10 last-minute holiday destinations to book if you’re craving winter sun

Lizzie Thomson

Published November 3, 2023 11:36am Updated November 6, 2023 9:28am

Not looking forward to the gloomy and cold months ahead?

If you’re desperately seeking to escape the miserable British winter for a balmy respite, Skyscanner has revealed its top trending spots for winter sun.

The booking platform has unveiled its top 10 locations to escape the rain and cold – and whether you’re after the sun and sea or culture and cocktails, there’s something for everyone.

But, most importantly, temperatures at these destinations start from 21°C (and go up to 33°C in some places) during the winter months.

Laura Lindsay, Skyscanner’s destinations and trends expert, says: ‘Shorter and colder days can make summer feel like a distant memory leaving you in desperate need of a Vitamin D hit. The good news is that it is always hot and sunny somewhere in the world if you know where to go to escape the rain and cold of Britain.’

As you might expect, spots further afield in Thailand, Florida and Australia make the list, as well as two European destinations: Cyprus and the Canary Islands.

The sunny tropical Caribbean island of Barbados — This Caribbean spot made the list (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Speaking about the latter, Laura said: ‘If you’re desperate for some sunshine then the Canary Islands could be the place for you. They’re among the UK’s favourite winter sun destinations, consistently appearing in Skyscanner’s top 10 booked in the winter months. There’s little wonder – it’s hot in December, with the average temperature hovering around a pleasant 21°C.’

The list also proves that winter sun doesn’t have to mean a long-haul flight.

Below are the top 10 destinations for those craving some Vitamin D…

Skyscanner’s top 10 destinations for winter sun

Bangkok, Thailand

If you’re thinking of heading to this be sure to check out our guide of how to sightsee in Bangkok off the tourist trail – from legal weed cafes and magical tattoos.

Orlando, Florida

From Disney World, to Space Coast within reach, there’s so much this rich area has to offer.

Larnaca, Cyprus

With fabulous weather and incredible beaches all round, it’s no wonder an average of around 1.3 million UK tourists spend time on Cyprus every year.

Brisbane, Australia

Picnics in South Bank, Brisbane — Sit on the South Bank of the Brisbane River that looks across to the city skyline (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)#

Winter sun doesn’t get any more obvious than the balmy Australian climate – and lets not forget that Christmas Day over in Brisbane ranges from 20-29°C.

Sihanoukville, Cambodia

Koh Rong Sanloem, Sihanoukville Province, Cambodia — Sihanoukville Province, Cambodia (Credits: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

From stunning beaches and tropical islands to mangrove jungles, this spot is just the tonic for those looking to escape the dull and dreary British weather.

Muscat, Oman

The Quiet Little Town, The Old Muscat, On The Coast In The Gulf Of Oman — The Old Muscat, On The Coast In The Gulf Of Oman (Picture: Getty Images)

Surrounded by mountains and desert, this spot offers a rich history as well as dazzling souks and superb seafood.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Tulum Beach, Mexico — Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

It’s hard to argue with palm-lined beaches, coral reefs and highs of 28°C in December.

Bridgetown, Barbados

There’s a lot more going on here than just beaches. This port city, and the capital of Barbados, is packed with historic architecture that was even designated a UNESCO World Heritage in 2011.