloured shores, you can head westwards to Mirissa, for whale-watching excursions, or to Galle and its old Portuguese fort. To the east are leopard-spotting safaris in Yala National Park, while hillside tea plantations, giant Buddhas and rock-cut temples beckon inland. A two-centre trip incorporating the north will let you tick off Sigiriya’s lion fortress and Minneriya National Park’s elephant gathering too. On Tangalle’s quiet Mawella Beach, the six-room Taru Villas serves terrific Sri Lankan food.

• Best Sri Lanka tours

11. Isla Holbox, Mexico

Average winter temperature 23C From pyramid-like Mayan temples to cave pools in whose green water one can bathe, there’s much to love about southeastern Mexico ’s Yucatan Peninsula. Hotel-wise, however, it is startlingly over-saturated. So drive to Chiquila — stowing your vehicle there ready for outings — and catch a 15-minute ferry to car-free Isla Holbox. Twenty-six miles long by just one wide, it’s an ultra-laid-back idyll with a hippy vibe: think multicoloured houses, flip-flops, studios, shack bars serving tacos or cocktails, and successive sandy beaches. Daybeds and a yoga studio characterise gorgeous Casa Las Tortugas.

12. Barbados

Average winter temperature 26C “Beach, eat, drink, dance, repeat.” That’s how Rihanna — an official tourism ambassador, no less — describes her ideal day on Barbados . But though pristine beaches, punchy Bajan cuisine and lively rum bars on the glam west coast amply enable all of that, Barbados brings so much more. The wilder, quieter east is made for surfers, while divers can paddle alongside turtles. Inland are sugar-plantation tours and gorgeous gardens. Winter is the dry season, with sunshine and warm seas practically guaranteed. In a lovely west-coast fishing village, the Aussie-owned Little Good Harbour hotel pairs coral stone cottages with a terrific seafood and pasta restaurant.

• Best things to do in Barbados • Best hotels in Barbados • Where is hot in December?

13. Lanzarote

Average winter temperature 17C As safe a bet as any Canary Island for winter rays, Lanzarote is elevated further by its scenery. It’s of the volcanic variety in Timanfaya National Park, where bluffs in shades of red and amber riddle the scorched land. Off the coast you’ll find Museo Atlantico, an underwater museum meets sculpture park, and all around appear funky creations by esteemed local architect César Manrique: an amphitheatre-shaped cactus garden here, lava bubble homes there. The southeast coast is a little gaudy, but rarely expensive; further north and inland, things get more boutiquey. Bordering one of Lanzarote’s prettily whitewashed villages, Casa de Hilario has ten stylish suites and rooms accompanied by a small pool.

• Best things to do in Lanzarote • Best winter family holidays

14. San Blas Islands, Panama

Average winter temperature 26C Six miles off the Central American country’s northeastern coast, this Caribbean archipelago enjoys protected status by decree of its indigenous, autonomous Guna people. As well as limiting numbers, this precludes mammoth hotels or glitzy restaurants. Instead, huts and hammocks are part of the simple vibe across sugar-coloured shores whose baby-blue waters are ripe for diving or snorkelling. Private or chartered sailboats are a popular way to get around, with an estimated 365 isles — yes, one for every day of the year — to investigate. Typifying the basic accommodation on offer, Cabañas Dubazenika has 13 thatched beachfront huts beside a restaurant and can arrange boat trips.

• Best things to do in Panama

15. Sal, Cape Verde

Average winter temperature 23C Just a six-hour flight from the UK — and little difference in terms of time zone — Cape Verde’s accessibility is matched by its affordability. Lying about 350 miles west of Senegal, the archipelago’s most popular islands are Sal and Boa Vista thanks to their bounty of fly-and-flop resorts along fudge-coloured seasides. Sal is also wrapped in vast stretches of red, lunar-like desertscapes, salt pans and the Buracona Lagoon, where the water turns a curious neon blue each morning. Surfing and whale-watching (from February) are popular pursuits while a Saharan breeze keeps everyone cool. The five-star Hilton Cabo Verde Sal is a large beachfront resort within strolling distance of main resort Santa Maria’s pastel buildings and alfresco restaurants.

• Best hotels in Cape Verde

16. Krabi, Thailand

Average winter temperature 27C A lesser-visited province in Thailand , Krabi has several distinctive draws. Just out into the Andaman Sea are more than 150 islands, most notably the idyllic Phi Phi archipelago, where ivory beaches, transparent blue seas and glorious snorkelling hold sway. Inland are vine-swathed lagoons and ancient, elaborate cave temples patrolled by monkeys. To visit both, stay on the coast. The craggy limestone cliffs here are a mecca for rock-climbers: Railay Bay is the headline spot with winter’s pleasant, dry days offering optimum conditions. Rayavadee’s 100 pavilions are just off three white-sand strands and guests will also enjoy four restaurants and landscaped tropical gardens.

• Best places to visit in Thailand

17. Mauritius

Average winter temperature 26C Yes, Mauritius has the wondrous white-sand beaches to match its Indian Ocean rival, the Maldives. But this large island is also far easier to visit independently — and it offers a far more diverse tourist menu. In addition to sunbathing and snorkelling, you might hike rainforested gorges looking for monkeys or pink pigeons; you might paraglide off volcanic peaks; you might swim with dolphins; you might investigate a multi-influenced cuisine; or you might tour Indian temples and botanical gardens. Winter is largely sun-soaked, if sporadically rainy. Mauritius also excels at budget-friendly beachside stays, such as the all-inclusive Pereybere Hotel & Spa.

• Best hotels in Mauritius • Best things to do in Mauritius

18. The Whitsundays, Australia

Average winter temperature 27C Our winter is Australia ’s summer, meaning scorching heat. Yet the Whitsunday Islands’ breezes, ready access to pools, and cobalt seas mitigate that. Everything will be green and plentiful at this time of year, while the adjacent Great Barrier Reef eternally abounds with fish, turtles, rays and countless corals. If you don’t fancy diving or snorkelling, sun yourself on bone-white sandbars, hire a jet ski or island-hop. Close to Australia’s eastern mainland, most of the 74 Whitsundays are uninhabited. Making the most of its own reef and an underwater observatory, Daydream Island Resort has plentiful free activities, plus restaurants and a spa. There’s even a wedding chapel.

• Best things to do in Australia

19. Marrakesh, Morocco

Average winter temperature 13C Though Marrakesh is unlikely to be drenched in sun come deepest January, it’ll be far warmer than Britain. And far more exotic: on the focal Djemaa el-Fna square each night you’ll encounter belly dancers, snake charmers, jugglers and tempting wafts from tagine stalls, all below the stately Koutoubia mosque. Close by begin the shopping souks, with haggle-happy stallholders hawking everything from carpets to cloves. Further out sprawl glorious tropical gardens, including the blue-hued Jardin Majorelle, and Islamic palaces. Five-suite Riad Cinnamon occupies a traditional Marrakesh house and its lounge, dipping pool and roof terrace offer vital respite.

• Best things to do in Marrakesh • Best hotels in Marrakesh

20. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Average winter temperature 30C Travel halfway around the world and you’ll find French Polynesia: 100-plus specks in the South Pacific straight out of your castaway dreams. In distinct turquoise lagoons, most are reef-ringed and white-sand-fringed with thick jungle inland, yet none rivals Bora Bora for pure, luxurious perfection. That’s partly because of its array of islet-set resorts: elite retreats whose restaurants, spas and villas are all A-grade. Below a dormant volcano, hiking and paddleboarding rival snorkelling and swimming as the most popular activities. One of the more affordable stays is the Royal Bora Bora, on the lagoon’s main isle and host to a restaurant, outdoor pool and Polynesian music, plus 80 air-conditioned rooms.

21. The Seychelles

Average winter temperature 27C A thousand miles east of mainland Africa, the Seychelles is most famous for plush private-island resorts: such as Frégate, Zil Pasyon and North Island, where the current Prince and Princess of Wales honeymooned. Each delivers a reliable dose of humongous villas on blissful barefoot beaches, next to which are crystal-clear seas and coral reefs, and then a bird-rich rainforest interior behind. Yet boutique hotels elsewhere, including Praslin and main island, Mahé, offer similar perks alongside a dose of Seychellois culture and typical Creole food. Go in February to dodge the monsoon season. Praslin’s 40-room Coco de Mer serves creole food and has a pool and nature trail to complement its local beach.

• Best things to do in the Seychelles • Best hotels in the Seychelles

22. Palawan, Philippines

Average winter temperature 26C Choosing between 7,000-odd Philippine islands isn’t easy, but this large example offers unusual versatility. Because while Palawan has those powder-soft white beaches and aquarium-like reefs for which the Philippines is best known — in particular, visit its El Nido archipelago for a series of sand-flecked islets — you’ll also find secret lagoons, street parades (in El Nido town in mid-March) and scenic rice terraces, not to mention wreck dives and subterranean rivers. Winter is drier and cooler than oppressive summer — perfect for exploring. Out in that archipelago, El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island’s thatched cottages sit on stilts above a small, green-watered cove ringed by jungle-topped cliffside.

• Best beaches in the Philippines

23. Singapore

Average winter temperature 30C A regular stop on the transit route, Singapore makes a sizzling winter sun destination in its own right. Temperatures are consistently high year-round, but avoid December and January when there’s the heaviest rainfall. The city state is compact — most of the attractions are within walking distance or reachable by taxi in under 20 minutes. Essential stops include a Singapore Sling at Raffles, the futuristic canopies of Gardens by the Bay, and of course Marina Bay Sands for the infinity pool shot over the city. But you’ll have barely scratched the surface if you don’t take a stroll through Little India, or go on a food tour of the Arab quarter, Kampong Glam. And for longer stays, there’s Sentosa Island, the beach resort and theme park paradise where Singaporeans go on staycations. Mercure Singapore Bugis is centrally located and just steps from the nearest hawker market, Albert Centre.

• Best things to do in Singapore • Best affordable hotels in Singapore

24. Cayo, Belize

Average winter temperature 26C While most first-time visitors to Belize head to Ambergris Caye and the snorkelling sites around Hol Chan Marine Reserve, those in the know will also tag on a visit to the Cayo district. Colourful San Ignacio is the main town, with a lively food market at its centre and a clutch of homely restaurants, while abundant cultural riches are found in the rainforests surrounding it. The best known is perhaps Xunantunich, a Mayan ruin with a direct line of sight into Guatemala . Further south in San Antonio, a women’s co-operative has created a cultural centre to empower the women in the area and keep Mayan traditions alive. Book a visit here to learn how to make tortillas the traditional way. Surrounded by rainforest, the Lodge at Chaa Creek is ideal for spotting birds including toucan, hummingbirds and parrots.

• Best hotels in Belize

25. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Average winter temperature 23C Let’s be real: Argentina ’s capital swelters in winter (its summer), with humidity adding to the mix, and can sometimes be stickily uncomfortable. But rays really do abound, along with some wonderful warm-weather rituals: rooftop asados (barbecues) are one and pool parties another. As many porteños (the word for Buenos Aires locals) have Italian ancestors, an abundance of high-quality ice-cream parlours is also ready to please. January tends to be the hottest month of all, though there’s little in it, and the one with the clearest skies. Recently refurbished, the affordable, cool Vain Boutique Hotel puts you plum in the trendy Palermo barrio.

