Is your idea of a “White Christmas” a sunny beach with pristine white sand?  If you’d rather swim than shovel, then read on, dear fellow travelers.  Here are six of Europe’s best winter sun destinations.

1.  Sicily, Italy

The coast has a reportedly balmy Mediterranean climate.  Travel to Sicily in the winter and you will be met by fewer crowds, beautiful blue skies, and blooming almond trees.  You will also have the interesting archaeological sites and charming Baroque towns comparatively to yourself.

The ski slopes on Mount Etna will also be more open.  See attractive Taormina.  There’s also the delicious cuisine.  Ricci di mare or sea urchin season is also “in full swing” so be sure to sample this rather distinctive delicacy.

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Madeira, Portugal

Madeira is not only one of Europe’s most exotic islands, but at a distance of 1,000 miles away from mainland Portugal, it’s also one of the most remote.  Sure, there’s a chance of rain but its dramatic coast, green landscapes, and tropical gardens are worth the visit.

Generally, there are six hours of sun daily with temperatures of between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius.  Play golf, hiking, or sightseeing.  The capital, Funchal, features a lively nightlife, and noteworthy colonial architecture.  Visit Madeira’s mountainous countryside and see the unique levadas as well.

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Marbella, Spain

If all you want out of a winter vacation is sunny, empty beaches, peaceful places to stroll, and an open-air terrace in the welcome shade of fragrant orange trees, then Marbella is for you!  This Costa del Sol town has a great microclimate.

This beachside destination is full of verdant greenery, and an assortment of available outdoor activities.  Golfers should already know that winter is Marbella’s official high golf season and there are world-class courses for every budget and level.  Go hiking, horseback riding, or simply stroll along the nearby hills, picturesque, palm-lined beach promenade, or Old Town’s flower-filled alleys.  With five hours of sun and a temperature of 20 degrees celsius, you can’t lose.

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Cyprus, the Middle East

Sunny Cyprus offers winter temperatures of approximately 20 degrees Celsius.  Nestled in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, this place is rich in history, culture, and delicious food.  Here you will discover stunning beaches, noteworthy nature parks, and intriguing archaeological sites.

Nicosia, the country’s capital, (or Lefkosia in Greek) has awesome eateries and magnificent museums too.  Paphos is the place for archeological treasures and beaches, and Limassol is well-known for its nightlife.

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The Canary Islands, Spain

Spain’s Canary Islands makes this list of Europe’s best winter sun destinations because of the warm, year-round weather, and low travel costs. Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Tenerife are all chock full o’ sparkling beaches, culture, and other assorted forms of entertainment.

The exotic archipelago’s lesser-known isles, La Gomera and El Hierro are the places for peaceful getaways complete with unique local traditions, and unspoiled landscapes.  Travel experts say that this is the time to take advantage of hot holiday packages and low, flexible travel costs.  Get a healthy, natural dose of Vitamin D and experience the culture and history found here a well,

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Malta

Malta is where you will find nine official UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a good place for a winter sun getaway complete with a bit of culture.  During the winter it only rarely rains and the temperature usually stays at 15 degrees Celsius or higher.

You can explore the untouched countryside or stroll the sunny streets of Valletta.  Of course, any time is a good time to visit Malta’s coast.  It is an attractive, charming blend of towering cliffs, rugged, rocky coves, quaint fishing villages, natural harbors, and stunning sunsets over the shining Mediterranean Sea.

During the holidays, of course, you will be able to experience the liveliness and seasonal spirit of the Christmas markets too.  Sure, a local might suggest going elsewhere in the winter but the grass is always greener.  Besides, the locals have no idea what it’s like to be buried in icy cold snow all winter long,  (Plus let’s be honest, not everyone likes tourists either.)

There you have it, dear readers.  What are your favorite winter sun destinations?  Let us know in the comment section!

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