Although being very beautiful sometimes, in general, winter is a season that most people try to avoid by traveling to warm and exotic places.
Since most of Europe is located quite further north, every year hundreds of thousands of Europeans try to find a good winter sun destination.
Most of them explore the options along the Mediterranean because of the relatively small distance and the opportunity for EU nationals to stay as long as they want within the borders of the other EU member states.
Here is where we can find the most pleasant weather during the winter season:
Warmest Place in November
November is a month of meteorological changes. At this time of year you can easily find places that are still warm, even on the mainland.
The highest temperature, however, belongs to the Canary Island (around 24 – 25°C), followed by Madeira and Cyprus (both with 23 – 24°C).
The third place belongs to Malta and Crete (around 21°C).
Warmest Place in December
If you want to travel in Europe in December, you will find the best weather on the Canary Islands.
The temperature is around 22 – 23°C. Second is Madeira with temperatures around 22°C in Funchal.
The third position is for Cyprus with average daytime temperatures around 19°C.
The southernmost part of the Iberian Peninsula (Andalusia and Algarve), Malta and Crete are also among the warmest regions with temperatures around 18°C.
Warmest Place in January
The warmest place in Europe in January is the Canary Islands.
The average daytime temperature varies depending on which island and which part of the island you have decided to visit.
The weather is usually dry and sunny, sometimes partially cloudy.
The temperatures vary between 20 and 23°C along the coast.
The second warmest place in January is Madeira, which experiences daytime temperatures of around 20°C.
The climate is more humid in comparison with the Canaries.
Third in the list is Cyprus, especially the city of Limassol on the southern coast.
The average daytime temperature in the city is 18°C, accompanied with frequent and intense rainfalls.
Warmest Place in February
February is generally the same as January, with a very few differences, such as longer days and more sunny hours but lower temperatures of the sea.
Again, the warmest place in February is the Canary Islands (20 – 23°C), followed by Madeira (20°C) and the third place is for Cyprus, especially Limassol (18°C).
Warmest Place in March
The average daytime temperatures in Europe in March are still low but with some days being quite warm and sunny, reminding of the approaching summer.
Again, the highest temperatures belong to the Canary Island (around 22 – 23°C (71.6 – 73.4°F).
The second place is occupied by Madeira and Cyprus (both with around 20°C (68°F).
The third position is shared between Costa del Sol (Andalusia) and Malta, which both enjoy an average temperature of around 18°C (64.4°F) during the day.
On occasions, however, the mercury can hit the mid or even the upper-20-s (77°F) or more.
15 Warmest Places in Europe
Sometimes even the places with the most predictable and stable climate experience dramatic changes from one year to another.
And still, statistics for the last century can tell us what to expect in a given city, island or region during the winter season.
Here are the 15 warmest places in Europe in winter (as you can see, most of them are islands):
1. Canary Islands, Spain (Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Gomera, El Hierro, Isla de la Palma, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura);
2. Madeira, Portugal (Madeira and Porto Santo);
3. Cyprus (Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, Ayia Napa, Protaras and Kyrenia);
4. Malta (the islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino);
5. Costa del Sol, Andalusia, Spain (Marbella, Malaga, Nerja, Fuengirola, Benalmadena etc.);
6. Sardinia, Italy
7. Costa de la Luz, Andalusia, Spain (Huelva and Cadiz);
8. Algarve, Portugal (Faro, Lagoa, Albufeira, Portimao);
9. Crete, Greece (Myrtos, Lerapetra, Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno);
10. Rhodes, Greece (Rhodes, Lindos);
11. Sicily, Italy (the southern and eastern coast, including Taormina, Catania, Syracuse);
12. Costa Blanca, Spain (Valencia, Benidorm, Alicante);
13. Lisbon Metropolitan Area, Portugal (Lisbon, Estoril, Cascais etc.);
14. Balearic Islands, Spain (Formentera, Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca);
15. Azores Islands, Portugal (Sao Miguel, Terceira etc.);
Spain
Spain is the most attractive winter sun destination in Europe and one of the most popular in the world.
The southern regions and most of its islands rank among the warmest places in Europe in winter, with the Canary Islands taking first place.
The country attracts thousands of retirees and other expats, especially from the United Kingdom, Germany and the Nordic countries.
Spain looks like the perfect mixture of welcoming culture, friendly attitude, very good infrastructure, wonderful climate, amazing cities, well-preserved wild nature, golden beaches, great business opportunities and affordable prices.
It is very interesting that more than 300,000 Brits live permanently in the country, especially along the coast of Andalusia, which is considered the hottest part of the mainland.
Canary Islands
The warmest place in Europe in winter is the Canary Islands.
Located only 115 km (73 mi) off the coast of Southern Morocco, Africa, the islands have been a popular wintering destination for decades.
They attract expatriates and retirees from Germany, the United Kingdom, the Nordic countries and many others.
Tenerife and Gran Canaria are already well-known, while other islands are yet to attract more and more visitors.
And while the lovely climate is a common feature to all the islands of the archipelago because of their location between the 27th and 30th parallel north, each of them is unique and very different from the others.
