As the days grow longer and cold temperatures settle in, many of us start dreaming of warmer climates and sunny escapes. Winter in London can feel particularly long and dreary, making a winter sun holiday the perfect way to rejuvenate and wait out the cold.
According to travel experts ABTA, four in ten Brits had either planned on taking or booked a winter break this year, so you’re not alone in wanting to get away.
Whether you want to lounge on a sunny beach in a luxury resort or a cultural adventure in the city, there are plenty of destinations that are ready to welcome you.
Here is our selection of the best winter sun locations for your 2025 break and beating the winter blues.
Torviscas beach in Tenerife
The Canary Islands
The Canary Islands remain an enduring favourite holiday spot for travellers from the UK. This archipelago is made up of seven islands that offer year-round sunshine and is located just a four-hour flight away so you can avoid exhausting long-haul journeys.
Tenerife and Gran Canaria are amongst the most popular, offering a variety of accommodations and activities for every type of traveller. You can unwind on the volcanic sand beaches, take gentle coastal walks or explore the local culture.
Tenerife’s Mount Teide National Park is a must-visit for its varied landscapes, while Gran Canaria’s Maspalomas dunes offer breathtaking views of the desert-esque land meeting the sea.
Madeira
If you want to exchange tourists and crowds for the tranquillity of nature, Madeira could be the perfect destination for you. This Portuguese Island offers a slower pace of life compared to other locations like Porto and Lisbon.
Madeira’s winter temperatures are warm but are never considered ‘too hot’, making it a charming retreat from London’s gloomy days. It’s one of the best destinations for nature lovers with popular attractions like the Monte Palace Tropical Garden and Madeira Botanical Garden.
Scenic walks are plentiful, especially along the famous levadas – historic irrigation tunnels that wind through the island’s lush greenery.
The Caribbean
If you’re ready to venture a little further, the luxury of the Caribbean is amongst the finest. This tropical paradise is famous for its white sandy beaches and clear waters with locations like Barbados, Antigua and St. Lucia really stealing the show.
There is plenty to occupy your time, including snorkelling, sightseeing and lazy relaxation in the sun. You might be put off by the long flight times, making a cruise from Southampton to the Caribbean a happy medium. You can enjoy the journey in comfort and be raring to go when you arrive at the islands.
Dubai
Step away from the sun-soaked beaches and opt for something a little different with a trip to Dubai. Known for its glitzy shopping malls and out-of-this-world architecture in the backdrop of the desert, Dubai is a bucket-list holiday for many.
With direct flights from London, it’s easily accessible so you don’t need to be worried about transfers.
Embark on a traditional abra boat ride along Dubai Creek, spoil yourself with some retail therapy or visit the vibrant Dubai Miracle Gardens.