• Best things to do in Argentina • Best cities to visit in winter

26. Antigua

Average winter temperature 26C Renowned for its (suspiciously convenient) marketing dream of 365 beaches — one for every day of the year, if you hadn’t heard — Antigua also throws in sugar mills, diving delights and some notable historical sights led by Nelson’s Dockyard, a Unesco-listed marina where the Admiral lived for three years. Stellar sunsets and lively, rum-sponsored parties are additional specialties, as is goat curry. This sense of variety repeats itself in the Caribbean island’s accommodation scene; there are big resorts, of course, but a lot of soulful, boutiquey, authentically local stays in addition. COCOS is a couples-only, southwest-coast resort with vernacular, brightly painted wooden cottages featuring four-poster beds and hammocks.

• Best hotels in Antigua • Best things to do in Antigua

27. The Gambia

Average winter temperature 25C There’s lots to like about the “smiling coast”. It’s one of Africa’s safest countries and the national language is English. Prices are amazingly affordable and the GMT timezone precludes jet lag after an eight-hour direct flight. Despite a coastline that’s only 50 miles long, there are an array of beaches. Kotu and Kololi are classic, restaurant-lined tropical resorts, while Batokunku, Sanyang and Jinack Island have a more back-of-beyond vibe. Inland, along the Gambia River, are parks and reserves where tours will show you crocodiles, hippos and monkeys.Idyllic Jinack Lodge runs dolphin-spotting trips, mangrove boat tours and drumming workshops.

• Best winter holiday destinations

Additional reporting by Qin Xie

Take me there

Looking to visit a winter sun destination but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from Tui and Jet2 Holidays .

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

Related articles

31 Winter Vacation Ideas for 2023: From Snowy Wonderlands to Faraway Beaches

By Caitlin Morton and Matt Ortile

Sponsored by Visit US Virgin Islands

Whenever cold weather swings around, our travel daydreams tend to fluctuate between two very different types of winter vacation ideas: snowy wonderlands and tropical beaches . Some days, we envision a ski vacation or trip to a snow-covered European village , and other days we start planning our next beach trip while scorning the sub-zero temperatures. Repeat that cycle about 50 times, and that pretty much sums up what our lives look like from December through March every year.

If you experience these dueling pangs of wanderlust, then you’re in luck—we’ve rounded up 31 of the best winter vacation ideas, listed in alphabetical order and divided equally between cold- and warm-weather destinations, for you to dream about—and to plan—visiting ASAP. Because who says you have to choose just one?

There are winter wonderlands, and then there is Antarctica. Lately, it seems everyone is going to the seventh continent , and the appeal isn’t hard to figure out: There are the otherworldly landscapes, the fearless and adorable penguins, and the opportunity to see one of humanity’s final frontiers. But tourism has an impact, positive or negative, wherever travelers go, and it’s important to learn more about how to take care of our planet as we bask in its glory.

There’s no better place to escape the winter cold than right on the equator, where perennial favorite destination Singapore sits. Inclement weather won’t stop you from visiting the city-state’s many hawker centers , museums , boutiques , and night markets . This city in a garden is a perfect way to relieve your eyes of the winter grays and give them some verdant life.

Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

If the famous beaches of Rio are getting too crowded for you, head 220 miles off Brazil’s northeastern coast to the breathtaking archipelago of Fernando de Noronha—voted one of the world’s best islands in our latest Readers’ Choice Awards. Here you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, trek lush trails, and watch the moon rise over the ocean.

Whistler Blackcomb, Canada

In recent years, Whistler has become a beloved spot for high-quality ski and snowboard hills. With 8,171 acres of skiable terrain, there’s easily enough ground to keep you on new trails throughout the six-month regular season. Runs offer a wide range of difficulty levels, making this the perfect place for beginners, adrenaline junkies, and everyone in between .

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

US Virgin Islands

Sitting pretty in the middle of the Caribbean, the US Virgin Islands consist of three islands: the bustling island of St. Thomas, where you’ll find the capital city Charlotte Amalie; the easy-going St. John, where Virgin Islands National Park takes up much of the area; and the largest of the three, St. Croix, with plenty of spots for scuba diving and historical towns. Dreaming of all three? Ferries and island hoppers make visiting each island easy and accessible, and US citizens can visit without a passport .

You’ve probably been on a layover in Abu Dhabi before, but now’s the time to make an actual visit. The history and luxury of the city are as inviting as ever , especially with pleasant temperatures from December to March. For the aviation geeks out there, the emirate’s new Midfield Terminal, now called Terminal A, will finally open this November, expanding passenger and cargo capacity in the Middle Eastern hub. Expect new lounges, retail stores, restaurants, and more, as one can naturally expect from the UAE’s capital.

Icy and mysterious Greenland is one of the most naturally beautiful places on earth. The world’s biggest non-continental island is so much more than glaciers (but yes, the glaciers are spectacular). Think magnificent fjords, colorful villages, and fields of sheep. Throw in some northern lights appearances, and you have yourself one unbeatable winter destination .

Boracay, Philippines

Consistently voted one of the best islands in Asia in our Readers’ Choice Awards, Boracay is a perennial favorite of locals and tourists alike. The idyllic white sand beaches were so popular with visitors that, at one point, the authorities had to prohibit tourism for a while to let the land and community rehabilitate. But now it’s back in business, ready to welcome those looking to relax and unwind , or party the night away—or both.

Dolomites, Italy

If the Alps is the destination for glitzy ski towns, then consider the Dolomites its chiller, cozier cousin . Also known as “the Pale Mountains,” its powdery slopes can be accessed via the 86-mile Great Dolomites Road, one of the world’s most beautiful alpine drives, offering beautiful views of Italy ’s best wintery landscapes.

From December to March, South Africa’s safari circuit takes a back seat to Africa’s most cosmopolitan city, thanks to prime weather conditions. During the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, Cape Town ’s restaurant, hotel, and nightlife scenes are at their best. Plus, it’s the growing season in South Africa’s winelands , from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek to Swartland, all of which are just a short road trip away.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai in Thailand is surrounded by misty mountains, golden temples, and verdant rice terraces—all with a climate that rarely dips below 60 degrees. During the city’s Flower Festival, held annually on the first weekend of February, every street in the old city is covered in flowers and plants for three days.

Finnish Lapland

Imagine the most idyllic winter scene you can dream up, and Finnish Lapland will absolutely deliver. There aren’t many places where you can visit Santa Claus, take a reindeer sleigh ride, or sleep under the Northern Lights in a bubble sled—but Lapland lets you do all three.

It may seem counterintuitive to fly to an island for the cool weather, it’s exactly that brisk and fresh feeling that’ll enchant you in the Azores , an archipelago in the middle of the North Atlantic. All that lush greenery and pleasant chill will let you discover a new kind of sweater weather. And it’s just a five-hour flight from the US.

Yellowstone National Park

No matter the season, Yellowstone is always a good idea. Famous sites at the oldest of all US national parks (established in 1872) include the Old Faithful geyser and the Grand Prismatic Spring, but truly, every single acre of the park is worth seeing in person. Visiting in the winter is a good way to avoid the summer crowds; you'll be greeting by landscapes filled with steam from the thermal features.

When you visit the birthplace of hygge (the Danish concept of “coziness”), you better believe your winter vacation is going to be aces. That feeling can be found throughout Copenhagen , from pastry shops to inviting hotels .

Zakynthos, Greece

All Greek islands seem to be framed by that killer shade of emerald blue, but there’s something about the white sand beaches and brilliant waters at Navagio Bay in Zakynthos that will make your heart skip a beat. Maybe it’s the secluded location (it’s sheltered on either side by soaring cliffs) that keeps its aquamarine waters so perfect and pure—basically the exact opposite of winter grays.

Salzburg, Austria

Classic Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, sits divided by the Salzach River: Its pedestrian Old City lines the left bank, and the (slightly) newer side is on the right. For a hotel stay involving gingerbread cookies, fluffy beds, and views of falling snow, look no further than Hotel Goldener Hirsch .

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

While often thought of as a side trip from Cancún, Isla Mujeres is a destination in its own right. The main beach of Playa Norte is made of crushed coral, has warm shallow waters, and is much quieter than the beaches across the bay. Scuba enthusiasts should take note: The island is home to the largest concentration of whale sharks on the planet.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

This Teton-ringed valley is a true winter wonderland. Of course, it helps if you want to spend most of your time skiing— Jackson Hole is known for its 3,000 acres of both accessible backcountry terrain and challenging vertical slopes. But even if you don’t want to hit the powder, you can still indulge in après-ski diversions in both Teton Village and the town of Jackson. And let’s face it: Any excuse to cozy up in Caldera House is valid.

Luxor, Egypt

We haven’t invented time travel just yet, so the best you can do is visit one of the oldest cities in the world . Have you been to Luxor, home of Egypt’s most iconic destinations like the imposing Colossi of Memnon and the Valley of the Kings, where you can visit the tomb of King Tutankhamun. Granted, wintertime is peak season in Egypt; the cooler weather attracts more tourists, but it’s worth braving the crowds to avoid bursting into flames.

Nevis (of the nation of St. Kitts and Nevis) is a Caribbean island with gentle slopes rising to the peak of its dormant volcano. It’s more low-key thanits sister island, and known for its historic inns. If you’re looking for a luxury hotel, stay at the Four Seasons Resort Nevis for easy access to Pinney’s Beach, a favorite for both families with kids, and travelers seeking a calm respite.

Roatán, Honduras

The most developed of the Bay Islands, Roatán is mainly known as a diver’s paradise . Almost all of its 31-mile coastline is lined with biodiverse coral reefs, home to colorful fish, dolphins, and West Indian manatees. Even better? You can visit Roatán on one of Virgin Voyages’ Caribbean cruises , which counts the Honduran island among its many port stops.

New Zealand

Thanks to new direct flights directly from the US mainland to cities like Auckland and Christchurch, heading to New Zealand is easier than ever. It’s a year-round destination, but Kiwi summer from December to February offers a nice change of season for those visiting from the Northern Hemisphere. Try Maori cuisine with a gourmet twist in Wellington , or slow-cooked New Zealand lamb in Sichuan sauce in Auckland .

Srinagar, India

To experience a winter wonderland on the Indian subcontinent, head to Srinagar, the most populous city in the Kashmir Valley. Thanks to cool new hotel openings and developing infrastructure in the region that make visiting much easier than ever before, Srinagar was on our international list of 23 Best Places to Go in 2023 . To keep warm, indulge in a multicourse wazwan feast and wash it all down with piping hot cups of kahwa, Kashmiri saffron tea.

San Diego, California

Welcome to the unofficial Christmas (merchandise) capital of the United States, where two megastores selling Christmas decorations draw holiday enthusiasts to San Diego year-round. Perhaps it’s the dissonance between the classic wintery aesthetics and the eternally sunny climes that make Southern California a perfect winter vacation idea, but who’s going to say no to pristine beaches and easy-luxury hotels any day of the year?

Hokkaido, Japan

The Japanese island of Hokkaido is blessed with myriad geological beauties (think volcanoes, national parks, and lakes)—most are even more stunning in winter. For example, the ethereal Shirogane Blue Pond wears ice beautifully, with its towering trees and azure waters coated in glimmering frost. Looking to ski? The slopes of Niseko are among the finest in the world.

