Best Winter Sun Holiday Destinations for 2025/26

Escape the Cold: Winter Sun 2025/26

When the UK skies turn grey and temperatures drop, escaping to somewhere sunny feels irresistible. Fortunately, winter doesn’t have to mean staying indoors. Whether you’re after a quick European break or a long-haul adventure, there are fantastic destinations offering sunshine, beaches, and warmth throughout the winter months.

Here are some of the top places to visit for reliable winter sun in 2025/26.

---

1. Tenerife, Canary Islands (Spain)

Why go:
Tenerife remains one of the most popular and dependable short-haul options for British travellers seeking sunshine. With daytime temperatures around 22–25 °C even in January, it’s ideal for both relaxation and adventure.

What to do:
Spend your days on the golden beaches of Costa Adeje, explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Teide National Park, or take a scenic drive through charming northern villages like La Orotava and Garachico.

Budget angle:
Flights are frequent and affordable, especially outside school holidays. Package deals and self-catering apartments offer good value in winter.

Best time to go:
December to March for the warmest and most settled weather.

---

2. Marrakech, Morocco

Why go:
A short three-hour flight from the UK, Marrakech offers a wonderful mix of culture, colour and sunshine. Temperatures hover around 20 °C in winter, perfect for exploring without the summer heat.

What to do:
Wander through the vibrant souks of the Medina, stay in a traditional riad, and visit the stunning Jardin Majorelle. For a change of scene, take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains or the desert at Agafay.

Budget angle:
Accommodation, food and activities can be excellent value, making it one of the most affordable warm destinations close to Europe.

Best time to go:
November to March for sunny days and cooler evenings.

---

3. Sharm El-Sheikh & Hurghada, Egypt

Why go:
Egypt’s Red Sea resorts are among the best choices for guaranteed warmth and sunshine in winter. Expect clear skies and temperatures around 25 °C, plus excellent opportunities for diving and snorkelling.

What to do:
Relax on the beaches, take a boat trip to coral reefs, or combine a beach holiday with a cultural visit to Cairo or Luxor.

Budget angle:
Egypt offers strong value for money, with competitive all-inclusive packages and affordable flights from major UK airports.

Best time to go:
December to February — pleasantly warm without the scorching summer heat.

---

4. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Why go:
Dubai offers luxury, sunshine, and world-class facilities. With daily highs around 26 °C, winter is the perfect time to enjoy its beaches, skyline views and desert adventures.

What to do:
Take a desert safari, explore the Burj Khalifa, or shop in the souks and malls. For something different, visit nearby Abu Dhabi or the quieter beach resorts of Ras Al Khaimah.

Budget angle:
Dubai isn’t just for luxury travellers. Mid-range hotels, early-bird deals, and city-beach combinations can make it surprisingly affordable.

Best time to go:
November to March for warm weather and minimal humidity.

---

5. Cape Verde (Sal & Boa Vista)

Why go:
Located off the west coast of Africa, Cape Verde is a rising star for winter sun seekers. Its islands enjoy year-round sunshine, turquoise waters, and a relaxed pace of life.

What to do:
Enjoy endless beaches on Sal, go windsurfing or kiteboarding, or explore local Creole culture and music in Santa Maria. Boa Vista offers quieter resorts and unspoilt coastal scenery.

Budget angle:
While flights are a little longer than to the Canaries, prices remain competitive, especially for package holidays.

Best time to go:
December to March for peak sunshine and comfortable sea temperatures.

---

Essential Travel Insurance

Wherever you’re heading for winter sun, taking out comprehensive travel insurance is essential. It protects against trip cancellations, medical emergencies abroad, lost baggage, and unexpected travel disruptions. Check that your policy covers your chosen destination, any activities you plan to do (such as water sports or desert excursions), and provides adequate medical cover.

For helpful guidance on what to look for, see our travel insurance tips.

---

Budgeting & Planning Tips

• Book early or late: Early-bird deals often appear in summer, while last-minute offers can save money if you’re flexible.
• Compare short-haul and long-haul: The Canaries and Morocco are great for shorter trips; Egypt, Cape Verde and the UAE suit longer winter escapes.
• Avoid peak weeks: Prices rise over Christmas and New Year — travelling in November, late January or February often costs less.
• Go beyond the beach: Add cultural trips, markets or hiking days for variety and value.
• Check weather details: Even warm destinations can have cooler evenings or breezy conditions, so pack layers.
• Plan your spending: Research local prices and exchange rates before you go to avoid overspending abroad.

---

Final Travel Tips

• Choose your ideal temperature: If 22 °C is enough, Europe’s winter-sun spots will suit; if you want tropical warmth, look further afield.
• Match your trip length to flight time: A short-haul flight works well for one week; longer journeys deserve a longer stay.
• Pick your holiday style: All-inclusive resorts for families, boutique hotels for couples, or adventure trips for solo travellers.
• Always carry travel insurance documents and emergency contact numbers with you while abroad.

---

Wherever you decide to escape this winter, the right destination — and the right travel insurance — will make your 2025/26 winter-sun holiday smooth, safe and unforgettable.