The world’s 20 best places to visit for winter sun, from October to February

Best month to visit: October

Average temperature in Oct: 28C/82F

Sharm is known for having turquoise waters and cloud-free skies pretty much all year round – it’s no wonder this place is such a stalwart for European holidaymakers. Come here for an affordable, ultra-relaxing holiday chilling by the pool, drink in hand. If you’re in the mood to explore, head out snorkelling in the Red Sea, or indulge in Egyptian spices, trinkets, and textiles with swarming crowds of locals at the Old Market. Direct flights are available from most of Europe, providing a swift escape from the continent’s chilly north.

Best month to visit: October

Average temperature in Oct: 25C/77F

If you fancy ticking ‘pet a zebra’ off your bucket list, Namibia is the place for you. Etosha National Park is one of the best places in the world to go on a safari adventure, and even if you don’t fancy getting up close and personal with a lion, the views make the trip worth it. Sand dunes and dramatic canyons make up much of this west African nation’s landscape, making for the perfect escape from a drizzly city. Speaking of drizzle, we recommend visiting in October, when the weather’s cooled down nicely but you’re still comfortably in dry season.

Best month to visit: October

Average temperature in Oct: 22C/72F

Cyprus experiences 340 sunny days a year, so it’s a pretty safe bet for sunshine. Go in early winter, when the Mediterranean seas are still warm enough to swim and you’ll only need an extra layer at night. It’s also the perfect time to make the most of the country’s outdoors, like the 7.5km Aphrodite Trail (easiest reached from Limassol), which is much, much better without the 40-degree heat. Plus, the summer prices – and crowds – have significantly dropped. Ideal.

📍Discover the best things to do in Paphos

Best month to visit: October

Average temperature in Oct: 28C/82F

You probably already know of this Indonesian island for being a literal-heaven-on-earth sort of place, and we’re here to tell you to believe the hype. The water is clear, the beaches are lined with palm trees, and the locals are always welcoming. Temperatures remain in the high 20s well into October, and there’s an average of 12.5 daily hours of sunlight throughout winter. Sold? Good – we’d recommend staying in Pererenan, named Time Out’s coolest neighbourhood in Asia in 2024, complete with beachfront bars and nature reserves. 

📍Discover the best things to do in Bali

Best month to visit: November

Average temperature in Nov: 20C/68F

It’s still possible to get some winter sun without leaving mainland Europe, even in November. Alicante, on Spain’s southern Mediterranean coast, is low on rain and high on sunshine throughout the season. Plus, you’ll have the chance to explore the Santa Bárbara Castle or Barrio de Santa Cruz without the crowds getting in your way. If it gets a bit chilly, the Mercado Central covered market offers a perfect day out – and delicious tapas – shielded from the elements. Alternatively, have a wander around the Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art, complete with works from Miró, Picasso and Dalí.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Alicante

Best time to visit: November

Average Temperature in Nov: 25C/77F

It isn’t called the Valley of the Sun for nothing: Phoenix’s year-round sunshine is legendary. The largest city in Arizona gets a whopping 330 days of sunshine per year (more than any other US city). Legend has it that at the height of summer, you can fry an egg on a car – but by November, temperatures are much more comfortable, meaning you can spend a day exploring the Desert Botanical Garden or South Mountain Park. For a real treat, stay at the luxurious Arizona Biltmore, a legendary 1929 art deco resort.

Best month to visit: November

Average temperature in Nov: 19C/66F

Do the Canary Islands need any introduction to winter sun seekers? Gran Canaria is no stranger to the European holidaymaker; in fact much of it was built for them. It’s not all beach resorts and sun loungers next to swimming pools, though – although there’s plenty of that if you fancy it. The Cueva Pintada Archeological Park will teach you the island’s history, complete with picnic areas with volcanic views and even a cheesery. The island stays dry for most of winter, and there are literally thousands of hotels to choose from. Yes, thousands. You’re sure to find one you like.

📍 Discover Time Out’s guide to the Canary Islands

Best month to visit: November

Average temperature in Nov: 30C/86F

Out in Cape Verde, Praia is one of the warmest and driest (averaging just 0.14 inches of monthly rainfall) destinations on this list. Its name translates simply as ‘beach’, dropping a big clue to its appeal – but it’s also known for its historic neighbourhoods. Culturally, Cape Verde is a fascinating mix of African and Portuguese colonial influences. This can be experienced in the food and architecture of its capital, both of which you can enjoy when you’re not busy swimming in the sapphire water.

Average temperature: 20-28C/68-82F

Best month to visit: December

Cancun, Mexico’s famous beachside city, might have a rep for party antics – but if you avoid spring break and go in wintertime, you get all the beauty of this coastal spot without the loutish young ’uns. There’s an underwater museum you can explore via snorkel, a strong supply of beachfront resorts, and loads of authentic Mexican food to get stuck into. Meanwhile, Mexico City in December offers perfect strolling temps of 24C (75F), while the port city of Veracruz – known for its rich blend of indigenous and Afro-Cuban cultures – is both warm and boasts little rain (between 0.5 and 1.5 inches per month) from November to February. Plus, the fresh seafood here is something you don’t want to miss.

📍Discover the best things to do in Mexico City and Cancun’s best hotels

Average temperature: 25C/77F

Best time to visit: December 

December is simply perfect in the Caribbean. It’s early enough to avoid peak season (usually January and February) but late enough to clear the backend of hurricane season. Whether you want to sizzle on Bavaro Beach, hike the 27 waterfalls or simply chase the vitamin D you can only get in the tropics this time of year, this is a chance to see the country for a little bit less than you’d usually have to pay, and get your fix of winter sun.