When winter arrives in Europe, many travellers start asking the same questions: Which European country is warmest in December? Where to go in Europe in December for sun? And of course, the classic: Where is hot and cheap in December?

The good news? Europe has far more winter-sun destinations than most travellers realise. From Mediterranean islands to subtropical archipelagos, you can enjoy sunny days, mild temperatures and vibrant cultural experiences even in the heart of December.

This guide breaks down the 10 warmest places to visit in Europe this December, along with expert insight into the warmest place in Europe in winter, the warmest place in Europe in January and February, and the top 10 hottest countries in Europe for winter sunshine.

Let’s dive in.

Which European Country Is Warmest in December?

According to the transcript, the warmest place in Europe in December—and therefore the warmest European “country” region—is the Canary Islands, part of Spain, with temperatures between 18°C and 22°C, and often warmer on sunny days .

This makes Spain (Canary Islands) the hottest place in Europe this week during the winter season.

Which Country Is Best to Visit in December in Europe?

If you’re chasing reliable sunshine, the best country to visit in December in Europe is Spain—the Canary Islands specifically. However, Cyprus, Malta, Portugal (Madeira & Algarve), Italy (Sicily), and Greece (Rhodes) all offer excellent warm-weather escapes too.

TOP 10 Warmest Places to Visit in Europe This December in Winter

10. Dubrovnik, Croatia – Mild, Festive & Crowd-Free

Average December temperatures: 12–15°C

Dubrovnik might not be the warmest, but it offers one of the most charming December experiences. With summer crowds gone, you can explore medieval walls, terracotta rooftops and UNESCO-listed streets at a relaxed pace.

The Dubrovnik Winter Festival transforms the Old Town into a magical Christmas village, complete with markets, music, and mulled wine by the sea. For epic winter views, ride the cable car to Mount Srđ and enjoy sunshine over the Adriatic.

Why it’s great for December: pleasant weather, culture, festive atmosphere, and affordability.

9. Nice, France – Mediterranean Sun on the French Riviera

Average highs: around 14°C

Nice proves that the French Riviera isn’t just for summer. With bright winter sunshine, coastal strolls along the Promenade des Anglais, festive markets, and postcard-perfect Old Town Christmas lights, December is surprisingly charming.

With far fewer tourists, this is one of the best places to visit in December in Europe for a relaxing yet chic winter experience.

8. Rhodes, Greece – Quiet Beaches & Ancient History

Average temperatures: 15–17°C

Rhodes is a winter gem for travellers who want warmth without the crowds. The beaches may be a bit cool for swimming, but they are stunning for peaceful walks.

The Medieval Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—feels even more atmospheric in winter, and hiking through the island’s green pine forests is perfect in cooler weather.

Why visit in December: mild sun, history, peaceful scenery, authentic tavernas.

7. Seville, Spain – One of Mainland Europe’s Warmest Cities

Average highs: 16–18°C with plenty of sunshine

Seville is one of the warmest places in Europe in winter outside of the islands. December transforms the city into a festive wonderland with the Alumbrado Christmas light ceremony and vibrant markets.

Explore the Alcázar, Seville Cathedral, and Santa Cruz neighbourhood without the summer heat. You can even dine outdoors thanks to the mild weather.

Perfect for travellers seeking culture, architecture, and warm winter city vibes.

6. Sicily, Italy – Ancient Ruins Under Soft Winter Sun

Average temperatures: around 15°C

Sicily is warm, authentic, and full of flavour in December. With world-famous sites like the Valley of the Temples easily accessible without heat or crowds, it’s the perfect Mediterranean getaway.

Palermo’s street-food scene stays energetic year-round, and citrus season means markets overflow with fresh Sicilian oranges.

Why go: low prices, sunshine, incredible food, Greek and Roman archaeological wonders.

5. Algarve, Portugal – Cliffs, Beaches & Blue Skies

Average temperatures: 15–19°C (often warmer in the sun)

The Algarve is one of Europe’s most popular winter-sun destinations. While the Atlantic might be chilly, the weather is excellent for hiking, coastal walks, and long days outdoors.