Tenerife
Being exceptionally diverse, Tenerife is one of the most preferred winter sun destinations in Europe.
Besides wonderful sunny weather, it offers a mixture between lovely beaches, volcanic landscapes, snow capped mountains, rainforests and modern cities.
One of the most beautiful Spanish cities and capital of the island, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is located on the Atlantic coast.
The metropolitan area is home to over half a million inhabitants. It offers everything you need for a comfortable lifestyle, including great infrastructure, schools, hospitals, museums, cinemas, sports facilities and many others.
The city is located near the tropics, and in addition, it is protected from cold northern winds through the high Anaga Mountains.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a great choice if you want to escape the European winter but also it is a very good choice for year-round living.
However, it is not the only opportunity to enjoy the island.
There are other smaller but also wonderful cities, such as San Cristobal de la Laguna, Puerto de la Cruz, Los Cristianos, Playa de las Americas and many others.
Tenerife offers some really nice beaches to enjoy during the winter season, especially along the southern and southwestern coast, which are traditionally sunnier and one or two degrees warmer.
Of course, there are some cloudy, chilly and rainy winter days, but sunny days predominate even in January.
The average daytime temperatures are as follows:
November – 24°C / 75.2°F
December – 22°C / 71.6°F
January – 21°C / 69.8°F
February – 21°C / 69.8°F
March – 22°C / 71.6°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 22°C / 71.6°F
Gran Canaria
One of the warmest European cities is Las Palmas, located in the northern part of the Spanish island of Gran Canaria.
It is one of the very few places where you can swim into the ocean for Christmas and New Year.
Las Palmas has everything you can expect from a moderately big modern European city.
The island itself is known for the large number of settlers from Northern Europe, especially Norway and Germany.
And although Las Palmas is the main city, many expats prefer smaller and more quiet villages, especially along the southern shore, between the tourist towns of Puerto Rico and Maspalomas.
As you can expect, the South of the island traditionally experiences higher temperatures and a bigger number of sunny days.
The average daytime temperature during the winter season is as follows:
November – 24°C / 75.2°F
December – 22°C / 71.6°F
January – 21°C / 69.8°F
February – 21°C / 69.8°F
March – 22°C / 71.6°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 22°C / 71.6°F
La Gomera, El Hierro and Isla de la Palma
La Gomera, El Hierro and Isla de la Palma are the western-most of the Canary Islands.
They enjoy a fantastic climate, which is considered the very best in Europe, better even in comparison with Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
The average daytime temperature in January is 22°C (71.6°F), which is the highest in Europe and is only 1°C lower than the average in Miami, Florida.
The main reason behind the warmer weather is the ocean surface temperature, which is also 1-2°C degrees warmer in comparison with the other islands and the minimum is usually around 20°C (68°F) in February.
It is important to note that this applies to the western and southwestern coastal parts of the islands.
La Gomera is a popular culinary destination, especially its western provinces Vallehermoso and Valle Gran Rey.
Sheltered from mountains, a number of quiet and peaceful little towns and villages are scattered along the deep narrow valleys.
The island is a magnet for winter sun seekers, retirees and other expats.
Isla de la Palma is a favourite destination of lovers of long walks and mountains.
It is known for its mountain trails and dense rainforests. Don’t forget, however, that mountains usually experience lower temperatures!
El Hierro is the most detached and isolated of the islands.
It is the best option if you want to escape from it all.
The most specific feature is that the sheltered southern and southwestern parts of the island are almost uninhabited and difficult to reach.
The average daytime temperatures are as follows:
November – 25°C / 77°F
December – 23°C / 73.4°F
January – 22°C / 71.6°F
February – 22°C / 71.6°F
March – 23°C / 73.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 23°C / 73.4°F
Fuerteventura
The island of Fuerteventura is one of the most popular windsurfing spots in the world and offers some of the most beautiful golden beaches in the Canary Islands.
It offers fantastic weather conditions between November and March, mostly clear skies, turquoise blue waters and pleasant temperatures of between 20 and 24°C (68 – 75.2°F).
You will need mostly summer clothing during the day and some light jacket or an anorak at night.
Sea water is between 20 and 22°C (68 – 71.6°F) in November, December and January and between 18 and 20°C (64.4 – 68°F) in February and March.
Although the island attracts mostly adventurous young people, it is also a tempting place for people of all ages who want to spend time outside and along the coast.
November – 24°C / 75.2°F
December – 22°C / 71.6°F
January – 21°C / 69.8°F
February – 21°C / 69.8°F
March – 22°C / 71.6°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 22°C / 71.6°F
Lanzarote
Because of its dry and warm climate, Lanzarote is quite popular in the United States.
It attracts visitors mostly because of its lunar landscapes and numerous volcanoes, which are scattered all across the island.
While most of the shoreline is rocky, the southern coast offers a few fantastic golden sandy beaches with azure waters.
November – 24°C / 75.2°F
December – 22°C / 71.6°F
January – 21°C / 69.8°F
February – 21°C / 69.8°F
March – 23°C / 73.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 22.2°C / 72°F
Costa del Sol
Costa del Sol is the warmest place in mainland Europe during the winter season.
