When the rest of Europe is bundled up in scarves, these winter sun destinations in Europe show off with blue skies, golden light and a slower seasonal pace. From Portugal’s dramatic southern coastline to Greece’s sun-warmed islands, there are places in Europe that feel more like spring – just with fewer crowds and lower prices.

Swap the grey skies of your hometown for citrus-scented streets, ancient ruins and coastal hikes. Europe has pockets of warmth waiting to be explored – here are 20 of the best winter sun destinations in Europe to defrost your spirit and keep the sunshine going all year long.

1. Seville, Spain

Winter weather barely reaches the sizzling streets of Seville. The southern Spanish city hovers around 20°C (68°F), its streets perfumed by blooming orange trees. Visit this time of year to defrost and skip the summer crowds that descend on Andalusia. Wander the grand Plaza de España, gaze up at the Gothic spires of the cathedral and climb La Giralda for sweeping views over Seville’s terracotta rooftops. Start your evening in a sunlit plaza, then hop between tapas bars before finding a flamenco show.

2. Sicily, Italy

In August, Sicily fries – but in January, Sicily shines while the rest of Europe shivers. It’s one of the best winter sun destinations in Europe, with clear skies and crisp air. That’s ideal weather for hiking around Mount Etna’s smoking summit in the morning, or to wander Greek temples in Agrigento without queues. Explore what’s in season in Palermo’s loud and bustling food markets. Winter is a great time to explore Sicily when the island’s Baroque piazzas and sleepy fishing towns take on a slower rhythm.

3. Algarve, Portugal

Golden cliffs, calm fishing villages and mild 18°C (64°F) days make winter feel like spring in the Algarve. The crowds fade, but the sunshine stays. The cooler days are perfect for coastal hikes along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail or surfing Atlantic swells at Sagres. Inland, hop between whitewashed towns like Silves and Castro Marim to discover Moorish history and local charm without the heat. This time of year you’ll be sipping freshly squeezed orange juice for breakfast, and vinho verde at sunset.

4. Crete, Greece

While some Greek islands turn into a ghost town in winter, Greece’s largest island keeps its soul alive year-round. Days hover around 17°C (63°F) – warm enough to explore ancient Minoan ruins, wander Venetian harbours in Chania or hike the Samaria Gorge without too much of a sweat! Without the summer crowds you’ll see a more local side of the island – and maybe even get to share homemade raki and stories with your hosts. The Greeks are known for their warm hospitality where guests are treated like family!

5. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Winter strips away the cruise ships and Game of Thrones-loving crowds, revealing Dubrovnik at its most authentic. Days hover around 15°C (59°F), which while a little cool is still pleasant enough to stroll the marble streets of the Old Town. Climb up onto the ancient city walls for Adriatic views, then take pleasure in the fact you didn’t need to make reservations for dinner! From December to February the sea might be cool, but the atmosphere is warm.

6. Canary Islands, Spain

Closer to Africa than mainland Europe, the Canary Islands stay warm year-round. Winter temperatures on the sun-drenched volcanic isles hover around 22°C (72°F). There are eight main islands, and each has its own rhythm. Tenerife has lunar landscapes and lively beach towns with nightlife, while Lanzarote’s black lava fields and art-filled villages attract a different crowd. Gran Canaria has gorgeous golden dunes; and La Palma is known for its lush hiking trails. Each island is really different, so choose wisely – but also relax knowing that sunshine and subtropical air await. The Canaries are Europe’s most reliable dose of winter warmth.

7. Madeira Island, Portugal

Madeira is nicknamed the island of eternal spring and this subtropical paradise is perfect year-round. Temperatures sit in the low 20s (68-77°F), mountain peaks rise above a sea of clouds, flowers are always in bloom, and epic ocean views stretch endlessly in every direction. Hike the island’s levada trails through lush, ferny forests and watch waves crash against volcanic cliffs and over sea baths in Porto Moniz. If the weather is being less favorable, slip into a winery to sip sweet Madeira wine, or visit the colorful daily market hall in Funchal, where stalls are loaded with tropical fruits. Madeira is famous for its New Year’s Eve fireworks extravaganza, and Carnival, which usually falls in February.

Please contact your Travel Advisor with any questions.