Last Updated on September 11, 2026 by Masha
If you are wondering where is it hot in Europe in December, let’s set expectations first: if you are picturing 30°C (86°F) heat and a midnight swim in bathwater-warm ocean, Europe this time of year won’t give you that. For tropical humidity, you will want Southeast Asia or the Caribbean.
But if what you’re actually after is trading sub-zero mornings, gray skies, and slush for 18°C–23°C (64°F–73°F) afternoons, a t-shirt instead of three layers, and trails with nobody else on them — Europe has more to offer than most people realize.
As full-time travelers who have explored nearly every country on the planet, winter sun-chasing across Europe has become a specialty of ours.
So when people ask us where to go in Europe in December, this is genuinely the list we hand over. Below is where it is hot in Europe in December, which regions can actually be trusted for sunshine, and — more importantly — why each one is worth the trip, not just the temperature.
Quick Comparison: Warm Places in Europe in December
| Destination | Avg High (°C / °F) | Daily Sunshine | Why Go |
| Tenerife & Gran Canaria | 21°C–23°C (70°F–73°F) | 6 hours | High-altitude volcano hiking above the cloud line |
| Lanzarote & Fuerteventura | 20°C–22°C (68°F–72°F) | 6–7 hours | Ash-crater vineyards & vast Saharan-style dunes |
| Madeira (Portugal) | 19°C–20°C (66°F–68°F) | 5–6 hours | Funchal’s botanical night markets & quiet levada trails |
| Cyprus (Larnaca / Paphos) | 18°C–20°C (64°F–68°F) | 5–6 hours | Migrating flamingos on salt lakes & empty coastal ruins |
| Malta & Gozo | 17°C–19°C (63°F–66°F) | 5–6 hours | 5,000-year-old megalithic temples & cliff walks |
| Costa de la Luz / Málaga | 17°C–18°C (63°F–64°F) | 5–6 hours | Winter citrus harvest & uncrowded Atlantic fish bars |
| The Algarve (Portugal) | 16°C–18°C (61°F–64°F) | 6 hours | Winter Atlantic surf swells & empty clifftop trails |
1. Tenerife & Gran Canaria (Spain) — The High-Altitude Volcanic Giants
Of every corner of Europe we’ve chased sun to in December, these two islands are the ones we trust the most. They’re simply the most dependable bet for winter heat on the continent, and the elevation gives you a version of “hot” that most beach destinations can’t touch.
Temperatures: Daily highs reach 21°C–23°C (70°F–73°F) in the south; coastal water hovers around 20°C (68°F).
The Microclimate: The northern coasts catch the trade winds, which means cloud cover and rain. Base yourself along the southwest — Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, or Puerto de Mogán — for the driest, sunniest stretch.
Why Go: This is what makes the Canaries special to us — the range in a single day. Spend your morning in shorts on a black-sand cove, then by afternoon you’re hiking across Mount Teide’s high desert plateau, above the clouds, in a landscape that genuinely feels closer to Mars than Europe.
Gran Canaria’s rugged interior ravines (barrancos) and the Roque Nublo trails are just as striking, and December’s mild air makes them far more enjoyable than the punishing summer heat.
TIP: If you plan to hike to the summit or tackle the upper trails, you will need to reserve a free permit in advance through the official Tenerife ON portal.
2. Lanzarote & Fuerteventura (Spain) — The Desert & Surf Islands
Just 100 km (62 miles) off the coast of Morocco, these two feel almost nothing like the rest of Europe. Flatter, drier, and quieter than their western neighbors, they read more like low-slung Saharan outposts dropped into deep blue Atlantic water — and that contrast is exactly why we keep coming back.
Temperatures: Highs average 20°C–22°C (68°F–72°F), with 6 to 7 hours of daily sunshine.
Why Go (Lanzarote): We have a real soft spot for this island because of what it isn’t — no high-rise resort sprawl, thanks to local artist and architect César Manrique, who fought to protect it.
December is the perfect time to drive through La Geria, a stark black valley where grapevines grow inside thousands of hand-dug semicircular volcanic craters (hoyos), sheltered from the wind by low stone walls. It’s one of the more otherworldly landscapes we’ve experienced.
Why Go (Fuerteventura): Endless white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and trade winds that make spots like El Cotillo and Flag Beach magnets for winter surfers and kiteboarders. The golden dunes of Corralejo National Park give you long, empty stretches of coast that feel far bigger than the island itself.
TIP: You can explore self-drive routes through the black volcanic ash vineyards via the Lanzarote Tourism board.
3. Madeira (Portugal)
Madeira sits further north in the Atlantic, so it runs a touch cooler and noticeably greener than the Canaries — but it’s still one of the most comfortable winter bases we’ve found in Europe.
Temperatures: Highs around 19°C–20°C (66°F–68°F); lows around 14°C (57°F).