This location has all the necessary components to attract visitors, including fantastic beaches, balmy weather, cosmopolitan and multicultural environment, very good business opportunities and perfect infrastructure.
The most popular spots are Malaga, Marbella and Nerja.
Marbella
Marbella is one of the most popular Mediterranean tourist cities and is the most attractive winter sun destination in Europe.
Because of its year-round lovely weather, many people from the United Kingdom and other northern countries visit Marbella on a regular basis every year, and many of them even buy properties here.
High mountains protect the city from cold northern winds in winter.
Between November and March, Marbella is too cold for the beach.
However, the temperature is perfect for other outdoor activities, such as walking, cycling, hiking, golf, horse riding and many others.
On warm and sunny days many people feel comfortable outside even in T-shirts.
The average daytime temperatures are as follows:
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 18°C / 64.4°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 18°C / 64.4°F
March – 20°C / 68°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.6°C / 65.5°F
Malaga
Malaga lies on the southern edge of the Iberian Peninsula, on the coast of the hot Andalusia and is definitely one of the hottest cities in mainland Europe.
It is known for its generally high temperatures, scorching summers and balmy winters.
Malaga, together with some of the smaller settlements in the area, is one of the most preferred expat destinations.
It has attracted tens of thousands of Brits, Germans, Scandinavians, Russians and many others over the years.
Yes, the weather in the middle of winter is too cold for swimming in the sea (the water in winter is between 16 and 20°C (60.8 – 68°F), but you will definitely enjoy numerous winter walks along the beach in your favourite T-shirts.
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 18°C / 64.4°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.2°C / 54.8°F
Nerja
Nerja has become a synonym of good life.
It combines soft sandy beaches, plenty of sunshine, tasty food, incredible wines, high quality properties and numerous great things to do.
The spring-like weather between November and March brings everything you can expect from the spring, from cold rainy days with temperatures of around 10°C (50°F) to hot and sunny days with the mercury hitting the mid-20s (up to 77°F).
The weather in Nerja is perfect for people who want to spend most of the time outdoors.
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 18°C / 64.4°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 18°C / 64.4°F
March – 20°C / 68°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.6°C / 65.5°F
Fuengirola
The coastline southwest of Fuengirola is known for some of the most beautiful and well-preserved beaches оn Costa del Sol.
On a warmer sunny day in early November or late March you can take a dip in the water, although it will be probably quite chilly.
At the same time, the weather from November to March is perfect for long walks along the coast.
Fuengirola is a great choice if you are searching for a modern coastal city to spend the winter season but if you still want this place to be quiet and relaxed.
The temperatures during the winter season are as follows:
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 18°C / 64.4°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 18°C / 64.4°F
March – 20°C / 68°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.6°C / 65.5°F
Costa de la Luz
Costa de la Luz is the coastline between the Portuguese border to the northwest and the municipality of Tarifa to the southeast.
It has the reputation of being the quiet and secluded alternative of Costa del Sol, especially if you are looking for a similar climate.
The winter temperatures in Costa de la Luz vary between 15 and 20°C (59 – 68°F), and the main cities are Cadiz and Huelva.
Cadiz Region
The region of Cadiz is popular for its superb soft golden beaches, and it is a very attractive surf and windsurf destination.
Being more quiet during the winter season, the region attracts many retirees with its mild weather and sunlight.
Between November and March it offers between 15 and 20°C (59 – 68°F), which is a perfect temperature to explore the numerous cultural and architectural landmarks in the area.
November – 20°C / 69.8°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 18°C / 64.4°F
March – 20°C / 68°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.2°C / 64.8°F
Huelva Region
The region of Huelva is known as a popular center of attraction for expats from the United Kingdom and other northern countries.
People come here because of the relaxed lifestyle and of course – because of the fantastic weather and temperatures between 15 and 20°C (59 – 68°F) in winter.
November – 20°C / 69.8°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 18°C / 64.4°F
March – 20°C / 68°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.2°C / 64.8°F
Costa Blanca
The region of Costa Blanca is known for its white sandy beaches, beautiful architecture and for the biggest number of date palm trees in Europe.
It is a tempting holiday destination in summer but it also attracts a number of retirees and other expats in winter.
The area is among the driest and sunniest in Europe and offers very nice weather conditions between November and March.
The temperature during the coldest winter months is usually 1 or 2 degrees lower in comparison with Costa del Sol and nearly the same as Costa de la Luz but the chances of rainfalls are lower too.
Alicante
Alicante is a very beautiful city, and you will always find a bunch of things to see and to do here, even in winter.
It is known for its exotic city environment and charming streets flanked by date palm trees.
With temperatures of between 17 and 20°C (62.6 – 68°F) during the winter season, Alicante is the warmest city in mainland Europe, outside the borders of Andalusia.
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 18°C / 64.4°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 20°C / 68°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.4°C / 65.1°F
Valencia
Valencia is known for its Art Deco architecture and wonderful weather, which is much warmer than Madrid, Barcelona or Marseille, for example.
Winters bring spring-like temperatures of around 16 – 17°C (60.8 – 62.6°F) in January, mostly clear and sunny skies and warm dry winds, called Foehns.
