Tired of the cold? This is the warmest destination in Europe, winter sunshine guaranteed.
Winter is approaching and you're already fed up with the first chills of winter?! A sunny getaway is urgently needed before you turn into a giant ice cube deprived of vitamin D. The good news? You don't need to fly very far to find some warmth.
Contrary to popular belief, Europe is full of hidden gems where the sun shines even in winter. While they may not reach the 30°C peaks of summer, these cities and regions, compiled by Time Out's travel experts, promise immediate relief from the unpleasant weather you endure every day.
Champions of warmth in Europe, the Canary Islands top Time Out's list of the best European destinations to soak up the sun in winter. Their geographical location plays a significant role, being closer to Africa than to the European continent, despite belonging to Spain.
As Liv Kelly, a journalist at Time Out, states, "winter is barely a concept in this sun-drenched, beach-lined Spanish archipelago." With temperatures hovering around 21 degrees Celsius, you can swap your Christmas sweater for a swimsuit and dip your toes in the sand!
But the Canary Islands archipelago is vast, made up of eight main islands and several islets. If sunshine is your priority, head to Tenerife, "the largest and most visited of the islands, brimming with resorts." The beach resorts in the southwest of the island, such as Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos, and Costa Adeje, enjoy a warmer and drier microclimate than the north. Sheltered from the wind, they offer ideal conditions for swimming even in the depths of winter.
Alternatively, you can opt for La Palma if you are looking for peace and quiet, Lanzarote if you are looking for nature and volcanic landscapes or Fuerteventura for unforgettable water sports sessions.
After the Canary Islands, the Albanian Riviera takes second place in Time Out's ranking, with its spectacular turquoise waters and picturesque villages—some of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites—that "shine even brighter without the summer crowds." While temperatures are cooler, averaging around 15°C during the day, it's the perfect destination for any traveler seeking tranquility, affordable prices, and authentic scenery. Indeed, this coastline remains a Mediterranean gem, still untouched by mass tourism.
Ranked third in Time Out's list, Madeira, aptly nicknamed "the island of eternal spring," guarantees the same stable and pleasant climate year-round, even in the depths of winter, with temperatures hovering around 20 degrees Celsius. This island is a true green oasis, ideal for hiking and relaxing in the sun. You'll be spoiled for choice!
L'Internaute
