When the temperature drops and the skies turn grey, it is amazing how quickly your mood lifts the moment you step into proper daylight. Not baking heat, just gentle warmth that lets you sit outside with a drink and feel your shoulders relax. December to March is a brilliant window to escape, and there are some easy wins if you want simple sunshine without a long flight.
There are a handful of destinations that consistently stand out for winter travel. Reliable weather, great scenery and that sense of getting away from the cold without having to think too hard. Here are some of the best options if you want to head into winter feeling a little lighter.
Easy Winter Sun Wins
The Canary Islands
The Canary Islands offer far more variety than many travellers expect. Lanzarote is a great example. Once you leave the busier resort areas and head north, you find volcanic landscapes, black lava fields, whitewashed villages and the unmistakable work of Cesar Manrique. Jameos del Agua and the lava tube caves reveal the island’s artistic and geological character, while the small communities in Haria, Famara and Orzola show a quieter side of Lanzarote that often gets overlooked.
Weather wise, January usually sits around 19 to 21 degrees during the day. Ideal T-shirt weather without the summer crowds. And from the north, it’s easy to take the ferry from Orzola to La Graciosa. It takes roughly twenty-five minutes and brings you to wild beaches, dunes and a laid-back island that feels wonderfully peaceful.
If you want something a little more special, La Gomera is the island that surprises travellers most. Fly to Tenerife, make your way to Los Cristianos and hop on the ferry which takes around fifty minutes. Operators include Fred Olsen Express and Naviera Armas. As you approach La Gomera, the scenery becomes greener, steeper and much quieter than its larger neighbour.
The island’s standout experience is Garajonay National Park. This UNESCO protected laurel forest has walking routes that feel completely different to anything else in the Canaries. Misty valleys, deep ravines and viewpoints that look out across layers of mountains. It is atmospheric, peaceful and perfect for anyone who wants winter sun with proper nature.
Madeira
Madeira remains one of the most reliable destinations for travellers who prefer greenery over desert scenery. The island is subtropical, full of sweeping views and known for its walking routes. Temperatures in December often sit around 18 to 19 degrees near Funchal, and the island’s microclimates mean you can enjoy sunshine in one valley and cloud covered peaks in another on the same day.
The Levada trails are the big attraction, but there is plenty of gentle exploring too. The farmers market in Funchal is a great introduction to the island’s produce, and evenings overlooking the harbour are a lovely way to unwind after a day outdoors.
Other mild winter cities
Beaches aren’t the only answer to winter. Some travellers prefer a warm city break with easy exploring. Malaga is a strong choice for art, food and sea air. Athens pairs ancient sites with clear winter skies and a lively cafe scene. Tunis and Sousse bring colour and spice, while Marrakesh remains a favourite for its winter warmth, rooftop views and lively medina. December temperatures in Marrakesh often settle around 18 to 20 degrees which feels perfect for wandering.
Long-Haul Winter Sun That Delivers
If you are looking for real heat or a trip that feels like an occasion, winter is a prime season for many long-haul favourites. Sri Lanka shines from December to March on the south and west coasts, giving you a mix of beach weather, tea country scenery and wildlife.
The Caribbean and the Americas include Barbados, Costa Rica and Mexico which all experience their dry season during this period. Calm seas, warm days and plenty of family-friendly options.
Across Asia, Thailand on the Andaman side, the Philippines and the northeast of Brazil all deliver classic winter sun conditions. And then there’s the Maldives: calm lagoons, clear water and that delicious sense of switching off completely. Think snorkelling from your villa, unhurried mornings and warm evenings that feel worlds away from winter.
Festive Market Magic for December
If sunshine isn’t essential but you still want something uplifting, Europe has brilliant festive markets. Tallinn is one of the most atmospheric. Strasbourg hosts one of the oldest markets in Europe and Prague fills its central squares with stalls and lights through December. For something a little different, Maastricht in the Netherlands offers a Ferris wheel, an ice rink and food stands on the Vrijthof.
If winter is starting to feel a bit too long, there are plenty of ways to break it up. Some close to home, some a little further, all guaranteed to lift your spirits. If you want help choosing the right kind of winter escape, just let me know and I will guide you through your options.
Ready to plan your next adventure? Call Edinburgh-based Rock My World Travel on 0800 368 9664 or email [email protected].
Isobel McCardie is Co-Founder of Rock My World Travel and ready to craft your bespoke itinerary inspired by who you are, how you live, and how you want to feel. Every journey is personally designed and concierge-supported, from your first call to your flight home.