In addition to the balmy weather, the city offers plenty of things to do and see.
That is why Valencia attracts many expats from the northern colder parts of Europe.
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.8°C / 64°F
Benidorm
Benidorm looks overcrowded to some extent, but this is because its balmy weather attracts too many people over the year.
In addition, being busy in winter is a rare quality of a Mediterranean city.
It enjoys a stable subtropical climate and is among the most preferred winter sun destinations in mainland Europe.
According to scientists, the climate of Benidorm has some surprising tropical features, which is a rare phenomenon in Europe.
Summers are very long and hot with very high temperatures both day and night.
What is more interesting is that the winter season, which lasts from November till March, brings an average temperature of 18.4°C (65.1°F)!
Most of the winter days are dry and clear, with a very small number of cloudy or rainy days.
November – 21°C / 69.8°F
December – 18°C / 64.4°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 18°C / 64.4°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.4°C / 65.1°F
Balearic Islands
Blessed with year-round mild and favorable climate, Balearic Islands are one of the world’s top destinations to spend the cold winter months.
The archipelago consists of 4 major islands and a number of smaller islets.
Since they are all unique and very different from each other, they attract different types of expats and holidaymakers.
Mallorca
Being the most diverse of the Balearic Islands, many people say that winter is the most beautiful season in Mallorca.
As the island usually experiences very nice weather between November and March, it attracts many professional sport players and athletes from around the world.
The balmy weather allows them to be physically active outdoors throughout the season.
However, Mallorca attracts not only athletes but also expats, IT specialists who can work remotely and retirees from Northern Europe.
The main disadvantage of Mallorca is the series of 2-3 consecutive rainy days in winter, accompanied by wind and temperatures of about 10 – 12°C (50 – 53.6°F) during the day.
On clear days, however, you can enjoy temperatures of 15 – 20°C (59 – 68°F), clear skies and plenty of sunshine.
November – 19°C / 66.2°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 15°C / 59°F
February – 16°C / 60.8°F
March – 17°C / 62.6°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 16.8°C / 62.2°F
Ibiza
Located further south west of Mallorca and Menorca, Ibiza enjoys an even warmer and sunnier climate.
And although cyclones bring 2 or 3 consecutive days with heavy rainfall and strong winds sometimes, this happens relatively more rarely in comparison with the other Balearic Islands.
Busy and very crowded in summer, during the winter season Ibiza is unrecognizable.
In summer it usually attracts mostly young people and party lovers.
In winter, however, the island is a really quiet and relaxed place.
Because of its wonderful weather in winter, here you can see people of all ages and from everywhere.
It attracts many expats, including remote workers and retirees, who want to escape the cold temperatures in Northern Europe.
November – 20°C / 66.2°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 18°C / 64.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.6°C / 63.7°F
Menorca
Being very green and quiet in winter, Menorca attracts quite a big number of retirees from Northern Europe.
The island is completely functioning off season, with the exception of some hotels and restaurants being closed.
The island alternates rainy and cold days with temperatures of around 10°C (50°F) with almost summer temperatures of around and over 20°C (68°F) and clear skies.
The average temperatures during the day are as follows:
November – 18°C / 64.4°F
December – 16°C / 60.8°F
January – 14°C / 57.2°F
February – 15°C / 59°F
March – 16°C / 60.8°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 15.8°C / 60.4°F
Formentera
Formentera is a very quiet and relaxed place in winter, but you can still enjoy the beauty and the lifestyle of the Mediterranean island.
The foliage remains green, and the beaches are more beautiful than ever.
If you decide to spend the winter here, you can expect alternating sunny and warm days with late spring temperatures of around 20°C (68°F) with cool and rainy days, often accompanied by strong winds and temperatures of around 10°C (50°F).
For sure, at least 50% of the days are great for outdoor activities.
November – 20°C / 66.2°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 18°C / 64.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.6°C / 63.7°F
Portugal
Portugal is an incredible mix of wonderful subtropical oceanic climate, outstanding food, rich culture, old traditions, hospitality and beautiful architecture.
It is therefore not surprising that many people prefer the country as a place to spend the winter months.
Lisbon, Estoril and Cascais
According to the Expat City Ranking 2019 by InterNations, Lisbon is one of the 10 best cities in the world to live for expats.
It has numerous advantages and one of them is definitely the wonderful climate.
Winter brings spring-like temperatures in Lisbon and the neighbouring tourist cities Estoril and Cascais.
The capital of Portugal and its metropolitan area, which includes Estoril and Cascais, is a great choice if you want to enjoy the warm sun with a cup of coffee outside.
The temperatures during the winter season are:
November – 18°C / 66.2°F
December – 15°C / 60.8°F
January – 15°C / 59°F
February – 16°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 16.6°C / 61.9°F
Algarve
Also known as the Portuguese Riviera, Algarve is the most popular spot in Portugal to find some winter sun.
Being approximately 155 kilometers long, the coastline of the southernmost region of Portugal is dotted by small coastal towns and villages to choose from.
The most popular of them are Faro, Lagos, Albufeira and Portimão, which are also some of the warmest towns in mainland Europe and respectively are the most tempting for retirees and other expats.
