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If you’re anything like us, you’ll soon be craving the warmth of the sun on your skin as those long winter nights roll in. The UK winter can feel endlessly grey, which makes December the perfect time to escape to somewhere warm and sunny.
Whether you’re dreaming of guaranteed heat, searching for short haul winter sun breaks, or planning a cultural city escape under blue skies, there are plenty of destinations just a few hours away that offer the perfect dose of sunshine.
It’s no surprise that searches for winter sun holidays from the UK peak in late November and early December. If you’re ready to swap scarves for swimsuits this year, here are the best winter sun destinations in December to inspire your next getaway.
How to use this guide
Use the contents table above to jump straight to the sections you need, whether that’s choosing the perfect winter sun destination, figuring out the best way to get there, or planning where to stay once you arrive.
This guide is based on our real travel experiences and is designed to help you plan a flexible, responsible trip. Whether your ideal getaway involves relaxing beach days, exploring cultural sites, enjoying spectacular fireworks displays, or discovering local food, this guide will help you shape a winter escape that suits you best.
Travelling Over Christmas and New Year
The UK is perfectly positioned for a winter sun getaway, with many conveniently located airports offering winter routes to sunnier climates. With so many destinations to choose from, we’ve narrowed the selection to some of the best places for a warm winter escape.
Our chosen destinations are based on how warm and sunny they are in December, as well as how easy they are to reach. From short haul to mid haul flights, each location offers blue skies, warm sunshine, and a straightforward journey from the UK.
Many of these destinations are at their busiest over Christmas and New Year, so if you’re planning December winter sun holidays during the festive season, it’s best to book early. Popular hotspots like the Canary Islands, Dubai and Madeira can sell out quickly, and flight prices rise sharply closer to the holidays.
Madeira is especially famous for its New Year fireworks, while Dubai hosts some of the most extravagant celebrations in the world.
Where is the warmest place in Europe in December?
The Canary Islands are typically the warmest short haul destination in Europe in December, with average highs of 21–23 °C and plenty of sunshine.
Is Portugal warm in December?
Lisbon is mild, with sunny days around 15 °C, while Madeira enjoys warm spring-like weather around 19–20 °C, making it one of the best European winter sun destinations.
Where is hot in December for families?
The Canary Islands and Egypt are ideal for family winter sun holidays thanks to short flights, warm weather and plenty of activities.
When is the best time to book winter sun holidays?
Search volumes peak in late November and early December. Booking 8–10 weeks in advance usually gets you the best prices and availability for Christmas and New Year trips.
Canary Islands
Classic short haul winter sun favourite
Avg Temp in December: 21–23 °C | Flight Time: 4.5 hours
The Canary Islands in December are unbeatable for short haul winter sun. Warm weather, reliable sunshine and easy flight connections make them a top choice for families, couples and anyone seeking a break from cold UK weather.
Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura each offer something a little different. From hiking volcanic landscapes to relaxing on golden beaches, surfing and even wind and kite surfing, there’s plenty to enjoy. Sea temperatures remain warm enough for swimming, and coastal towns stay lively through Christmas and New Year.
STAY | Hotel Fariones on Lanzarote
With hundreds of daily flights from the UK to the Canary Islands, this destination can be as affordable to as luxury as you want, offering something for everyone from couples to families. Its easy to see why the Canary Islands continue to be a premier winter sun destination for the UK.
Egypt
Hot weather, guaranteed sunshine and unforgettable cultural experiences
Avg Temp in December: 24–26 °C | Flight Time: 5 hours
If you’re looking for hot destinations in December from the UK, Egypt delivers. Resorts like Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh see clear blue skies and toasty temperatures throughout winter. It’s perfect for beach holidays, snorkelling, and soaking up reliable winter sun.
STAY | Marriott Giza with stunning views of the Pyramids from your room
However we would suggest avoiding the resorts and heading out on a culture based holiday instead. Egypt is a land of legends and captivates the imagination. Walking amongst the pyramids and imagining how such monaliths were ever built is an experience never to be forgotten.
December is one of the best times to explore Egypt’s cultural treasures. Sites like Luxor and the Valley of the Kings are far more pleasant to visit at this time of year, when inland temperatures are mild. With plenty of direct flights and all-inclusive deals, Egypt is a brilliant choice for travellers chasing warmth without the long haul.
