Winter sun is one of the most popular requests we receive from October onwards. The right choice depends on how far you want to fly, who is travelling and what you want from the days: beach, culture, wine or a little of everything. These are our favourites for December to March.
St Barts, Caribbean
The Caribbean's dry season runs from roughly December to April, and St Barts is its most polished island: small, French and lined with excellent beaches and restaurants. The festive weeks are the island's busiest, with villas and yacht berths committed months ahead. Our St Barts festive season listing has the details.
Best for: villas, beach clubs and New Year's Eve in the harbour. Book: by early autumn for Christmas and New Year.
Cape Town and the Winelands, South Africa
December to February is high summer in the Western Cape, with long, bright days and little time difference from Europe. Combine the city and the Atlantic coast with a few days in the Winelands around Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Tulbagh. See our South Africa experiences.
Best for: food and wine, families and those who want variety. Book: villas and the best Winelands estates early for the festive weeks.
The Maldives
The northeast monsoon brings the drier, calmer season, roughly December to April, with clear water for snorkelling and diving. It is the classic choice for complete privacy, with overwater villas and private islands.
Best for: couples, honeymoons and switching off. Book: seaplane transfers and villa categories at the same time.
Abu Dhabi and Dubai
The UAE winter is warm and dry, with pleasant days ideal for the beach, desert and golf, and only around five to seven hours' flying from much of Europe. December also brings the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which closes the 2027 season on 10 to 12 December.
Best for: short breaks, families and combining sun with events. Book: early for Grand Prix week and New Year.
Mauritius and the Seychelles
Both offer beautiful beaches and excellent resorts in the European winter. December to March is their warm, humid season, with tropical showers. Mauritius has some cyclone risk, mainly from January to March, while the Seychelles lie largely outside the cyclone belt. Travel insurance and flexible plans are wise.
Best for: longer stays and families. Book: resorts with good shade, kids' clubs and indoor options.
Our advice
- Decide on the length of the flight you are happy with, then the destination
- For Christmas and New Year, book villas and the best suites as early as you can
- Consider a private jet for short trips, so you gain a full day on the ground
- Check entry requirements for every traveller well before departure
Frequently asked questions
Where is warm in Europe's winter?
Within a short flight, the UAE offers warm, dry weather from December to March. Further afield, St Barts and the Caribbean, Cape Town, the Maldives, Mauritius and the Seychelles are all in their warm season.
When should I book winter sun for Christmas?
For villas and the best suites over Christmas and New Year, book as early as possible, ideally by early autumn for the most popular destinations.