Traditionally, the southern coast is warmer than the western coast, and the number of sunny days is more than 300 per year.
The winter months bring pleasant temperatures of between 16 and 20°C (between 60.8 and 68°F) and on warmer days temperatures can even jump to around 25°C (77°F).
The climate is very similar to Costa del Sol and is a bit more humid.
Winter rainfalls turn Albufeira emerald green.
The water in the sea is a bit cold with temperatures of between 16 and 18°C (60.8 – 64.4°F).
The average daytime temperatures along the coast of Algarve are as follows:
November – 19°C / 66.2°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.6°C / 63.7°F
Portimão
Portimão is located in the western part of Algarve.
It is known for its 1.5 km long superb golden beach and lovely churches.
It has the reputation of being a real museum under the open skies.
November – 19°C / 66.2°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.6°C / 63.7°F
Lagos
Lagos is a lovely little town with a beautiful traditional architecture.
It is known for its outstanding beaches and numerous great restaurants to choose from.
November – 19°C / 66.2°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.6°C / 63.7°F
Albufeira
Albufeira is the most popular spot along the coast of Algarve.
It is known for its scenic location on the coast as well as for its traditional architecture and lovely white buildings.
This is the busiest city on the southern coast of Portugal.
November – 19°C / 66.2°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.6°C / 63.7°F
Faro
Faro is considered the most diverse city along the southern coast of the country.
It is known for its university and international airport.
It is a very good choice if you want to spend a longer period of time in Algarve.
November – 19°C / 66.2°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.6°C / 63.7°F
Madeira
The archipelago of Madeira is known for its tasty food, great wines and wonderful weather.
Located not far from the coast of Africa, the islands are blessed with mild winters and springlike temperatures from November to March.
The main islands, Madeira and Porto Santo, are quite different from each other.
While Madeira is a popular hiking destination known for its green mountains and dense forests, Porto Santo is popular for its lovely golden beaches.
Madeira and Funchal
Because of the specific microclimate, Madeira is often described as an island of eternal spring.
Here you can spend most of your days outside wearing t-shirts.
A light jacket will be needed for the evenings.
The island is a popular hiking destination.
It is known for its incredible mountains and dense rainforests, which are strongly recommended to visit.
In contrast to many other winter sun destinations, Madeira is an island-garden.
You will be pleasantly surprised by its lush vegetation and exotic plants.
Being a bit warmer than the Mediterranean in winter, the island of Madeira is a fantastic wintering destination.
It offers a wonderful springlike weather with average daytime temperatures in Funchal as follows:
November – 23°C / 73.4°F
December – 21°C / 69.8°F
January – 20°C / 68°F
February – 20°C / 68°F
March – 20°C / 68°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 20.8°C / 69.4°F
Porto Santo
Porto Santo is smaller and much less populated than Madeira.
It is very quiet and secluded during the winter season.
The island is a well-known beach destination but in winter the golden sandy beaches are usually quite empty.
Probably, the first thing you want to know is if you can go to the beach between November and March.
The short answer is yes but only on warmer sunny days and you should be prepared for water temperatures of around 20°C (68°F).
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 19°C / 66.2°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 18°C / 64.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.2°C / 64.8°F
Azores
The Azores are an interesting opportunity to escape the cold weather during the winter season.
The temperatures across the islands are stable and fluctuate in a very limited range of between 16 and 25°C (60.8 – 77°F) over the year.
Ponta Delgada
The average daytime winter temperature in Ponta Delgada is between 16 and 18°C (60.8 – 64.4°F) and remains almost unchanged between November and March.
Even if it is a little rainy, the weather is extremely mild and pleasant for long walks.
Тhe surroundings of the city are emerald green.
The difference with the Mediterranean is that here, as a result of higher humidity, the weather feels milder and warmer, although the temperatures are nearly the same.
The weather in Ponta Delgada in winter reminds of late April and early May across mainland Europe.
November – 19°C / 66.2°F
December – 18°C / 64.4°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 16°C / 60.8°F
March – 17°C / 62.6°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.4°C / 63.3°F
Sete Cidades
Often referred as the most beautiful village in Europe, Sete Cidades is located in an area of incredible natural beauty.
It lies on the shore of a lake, on the bottom of a crater in the northwestern part of the main island São Miguel.
The climate in the area varies between 15 and 17°C (59 – 62.6°F).
The area is evergreen, covered with lush vegetation.
Travelers often describe this place as a Garden of Eden.
The temperatures are as follows:
November – 16°C / 60.8°F
December – 15°C / 59°F
January – 15°C / 59°F
February – 15°C / 59°F
March – 15°C / 59°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 15.2°C / 59.4°F
Italy
Italy has always been known for its gastronomy, rich history and cultural monuments.
If you take a look further south, more specifically at Sicily, you will find that Italy is a great choice as a winter sun destination.
The average daytime temperature along the coast of Sicily varies between 16 and 19°C (60.8 – 68°F), which is perfect for a winter escape.
In summer, when temperatures approach the 40s, walking around can be a real challenge, especially at noon.
