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As the UK’s nights lengthen and temperatures plummet, the allure of sun-drenched shores becomes increasingly strong.
What happened
Cyprus and the Canary Islands consistently enjoy temperatures in the late teens, providing an ideal climate for exploring their rich natural landscapes and historical treasures.
The detail
Here are some of the best winter-sun destinations to head to in December.
The wider picture
One of the perennially warm Canary Islands, Gran Canaria offers an equally enviable array of potential activities.
What comes next
Its capital, Las Palmas, is the largest city in the Canaries and acts as a more cosmopolitan alternative to Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The historic Vegueta district is a good starting point, while popular museums include the Museo Canario (for a look into the pre-colonial history of the islands) and the former home of Christopher Columbus, which has now been turned into a museum. Other popular resort towns include Puerto Rico and Maspalomas, most famous for the vast expanse of dunes that lead to its beaches.
Additional context
Maspalomas isn’t the only natural marvel on the island. Gran Canaria is covered by mountainous terrain and valleys; the Caldera de los Marteles and the barrancos (ravines) of Guayadeque and Azuaje are ideal for hiking, while the Roque Nublo (an 80-metre-tall volcanic rock) is a stunning geographical landmark. There are plenty of beaches worth exploring too, including Las Canteras, Amadores and Gui Gui.
Analysis
Situated on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun has a reputation as being a spring break favourite among westerners, but it is far more than just a place for seasonal partying. With December highs of around 30C and miles of white sands meeting emerald waters, it’s the ideal destination for combining winter sun with a vibrant local culture.
Reactions
Nightlife isn’t hard to find (the Hotel Zone is the main party area), but neither is natural beauty, thanks to the beaches on the Riviera Maya, such as Playa Delfines. There are also great scuba diving spots on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Those who want to explore the history of the area can head to the nearby Mayan Museum and the Mayan ruins of El Rey and San Miguelito.
Developments
There is also a wealth of fascinating day trips on offer to places including Merida, Tulum and Chichen Itza. The first, the state capital, is known for its mix of Spanish and Mayan influences, while Chichen Itza is one of the country’s most renowned Mayan ruins. Tulum combines ancient ruins with attractive coastal areas and natural limestone sinkholes known as cenotes.
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Spain’s Canary Islands are among the few European destinations that remain warm throughout winter, and even in December you can expect average highs of 22C in Lanzarote. This picturesque island is dotted with over 300 volcanic cones, lunar-like black rock formations and golden coastal areas.
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The main settlement on the island is the port city of Arrecife, a lively but comparatively small city that is less touched by mass tourism. Lined with sand, palm trees and a long promenade, it has a charming network of pedestrianised streets and plazas that also house some of the island’s best nightlife in its marina area. Other popular resorts include the Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca.
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Timanfaya National Park is the island’s main natural site, with plenty of great guided walking routes along the rugged, arid terrain and volcanic landscapes. The volcanic cliffs of Los Hervideros and the Green Caves are other notable spots for a scenic walk, while the Jameos del Agua, a natural space that doubles up as a centre for arts and culture, is an oasis-like landscape built around a series of caves and a volcanic tunnel.
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The Omani capital sits between the Gulf of Oman and the towering Hajar Mountains, with surroundings that are as picturesque as the dashes of colour between the white-washed buildings that form its skyline.
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A blend of modern and old Omani living, Muscat is a characterful coastal city that serves as a good base for exploring nearby places such as Sur, Nizwa and the numerous oasis wadis. Its main neighbourhoods include Al Qurum (home to a fantastic beach) and Old Muscat, the old centre that has retained its historic charm and small-town feel. Muttrah is one of the best areas for tourists, beginning with the two-mile-long Corniche and extending to the Muttrah Souq, one of the oldest in the Arab world, where you’ll find a maze of alleyways with vendors selling everything from frankincense to jewellery.
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Architectural highlights include the imposing Grand Mosque and the retro-looking Al Alam Palace, with the National Museum – chronicling Omani history back to prehistoric times – sitting opposite the former Sultan’s residence.
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The largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, Tenerife has long been a popular holiday spot for Brits, catering to everyone from young families to party-going groups of friends. The Canaries’ location off the west coast of Morocco provides ideal year-round weather for many visitors, with average highs of around 21C even in December.
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There are several towns and cities on the island, the largest of which is Santa Cruz (the capital, found near the northeastern tip of the island). The city of over 200,000 people is centred around the magnificent Plaza de España (at the centre of which lies a large, man-made lake). Other options for a resort stay include Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas, both on the southwest coast of the island.
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The island also has an abundance of natural wonders. The centrepiece is the imposing Mount Teide – the highest peak in Spain at 3,715m – and the associated National Park, where visitors can explore volcanic landscapes and hike through hills and forest, with sensational views over the island. On the coast, you’ll find the dramatic cliff faces of Los Gigantes and sandy beaches such as Playa del Duque and Playa de las Teresitas.
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Australia’s most famous city, Sydney, is home to several of the country’s most well-known landmarks. The Opera House and Harbour Bridge are synonymous with ‘Down Under’, while Bondi Beach is one of the best symbols of the laidback lifestyle that many envisage when they think of the country.
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Ferries journey around the waterfront – Circular Quay to Manly is a popular route – and under the Harbour Bridge, but the city is more than just its harbour and beaches like Manly, Bronte and Balmoral.
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Take a stroll around neighbourhoods such as Surry Hills, the Rocks, Newtown and Woolloomooloo, and check out the variety of galleries – such as the White Rabbit or the Art Gallery of NSW – plus other attractions including the Royal Botanic Garden and the Australian Museum.
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Cyprus is one of the warmest countries in Europe in winter, and the city of Limassol is a busier, more cosmopolitan alternative to the historic sites and sandy beaches of Paphos or the small-town feel of Larnaca.
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The second largest city on the island, Limassol offers an attractive marina, where stone and white-washed buildings line limestone streets for a particularly memorable sunset view.
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Products of its own ancient history include Limassol Castle and the 2,000-year-old ruins at Amathus, while those in search of nature can find a peaceful oasis at the Municipal Gardens. If you want beaches, Lady’s Mile, Dasoudi Beach and Governor’s Beach are some of the most popular in the area and are all suitable for swimming and water sports.
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There are plenty of reasons why Bangkok is such a popular destination. Yes, it is a starting point for onward journeys to the beaches of Phuket or the tranquillity of islands such as Koh Lipe and Koh Samui, but many who touch down in the perennially popular Thai capital will stay to experience a frenetic city brimming with things to see and do.
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The city’s hectic pace of life is best experienced through trips to Yaowarat Road (located in Chinatown) or Khao San Road – where the neon glow is accompanied by a hum of activity, including street vendors and popular nightlife spots – or the markets of the Chatuchak District and the north of the city, packed with evening shoppers and street food stalls.
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For sightseeing, you’ll want to head to the Ko Ratanakosin area. This is where you’ll find Bangkok’s main landmarks, including the ornate Grand Palace – once the royal residence – and the attached Wat Phra Kaew, the spiritual centre of Thai Buddhism. The magnificent, 20-acre Wat Pho temple complex sits just 10 minutes away from the Palace.
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Madeira is a rugged, volcanic archipelago located in the Atlantic between mainland Portugal and the Canary Islands. This location gives it a pleasant, temperate winter climate, with average highs of around 20C in December.
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The capital, Funchal, is a coastal city composed of winding streets that house hundreds of red-roofed, white buildings.
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Source: Where is hot in December? The best holiday destinations for winter sun in 2026 (independent.co.uk) · Nov 9, 2026
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