Lisbon
Mild weather, city break with many places close by to explore
Avg Temp in December: 14–17 °C | Flight Time: 2.5–3 hours
Lisbon in December is ideal if you fancy a European city break with winter sun. While it’s not beach weather, the Portuguese capital enjoys crisp, sunny days that are perfect for exploring historic neighbourhoods, wandering along the riverfront, or sitting outside with a coffee in one of the city’s many squares.
READ | Our pocket guide to Lisbon
Flights are quick and affordable, making Lisbon a great option for couples or solo travellers looking for short haul winter sun destinations with plenty of culture. We love Portugal and compared to the often close to freezing weather in the UK in December, the temparatures in Lisbon will feel compartivlely tropical.
Lisbon is great for a long weekend break and areas nearby such as Cascais and Sintra are also worth of adding to your winter sun getaway to Lisbon.
Madeira
Warm weather and festive fireworks
Avg Temp in December: 19–20 °C | Flight Time: 4 hours
Madeira in recent years has become an incredible popular destination and for good reason, the island is incredibly beauitful, it has a lot to offer and offers warm sunny weather.
STAY | Arts In Hotel Conde Carvalhal
December is a dream for those who want mild warmth, dramatic scenery and festive celebrations. The island enjoys spring-like weather year-round, making it perfect for coastal hikes and scenic road trips.
December is a particularly special time to visit because of Madeira’s famous New Year fireworks, often ranked among the best in Europe. The island stays vibrant through the festive season, with Christmas markets and warm, sunny afternoons.
READ | Our guide to Madeira
Malta
Sunny, affordable and easy to reach
Avg Temp in December: 16–18 °C | Flight Time: 3 hours
Malta in December is perfect for travellers looking for mild winter sun without breaking the bank. The island enjoys plenty of sunny days and comfortable daytime temperatures, making it ideal for exploring Valletta’s historic streets, coastal paths and ancient temples.
It’s not hot enough for sunbathing every day, but Malta offers a relaxed, affordable escape with a lovely winter atmosphere. It’s also well connected with direct flights from across the UK, making it one of the best short haul winter sun holidays in Europe.
For less tourists head to Malts sister island of Gozo, explore the streets of the islands capital victoria and even visit a prehistoric site in the centre of the island!
Morocco
Warm days, cultural adventures and amazing surf breaks
Avg Temp in December: 20–22 °C | Flight Time: 3.5 hours
Morocco is one of our favourite destinations, and it’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for winter getaways from the UK. We love spending time in the laid-back coastal towns of Taghazout, Tamraght and Imsouane, known for their relaxed surf culture, warm weather and fantastic food.
READ | Our complete guide to Taghazout
Morocco in December offers the perfect blend of warm days and rich culture. Marrakech enjoys sunny afternoons that are ideal for exploring bustling souks and rooftop cafés, while the coast stays mild and lively during the peak surfing months.
Essaouira is a brilliant pick for a relaxed seaside break, and if you head inland, the desert is at its best at this time of year, with comfortable temperatures for overnight adventures under the stars.
Just a short flight from the UK, Morocco is one of the warmest winter destinations near Europe in December. It’s ideal for travellers who want winter sun but also crave unique cultural experiences.
STAY | Munga Guesthouse in Taghazout is our choice for the perfect place to stay
Dubai
Guaranteed Heat and Luxury city break
Avg Temp in December: 27–29 °C | Flight Time: 7 hours
Dubai is the furthest destination on our list, but it’s worth including because when it comes to guaranteed sunshine in December, Dubai is hard to beat. With hot days and warm evenings, it’s perfect for beach clubs, rooftop dinners and desert safaris under clear skies.
December is one of the most popular months to visit thanks to festive events and spectacular New Year fireworks that light up the city. The weather is reliably warm, making it an excellent choice for those who want winter sun without worrying about unpredictable conditions.
Although Dubai is often seen as a luxury destination, it doesn’t have to break the bank. You can make a trip as affordable or as indulgent as you like, which makes it a fantastic option for both couples and families looking for a hot winter escape.