Winter, on the other side, is very mild and pleasant.
Sicily
The largest Mediterranean island, Sicily, is a wonderful mix between old historical monuments, ancient cities, breathtaking landscapes and balmy weather.
Located less than 150 km (93 mi) from North Africa, the island is the warmest part of Italy and is a very good place if you want to find some warm sunlight and springlike temperatures in winter.
The island receives the highest number of hours of sunshine per year.
Syracuse
The city of Syracuse and the entire area are not just very beautiful but they also enjoy wonderful temperatures over the winter season.
Sunny and mild, the weather is very good for long walks outside.
The area is known for its beautiful beaches.
On occasions, the weather in the early days of November or the last few days of March is so warm that you can even take a dip in the sea.
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 18°C / 64.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.6°C / 63.7°F
Catania
Thanks to its sheltered location on the east coast of the island of Sicily and south of the volcano of Etna, Catania enjoys a year round balmy weather and higher temperatures in comparison with the rest of Italy.
The city is a great choice if you want to spend some time on the island in winter, exploring its cultural and architectural landmarks.
The temperatures between November and March are:
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 18°C / 64.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.6°C / 63.7°F
Taormina
Taormina enjoys a wonderful subtropical climate with temperatures of between 16 and 20°C (60.8 – 68°F) during the winter season.
In addition, it lies on the steep east facing slopes of Sicily, which allows the city to receive maximum sunlight throughout the year.
Taormina is beautiful no matter the season.
For example, it is very fresh and green in winter and in addition, you can even dip into the sea on some of the warmer and sunny days in November, because the seawater is still over 20°C (68°F).
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 18°C / 64.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.6°C / 63.7°F
Lampedusa
Lampedusa is a remote and quiet island, which lies between Sicily and Tunisia in the Mediterranean.
The island is located not far from Tunisia (approximately 113 kilometres or 70 miles).
From an administrative point of view, the island is part of Sicily.
The weather is similar to Sicily but a bit warmer and sunnier during the winter months.
The island is known for its turquoise Rabbit Bay.
If you come here in November or March, you have a good chance to take a dip in the sea.
The water in November is still 23°C (73.4°F), while the air temperature at noon is normally over 20°C (68°F), except on rainy and cloudy days.
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 18°C / 64.4°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 18°C / 64.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.8°C / 64°F
Sardinia
Remote and secluded, the island of Sardinia lies only 190 km (118 mi) off the northern coast of Africa.
The mountains across the island are quite cold during the winter season but along the shore the average daytime temperature remains very pleasant between November and March.
It would be naive to expect summer temperatures, but you will definitely find Sardinia very welcoming, especially if you want to spend longer hours outside, enjoying walking, hiking and exploring its beautiful villages.
The weather varies from one area to another, with the highest winter temperatures recorded along the southern shore.
The temperatures you can expect between November and March are:
November – 18°C / 64.4°F
December – 16°C / 60.8°F
January – 14°C / 57.2°F
February – 15°C / 59°F
March – 16°C / 60.8°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 15.8°C / 60.4°F
Malta
Located 333 km (207 mi) north of Africa and the Sahara Desert, Malta experiences a really wonderful climate, with more than 300 sunny days per year.
It is one of the best options in Europe if you are searching for a place which combines a bunch of things to do and sunny weather in January and February.
Malta and La Valletta
La Valletta is the best place to visit in the country during the winter season as it is the most populated and cosmopolitan region in the country.
The capital of Malta is located on the southeastern coast and is well-known for its architecture.
Winters are the best season to enjoy its lovely streets, historical buildings, churches and castles without suffering from the scorching summer heat.
Pay attention that the sun is quite strong in March, so you can feel the temperature outside much warmer.
November – 21°C / 69.8°F
December – 18°C / 64.4°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.4°C / 65.1°F
Gozo and Comino
Known as a background of a number of Hollywood productions, Gozo is a great place to walk around if you want to feel the spirit of the Middle Ages.
Winter is a good time to visit the island as it offers very mild and pleasant weather so you won’t feel the urge to search for shade.
The small neighbouring islet Comino is even more beautiful in winter because the number of tourists is much smaller.
The temperatures between November and March are:
November – 21°C / 69.8°F
December – 18°C / 64.4°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.4°C / 65.1°F
Greece
Greece has nearly 6,000 islands, 227 of which are inhabited.
Most of the islands are a fantastic choice if you need some winter sun, but you need to check the place of your choice in advance since the temperatures in winter vary in a wide range between 10 and 16°C (50 – 60.8°F).
Generally said, the Aegean Islands are sunnier in winter in comparison with the Ionian Islands.
Also, the further south you go, the more chances you have to find the warm and sunny weather you need.
If you are planning a long term stay (for example, a place to spend the entire winter), you should know that most of the restaurants, bars and shops on the islands are closed during the winter season.
If you want to have a wide choice of things to do and places to visit, you need to focus your attention over the bigger and busier southern islands, such as Crete and Rhodes.
Crete
With a population of more than 650,000 (as of 2020), Crete is the most populous island in Greece.
The major cities are Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, Lerapetra (which is considered the warmest city in Greece in winter) and Agios Nikolaos.