Canary Islands, Spain

It’s not quite hot enough to swim off the white sand beaches of Spain ’s Canary Islands in the winter, but to make up for it, there are fewer crowds, ever-impressive views, and off-season prices on this cluster of volcanic isles. For what it’s worth, the island of Gran Canaria, just off northwestern Africa, is said to have the best climate in the world.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt, surrounded by some of the Alps’ tallest peaks, has 223 miles of runs in four huge ski areas —some at an altitude of over 10,000 feet, meaning snow here lingers for a very long season. This enchanting Alpine village lies at the foot of the Matterhorn, Switzerland ’s most famous mountain, and has plenty of modern touches, like its state-of-the-art lift system and swanky après-ski diversions.

Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Just off the coast of Queensland, Australia , you’ll find these 74 islands in the crystalline waters of the South Pacific. Fly into Hamilton Island, the largest of the archipelago; take to the sea on a yacht (warmer waters in Southern Hemisphere summer means whale watching season); explore the Great Barrier Reef , and learn about the traditional indigenous owners of the land, the Ngaro Aboriginal people .

Park City, Utah

The ski capital of Park City (and home to the Sundance Film Festival) is on our list of Best Places to Go in the US this year, with its iconic resorts like Montage Deer Valley , the Stein Eriksen Lodge , and the St. Regis Deer Valley offering comfy and chic digs for winter sports enthusiasts and those who love them. To see “The Greatest Snow on Earth” (the state of Utah itself has trademarked the phrase), swing by anytime between December and March.

New York City

Not many cities can compare to New York City during the holidays. Already experienced those classic traditions like the lighting of the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center , the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes , ice skating in Central Park , or The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center? Follow our guide to make a few unexpected ones of your own.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

13 Best Places To Go in the Winter, From Ski Resorts to Sunny Beaches

These are the top cold- and warm-weather destinations around the United States.

Danny Wilson / 500px / Getty Images

A winter vacation is a great cure for the letdown that often comes after the holidays and the "winter blahs" that can set in as the season stretches on. Yet everyone has a different idea of what makes a perfect winter vacation. Some want to ski or at least savor all that goes with a snowy environment — think cozy fireplaces, hot cocoa, mulled wine, crisp air, and mountains draped in white. Others want to avoid the cold at all costs, lounge in the sun, and swim in warm tropical waters.

To help you decide what kind of trip is right for you, here's a look at our top 13 winter vacation ideas for destinations around the United States. These are our favorite places to go in the winter, whether you're looking for the perfect winter wonderland or you prefer sandy beaches to snowy mountains.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Tenley Thompson / iStockphoto / Getty Images

With an average 458 inches of snowfall each year, the ski resorts here — in particular, the popular  Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Snow King Mountain — attract lovers of the sport. You'll also find other winter-weather activities like snow tubing, snowshoeing, ice skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and backcountry skiing. Snowcoach tours to nearby Yellowstone National Park make it possible to explore the area in a warm, comfortable vehicle, offering access to Old Faithful, bubbling mud pots, and wildlife. For another exciting winter adventure, snowmobile tours are offered in Yellowstone and, even closer, Grand Teton National Park.

St. Louis, Missouri

With daytime temperatures often hovering in the 40s, winter in St. Louis might seem downright mild to some residents of chillier cities. If it feels too cold to be outside, though, there's plenty to do indoors. The palatial St. Louis Art Museum , founded in 1879 and moved to its current home during the 1904 World's Fair, is one of the country's premier museums. Visitors can also ride a tram to the top of the Gateway Arch , the tallest human-made monument in the United States at 630 feet, for a spectacular view of the city.

St. George, Utah

Sara Edwards / iStockphoto / Getty Images

A four-hour scenic drive from Salt Lake City (or a two-hour drive from Las Vegas ), St. George offers an appealingly mild desert climate. Though nights can be chilly, daytime temperatures here typically reach into the 50s or even low 60s during the winter months. The historic downtown features a number of interesting museums, galleries, restaurants, and cafes. About an hour away, spectacular Zion National Park is open all year, with hiking and mountain biking trails. Just 15 minutes from St. George, Snow Canyon State Park — with red rock mountains, horseback riding, and gorgeous scenery — seldom sees snow, despite its name.

Louisville, Kentucky

Known for the Kentucky Derby, the Bourbon Trail, the Louisville Slugger baseball bat, and great food , Louisville offers a bevy of indoor attractions and lots of bourbon to keep you warm. Set on the Ohio River along the Indiana border, the city rarely sees snow or freezing temperatures — but if its highs in the 40s and 50s are too chilly for you, you'll still find plenty to do. The Kentucky Derby Museum explores the history of the annual thoroughbred horse race, while the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory will appeal to baseball fans. Bourbon connoisseurs, meanwhile, will want to check out all the nearby distilleries .

Palm Springs, California

Emily Riddell / Lonely Planet Images / Getty Images

About a two-hour drive east of Los Angeles, this charming desert city enjoys warm winter temperatures and is home to golf courses, spas, casinos, and nearby hot springs. Trendy restaurants, boutique hotels, resorts, and elegant shops offer something for everyone — and there are options if you prefer outdoor pursuits, too. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway provides spectacular views en route to the snow-capped peaks of the San Jacinto Mountains, while Joshua Tree National Park (located about an hour away) boasts extraordinary rock formations, cacti, and starry night skies.

Key West, Florida

Michael Warren / Getty Images

As the southernmost point in the continental U.S., Key West is a perfect destination for travelers in search of winter sun. Winter temperatures in the 70s, centuries of history, and world-class water sports all attract tourists, as does the chance to take one of America's most scenic road trips — the roughly 3.5-hour drive across the 42 bridges that connect Key West to Miami. Diving and snorkeling among the coral reefs are popular activities during the day, while in the evening, lively Duval Street offers a Caribbean-style ambience and a host of great restaurants and bars. Historic architecture, the Key West City Cemetery , and the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum are among the most-visited attractions in this quirky city.

Burlington, Vermont

Dennis Curran / Courtesy of Smugglers Notch

Located in northwestern Vermont on the shore of Lake Champlain, Burlington is one of the best places to go in the winter if you like snow. Several popular ski resorts lie within an hour of the city, including Stowe , Smugglers' Notch , and Bolton Valley . Downtown Burlington, meanwhile, boasts shops, restaurants, microbreweries, live music venues, and the charming Church Street Marketplace . When you're ready to turn in for the night, Vermont's largest city offers a variety of cozy bed-and-breakfasts and chic hotels.

Sun Valley, Idaho

iStockphoto / Getty Images

If you want to ski in the tracks of old Hollywood royalty this winter, Sun Valley is the place for you. Sun Valley Resort was founded in 1936, and from the beginning drew celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable to ski in style, earning it a reputation as the birthplace of destination skiing. Today, the resort offers 2,400 skiable acres spread across two mountains, plus a popular snow sports school . Non-skiers can check out the other winter activities available — from ice skating and snow biking to snowmobiling and sleigh rides — or visit the town, which boasts a range of dining spots, live music venues, and coffee shops.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Richard Cummins / Lonely Planet Images / Getty Images

Travelers who like to spend their winters enjoying indoor attractions will find much to enjoy in Pittsburgh . Art lovers can take in The Andy Warhol Museum (the artist was born and raised in Pittsburgh) and the Carnegie Museum of Art , founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1895. The Carnegie Museum of Natural History , meanwhile, boasts exhibits that both entertain and educate. Pittsburgh's dining scene is growing, with dozens of restaurants, cafes, breweries, and modern food halls to enjoy. Local favorites like pierogies, kielbasa, and a sandwich from Primanti Bros. should definitely be on your food agenda.

Sarasota, Florida

Thousands of snowbirds flock to Sarasota every winter, and with temperatures in the 70s, white-sand beaches, and a thriving cultural scene, it's easy to see why. Travelers of any age will relish the chance to gather seashells or splash in the warm Gulf waters, while, in town, a wide array of shops and galleries offer hours of browsing. Other highlights include the city's extensive collection of midcentury modern architecture and The Ringling complex, which boasts an impressive art museum and a museum of circus history, among other attractions.

South Padre Island, Texas

Danita Delimont / Gallo Images / Getty Images

With temperatures in the 60s, winter is a pleasant season on this small barrier island off the southern Texas coast. The area is a haven for nature lovers, with outdoor attractions like the Laguna Madre Nature Trail and the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary , which includes a five-story viewing tower. The Original Dolphin Watch  and  Breakaway Cruises offer dolphin tours, while Sea Turtle Inc. runs a turtle rescue and rehab center where visitors can get up close to the critters year-round. Boating, fishing, and kiteboarding are popular activities as well, and you'll find plenty of fresh local seafood, including oysters, red snapper, and flounder.

Asheville, North Carolina

Winters are mild in this city in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Hikers can access trails throughout the season, while those seeking winter sports will find ski slopes nearby. Asheville offers quirky galleries, museums, and some of the country's best restaurants , and this is an ideal time to explore them all with minimal crowds. There's no shortage of history here, either. The 1.7-mile Asheville Urban Trail features bronze sculptures depicting figures and events from the city's past, while Biltmore — the sprawling Vanderbilt estate and mansion — offers guided tours that give visitors a glimpse into the Asheville of the Gilded Age.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Ample sunshine, beautiful beaches , brilliant sunsets, and graceful palm trees beckon travelers to Hawaii during the chilly months. Oahu , in particular, is one of the best places to go in the winter, thanks to temperatures that hover around 80 degrees and attractions that range from snorkeling and big-wave surfing to luxury shopping in the boutiques of Honolulu. Visit Iolani Palace to explore the only royal castle in the U.S., and learn all about Hawaiian history at the Bishop Museum or the Polynesian Cultural Center , which is located an hour outside the city on Oahu's scenic North Shore .

Official website of the Best Destinations in Europe.

Best destinations 2024

Christmas markets

Ski Resorts

Romantic destinations

Hidden gems

Best beaches

Best landscapes

Family destinations

Best National Parks

More inspiration

City breaks

Beach destinations

Cultural destinations

Shopping destinations

Sustainable tourism

Destinations for nature

Culinary destinations

Ski destinations

Christmas destinations

Book your flight

Compare low cost flights to Europe countries then book your airline tickets directly by clicking through to agency and airline sites.

Find your hotel

Big savings on hotels in thousands European destinations. Read hotel reviews & find the best price on hotels for all budgets.

Tours & Activities

Discover Europe’s biggest collection of things to do and guided tours. Whatever you want to do you’ll find it here. Best price guarantee !

•   City Breaks
•   Christmas
•   Ecotourism
•   Trip Finder
•   Best destinations 2024
•   Best beaches
•   Romantic destinations
•   Best hidden gems
•   Best landscapes
•   Best ski resorts
•   Best Christmas markets
•   More inspiration
•   Tours & Activities

❤ Join us on :

Best destinations for winter sun

Treat yourself to a sunny winter break

Warmest destinations for winter sun in Europe

Normal 0 21 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4

Is Autumn one of your favourite seasons? It is indeed a glorious season when leaves turn orange and red, the sky changes colour, the forest becomes a true painting with a thousand shades of gold. But it means that winter is coming! The days are getting shorter, you feel the lack of natural light on your body and your morale takes a dip. 

Time to avoid depression and recharge your batteries in the sun . Prepare your holidays in beautiful destinations where, even in winter, the sun is at the rendez-vous.

Take your sunglasses, sunscreen, swimsuit,  book your flights  at the best price, as well as your accommodation and your  activities and tours in Europe and discover the Warmest Destinations for Winter Sun in Europe .

