With the wet weather and plunging temperatures, it's time to plan a winter escape to the sun where you can relax and indulge. The Wise Traveller takes a look at several affordable ideas to heat up your search.
Cyprus
Sitting on the edge of mainland Europe, Cyprus has been a traditional summer-break favourite. But savvy travellers are realising the island nation offers warmth from November onwards, with temperatures hovering around 20°C. Limassol, Larnaca and Pafos are favoured retreats.
Hurghada, Egypt
One of TUI's top 10 winter season destinations for 2026, Hurghada offers a fantastic cocktail of sun, fun and relaxation. With its many hotels and Red Sea-based water activities, it is quickly becoming a destination to seriously consider.
Canary Islands
For many Europeans, the Canary Islands off the coast of Spain have been a welcome year-round destination since the 1970s. Whether it be laidback Lanzarote, windy Fuerteventura, quiet and classy Gran Canaria or the party island of Tenerife, holidaymakers are increasingly choosing the destinations out of season to avoid the searing summers.
Vietnam
With a dry season from November to February, Vietnam is a nailed-on favourite for most people. The southern powerhouse of Ho Chi Minh City is a wonderful place for a short break, but can also be a springboard to lesser-known locations such as Nha Trang, Phu Quoc and Hoi An.
Madeira
Madeira Island, Portugal, is an excellent de-stressor if you are looking to swap the wet and cold for the warm hospitality and the warmer environment of this island. Superb for a short-haul break, explore the likes of the capital Funchal with its winding streets and chill out at the seafood hubs on the harbour. Madeira remains an under-the-radar choice.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town boasts great weather and wildlife. The city experiences summer from December to February, offering opportunities for beaches, vineyard visits and sightseeing.
Curaçao
If you want high 80s, guaranteed heat, sparkling waters, sandy beaches, and a touch of the Dutch, then Curaçao in the Caribbean is where it's at. Alongside Aruba and Bonaire, Curaçao is an ideal destination from December through February. Check out the Dutch-inspired architecture of the UNESCO-listed capital, Willemstad.
Goa, India
Yes, one of the '60s and '70s faves for hippies to turn up, drop off, and tune out. Today, Goa is the perfect destination for a break in December, January and February before the humidity kicks in mid-March. North Goa, with Arpora, Baga, Calangute and Candolim, are the go-to choices for modern-day travellers. However, those seeking a more laidback approach will find the resorts in the south their equal for stunning seas, coastlines, beaches, and café culture. Carnival hits the streets of the capital, Panjim, in January.
Rajasthan, India
If India is your ideal breakaway, then consider the delights of Rajasthan. With temperatures averaging 70 degrees, you can comfortably explore this intriguing state without the sweat. It features the pink-hued delights of Jaipur, ancient palaces, forts, and museums, as well as tiger safaris in Ranthambhore National Park.
Maldives
If you can afford it, then go in boots and all to the Maldives for wall-to-wall sun, sparkling waters and a chilled vibe. The Maldives are popular from December to April, with overwater villas and spectacular seaplane transfers. Resorts focus on privacy, sea access and sunset views, making them ideal for a winter escape.
Sri Lanka
Making a major comeback after a few lean years on the economic front, Sri Lanka is a much-favoured destination. Sun from November to February is a given, while the island revels in great beaches, stunning architecture, cool hilly plains, and a wealth of culture.
And there's more
The likes of Thailand, Bali, Dubai, Antigua, the Bahamas, Sydney, Rio de Janeiro, Costa Rica, Hawaii and East Africa also provide classic warm winter getaways, depending on budgets, travel time and how busy or chilled you want to be.
Andy Probert is a freelance journalist whose work about global travel news, aviation, business and human-interest features has appeared internationally in print and digital formats.