Why Go: December turns Funchal into something close to an open-air botanical garden lit up for the season. The city drapes its natural hillside amphitheater in elaborate lights, and Noite do Mercado (Market Night, December 23) fills the old town with fruit growers, flower stalls, and cups of fresh poncha (sugarcane rum, fresh citrus juice, and honey) being passed around. It’s one of those nights that makes you understand why locals love this place so much.
Trail Conditions: The mountain ridgeline from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, along with the narrow levada paths that get crowded in July, are quiet and easy to walk without the summer humidity. Always check winter trail conditions and safety updates through the Madeira official trail network before heading out on the high-altitude levadas.
Base Camp Tip: Stay around Ponta do Sol or Calheta, on the southwest coast, for the most sun and the best shelter from the northern clouds.
4. Cyprus (South Coast)
Cyprus holds the warmest corner of the Mediterranean, keeping sea temperatures around 18°C–19°C (64°F–66°F) well into December — genuinely one of the hottest countries in Europe in December if the sea matters to you as much as it does to us.
Temperatures: Daily highs reach 18°C–20°C (64°F–68°F).
Why Go: December is when thousands of greater flamingos migrate to the Larnaca and Akrotiri Salt Lakes, feeding on brine shrimp right beside the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque — a scene we found genuinely moving to watch.
Plus, ancient landmarks like the Paphos Mosaics and the cliffside theater at Kourion are no longer packed or sweltering like they are in July, leaving you free to explore them in peace.
Note: The Troodos Mountains inland get freezing temperatures and snow, so keep your base strictly along the southern coast.
5. Malta & Gozo
Sitting just south of Sicily, Malta gets mild, bright winter days with five to six hours of direct sun — and this is where our answer to “where is it hot in Europe in December” gets a little personal.
Temperatures: Highs average 17°C–19°C (63°F–66°F).
Why Go: Malta’s megalithic temples — Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra — predate both Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, and in December the coastal air is crisp enough to actually enjoy walking the exposed limestone plateaus, instead of baking on them like you would in summer.
Gozo Island: Take the 25-minute ferry across the Gozo channel, because this island has a completely distinct rhythm from main-island Malta. It was one of the very first stops we made when we started traveling full-time, and it stuck with us immediately.
It is rural and relaxed, dotted with honey-colored limestone farmhouses, coastal salt pans carved straight into the rock, and the natural lagoon at Dwejra. The slow pace and golden afternoon light remind us so much of southern Italy—if you take only one side trip on this list, make it this one.
6. Southern Spain (Málaga, Cádiz & Costa de la Luz)
Spain easily tops the list of the hottest countries in Europe in December, and Andalusia is where that winter warmth meets spirited city life. We have road-tripped this coastline during winter—even with a fearless toddler who insisted on charging straight into the Mediterranean while we watched from the sand fully clothed.
Temperatures: Daily highs reach 17°C–18°C (63°F–64°F) along both the Mediterranean and Atlantic sides, with 5 to 6 hours of daily sunshine. Coastal water hovers around 16°C–17°C (61°F–63°F).
The Coast Breakdown:
Málaga & Costa del Sol: Sheltered by the Sierra de Mijas mountains, which block the cold northern winds and keep daytime afternoons dry and sunny.
Cádiz & Costa de la Luz: The Atlantic coast west of Gibraltar catches more ocean wind, making the wide beaches a magnet for winter kitesurfers and windsurfers.
Why Go:
In Málaga, Calle Larios hosts one of the most impressive Christmas light and music displays anywhere in southern Europe, and the surrounding hills hit peak winter citrus and olive harvest season—the fresh scent in the countryside alone is worth the trip.
Cádiz is widely considered Western Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city. In December, the summer heat and humidity are gone, making it easy to wander the 18th-century sea ramparts, slip through quiet plaza alleys, and grab a quick bite at local freidurías (fried fish bars) without fighting any crowds.
7. The Algarve (Portugal)
Portugal’s southern coast averages 17°C–18°C (63°F–64°F) in December, with crisp blue skies that make midday feel warmer than the thermometer suggests. However, the Atlantic water drops to 15°C (59°F), so swimming means a wetsuit, not a casual dip.
Why Go: Winter is prime season for outdoor sports. The Seven Hanging Valleys coastal trail and the wilder Rota Vicentina coastal network offer empty clifftop views over limestone sea stacks and ocean arches—some of the most peaceful coastal hiking you will find in Europe.
A Town That Surprised Us: Albufeira’s whitewashed old town tumbling down toward the beach caught us off guard—it felt strikingly reminiscent of the Greek islands. In December, you can actually appreciate the views and architecture without fighting summer crowds.
Surfing & Small Towns: Winter swells bring world-class breaks to Sagres and Arrifana. For quieter café life, base yourself in Tavira, with its Roman bridge and salt flats, or Ferragudo, across the river from Portimão.
Looking for Christmas Markets Instead?