Go on, treat yourself to a sunny break in the  warmest and sunniest destinations for winter sun in Europe .

Need more inspiration? Discover the Sunniest Christmas Destinations in Europe , Best Destinations for New Year's Eve , as well as the best places to visit in the sunniest countries in Europe as Portugal , Spain , Greece , Turkey , Italy , Croatia ,...

Our teams have travelled all over Europe, from North to South, West to East but we have yet to see any place more beautiful than Madeira . Madeira has a perfect climate, never too hot, never too cold. Madeira is a perfect destination for leisure activities, sports activities, rest or rejuvenation in hotels immersed in nature or luxury hotels; everything you dream of is in Madeira.

Come trekking, watch the dolphins or rest on the beaches of Porto Santo . Madeira is the perfect destination to discover all year long with family, lovers, and friends. The temperature is almost the same throughout the day, neither too hot nor too cold; do not expect a white Christmas in Madeira but you will enjoy a stroll in the beautiful Christmas market dressed simply in a t-shirt that will be good enough to face 18 degrees/ 64 Fahrenheit, average at this time of the year. Welcome to Paradise! 

For nature lovers we advise you to book your room at the hotel Quinta do Furao  and for lovers of the most beautiful hotels in the world, we recommend the hotel Belmond Reid's Palace , a sublime 5-star hotel where Churchill and Lady Churchill resided.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Beaches in Madeira , Best Instagrammable Places in Madeira , Best Things to do with Kids in Madeira , Best Activities for Nature Lovers in Madeira and much more in this travel guide dedicated to Madeira !

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Funchal and your  accommodation , tours & activities in Madeira . 

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Porto Mare - Portobay " offers 4 restaurants, 6 bars and 5 swimming pools

Malta  is the perfect compromise between idleness, gastronomy and cultural tourism. Alternate the days of discovery of the island of Malta with rest days by the hotel pool. The average temperature in winter is 16 degrees, (61 F) and does not drop below 14 degrees (57 F). So, leave sledges, hats and gloves at home and pack your sunglasses and spring clothes for a dream holiday on the island of Malta.

For its excellent value for money and its perfect location we recommend the Grand Hotel Excelsior and the superbly located hotel Ursulino Valletta . Also book your best activities in Malta such as a vintage bus ride or a private tour with a local operator. 

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Valletta and your accommodation at the best price. 

  Where to stay:  " Grand Hotel Excelsior ". Set just outside the historic entrance to Valletta.

3. The Algarve

Royals,  celebrities from around the world, families, nature lovers , birdwatchers , trekkers, nightclubbers, everyone finds happiness in the Algarve, a destination to discover throughout the year. The Algarve is like a good friend always smiling, always in a good mood, warming your heart and taking away the worries of the day.

The Algarve is an incredible destination that offers sublime hotels at very attractive prices in winter such as the Pine Cliffs Hotel  located in Albufeira, the EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel  or for small budgets who want to enjoy sea views the Muthu Oura Praia Hotel . 

During your stay do not miss to visit the Best Beaches in Portugal , Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in Portugal , Best Castles in Portugal , Best Places to Visit in Portugal and Best Things to do in Portugal to enjoy the very best of Portugal .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Faro, your  accommodation  and tours & activities in the Algarve .  

  Where to stay:  " Portobay Falesia " features direct access to the white sandy Falésia Beach.

4. Tenerife

We think that the 20 degrees (68 F) in November-December-January will be sufficient to allow you to recharge your batteries, go to the beach and get a tan in the middle of winter while your friends freeze in the cold pacing the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.

Book your dream holiday in Tenerife today by selecting your accommodation  at the best price as well as your tours and activities in Tenerife such as Whales and Dolphins tours .  

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Beaches in Spain , Best Christmas Markets in Spain , Best Hidden Gems in Spain , Best Places to Visit in Spain as well as the Best Things to do in Spain and visit one of the  Warmest Winter Sun Destinations in Europe .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Tenerife Airport, your accommodation and tours and activities in Tenerife .  

  Where to stay:  " Jardin de la Paz ". Pleasant location and beautiful views.

Andalusia - Spain

Already ranked among the best destinations to visit in October for its  weather, Seville with its Christmas market , its shopping streets, is also one of the best destinations for Winter Sun in Europe.

The capital of one of the most beautiful regions of Spain is of extreme beauty. You have also ranked it among the safe places to travel in Europe , Best sunny Christmas destinations in Europe , Best place to propose in Europe and of course among the best places to visit in Spain .

During your stay do not miss the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Spain and most beautiful beaches in Spain .

Book your flights to Seville, your transfer, accommodation in Seville as well as your tours and activities in Seville such as a " Seville: Royal Alcazar Entry Ticket ".  

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Seville and your transfer . 

  Where to stay:  " Welldone Cathedral ". The main Christmas Market is 300 m away.

The city of seven hills – like Rome – is one of the best destinations for winter sun in Europe . With one of the best shopping centres and outlets in Europe , Lisbon is a prime destination for pre-Christmas shopping.

Here the prices of clothes are on average 10 to 20% lower than the prices charged in France , Germany , United Kingdom . 

Need more inspiration? Discover the most beautiful castles in Portugal , the most beautiful secret destinations in Portugal and the most beautiful beaches in Portugal .

Book your flights to Lisbon, your accommodation in Lisbon as well as your as your tours and activities in Lisbon such as a " Lisbon: Sintra Pena Palaca and Park Entrance ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Lisbon and your transfer .

  Where to stay:   " Torel Palace Lisbon ". Stay in the heart of Lisbon.

7. Puerto de Mogan 

Gran Canaria - Spain

Gran Canaria is one of the 8 islands of the Canary Islands and one of the best winter sun destinations in Europe . It is also one of the best destinations to visit in November in Europe .

If you prefer a lazy afternoon at the beach rather than strolling through crowded Christmas Market aisles, then Puerto de Mogan is for you.

It is the best time of the year to enjoy this little corner of paradise. It's the perfect hideaway to recharge your batteries for a week or two during the winter months.

Book your flights to Gran Canaria, your accommodation in Gran Canaria as well as your activities and tour s such as a " Dolphin Watching Cruise ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Gran Canaria and  your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Cordial Mogan Playa ". Set in tropical gardens, it features 2 outdoor pools, spa and rooms with balconies.

8. Marbella

The most beautiful city of Andalusia , The Capital of the Sun, The most exclusive destination in Europe , awaits you for an exceptional Winter Sun Holiday in Europe.

Imagine a New Year's Eve with your feet in the water. After a day of shopping in the authentic alleys of Marbella, in the designer shops of Porto Banus, you have a drink in the Marina or in one of the 5-star resorts of this destination which has always attracted celebrities . This year visit one of the Best Destinations in Europe for Winter Sun .

Book your flights to Malaga (40 min by car), your transfer , your accommodation in Marbella as well as your activities and tours in Marbella such as a " Marbella: Catamaran Tour with Dolphin Watching ".

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Beaches in Spain , Best Castles in Spain , Best Hidden Gems in Spain , Best Ski Resorts in Spain and the Best Places to visit in Spain .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Malaga (40 min by car) and  your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Nobu Hotel Marbella ". The nearest beach is 500m away.

Cote d'Azur - France

What better way to start the year than a few rays of sunshine to warm up. Treat yourself to a walk along the "Promenade des Anglais", facing the Baie des Anges while listening to the sound of the waves lulling you.

Nice is one of the most beautiful cities on the French Riviera. Chic and elegant, just like its neighbour Cannes , it is a perfect destination to enjoy the first rays of the sun in winter . If the temperatures are not those of summer you can still count on average temperatures around 10 degrees and many sunny days in winter.

Be sure to visit Nice's covered or open-air markets to stock up on local produce, including the famous lemons of Nice (the Nice Lemon Festival takes place in mid-February. It is one of the most important events in Nice).

During your stay do not miss to visit the Best Beaches in France , Best Secret Destinations in France as well as the Best Castles in France .

Book your flights to Nice, your accommodation and your tours & activities such as a " Nice: Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Nice and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Hotel de France " situated in the "Carré d'or" district.

10. Porto Santo

Madeira Islands - Portugal

For the perfect Winter Sun Holiday , treat yourself to a stay in Porto Santo/Madeira Islands . This island is famous for its kilometric beach of golden sand with therapeutic virtues. After beautiful walks on the beach, eat on the terrace and enjoy the spectacle of one of the most beautiful sunsets in Europe.

Want to cocoon? Porto Santo has a high quality offer of hotels with Spa & Wellness .

Ranked among the best destinations for Valentine’s Day , Porto Santo is also recognized as one of the best wellness destinations in Europe .

Book your direct flights to Porto Santo or your flights to Funchal (Madeira main Island) + short flight to Porto Santo or ferry crossing. This winter, treat yourself to a cure of sun and well-being by staying in Porto Santo.

Not to miss: discover the best beaches in Madeira .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Porto Santo or your flights to Funchal Airport (Madeira) + a ferry crossing or a flight to Porto Santo.

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Porto Santo & Spa " on a sandy beach.

11. Positano

Campania - Italy

In Winter,  nothing better than filling up on vitamin D & freedom, discovering incredible landscapes, resting on the beach, sunbathing, enjoying good food, discovering one of Italy's best hidden gems: Positano .

Considered one of the best destinations for a wedding , a honeymoon , to propose or for a romantic stay in Europe, Positano is THE destination for lovers.

This former fishing village is built on the side of a cliff on the magnificent Amalfi Coast. Romantic Airbnb’s as well as mythical hotels like the " Eden Roc " welcome lovers looking for a change of scenery, sun and tranquillity in February.

Why visit Positano in Winter ? Because the streets and beaches  are uncrowded , because you will be staying with the locals or do trails along the empty coast and because accommodation is up to 3 times cheaper than in high season.

Another good reason to visit Positano in winter is that the lemon trees fill the Amalfi Coast with their sweet fragrance in Winter.

Book your flights to Naples as well as your accommodation at the best price in Positano and your tours and activities on the Amalfi Coast such as a " Positano & Amalfi Coast Boat Tour ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Naples (1h20 by car or taxi/transfer).

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Eden Roc Suites " set in a panoramic location it offers a pool and a spa.

This beautiful and charming little town in Spain is totally different from other European destinations. Its sunny climate throughout the year makes it one of the best destinations for a sunny holiday in Europe in winter .

The warm air of the sea will warm you up and recharge your batteries. It is very rare to see snow in Mijas in winter, in fact it happens every ten years and the last time was in 2012. Book your accommodation at the best price in Mijas and come to enjoy one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe.

Find peace and quiet at the la Perla de Torrenueva thanks to its location metres from the beach. During your stay do not miss to visit the Best Beaches in Spain , the Most Beautiful Castles in Spain and the Best Secret Destinations in Spain ! 

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Malaga, your accommodation in Mijas or Malaga and your tours & activities in Andalusia . 

  Where to stay:  " TRH Mijas ". This charming Andalusian style hotel is located between the beach and the mountains.

The name "Limassol", the capital of Cyprus, immediately evokes holidays in the sun. Come and discover one of the most beautiful islands in Europe and one of the best destinations in Europe to enjoy the sun all year long .

You can explore the history of the island or its most beautiful monuments or rest on its hot sand, see idyllic landscapes, go diving or just sunbathe on the "Pissouri", “Santa Barbara” or the “Vrysoudia" beaches. They all fly the "Blue Flag".

