While winter in more northern European countries conjures up images of snow decorated landscapes; cosying up alongside warm, crackling fires; and trawling Christmas markets wrapped up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine in hand, for many individuals this dream can be very short-lived. The prospect of hopping on a plane to warmer climes and working remotely for a month, taking a long holiday over the festive period or heading off in January when the fun of Christmas is over is the true dream for a lot of people.
With this in mind, we analysed which European destinations are the best to escape to during the winter months. This study compares temperature and sun hours in all coastal cities in Europe to determine which is the best location to spend the cold season in. So, when you want to soak up the sun this winter, look no further than the below five winter holiday destinations in Europe to enjoy some warmer weather.
The top destination in each country to escape the cold.
Spain: Los Cristianos
Average winter sun hours 320.60 | Average winter temperature 20.6ºC
It’s official, Los Cristianos in Tenerife is Europe’s best destination to escape the winter! The city, located in the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, averages a whopping 320 plus winter sun hours and its winter temperature averages 20.6ºC. Los Cristianos is the perfect place to stay warm this winter and is the top choice for a winter holiday in Spain. Whether you want to hit one of the town’s dreamy beaches or go on an adventure to the Monkey Park, there is plenty to do in this warm escape.
Greece: Agios Nikolaos
Average winter sun hours 261.46 | Average winter temperature 16.4ºC
The top winter sun destination in Greece is the dreamy town of Agios Nikolaos. Located on Greece’s largest island of Crete, this town boasts average winter sun hours of 261 plus with a winter temperature averaging 16.4ºC. This charming coastal town stays warm even in the winter, so beat the summer crowds and check out its many beaches and waterfront restaurants or explore the nearby abandoned castles and olive farms. Agios Nikolaos should be on everyone’s list.
Italy: Syracuse
Average winter sun hours 258.20 | Average winter temperature 16.4ºC
The top destination in Italy is the historical city of Syracuse, located on the island of Sicily. This destination comes in with average winter sun hours of 258 plus and winter temperatures averaging 16.4ºC. Take a trip through history and explore the many archaeological sites or wine and dine, while taking in the stunning streetscapes. Make sure to check out Syracuse for your next winter trip.
Portugal: Luz
Average winter sun hours 250.10 | Average winter temperature 15.8ºC
Next on our list is the small coastal town of Luz in Portugal with average winter sun hours of 250 plus and winter temperature averaging 15.8ºC. Located in the Algarve region, Luz is covered in breath-taking beaches and surrounded by impressive cliffs. You won’t want to miss this charming town for your next winter escape.
France: Cala Rossa
Average winter sun hours 252.46 | Average winter temperature 13.8ºC
The number one destination to escape the cold in France’s winter months is Cala Rossa. Averaging 252 plus winter sun hours and temperatures averaging 13.8ºC, explore its stunning white sand beach, and dreamy turquoise waters. If you are seeking out a fun and food-filled holiday in France, look no further than Cala Rossa.
Which country had the most in the top 100?
Spain! It is no surprise with its warm weather and year-round sunny status that almost 60 per cent of the cities in the top 100 are located in Spain. With its modern cities to dreamy coastlines, you are sure to find the perfect destination to escape the cold weather in sunny Spain. The Canary Islands are the best Spanish region to spend the winter, with 21 cities in the top 100, thanks to their location off the north-west coast of Africa, followed closely by the Costa Blanca region with 17 cities ranking in the top 100.
