Home » TRAVEL NEWS » Best Winter Sun Getaways for 2026: Hidden Gems in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East
Published on
January 3, 2026
As the cold January days set in, the January blues hit, and many travelers start dreaming about warm destinations. Lucky for them, winter sun can be found much closer to home than Australia and the Caribbean. Europe, Africa, and the Middle East have beautiful, warm, lesser-known destinations. If you want to escape the dreary winter, start planning your trip. Here are seven great winter sun destinations for 2026.
1. Agadir, Morocco
Average Highs in January: 21°C
Agadir, located on Morocco’s southern coast, is an excellent choice for travelers seeking sun and relaxation. This coastal resort offers golden beaches and all-inclusive resorts, making it ideal for families and older travelers. The city boasts a beautiful seaside promenade lined with cafes, perfect for leisurely strolls.
Agadir is also home to one of Africa’s largest urban markets, Souk El Had, where you can find over 3,000 shops selling everything from spices to traditional handicrafts. Don’t forget to enjoy a glass of Morocco’s famous mint tea, served in cafes throughout the city.
How to Get There: EasyJet offers direct flights from Gatwick to Agadir, with a flight duration of about 3 hours and 40 minutes. The return tickets are often available for as low as £80.
2. Madeira, Portugal
Average Highs in January: 19°C
Madeira is often dubbed the “Island of Eternal Spring” due to its mild and consistent temperatures year-round. The Portuguese archipelago’s unique microclimate supports lush greenery, including over 1,350 miles of scenic walking trails known as levadas. Travelers can explore this vibrant landscape through leisurely hikes, surrounded by colorful flowers even in the middle of winter.
The Monte Toboggan Ride, a thrilling descent in a traditional wicker basket sledge, is a must-try activity. Madeira is also known for its natural swimming pools formed by volcanic rocks, such as those at Porto Moniz, where you can swim in the clear Atlantic waters.
How to Get There: Fly direct from Gatwick to Madeira for an affordable return flight with easyJet, with a flight duration of about 4 hours.
3. Muscat, Oman
Average Highs in January: 25°C
Muscat, Oman’s capital, offers a mix of modernity and tradition, making it a great winter sun destination for those seeking both relaxation and culture. Surrounded by rugged mountains and crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Oman, the city is home to majestic mosques, traditional souks, and stunning coastal scenery.
Take a boat trip to the Daymaniyat Islands, a protected area home to vibrant coral reefs, marine life, and migratory birds. This affordable excursion lets travelers enjoy Oman’s pristine natural beauty, including opportunities to spot sea turtles and rays.
How to Get There: Flights to Muscat International Airport (MCT) from Heathrow with Oman Air are available for around £482, with a flight time of 7 hours and 10 minutes.
4. La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain
Average Highs in January: 21-22°C
While many travelers opt for popular islands like Tenerife or Gran Canaria, La Palma stands out as a serene alternative. Known as “La Isla Bonita” (The Beautiful Island), La Palma is renowned for its lush forests, volcanic terrain, and breathtaking hiking trails. The island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with stunning natural sights like Los Tilos, home to a laurel forest and cascading waterfalls.
History lovers can explore archaeological sites in the capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, and the awe-inspiring Iglesia Matriz de El Salvador church. For stargazers, the clear skies above the Roque de la Mucha offer some of the best celestial views in Europe, thanks to strict lighting regulations that preserve the night sky.
How to Get There: Direct flights from Gatwick (London) to La Palma with TUI offer great deals, and the flight takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes.
5. Tunis, Tunisia
Average Highs in January: 18°C
Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, offers a unique blend of Mediterranean climate, culture, and history. With mild temperatures, it’s the perfect destination for exploring ancient ruins like the Carthaginian ruins, as well as relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Hammamet.
For history enthusiasts, the Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-see, with its narrow alleys, bustling souks, and historic buildings. Visitors can also explore the ancient ruins of Carthage, located just outside the city, to immerse themselves in the region’s rich heritage.
How to Get There: Flights from London to Tunis are available from various airlines, with a flight time of approximately 3 hours.
6. Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Average Highs in January: 22°C
Sharm El Sheikh on the Red Sea is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a top destination for sun lovers. The area is famous for its underwater coral reefs, which attract divers from around the world. You can also enjoy a boat tour to nearby Ras Mohammed National Park, where you’ll find diverse marine life and impressive coral gardens.
Beyond the beach, Sharm El Sheikh offers a range of activities such as desert safaris, camel rides, and visits to Mount Sinai, where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments.
How to Get There: Direct flights from London to Sharm El Sheikh are available, with a flight time of around 5 hours.
7. Dubai, UAE
Average Highs in January: 25°C
Dubai is an iconic destination for winter sun seekers, offering luxury resorts, world-class shopping, and modern attractions. The city’s stunning skyline is home to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, while its beaches offer a perfect setting for sunbathing and water sports.
While in Dubai, travelers can enjoy a desert safari, visit the Palm Jumeirah, or explore the bustling souks. The city also offers excellent shopping opportunities, with a wide range of malls and traditional markets to explore.
How to Get There: Direct flights from London to Dubai are available with a flight time of around 7 hours.
These seven locations in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East offer great options for anyone looking for sun in the winter of 2026. Be it stunning beaches, plenty of outdoor fun, or rich cultural experiences, each of these spots will provide warm winters for travelers. Beat the winter of 2026 and plan your next exciting adventure with these amazing destinations.