The island is perfect also for sailing, water sports, walks, shopping. 

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Larnaca International Airport, your accommodation in Cyprus and your  tours & activities in Cyprus .

  Where to stay:  " Amathus Beach Hotel " with direct access to the Mediterranean beach

The city of Porto is magical at Christmas, a hot Porto wine, a pasteis straight out of the oven, a woolen beanie bought on the ephemeral Christmas market or in the renovated Bolhao market, there are all the ingredients for a perfect Christmas if you are travelling to Porto in winter.

In addition, the city of Porto organizes fireworks every year which has nothing to envy to those of Paris, London and Berlin. Go to Batalha square, in front of the Town Hall to count down to midnight and admire the fireworks. 

Book your flights to Porto, your accommodation in Porto as well as your tours and activities in Porto such as a “ Porto River Cruise ” and discover one of the Best Winter Sun Destinations in Europe . During your stay, visit the Best Beaches in Portugal , Best Hidden Gems in Portugal , Best Places to Visit in Portugal as well as the Most Beautiful Castles in Portugal .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Porto and your transfer.

  Where to stay:  “ Portomoments ” to stay in the historic heart while staying away from the noise of the crowd. “ InterContinental Palacio das Cardosas ” to be at the heart of the festivities.

15. Ustica 

Sicily - Italy

Probably one of the most under-the-radar European islands, Ustica is a tiny Italian island, with a population of just over 1000 people north of Sicily. It is connected to the Port of Palermo by a regular ferry service and is renowned for the beauty of its landscapes and the purity of its waters which make it one of the best diving spots in Europe. It is an ideal destination for a winter sun vacation away from the crowds in a little lost paradise.

Book your flights to Palermo (+ ferry to Ustica), your accommodation in Ustica as well as your activities and tours in Sicily such as a " Palermo: Street Food and History Walking Tour ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Palermo. 

  Where to stay:  " Le Terraze sul Mare " offers sun terrace with pool and air-conditioned studios with sea views.

16. Fuerteventura

Canary Islands - Spain

Fuerteventura is one of the Best Winter Sun Destinations in Europe . This island is the guarantee of sunny holidays. Fuerteventura is flatter than the neighbouring islands and the clouds are never trapped by the mountain as can be the case on other islands such as La Palma, La Gomera or even Tenerife .

Lanzarote, is also a good choice for a sunny stay in March. This rebellious island has stood up against the construction of massive hotels under the leadership of the committed architect César Manrique, whose "Volcano House" you can visit in Lanzarote. Fuerteventura, on the other hand, is famous for its numerous beaches and its bewitching emerald blue waters as well as its sunny weather all year round.

Need more inspiration? Discover the best beaches in Spain , Best hidden gems in Spain and Best places to visit in Spain .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Fuerteventura or your flights to Tenerife + domestic flight to Fuerteventura.

  Where to stay:  " Alma Calma Hotel Rural " provides adults-only accommodation.

17. Lanzarote

This Canary Island enjoys permanent sunshine throughout the year. Lanzarote has a favourable microclimate and more than 2500 hours of sunshine a year, a record in Europe. The temperature in winter is never lower than 14 degrees (57 F) and goes up to 20 degrees (68 F) on sunny days.

This island is perfect to rest, to sunbathe on the beach and to discover the main attractions of the island such as the Timanfaya National Park. 

Book your activities & tours in Lanzarote  such as a "Volcanoes and Caves Tour" or a "2.5 hour Sunset and Dolphins Cruise" and book your accommodation  in Lanzarote.

  How to get there: 

Book your flights  to Lanzarote, your  accommodation  in Lanzarote and your  tours & activities in Lanzarote .

  Where to stay:  " Las Costas " located close to a golden sandy beach and the " Iberostar Lanzarote Park " with pool and sea views. 

Malaga is a great city surrounded by other jewels of European tourism such as the "Caminito del Rey", this incredible walk along the mountains of Spain  and exceptional small cities like Ronda and its famous bridge ranked among the most beautiful bridges of Europe .

During the coldest months, you will enjoy at least 5 hours of sunshine a day in Malaga (compare this with 1 hour for London in December) and average temperatures of 17 degrees (63 F) in the daytime.

Come and load with sunshine this winter by booking your accommodation in Malaga as well as your activities and tours in Malaga  such as a " Gourmet tapas tasting tour ".

During your stay visit the Best Beaches in Spain as well as the Best Secret Destinations in Spain .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Malaga,

your  accommodation  in Malaga and your  tours & activities in Andalusia .

  Where to stay:  " La Casa Azul B&B " in the centre of Malaga for its very good value for money.

Discover the vineyards of Crete and the famous Cretan diet known to make centenarians of its inhabitants. But perhaps their secret is not in their olive oil, in their wine nor in their diet based on fish and vegetables, maybe this longevity and joy of living comes from the incredible sunshine they enjoy.

During December, the ‘worst’ month of the year, you are sure to enjoy at least 5 hours of sun a day (compare this with 1 hour a day in London) and temperatures reach an average of 17 degrees (63 F).

Do not waste time and book your hotel, B&B, apartment  in Crete and your tours and activities  such as an " afternoon sailing trip to the Dia Island" or a full day tour of Heraklion ".  

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Islands in Greece , Best Hidden Gems in Greece , Most Beautiful Places to visit in Greece , as well as the Best Things to do in Greece .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Chania or Heraklion Airports,

your  accommodation in Crete  and your  tours & activities in Crete .

  Where to stay:  " Nostos Beach Boutique Hotel " located just steps from the beautiful Bali Beach.

20. Dubrovnik

One of the most beautiful medieval towns in Europe awaits you this winter. Considered one of the best destinations to visit in Croatia , Dubrovnik is an incredible destination that attracts history lovers, those who want to discover the most beautiful castles in Croatia , but also gourmets, water sports enthusiasts, wine lovers, or those looking for sun and idleness.

There is a Dubrovnik for each of us. Are you a movie buff or do you love TV series? Dubrovnik is one of the best movie locations in Europe and you won't miss discovering places that have been used as sets for popular series like Game of Thrones.

While walking through the lobby of your hotel you might come across Hillary Clinton. Dubrovnik is one of the favourite destinations of celebrities . With its secret beaches, among the most beautiful beaches in Croatia , its 5 and 4 star hotels and its numerous restaurants offering Croatian and Mediterranean cuisine, Dubrovnik has everything to please you.

Book your flights to Dubrovnik as well as your accommodation and your tours and activities in Dubrovnik such as a " Dubrovnik: City Walls Sunset Guided Tour ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Dubrovnik and  your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Dubrovnik Palace ". Get the celebrity treatment at Hotel Dubrovnik Palace.

Plan your trip to Europe

Hotels, Apartments, B&B...

Fresh deals every single day

Thousands reviews you can trust

Tours, Sightseeing & Activities

Discover Europe’s biggest collection of things to do and guided tours.

Whatever you want to do you’ll find it here.

More destinations

• Best of Europe
• Best European destinations for Winter Sun

Best in Europe

Best Destinations 2024

Best Romantic Destinations

Best ski resorts

Best Christmas markets 2024

Best beaches in Europe

Sustainable tourism in Europe

European Best Destinations

EDEN Destinations

Connect with us

Subscribe to discover latest travel inspiration, tips and deals from European Best Destinations.

My Newsletter

Best in  Europe.

Your ultimate bucket list to travel in Europe

destinations 2024

Most exclusive

destinations

sustainable destinations

romantic destinations

fairy tale destinations

places to visit Netherlands

Art Nouveau destinations

places to visit in Portugal

medieval destinations

Family holiday

hidden gems

blue water destinations

for digital detox

Green Capitals

open-minded destinations

natural wonders in France

hidden gems in Italy

islands in Greece

things to do in Austria

European Best Destinations ®

• Scroll to top

The 10 best places in Europe for winter sun in 2023

Oct 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Betancuria village in Fuerteventura, one of the Canary Islands, can be a little windy making it the idea spot for surfers © Getty

Winter in Europe isn't all that bad: bundles of pillowy snow; steaming mulled wine at Christmas markets; the crunching score of ice skates on a frozen canal.

But then comes the rain. And the biting winds. That neverending darkness. We could all do with some sun and a long blast of vitamin D. Luckily, you don’t have to go far to find some. Europe’s southern reaches can provide plenty of blue skies, sunshine and mild (albeit not tropical) temperatures. What’s more, traveling in the low season means accommodation and car rental can be gloriously cheap, while beaches and local attractions are crowd-free.

Here are the best and sunniest spots for a European winter vacation. Feel your toes thawing out already?

Discover green countryside, culture and history 

Malta can be scorching in the summer. So the cooler days of winter, when temperatures rarely dip below 50°F (10°C), are perfect for exploring the great outdoors. Rock climbing and hiking are particularly pleasant in the off-season, as the rural landscape is at its greenest. Culture and history buffs should catch a winter-solstice sunrise on December 22 at Mnajdra Temple , where the sun accurately lights up the edges of a megalith. Come February, the Maltese Carnival brings parades and late-night parties galore.

Rainy-day rescue: If you need to seek shelter from a shower, the baroque interior of St John’s Co-Cathedral in Unesco-listed Valletta dazzles.

Revel in the Mediterranean’s warmest winter 

With more than 340 days of sunshine a year, Cyprus is your best bet for a warm winter in the Mediterranean . While snow glitters on the peaks of the Troödos mountains , coastal areas, particularly in the east, stay warmer and drier. Stay in Larnaka to spot flamingos dancing around their winter home on the nearby salt lake before heading west for historic treasures such as the 3rd-century Tombs of the Kings and Ancient Kourion .

Rainy-day rescue: Spend a wet afternoon among the ancient artifacts of the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia, or find a cozy taverna for a long Cypriot lunch.

3. The Algarve, Portugal

Soak up more than 300 days of sunshine a year

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year and 87 blue-flag beaches, The Algarve has become an increasingly popular winter sun destination. This is when waterfalls roar back to life in the eucalyptus-filled Monchique Mountains and migrating birds flock to Ria Formosa Natural Park . Even popular Quinta do Lago Beach is blissfully quiet this time of year. If you can handle sea temperatures of 57°F (14°C), now is the time to surf. Work up an appetite before finding dinner in the whitewashed towns of Faro , Lagos or Tavira .

Rainy-day rescue: The interior of São Lourenço church near Loulé is an azulejo-lover’s dream. The ornate blue tiles here cover almost every inch, floor to ceiling.

4. Crete, Greece

Have deserted resort towns all to yourself

You can only reach Crete via Athens in winter and although most resort towns will be pretty much deserted, base yourself in Heraklion or Haania to get a sense of low-season life. There are still restaurants and bars open in both and they're good spots to hire a rental car for peanuts and explore the island. On sunny days you might find you have the pink-tinged sands of Elafonisi or the Palace of Knossos all to yourself. Temperatures can reach highs of 61°F (16°C) in January, but the nights are much colder, so pack layers. Still chilly? An evening with a bottle of local raki should warm you up.

Rainy-day rescue: Uncover five millennia of history at Heraklion Archaeological Museum , one of the best museums in Greece .

5. Sicily, Italy

Eat like royalty on fresh produce

Magical Sicily is full of color in winter: citrus trees are heavy with ripening oranges, lemons and limes; food market stalls in Catania and Palermo creak under the weight of fresh vegetables, fish and seasonal walnuts; and all over the island locals are preparing for Carnevale (which takes place this year on February 8-13). While the weather can change at the drop of a blood orange, eight hours of sunshine a day and average highs reaching double those in London make it worth taking your chances.

