Warmest places in Europe to visit in December

Friday, May 16, 2025

Escape the winter chill and soak up some sun in Europe's warmest destinations this December. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Canary Islands to the mild climes of Malta and Cyprus, there are plenty of places to find pleasant temperatures and sunshine while the rest of Europe shivers. Discover picturesque towns decked out for the holidays, indulge in delicious cuisine, and enjoy sightseeing and activities without the crowds and high prices of peak season. Whether you're dreaming of a beach getaway or a cultural city break, these warm European spots offer a perfect winter escape.

Top warm European destinations in December

Canary Islands, Spain

For the warmest European escape in December, look no further than Spain's Canary Islands. While the continent shivers, this sunny archipelago off the coast of Africa basks in average temperatures of 19-22°C.

Tenerife and Gran Canaria are two of the most popular islands, offering a perfect blend of golden beaches, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and vibrant resort towns. Explore Teide National Park in Tenerife, home to Spain's tallest peak, or stroll the dunes of Maspalomas in Gran Canaria.

With six to seven hours of sunshine per day and minimal rainfall, the Canaries provide an ideal setting for outdoor activities and sightseeing, even in the heart of winter. So trade your scarf for sunscreen and discover why this Spanish archipelago reigns as Europe's ultimate December hotspot.

Madeira, Portugal

As December begins, Madeira embraces mild temperatures averaging 20°C, offering a welcoming escape from chillier European climes. The island's lush landscapes and extensive network of levadas (irrigation channels) beckon hikers to explore, with trails winding through verdant forests and along dramatic coastlines.

As the month progresses, the weather remains pleasant, allowing visitors to comfortably discover Madeira's charming towns decked out in festive decor. Funchal, the vibrant capital, hosts a celebrated Christmas market where one can find traditional crafts and delicacies.

Culminating in joyous New Year's Eve celebrations, December in Madeira is truly special. Funchal puts on one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in the world, lighting up the night sky over the harbor. Revelers fill the streets, toasting to new beginnings as the island ushers in another year in style.

Cyprus

Cyprus offers a warm respite from the European winter chill in December, with average temperatures reaching a pleasant 19°C (66°F). The island's inviting beaches and wealth of historical sites make it an appealing offseason getaway.

However, visitors should be aware of the island's divided status. The northern third is run by a Turkish Cypriot government, while the southern two-thirds are controlled by Greek Cypriots. Despite this separation, it is still possible to explore highlights across the island, from the ancient ruins of Paphos to the picturesque Kyrenia harbor.

The key is to plan ahead and be mindful of border crossings when mapping out your itinerary. With a bit of preparation, you can enjoy the best of Cyprus' warm December weather and fascinating culture, while navigating its unique political landscape.

Activities and attractions in warm European destinations

Beach and water activities

While Europe's beaches may not be scorching in December, the warmer southern destinations still offer pleasant weather for seaside relaxation and water-based fun, with a few seasonal limitations:

1. Swimming and sunbathing: Daytime highs in the mid-to-high teens Celsius in places like the Canary Islands, Cyprus, and Malta mean you can still enjoy a dip in the sea or lounge on the sand, though the water will feel brisk. Beach resort areas are much quieter compared to summer.
2. Water sports: Surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing are possible thanks to windier conditions, especially in the Canaries and on the Atlantic coast. Scuba diving is an option with a thick wetsuit. But many water sports centers may have reduced hours or close for the season.
3. Boat trips: While schedules are more limited, you can take boat trips to spot whales and dolphins off the Canary Islands, explore the coves of Mallorca and Malta, or discover the Madeira coastline. Just be prepared for cooler temperatures and brisker seas compared to summer sailings.
4. Coastal walks: Even if sunbathing is not always possible, the quieter shores are perfect for brisk walks to appreciate the coastal scenery. Stroll the sand dunes of Gran Canaria, wander past Sicily's ancient sea caves, or hike the rocky bays of Gozo. Just pack layers for changeable winter weather.

So while not a classic beach season, Europe's warmer coasts in December do provide chances for refreshing sea air and activities without summer crowds - just temper expectations around swimming and water sports compared to the height of summer.

Hiking and nature exploration

December is a fantastic time to explore the hiking trails and natural wonders of Europe's warm destinations. The mild temperatures make for comfortable conditions to discover national parks and scenic landscapes.

In the Canary Islands, venture beyond the beaches to hike the volcanic terrain of Teide National Park in Tenerife or the lush forests of Garajonay National Park in La Gomera. Cyprus offers scenic coastal walks along the Aphrodite Trail or through the pine-clad Troodos Mountains.

While the weather is generally pleasant, remember that December days are shorter and temperatures can dip, especially in the evenings. Be prepared with layers and plan your hikes accordingly. With the right gear and mindset, you can immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of these warm European spots, away from the summer crowds.

Cultural experiences and festivals

Warm European destinations offer a festive atmosphere and unique cultural experiences in December:

1. Christmas markets: Many cities host enchanting Christmas markets with handmade crafts, local delicacies, and mulled wine. Don't miss the markets in Funchal (Madeira), Valletta (Malta), and Malaga (Spain).
2. New Year's celebrations: Ring in the New Year with fireworks displays and lively street parties. Funchal is famous for its spectacular fireworks show over the harbor. Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria also hosts a massive beachside New Year's celebration.
3. Nativity scenes: In Malta and Italy, towns proudly display elaborate nativity scenes called presepju (Malta) or presepe (Italy). Visiting these crèches is a treasured holiday tradition.
4. Feast days: December 13th is St. Lucy's Day, celebrated with processions and bonfires in Scandinavian communities across Cyprus and Spain. The 12th Night Epiphany on January 5th is also commemorated with parades in many Southern European towns.
5. Cultural festivals: Look for quirky events like the Hogueras de Navidad (burning of Christmas figures) in Granada and the Misa de Gallo (midnight rooster mass) in Palermo. These unique traditions offer a taste of the local culture and history.

Immersing yourself in these festive celebrations is a highlight of visiting warmer European destinations in December. Soak up the holiday spirit while enjoying milder temperatures and fewer crowds than the busy summer months.

From the sun-soaked beaches of the Canary Islands to the mild climates of Malta and Cyprus, Europe offers several alluring destinations for a warm winter getaway in December. While you may not find scorching temperatures, these places provide a pleasant respite from the cold with ample sunshine and comfortable conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. So if you're craving an escape from the chilly winter weather, consider jetting off to one of these inviting European spots for a dose of warmth, culture, and relaxation this December.