Winter sun destinations 5 hours from the UK

If you’re looking for balmy temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and less humidity, winter is the best time to visit Sharm El Shiekh in Egypt. Love to explore? This is the perfect weather for it, with temperatures of around 20 degrees and a gentle breeze - visiting between November and February is an ideal time to discover all that Sharm El Sheikh offers.

While Egypt is much warmer than other countries during the winter, it can still become chilly at night, and there could always be the odd cold day. Packing a light jacket will ensure you’re warm enough during the evenings. A flight from the UK to Sharm El Sheikh takes just over five hours - a wonderfully warm destination right on your doorstep!

Lanzarote, or any of the Canary Islands, are perfect for soaking up a spot of winter sun. Temperatures can reach a maximum of 21 degrees at this time of year, and they don’t fall too cold either, so you’re pretty much guaranteed beautiful weather all day long. 

Spend your days relaxing on the palm-lined beaches, exploring the iconic Timanfaya National Park, or simply indulging by the pool at your all-inclusive resort. The flight from the UK to Lanzarote is approximately four hours – you’ll be leaving the gloomy UK days behind in no time.

Another spectacular destination for winter sun holidays, the Gran Canaria is an incredible choice. With mild heat, lots of lovely sunshine, and very little rain – this is an idyllic escape. The average daily maximum is in the mid-twenties with a minimum of 16 degrees, meaning you can lounge around in your beachwear all day long! Because the weather is still gorgeous, many attractions and activities are open this time of year. Cool down at Aqualand Maspalomas, go on a refreshing boat trip, enjoy the wild watersport centres, and more.

With a flight time of just over four hours, what are you waiting for? Put the winter blues behind you and explore a picturesque island with heaps of sun-kissed beaches and many colourful, inviting little towns. The Gran Canaria gives you plenty to smile about.

Bask in captivating culture and visit breathtaking monuments with a winter sun holiday in Marrakesh, Morocco. November to February temperatures could reach 20 degrees during the daytime. Plus, this flight is speedy, between three to four hours from the UK. This is impressive, considering you’ll land in a warm, luxurious destination with intriguing history, five-star hotels, enchanting gardens and spas. You’ll feel like you’re in a completely different world!

Famous for its glorious coastline, sprawling beaches, and natural wonders, The Algarve in Portugal is the perfect place to swap winter blues for ocean blues. Not only is the picturesque landscape enough to cheer anyone up, but the beautiful weather will likely give you a feel-good boost of vitamin D. The average daily maximum is 18 degrees – an improvement to the UK’s chilly winter temperatures.

And this is another destination you can reach in no time. The flight from the UK to Portugal takes two to three hours from the UK – so blink and you’re there (well, not entirely, but close enough).

Crete may not be red-hot and sunny, but winter’s still a beautiful time to explore some of this island’s magnificent natural beauty. As one of the most popular islands in Greece, Crete boasts a cool-mild climate during the winter. Still, winter can be an ideal time to visit. It’s much less touristy at this time, which can be a good thing if you prefer tranquil surroundings and hardly any queuing. Did we mention it’s only four to five hours away? 

With busy nightlife and golden beaches, this captivating Canary Island is the atmospheric winter sun holiday you’ve been dreaming of. And at around four hours from the UK, it’s no wonder why many holidaymakers flock here for their winter retreat. Tenerife temperatures reach an idyllic 21 degrees on average, but the Canary Islands are renowned for offering an often much-needed cool breeze. This is perfect for those who like a not-too-hot holiday abroad.

Paphos, Cyprus, is perfect for winter sun holidays. The daytime temperatures during winter usually settle around 18 degrees. Not to mention, it only takes around four-and-a-half hours to fly from Paphos to the UK. If you’re looking for beautiful warm weather and plenty to see and do, you’re winning. Many visitors who visit during the winter take leisurely walks along the beach, enjoy the cafés and restaurants, and partake in outdoor activities.