Most of the settlements are located along the northern coast, with the exception of Lerapetra, which lies on the sunny southern coast of Crete.
The island is a great alternative to escape the cold and gray winter on the continent.
It is known for some of the highest winter temperatures in Europe, and this is not surprising considering the small distance of less than 290 km (about 180 miles) between the island and the northern coast of Libya.
Although winters on the island are too cold for the beach, the temperature is perfect for spending long hours outside, enjoying long walks, sports, hiking, canoeing and many others.
At noon on a sunny day you can comfortably walk around in a T-shirt.
The temperatures are as follow:
November – 21°C / 69.8°F
December – 18°C / 64.4°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 16°C / 60.8°F
March – 18°C / 64.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.8°C / 64°F
Rhodes
Rhodes is one of the warmest spots in Europe and the second warmest of the major Greek islands after Crete, with an average difference of no more than 1°C.
If you visit the small tourist village of Lindos, however, you can expect the same temperatures as in Crete and nearly 1 degree higher than the rest of the island on average.
This is because of its specific location on the shore of a small and shallow bay on the drier and sunnier eastern coast of the island.
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 15°C / 59°F
February – 15°C / 59°F
March – 17°C / 62.6°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 16.8°C / 62.2°F
Cyprus
Although geographically Cyprus is part of Asia, culturally it belongs to Europe.
It is the warmest Mediterranean island and the average winter daytime temperature is higher even in comparison with the Algarve, Andalusia, Sicily, Malta and the southernmost Greek islands.
Only the Canary Islands and Madeira experience higher temperatures between November and March.
Limassol
The second largest city in Cyprus after Nicosia is considered to be the hottest city in the region of the European Mediterranean.
In the height of winter the weather is too cold for swimming but in March there are warmer days which are perfect for sunbathing and even for swimming, although the sea is still a bit cool.
If you want to spend a late summer vacation, in November you still have a very good chance to enjoy the beach of Limassol.
November – 24°C / 75.2°F
December – 19°C / 66.2°F
January – 18°C / 64.4°F
February – 18°C / 64.4°F
March – 20°C / 68°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 19.8°C / 67.6°F
Larnaca
The lively coastal city of Larnaca is a tempting year-round destination.
It is known for its beautiful churches, cinnamon beaches and numerous restaurants.
But the biggest tourist attraction is the salt lake of Larnaca.
The best time of the year to visit the lake is during the winter season because in summer it dries up almost completely.
November – 23°C / 73.4°F
December – 19°C / 66.2°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 69.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 19°C / 66.2°F
Paphos
Paphos is one of the most favourite places of history lovers.
A center of ancient civilizations, Paphos has a lot of archaeological attractions to offer.
The old part of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As summers are generally too hot, winters are the best time to explore all archaeological attractions, old churches and monasteries.
Between November and March you can walk outside for hours, enjoying the pleasant temperatures of around 20°C (68°F).
Of course, there are some days of intense rainfalls but this is a common feature of the Mediterranean region.
November – 23°C / 73.4°F
December – 19°C / 66.2°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 69.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 19°C / 66.2°F
Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa is the party capital of Cyprus.
It lies on the southern coast in the eastern part of the island.
The city is very attractive because of its fantastic white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
The beach season is very long and although the water is still cool, March is considered the beginning of the beach season.
Thousands of retirees from across Northern Europe chose to spend the cold winter months here.
November – 23°C / 73.4°F
December – 19°C / 66.2°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 69.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 19°C / 66.2°F
Protaras
Similar to Ayia Napa, Protaras is known for some of the most attractive beaches on the island.
The wonderful tourist city lies less than 6 km (less than 3.7 miles) northeast of Ayia Napa and combines crystal clear blue waters with white sands.
The area attracts families and elderly travelers.
The beach season is between March and late November.
Winters are humid and very mild, great for long walks and exploring the rich cultural and archaeological variety of the island.
November – 23°C / 73.4°F
December – 19°C / 66.2°F
January – 17°C / 62.6°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 69.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 19°C / 66.2°F
Kyrenia
As it lies on the northern coast of Cyprus and receives more rainfall over the year, Kyrenia is the most green of all cities on the island but it also experiences temperatures which are 1 or 2 degrees lower in comparison with the rest of the island.
It enjoys a growing interest as a tourist and winter sun destination over the last few years.
The city is known for its traditional spirit, historical buildings, lovely harbour with numerous cafes and restaurants as well as for its 16th century Venetian castle.
Here you will find a slow and relaxed pace of life, low crime rate and some lovely beaches.
Temperatures are enjoyable but rainfalls are quite abundant in winter.
November – 23°C / 73.4°F
December – 18°C / 64.4°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.6°C / 65.5°F
Beyond the Borders of EU: Middle East, Red Sea and Southern Mediterranean
If you are willing to travel outside the border-free zone of Europe but still don’t want to travel too long, the Middle East and North Africa is what you need.
Some of the very best options are Turkey, Israel, Tunisia, Egypt and Morocco.
These countries combine an impressive archaeological and cultural heritage, incredible cuisine, outstanding beaches and fantastic weather.