Highlights include:

• Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
  
• Lagos, Faro & Tavira’s charming old towns
  
• Ria Formosa Natural Park for winter bird-watching
  

If you want to know where to go in Europe in December for sun AND affordability, the Algarve is one of the top choices.

4. Malta – History, Sunshine & Festive Charm

Average temperatures: 15–17°C

Malta in December feels like a warm European spring. Valletta is magical during Christmas, with Baroque architecture glowing under festive lights.

With fewer crowds, you can explore:

• Megalithic Temples
  
• Mdina (The Silent City)
  
• Coastal trails such as Dingli Cliffs
  

Malta is also one of the best warm winter destinations in Europe for travellers who love culture, history and coastal views.

3. Cyprus – One of the Hottest European Destinations in December

Average temperatures: 15–20°C (dry, sunny, reliable)

Cyprus is consistently warm throughout December, making it a top contender for the warmest place in Europe in winter.

Visit ancient sites in Paphos, explore the Tombs of the Kings, or sunbathe (lightly!) at beaches like Coral Bay. Limassol also offers an upbeat, cosmopolitan winter scene.

If you want warmth AND history, Cyprus is unbeatable.

2. Madeira, Portugal – The Island of Eternal Spring

Average temperatures: 17–20°C

Madeira is famous for its lush greenery, volcanic beaches and dramatic cliffs. December is ideal for:

• Levada hikes
  
• Botanical gardens
  
• Natural volcanic pools
  
• One of the world’s largest New Year’s Eve fireworks shows
  

Madeira offers some of the best places to visit in Europe in December for warm weather, adventure, and unforgettable landscapes.

1. Canary Islands, Spain – The Hottest Place in Europe in December

Average temperatures: 18–22°C, often warmer in sunshine

The clear winner—and warmest place in Europe in December—is the Canary Islands. Their subtropical climate makes them the most reliable winter-sun destination in Europe.

Each island has its own personality:

• Tenerife – Mount Teide & volcanic national parks
  
• Gran Canaria – Maspalomas dunes & vibrant Las Palmas
  
• Lanzarote – surreal volcanic landscapes & art by César Manrique
  
• Fuerteventura – world-class surfing & endless sandy beaches
  

With Christmas sand sculptures, festive markets, and outdoor activities, the Canary Islands are the best warm winter destination in Europe and stay warm well into January and February.

Where Is Hot and Cheap in December?

For travellers seeking sunshine on a budget, the following destinations from the list are reliably warm and affordable:

• Algarve, Portugal
  
• Malta
  
• Rhodes, Greece
  
• Cyprus
  
• Canary Islands (outside peak New Year dates)
  

These are some of the hottest places in Europe that are also “cheap” in December, especially compared to northern European cities.

Warmest Place in Europe in January and February

The Canary Islands remain the warmest place during January and February, with temperatures often reaching 20–24°C—making them Europe’s best all-winter destination for sunshine.

Top 10 Hottest Countries in Europe (Winter Edition)

The unofficial list of Europe’s “hottest” countries in winter is:

1. Spain (Canary Islands)
   
2. Portugal (Madeira)
   
3. Cyprus
   
4. Malta
   
5. Portugal (Algarve)
   
6. Italy (Sicily)
   
7. Spain (Seville)
   
8. Greece (Rhodes)
   
9. France (Nice)
   
10. Croatia (Dubrovnik)
    

All of these are excellent choices if you’re looking for warm places to visit in Europe in December.

Final Thoughts: Europe Does Have Warm Weather in December

Whether you’re chasing sunshine, lower prices, or a festive experience without winter chill, these destinations prove that Europe has plenty of warm-weather escapes:

• The Canary Islands are the warmest.
  
• Madeira and Cyprus offer the best mix of warmth + scenery.
  
• Malta, Algarve, Sicily, and Seville provide culture and comfort.
  
• Nice and Dubrovnik offer mild weather with rich cultural experiences.
  

If you’re wondering where to go in Europe in December for sun, this list offers the perfect starting point for your winter-sun adventure.