Rainy-day rescue: Villa Romana del Casale is home to the most significant collection of Roman floor mosaics in the world – and the wooden roof protects them (and you) from the elements.

6. Seville, Spain

Immerse yourself in Mudéjar style, and sunshine

If you fancy a winter city break, look no further than Seville . Temperatures often rise to 63°F (17°C), with at least six hours of sunshine a day (though packing an umbrella is always wise). Top sights like the Plaza de Espana and the Real Alcázar feature indoor areas and outdoor delights, allowing you to bask in the sunshine and hide from a passing shower. Enjoy a sunset stroll along the modern Metropol Parasol, known locally as Las Setas .

Rainy-day rescue: Take a tour of Seville’s stunning Cathedral , or stamp, tap and shimmy through the Flamenco Dance Museum , where you can also arrange a lesson or watch the pros perform.

7. Madeira, Portugal

An archipelago where it’s always 'eternal spring'

Mild winters are standard in Madeira , a Portuguese archipelago some 309 miles (498 km) north of the Canary Islands. Known for its 'eternal spring', temperatures rarely drop below 57°F (14°C) here. Beaches are rocky but the sea is warm, so pack your swimsuit – or join a dolphin- and whale-spotting tour. If you prefer dry land, Madeira’s rugged interior is ideal for hiking. Follow a trail along a levada – an ancient network of channels that distributed water around the island for over a century. These days they are sources of hydropower.

Rainy-day rescue: Relax with afternoon tea while watching the rain fall. Belmond Reid’s Palace in Funchal has welcomed both Winston Churchill and Roger Moore (aka James Bond).

8.  Turquoise Coast, Turkey

Admire the crystal-clear waters – without the crowds

Turkey ’s Turquoise Coast is a tourist magnet in summer – perhaps it has something to do with the shade of that water. But when the crowds have dispersed, there’s nothing but you, those views and an average of 10 hours of sunshine a day. Moderate temperatures mean hiking is nowhere near as sweaty as it would be in August – so why not tackle some of the 335-mile (540km) Lycian Way? The route winds between Fethiye and Antalya , passing countless ancient ruins and clifftop wonders including the remains of Levissi , ancient Patara and the (mostly) sunken city of Simena .

Rainy-day rescue: Warm up, give your legs a rest and enjoy a treatment at a hammam (Turkish bath), found in most major towns.

9. Balearic Islands, Spain

Frolic on epic beaches and watch peerless sunsets

Adored by summer holidaymakers, these Spanish islands are just as lovable come winter . Ibiza 's pumping beats and party crowds have left – but the epic sunsets and beaches remain. Culture-packed Mallorca , meanwhile, is quieter and cheaper. Lesser-visited Menorca lures nature fans with decent walking weather for crossing the Camí de Cavalls coastal path, while tiny Formentera beckons those who want total seclusion.

Rainy-day rescue: If you’re going to get wet, you may as well go diving. Sea temperatures allow for diving around the Balearics’ caverns and shipwrecks year-round.

10. Canary Islands, Spain

Take to the waves, dunes and hidden coves

Want sand dunes and hidden coves? Volcanic national parks and forested mountains? How about colorful villages, tempting restaurants and watersports galore? It’s all here, all year. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are generally the warmest of the Canary Islands in winter with highs around 71°F (22°C). Lanzarote and Fuerteventura can be a little windy – which isn’t necessarily a bad thing if you’re heading there to surf or take part in its annual kite festival. Lesser-known La Gomera , La Palma and El Hierro will feel even more off-the-radar than usual in winter, though they will have plenty of sun.

Rainy-day rescue: Let the weather slow you down: book an appointment at one of the islands’ many spas for a massage, followed by a trip to a local vineyard or bar to taste local wines.

This article was first published September 2019 and updated October 2023

Explore related stories

Feb 15, 2024 • 4 min read

Can’t decide which glorious Greek islands to include on your week-long itinerary? We have some tips to help you plan.

Jan 19, 2024 • 11 min read

Sep 25, 2023 • 4 min read

Sep 5, 2023 • 7 min read

Jul 20, 2023 • 6 min read

Jul 13, 2023 • 5 min read

Jul 6, 2023 • 7 min read

Jul 13, 2022 • 11 min read

May 11, 2022 • 7 min read

Mar 3, 2021 • 5 min read

22 of the warmest destinations around the world in winter for your escape

Posted: March 22, 2024 | Last updated: March 22, 2024

Winter can be a fun time to travel. Who doesn’t love a snowy getaway to the mountains or an epic ski trip? However, not everyone loves the cold. So, if you’re looking for a sunnier alternative, check out the destinations below!

Mendoza, Argentina

Argentina’s “adventure capital” is perfect for active travelers who want to hike, bike, and maybe go horseback riding at the foot of the Andes. And since it’s in the southern hemisphere, it will be summer, ensuring no snow in sight! Mendoza is also home to many of the country’s top vineyards, should wine tasting be of interest to you.

You may also like: 21 creative camping food and drink hacks

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Another South American favorite, Rio is always a good idea. It is particularly so during winter up north when the frigid weather makes you want to stay inside all day. That’s not the case in Brazil, where it’s always beach and outdoor party season! 

Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.

Should the South Pacific sound appealing, you can’t go wrong with Fiji, a wonderful island popular among Aussies. Turquoise blue water and endless stretches of white sand await you, thousands of miles away from any negative temperatures.

You may also like: 20 easy tips to instantly look more put-together

Sydney, Australia

A bit west of Fiji, Australia’s largest city is an amazing sunny escape from the northern hemisphere. Drink cocktails along the water, beach hop in the Eastern Suburbs or Northern Shore, and check out one of the many coastal walks within the city limits.

Thai Islands

Thailand is full of stunning islands, and it’s too difficult to recommend a single one for your winter escape. However, travelers' favorites are Koh Tao, Ko Lanta, and Koh Lipe.

You may also like: 20 pieces women need for a complete capsule wardrobe

Key West, Florida

If you don’t want to endure an international flight to escape the cold, no worries. Florida, specifically Key West, has you covered! Temps remain balmy (if humid) during the “winter,” which is why it’s such a popular destination amongst retirees and spring-breakers alike!

The Canary Islands, Spain

European destinations that remain warm throughout the year are few and far between. Even the Mediterranean isn’t immune to less-than-ideal weather, and it can be a lot cooler than travelers expect in the region between December and March. However, the Canary Islands are a not-so-kept secret amongst Europeans where you can enjoy a beach vacation no matter the month.

You may also like: 20 ballpark foods you can make at home

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is fantastic no matter when you choose to visit, but you’ll appreciate the beaches, wineries, and sun even more in the colder months. Flying in from a cold northern hemisphere winter to a South African summer will immediately boost your mood.

San Diego, California

Another popular domestic destination, San Diego has sun and sand throughout the year. And if you’re flying from somewhere in the West, it’s only a few hours away!

You may also like: 20 interior decor trends coming back into style

Cusco, Peru

A bit of a different idea: Cusco is mountainous and not exactly tropical. However, it will still be a lot warmer than most northern destinations and is perfect if you love to hike.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is synonymous with a dreamy holiday, and for good reason. Who wouldn’t want to relax in an overwater bungalow and swim in the electric blue ocean while snow piles up back home?

You may also like: 20 United States cities with unexpectedly good nightlife

Palm Springs, California

We’ve focused a lot on coastal holiday options so far, but sometimes a desert getaway is what you need. Kick the winter blues in Palm Springs, where temps are rarely below the 50s, and you can enjoy the outdoors year-round.

A less-often thought-of destination, Mauritius should be at the top of your escape-winter list. The island nation is balmy year-round and much cheaper than other similar vacation spots such as the Maldives and the Seychelles.

You may also like: 22 guilty pleasure recipes to make when you just want to eat what you want

Okinawa, Japan

Japan might not seem like the most obvious choice at first. After all, in a lot of the country, it is proper winter. However, the smaller, southern island of Okinawa has more of a tropical climate that stays warm year-round. Enjoy beach time and t-shirt weather, no matter the month you visit!

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Mexico is a popular place to escape winter blues, and for good reason. The weather, at least on the coast, is usually pleasant between December and March. And Puerto Vallarta, specifically, is a great cold-season destination. The temps are usually in the mid-70s to low-80s, and the precipitation is minimal.

You may also like: 20 random things that are normal in Europe but weird in the U.S.A.

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known for its nice weather year-round, but if you’re looking for something a bit different, check out La Fortuna. The town is the gateway to the nearby volcanic national park and is perfect for outdoors travelers looking for somewhere warm to hike, climb, and swim in winter.

Cartagena, Colombia

When you imagine the Caribbean, it’s probably islands such as the Bahamas, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands that first come to mind. However, if you’re up for an adventure, Colombia has its very own Caribbean coast, with Cartagena as an ideal base. And bonus: it’ll cost less than most vacation packages on the islands.

You may also like: Wake & bake: Breakfast recipes you can make in your oven

The tip of Southeast Asia (at least before you get to Singapore) is a terrific place to flee winter. Enjoy pristine beaches without the torrential downpours of monsoon season!

If you’re looking for somewhere a bit closer to home that feels like you’re far away, look no further than Cuba. Only recently open to American travelers, sip Cuban coffees along the Malecon in Havana, go horseback riding in the countryside, or beach-hop among turquoise waters with the occasional flamingo.

You may also like: The 20 beer styles you should know about

Tybee Island, Georgia

The southern states are a wonderful option if you’re looking for some winter warmth that doesn’t require you to dig out your passport. In Georgia, winter is considerably milder than in the rest of the country, and Tybee Island feels like the beach vacation of your dreams, miles from the bustle of Atlanta.

Ecuador might be one of the smaller South American countries, but it packs in a lot! From the Amazon rainforest to the idyllic beaches of the coast and staggering mountains that will delight any hiker, you’ll never be bored here. And as it sits on the equator, “winter” weather doesn’t really exist. There just might be some tropical rain, which usually passes quickly.

You may also like: 20 exercises you can do at home

Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt

The “cold” months in Egypt are still quite nice, with average temperatures in the 50s and 60s throughout winter. And the resort town of Sharm El-Sheikh is the place to be, with even warmer weather and access to the Red Sea! 

Did you enjoy this slideshow? Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.

More for You

19 Things People Treat As Safe That Actually Are Pretty Dangerous

Megan Fox Signs With UTA

I'm abrosexual - it took me 30 years to realise

18 Ridiculed Historical Figures Owed an Apology By Society

18 Most Common Reasons Women Leave Their Marriages

The most expensive state to live in isn't California or New York, based on data. Here are the top 10.

Mitch McConnell Confronted Over Voting to Acquit Donald Trump

Man loses 450 pounds after reaching 'rock bottom.' 1 key diet change helped

7 Things Stroke Doctors Say You Should Never, Ever Do

This Social Security Spousal Rule Is Officially Finished in 2024 — But These 3 Strategies Remain

Sports Cars As Cool as the Porsche 911 But Way More Affordable

John Jacob Astor IV was one of the richest men in the world when he died on the Titanic. Here's a look at his life.