If you arrived here looking for snow, steaming mugs of glühwein, and historic town squares glowing under fairy lights, a mild coastal escape probably isn’t what you’re after. For that classic festive experience, central European cities like Vienna, Prague, and Strasbourg remain unbeatable. Read our companion guide to the best cities to visit in Europe in December for our full breakdown of the top Christmas markets, lights, and winter magic.
But if you want a bit of both — festive atmosphere and mild weather — Funchal (Madeira) and Málaga are genuinely your best bet. Both go all-in on holiday lights and markets while still handing you daytime temperatures you can enjoy in a light jacket. It’s the closest Europe gets to having it both ways.
Practical Tips for Traveling Southern Europe in December
1. Heating and Accommodation Realities
- Look for reversible heat pumps or wood burners: Traditional southern European apartments and coastal villas are engineered to stay cool during scorching summers. Thick stone walls, terra-cotta tiles, and high ceilings work well in July, but without central heating, indoor spaces feel damp and cold once the sun sets. Always message hosts or filter for properties with dedicated heating units rather than assuming it is standard.
- Pack dedicated indoor layers: Bring a pair of warm socks or indoor slippers and comfortable loungewear. Cold stone or tile floors make unheated rentals feel substantially colder than the outdoor temperature.
2. Avoiding “Ghost Town” Closures
- Base yourself in working hubs: Summer-dependent beach resort strips (such as small coastal coves in the Algarve, seasonal Greek island strips, or parts of southern Cyprus) shutter almost entirely from November through March.
- Choose towns with a permanent local population: Destinations like Funchal, Málaga, Cádiz, Paphos, Las Palmas, and Tavira keep supermarkets, independent cafés, pharmacies, and neighborhood restaurants open year-round.
3. Maximizing the Daylight Window
- Plan around a 5:15 PM sunset: December brings the shortest days of the year across Europe. Even in the southernmost regions, natural light fades rapidly after 5:00 PM.
- Target the 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM window: Schedule trail runs, coastal hikes, road trips, and scooter rentals during this five-hour block for peak temperatures, minimal wind, and direct sunlight.
4. Ocean & Water Realities – Atlantic vs. Mediterranean:
- The Canary Islands offer the warmest ocean water in Europe (hovering around 19°C–20°C / 66°F–68°F), which is manageable for a brisk midday swim.
- The Algarve and mainland Atlantic coasts drop to 15°C (59°F)—a 3/2mm or 4/3mm wetsuit is recommended for water activities.
- The Mediterranean (Cyprus, Malta, Southern Spain) averages 17°C–18°C (63°F–64°F), which suits sea kayaking and paddleboarding far better than leisurely swimming.
5. Packing Strategy: The Midday Gap
- Dress for a 10°C (18°F) daily temperature swing: A sunny afternoon at 20°C (68°F) in a t-shirt drops down to 10°C–12°C (50°F–54°F) as soon as the sun dips below the horizon.
- Key items to bring:
- Breathable short-sleeve layers for midday sun.
- A lightweight packable windbreaker or denim jacket for coastal breezes.
- A mid-weight merino wool sweater or fleece for evening walks and outdoor dining under heat lamps.
- Polarized sunglasses (the winter sun sits lower on the horizon, creating intense glare off the water and roads).
Best Warm Places in Europe in December: Our Final Recommendations
If you are trying to narrow it down, here is the straightforward breakdown based on the kind of trip you want:
- For maximum heat and beach days: Head to Southern Tenerife, Gran Canaria, or Lanzarote. They offer the most reliable winter sun in Europe, with midday temperatures consistently in the low 20s (°C / low 70s °F).
- For rugged trails and dramatic subtropical landscapes: Choose Madeira. It is cooler and greener, but unbeatable for levada walks, coastal cliff paths, and festive botanical night markets.
- For wildlife, ancient history, and uncrowded cycling: Pick Cyprus or Malta & Gozo. You get mild Mediterranean air, prehistoric ruins without summer bus tours, and migrating flamingos on the salt lakes.
- For food, culture, and coastal walks: Opt for Cádiz, Málaga, or the Algarve. Expect crisp, sunny afternoons perfect for long seaside strolls, winter swells, and empty historic plazas.
We have chased the sun across a lot of corners of the world over the years, but when December rolls around and we want to escape the gray without enduring a 14-hour flight, this is the shortlist we come back to.
Planning More Winter Travel?
Traveling earlier in the season? See our guide to where to go in Europe in November for late-autumn foliage, shoulder-season quiet, and mild coastal sun.
Need true tropical heat instead? If 20°C (68°F) isn’t warm enough and you want 30°C (86°F) beach days, explore our Southeast Asia travel guides for winter island hopping.
Over to You
Have you spent December in any of these spots, or do you have a favorite European winter-sun escape we didn’t include?
If you are planning a trip and have questions about microclimates, getting around, or finding places with proper heating, drop a comment below. We love connecting with fellow travelers to help you figure out the logistics.