Turkey
If you are looking for some winter sun in Turkey, the southern coast of the country is well-known for its mild subtropical climate and enjoyable winter temperatures of between 15 and 20°C (59 – 68°F).
Impressive mountain chains protect the Mediterranean coast from cold northern winds in winter.
The season between November and March, especially December and January, brings most of the annual precipitation, but you can still enjoy a number of clear sunny days.
The most popular spots to escape the cold winter are:
Marmaris
Surrounded by mountains and situated on the coast of a sheltered bay, Marmaris is known for its mirrored waters and balmy weather, even in January.
It is a top destination for lovers of outdoor activities during the winter season.
Walking, sunbathing and sailing are just a small part of the activities to enjoy here.
The average daytime temperatures are:
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 16°C / 60.8°F
January – 15°C / 59°F
February – 15°C / 59°F
March – 18°C / 64.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 16.8°C / 62.2°F
Antalya
Antalya is a very good choice to escape the cold weather, especially if you want to visit a place that offers plenty of things to do.
Busy and colorful, the city is known for its bars, clubs, restaurants and museums, most of which remain open during the winter season.
The main disadvantage is the frequent intense rainfalls.
The temperatures in Antalya are:
November – 21°C / 69.8°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 15°C / 59°F
February – 16°C / 60.8°F
March – 18°C / 64.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 17.4°C / 63.3°F
Fethiye
Fethiye is a charming Mediterranean town which enjoys a growing popularity over the last few years.
It is known as a top destination for beach lovers because of the spectacular Ölüdeniz Beach, which is considered the most beautiful beach in Turkey.
The average daytime temperatures are approximately:
November – 22°C / 71.6°F
December – 18°C / 64.4°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 20°C / 68°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18.6°C / 65.5°F
Israel
Israel is not only a popular upscale summer tourist destination but it is a very good choice if you want to avoid the cold winter as well.
The average daytime temperatures are about 17 – 18°C (62.6 – 64.4°F) in the cosmopolitan Tel Aviv and much warmer in the southern parts of the country.
The climate is strongly influenced by the deserted areas of Africa and the Middle East.
Tel Aviv
Busy and cosmopolitan city, Tel Aviv is a great choice if you want to spend some time abroad in winter.
Here you will find everything you need, including great springlike temperatures in January and February.
On warmer days you can walk around in T-shirts and you can feel the influence of the Sahara Desert.
On colder days, you need a light jacket or a sweatshirt.
November – 23°C / 73.4°F
December – 19°C / 66.2°F
January – 18°C / 64.4°F
February – 18°C / 64.4°F
March – 19°C / 66.2°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 19.4°C / 66.9°F
Eilat
For European travelers and expats, Eilat is a real treasure.
It is a small but very busy tourist city on the Red Sea coast of Israel, in the southernmost part of the country.
It has a very enjoyable dry tropical climate and is a great choice if you want to escape the cold weather in Europe.
Eilat is known for its fantastic beach, pristine waters and coral reefs.
Here people can walk around in T-shirts in winter.
In fact, you can even swim into the sea in January, although the water is a bit cold.
The average daytime temperatures are:
November – 28°C / 82.4°F
December – 23°C / 73.4°F
January – 21°C / 69.8°F
February – 23°C / 73.4°F
March – 26°C / 78.8°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 24.2°C / 75.6°F
Morocco
Morocco is also an extremely exciting country, known for its colorful markets, delicious food and unique spices.
One of the most exciting cities is Marrakech, which is famous for its red colors and easily recognizable architecture.
As temperatures here are relatively high between November and March, the city is a great place to spend a few weeks during the winter season.
The average daytime temperatures (nights are cold!) you can expect in Marrakech are as follows:
November – 23°C / 73.4°F
December – 20°C / 68°F
January – 19°C / 66.2°F
February – 20°C / 68°F
March – 23°C / 73.4°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 21°C / 69.8°F
Tunisia
Tunisia is a great opportunity if you want to experience a real African adventure.
The popular coastal tourist city Hammamet attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every summer but it is also a very interesting place to visit during the winter months.
As the country is locked between the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean, it enjoys lovely weather during the winter season between November and March, which is a bit cool and fresh along the coast and very warm, even hot in the desert.
The average daytime temperature in Hammamet is as follows:
November – 20°C / 68°F
December – 17°C / 62.6°F
January – 16°C / 60.8°F
February – 17°C / 62.6°F
March – 20°C / 68°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 18°C / 64.4°F
Egypt
If you want to get some sun in winter, Egypt will never disappoint you.
Sharm El Sheikh is probably the most popular winter destination for Europeans who want to take a dip in the sea but don’t want to travel too long (to the Caribbean for example).
Being too hot in summer, the Egyptian coastal city is a paradise during the winter season and you can expect wonderful weather between November and March.
The temperatures in Sharm El Sheikh are as follows:
November – 27°C / 80.6°F
December – 23°C / 73.4°F
January – 22°C / 71.6°F
February – 23°C / 73.4°F
March – 25°C / 77°F
Average winter (November-March) daytime temperature: 24°C / 75.2°F