This maths brain teaser will put your skills to the test

17 Things You Should Never Say in Your Real Estate Listing

19 Things That Will Happen When You Stop Drinking Alcohol

Jeff Bezos predicts Amazon's 'inevitable death'

The most dangerous state to drive in in the US, according to data—plus, see where your state ranks

Scientists claim people with this blood type more likely to have early stroke

An El Niño-less summer is coming. Here’s what that could mean for the US

5 Types of Homes That Will Plummet in Value in 2024

• Best time to visit Cuba

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• best-time-to-visit-cuba

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Joanne Owen

updated 25.04.2024

Boasting a bounty of beautiful beaches, along with extraordinary wildlife-watching experiences, adventure opportunities and festivals, Cuba has much to commend it whenever you visit. That said, the best month to visit Cuba depends on what you most want to do, and your budget, along with your opinion on the likes of tourist numbers, and the potential risks of the hurricane season. With these factors in mind, here we present the best time to visit Cuba from different perspectives. One thing’s for sure, Cuba is the kind of sparky destination that first-timers often find themselves longing to return to.

• Overview of weather and tourist seasons

December and January — best for winter sun and high season vibes

February and march — best for outdoor adventure, april and october – best for shoulder-season balance, may, june and september — best for budget travellers, july and august — best for high energy cuban culture, overview of weather and tourist seasons .

Cuba has a tropical climate, with a November-April dry season , and a May-October wet season. Though the dry season is generally considered to be the best time to visit Cuba, note that downpours are often (but not always...) short-lived in the wet season, and temperatures are high.

• The Atlantic hurricane season runs from 1st June through to 30th November, with September and October often being peak months for tropical storms and hurricanes.
• Coinciding with the dry season, Cuba’s tourist high season runs from November to April, though visitor numbers often drop-off from — and through — April.
• The wet season months of June, July, August and September see low season levels of crowds, and corresponding lower costs, with visitor numbers increasing through October as a drier period beckons.
• It’s also worth knowing that while July and August see smaller numbers of international visitors, these months are busy for local tourism. 

They're also the hottest months of the year — worth bearing in mind when planning your Cuba itinerary , along with the factors detailed below.

Cayo Coco, Cuba © Shutterstock

Kicking off with the obvious, according to a huge number of travellers, the best time to visit Cuba is during the peak high season months of December and January.

Given that these months sit in the region’s dry season — at a time when many of us are seeking respite from colder climes — visitors to Cuba in December and January can expect gloriously sunny, rain-free days. 

With warm temperatures sitting comfortably below the sizzling heat of summer, these are arguably the best months for enjoying the best beaches in Cuba .

At the same time, December and January being high season months means major tourist hubs (among them Havana , Varadero and Guardalavaca ) will be busy with like-minded travellers hoping for fun in the sun.

Beyond the entertainment offered by tourist resorts, this time of year sees Cuba stage a number of major festivals that are worth visiting for in their own right. 

For example, Havana hosts an international film festival in December. Come January, celebrated jazz festivals take place in both the Cuban capital and Santiago de Cuba .

The flipside of these attractive reasons to visit Cuba in December and January are the usual high season trappings. By which we mean higher costs for flights and accommodation, packed attractions, and busy beaches.

That said, you could always opt to explore lesser-travelled paths on an independent backpacking adventure, or on a customised Cuba itinerary that’ll take you off the beaten track .

Love film and music? December and January could be the best time to visit Cuba for notable festivals in Havana © Shutterstock

Though still sitting in the dry high season, February and March see visitor numbers drop-off from their December and January peak. These months also offer optimal conditions for diving and snorkelling.

The same is true of hiking and biking. Being cooler than the heady heat of summer, but still dry and warm, these are top months to explore the country’s wilder walking trails. They're also a great time to take advantage of Cuba’s relatively car-free roads on a cycling trip .

On the subject of cycling, if that kind of active trip sounds appealing, take inspiration from our customisable Bike Cuba itinerary, or our longer Western and Central Cuba by e-bike itinerary.

Bird-watchers, note that this time of year sees over 260 migratory species flock to Cuba. Ciénaga de Zapata in the Matanzas province, and Peninsula de Guanahacabibes in  Pinar del Rio are notable hotspots.

Editor’s tip:  travelling with kids? Check out our Active Adventure Family Trip .

Visit Peninsula de Zapata in February and March for amazing birdlife © Shutterstock

If you’re looking for a balance between high season crowds, warm weather and more moderate rainfall, April might be the best time for you to visit Cuba.

Sitting at the end of Cuba’s main high season — though Easter sees a spike in visitor numbers — April is quieter than January-March. It’s also cheaper and warmer than the preceding months, and drier than the months that follow.

Nature-lovers will also want to note that turtle-watching season kicks off at this time of year. For example, if you visit  Cayo Largo between April and September, you might just get to see loggerhead, hawksbill and green turtles come ashore to nest.

A similar kind of balance can be had in October, which isn’t as hot and humid as June-September. Bargains can often be had in October, too.

Just be mindful of the fact that the official hurricane season runs until the end of November.

Playa los Cocos. Cayo Largo. Cuba © Shutterstock

While Cuba is eminently do-able on a modest budget around the year — especially if you stay in casas particulares  — May, June and September offer the biggest bargains.

With these months still sitting in turtle season, they especially suit nature-lovers who are keen to curtail costs. Also note that a second bird migratory season takes place from September to November. 

As a bonus, May sees Holguin stage Romerias de Mayo. Presenting performances from local and international musicians, along with parades, dance and art shows, it's fair to say this traditional religious festival has been given a modern makeover.

Meanwhile, the fabulously flamboyant Fiestas San Juaneras takes place in  Trinidad at the end of June.

Again, be aware these months sit within the wet season, so expect rain showers and high humidity. Also note that tropical storms and hurricanes are a possibility in June, and more so in September.

Trinidad, Cuba © Shutterstock

Though low season months for international tourism, July and August see an increase in domestic tourism. At the same time, temperatures rise to their annual peak. 

In terms of the numbers, average daily highs typically hit 32-34 º C in August.

Hosting two major cultural events, July is an especially great time to visit Santiago de Cuba . First up, Fiesta del Fuego — a three-day fire festival, which is held in early July.

Officially known as the Festival del Caribe, this sees the city transformed into the stage for all manner of costumed parades, performances, and giant congas through the streets.

Stick around until the end of July and you’ll also get to experience one of Cuba’s liveliest events — the Santiago de Cuba carnival.

Come August, Havana hosts its own carnival, while Varadero’s Josone Music Festival showcases the talents of top jazz and son Cubano  musicians. 

Santiago de Cuba © Vadim Nefedoff/Shutterstock

Whenever you decide is the best time for you to visit Cuba, wise up on the best things to do in Cuba , and get yourself The Rough Guide to Cuba to help plan your trip.

Not keen on planning? Browse our customisable Cuba itineraries , or talk to our local experts .

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

• Travel Advice
• Travel Tips
• Inspiration

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for Cuba

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Cuba

• Eating and drinking in Cuba
• How to get to Cuba
• Getting around Cuba: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Cuba for planning and on the go

Find even more inspiration for 60 here

Ready to travel and discover Cuba?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Itineraries
• Travel advice

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.

The 8 best winter sun holidays to book for 2023/24

If you’re already planning your escape from the colder weather at the end of the year, here are the best winter sun spots to book now, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts

Get simon calder’s travel email, thanks for signing up to the simon calder’s travel email.

The winter months are an ideal time to swap the UK for some warmth and sunshine. Whether you’re after a beach break or are craving adventure, there are several winter sun destinations that make for incredibe holidays, including Bali , Morocco, Malta , Mexico, Tenerife and more.

You might be saving your main holiday until winter, looking for a post-Christmas break, or already know you’ll want to get away anywhere to avoid the cold. Either way, the appeal of soaking up some sun from November onwards is obvious – there can’t be much that’s as effective at beating the winter blues than a holiday abroad.

Whether you have a favourite place to head to as soon as the cold snap hits or are seeking some inspiration before booking, we’re here to help with the best deals.

Keep scrolling to see the winter sun holidays to book for 2023/24 and the temperatures to expect for each destination.

Tenerife is an ideal spot for catching some winter sun, with temperatures reaching up to 24C even during the colder parts of the year. Explore the beaches and coastline, or venture out to Teide National Park. Popular water park Siam Park is even open during January and February.

Book a seven-night all-inclusive holiday to Riu Buenavista in Playa Paraiso with Tui for £658 per person, departing from Bristol on Sunday 10 December; this winter sun deal is currently reduced by over £100. Expect an infinity pool with sea views, strolls to a nearby beach and dining in one of the four restaurants.

Read more on Europe travel :

• The best hotels in Malaga
• The best budget European city break destinations in 2023
• Why Puglia makes a great off-season escape

If a trip to Malta is on your winter wanderlust list, you can expect to see temperatures of around 21C in November, with this heat dropping only slightly to 16C or 17C December–March. Malta is an archipelago and includes the smaller islands of Gozo and Comino, so there’s lots to do and see. Visit the Baroque architecture in capital Valletta, or head over to St Julian’s for shopping, bars, and restaurants.

You can book a seven-night holiday in Sliema with First Choice from £283 per person. The Hotel Plaza Regency bed and breakfast deal includes hand luggage and transfers; flights depart from London Gatwick on Tuesday 5 December. You can take a dip in the hotel’s rooftop pool – which offers a view out onto St Julian’s Bay – but there’s an indoor pool open during the winter months, too.

The average winter temperature in Bali ranges from 25-30C, depending on which month you visit. You may see tropical downpours during December and January – as this is the Indonesian island’s wet season – but warm temperatures will prevail. Visit the island’s cultural centre Ubud to see temples and enjoy fine dining, while Seminyak on the south coast boasts beautiful beaches.

Head to Bali’s Segara Village in Sanur with Virgin Holidays for seven nights from Friday 3 November, with flights departing from London Heathrow. For £1,530pp, you’ll enjoy B&B accommodation with a tropical beachfront view.

The island of Sri Lanka, in the Indian Ocean, is an option if you’re after wonderful sandy beaches. Plus, the average temperature throughout the winter months is an impressive 22-30C. Visit capital Colombo in the south and Galle Fort in the south-west, with the latter being a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Book a half-board seven-night holiday to Citrus Hikkaduwa in the south of the island, from £982 per person with Mercury Holidays. Flights depart from Stansted on Tuesday 30 January. The hotel overlooks white sand and tropical seas, and there are scuba diving and snorkelling opportunites close to the resort.

You’ll discover glorious beaches, Mayan ruins and natural swimming holes on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Visit Yucatan’s capital city Merida, where you’ll find a 16th-century cathedral and the Great Mayan World Museum. Winter temperatures can reach 28-30C in the peninsula, and the dry season runs from November-May.

Book an all-inclusive stay at H10 Ocean Coral & Turquesa in Puerto Morelos with On The Beach for £1,079 per person. Flights depart from London Gatwick on Tuesday 16 January. The five-star resort is situated by the beach, and it has a gym, spa and several restaurants.

The Algarve in Portugal sees a pleasant average temperature of 18C during the winter and it also offers around 300 days of sunshine per year. The coastline features beaches and coves, while its known for several brilliant golf courses, too. Visit the caves in Carvoeiro, walk along the Praia de Marinha cliffs and head to Albufeira for shops and restaurants.

Jet2 is offering a self-catering deal to Tropical Sol in Albufeira at £798 for two adults sharing a studio. Facilities include an outdoor pool, sports and leisure activities and a bar and restaurant. Flights depart from Belfast on Sunday 19 November.

Morocco has an average winter temperature of around 20C on its south-west coastline. The city of Agadir features a nine-kilometre stretch of beaches, a marina with watersports and a vibrant nightlife. Plus, you can pick up souvenirs from the local market, Souk El Had. Agadir is also an excellent base to explore the Sahara Desert, as the Dunes of of Rasmouka lie only 55km south. If you’re into surfing, nearby fishing village Taghazout features break locations Anchor Point and Killer Point. With the winter months being known as the surf season in Taghazout, you can expect to see impressive Atlantic Ocean swells.

Book an all-inclusive seven-night trip to Iberostar Founty Beach in Agadir for £706 per person. Take a dip in the outdoor pool, relax in the spa, or play volleyball on the beach. The flight departs from Manchester on Wednesday 8 November.

The areas of Egypt that are most popular with tourists tend to be on the Red Sea coastline, such as resort towns Marsa Alam, Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, where average winter temperatures here are 18-24C. Go dolphin spotting on a boat excursion from Hurghada or enjoy a Cleopatra hammam experience at the city’s spa. You can also book a day trip to Cairo from Sharm.

Book a seven-night holiday to the Coral Hills Resort in Marsa Alam for £707 per person, all inclusive. Flights depart from Gatwick on Thursday 11 January. The family-friendly complex is situated by the beach, and it has a gym, spa and pool.

Read more on the best Europe hotels .

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

Protect Your Trip »

The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Waterfalls in Iceland
• The World's Top Treehouse Hotels
• The Most Beautiful Beaches in the World
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Flight canceled or delayed what to do.

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 17, 2024

Where to fly on a budget this summer

Airfare experts share their forecasts for summer vacation destinations that won’t break your budget.

This summer is shaping up to be another scorcher , and the demand for summer travel is piping hot, too. If early 2024 trends are any indication of what’s to come, “it’s looking to be busier than 2023,” said Katy Nastro, spokesperson for the flight booking site Going . Recent airport passenger volume numbers have regularly exceeded last year and pre-pandemic levels.

Jeff Klee, CEO of CheapAir.com , says airline capacity has rebounded from pandemic complications, but strong travel demand means summer flight prices can be high, depending on when you’re hoping to go. Flying in June, July or early August will be more expensive than later in the season, according to the company’s summer forecast .

“And it’s not just the airfare,” Klee said in an email. “Expensive hotel rates and crowds everywhere make Western Europe tricky for the summer.”

Despite the price tag, “people are going to go,” said Melanie Fish, the head of global public relations for all Expedia Brands, including Vrbo, Expedia and Hotels.com . “When we look at searches for destinations, they are definitely up year over year.”

For popular destinations like Europe , Klee and Fish say to push trips later into August, September or even October. Not only will prices soften, but you’ll alleviate some of the strain of overtourism .

“My number one tip is go ahead and take that summer vacation, but maybe hold on to take that big, big trip in September,” Fish said.

According to Expedia’s summer 2024 travel outlook , we’re currently in the sweet spot for shopping for early summer flights at the best rates, as Fish says lower fares tend to pop up 21 to 60 days out. It doesn’t hurt to start your search even earlier, setting up price alerts to flag when airfare drops. If you can swing it, look to fly on a Monday for international trips or a Tuesday for domestic trips to save up to 15 percent on fares, Fish added.

It’s not impossible to find good deals on airfare, whether you’re looking for a tropical beach trip , a mountain adventure or a vibrant city. Here are places that are trending cheaper — and the destinations you’ll want to avoid.

Go to Mexico

Sun, surf, culture, chilaquiles — Mexico is always a good idea , but particularly so this summer. With the opening of the new airport in Tulum , U.S. airlines have been adding gobs of new flights to Mexico, particularly to beach regions. “We’ve seen a healthy amount of deals down to Mexico resort areas like Cancún,” Nastro said.

Laura Lindsay, global travel trends expert at Skyscanner , says three Mexican cities — Cancún, San José del Cabo and Puerto Vallarta — are among the top 10 destinations offering travelers the best bang for their buck in 2024.

To escape the summer heat, Phyllis Stoller, president of the Women’s Travel Group , recommends high-altitude destinations like Mexico City or Ixtapan de la Sal, a town near Mexico City with thermal springs.

Avoid European port cities

If you’re considering a visit to a popular European city that’s also a cruise hub, beware. Not only will you be battling the usual summer crowds, you’ll be joined by thousands of day-trippers flooding into the ports — meaning Barcelona, Venice , Athens and Santorini.

Sandra Weinacht, who co-owns the tour company Inside Europe Travel Experiences , says you can avoid some of the madness in these hot spots by staying in neighborhoods away from the typical tourist zones. You can also visit top sites in the late afternoon or evening, after cruise travelers have returned to their ships.

Better yet, wait to visit until the shoulder season

Go to Colorado

Epic hiking, breathtaking nature and more craft beer than you could ever try in a lifetime: The Centennial State is a domestic gem. Ashlee Collins of Inspirato , a luxury travel and lifestyle subscription service, says Vail is popular among members this summer. Not only is the ski resort beautiful sans snow, it’s drivable for many, cutting a significant cost for travelers.

Airfare to Colorado is looking more reasonable than other domestic vacation hubs. Nastro recently spotted a Miami-to-Denver, round-trip fare over the July Fourth holiday for just $199. She says an average round trip from major U.S. cities is running between $173 and $250, but those prices are expected to climb upward of $350 the closer we get to summer.

Avoid places at risk for wildfires

Wildfires have become an unfortunate fixture of summers in the Northern Hemisphere. Last year’s fires in Europe — including those in Cyprus and Greece — were among the worst so far this century, the European Commission reported .

Stoller says fire risk has been a factor in her summer travel planning; she nixed a New England cruise after remembering how bad smoke was last year because of the fires in Canada . “None of us can predict everything, but that would be something I would be aware of,” she said.

Extreme heat is also an issue. Last July, Southern Europe experienced excessively high temperatures from a “heat dome.”

“There’s a concern about heat,” Stoller said. “Last summer was really painful.”

Go to the Caribbean

The Caribbean has its peak tourist season during the winter, when Americans flock to warmer waters. That means summer trips to the region tend to be quieter and cheaper.

“You can go under $300 to pretty much all of the islands: Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Aruba, Dominican Republic,” said Lindsay Schwimer, a consumer travel expert at Hopper . She’s seen similar price point flights to Colombia.

Lindsay of Skyscanner also said Puerto Rico and the Bahamas offer some of the most affordable flights from the United States this summer.

Avoid Paris

Unless you’re going for the Olympics , skip the French capital this summer.

“Paris is always a top destination in the summer, but this summer … it’s going to be on another level,” said Madison Pietrowski, head of U.S. brand at GetYourGuide .

Not only are hotel prices high, “we’re seeing that some of the top attractions like the Louvre have raised their ticket prices,” Pietrowski said.

Nastro says the crowds are going to be “bananas” during the Games, and not just in Paris. Olympic travelers are likely to add on other French destinations to their trip, like Nice — which will host soccer games — or the Côte d’Azur, which already gets popular in the summertime.

Even if you try to get ahead of the rush by visiting before the July 26 start date, you may still have some Olympics-related headaches in the French capital. As the city races to finish prep, “you might find that there’s going to be eyesores and scaffolding and loud noises early in the morning,” Nastro said.

Go to rural Europe

Interest in Western Europe has not slowed down, and Americans are expected to surge back en masse this summer. If you’d like to avoid them, put rural European destinations on your radar.

Weinacht is bullish on Spain’s Rioja region , the Basque countryside and the central Italian region of Umbria, which borders Tuscany but does not see the same levels of tourism. She’s also a fan of Carinthia, the least-populated state of Austria. “It is castle- and lake-dotted, doesn’t get too hot, and oh, the food and stories the cities and villages can tell,” Weinacht said in an email.

Weinacht says she’s been getting more requests from Americans for trips to her homeland, Germany. The country is easy to navigate with its high-speed trains, and offers a mix of small and big cities spread across powerhouse wine regions, UNESCO World Heritage sites and many food festivals . According to Skyscanner, airlines in the United States have been increasing their flights to Germany — namely, Frankfurt, an international business hub — meaning you may be able to find more deals.

Avoid Sicily and Amalfi

If your dream Italian destination has been featured on TV lately, that’s a red flag. The last season of “The White Lotus” spurred an interest in already popular Sicily ; the same is happening to the Amalfi Coast thanks to the new Netflix miniseries “Ripley.”

“They’re really going to be the most expensive and they’re going to be pretty crowded for the summer,” Schwimer said.

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: These 12 destinations are at the top of our wish list for where to go this year, without crowds. In 2023, we explored an Alaskan bear paradise, Brooklyn’s famous pizzerias and a hidden gem in Italy, among other highlights .

Travel like a local: Residents share their favorite places in our top city guides: New Orleans , Rome , Tokyo and Mexico City .

National parks: This comprehensive guide has details on all 63 U.S. national parks. For a deep dive into five of the most well-known, you can listen to the Field Trip podcast . Then explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Dolly Parton has opened a new resort at her theme park complex in Tennessee, while “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have a new hotel in Waco . Road-trippers may be just as excited to see the cartoon beaver at Buc-ee’s , and bargain-hunters should consider a stop at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro, Ala.

• Weather App
• Interactive Radar
• 7 Day Forecast
• Hour by Hour
• Current Temperatures
• Closings & Delays
• Report School or Business Closing
• School administrators: Create a closings account
• Watch Live News
• Breaking Stream
• The $pend $mart Stream
• Law & Crime
• Curiosity NOW
• Share Your Photos and Videos
• Karen Read Murder Trial
• 25 Investigates
• New England's Unsolved
• Boston Bruins
• Boston Celtics
• Boston Red Sox
• New England Patriots
• Furever Friday
• Boston 25 Gets Real
• Steals and Deals
• Submit a news tip
• Advertise with Us
• TV & Stream Schedule
• Work at Boston 25 (Opens in new window)
• Visitor Agreement
• Privacy Policy
• Around Town
• Stuff the Bus

Boston 25 Now

Warm start to the work week

A SPRING DELIGHT

Monday will be the nicest day this week. It will feel like late May or June with highs in the 70s inland, 60s along the coast, and upper 50s on the outer Cape! A mix of sun and clouds will span the day with dry weather expected. The only exception may be an isolated early afternoon shower up north, but coverage will be very limited.

MIDWEEK COOL DOWN

Onshore wind will cause a significant drop in temperatures Tuesday and Wednesday. Most towns will be stuck in the 50s all day, some along the coast will only make it to the 40s. Long sleeves will be back – any perhaps a raincoats too.

Tuesday will remain mostly cloudy with a nearby boundary generating clouds. Showers look to stay focused across western New England, but it’s a close enough call to include the chance for a couple of local showers.

The better chance for rain will come through Tuesday night and Wednesday morning with the passage of a weak disturbance.

SEASONABLE END TO THE WEEK

As we progress towards the end of the week, Thursday and Friday offer a break from the overcast and chilly weather. Plan on seasonably 60s with on and off clouds.

© 2019 Cox Media Group

Opening statements begin today in the Karen Read murder trial

Mass. exodus: More people are moving out of the Bay State, report says

Massive fire destroys apartment building in Randolph displacing nearly 80 residents

‘A beautiful pain’: Hundreds gather to honor fallen Billerica police Sgt. Ian Taylor