As the United Kingdom braces for colder temperatures and grey skies, many Britons are contemplating an escape to warmer climates. easyJet's latest Holiday Hotlist provides a timely guide, analysing key factors such as typical winter temperatures, daily sunlight hours, time difference from the UK, and average meal costs to identify the premier winter sun destinations.
Sharm El Sheikh Tops the List
Egypt's Sharm El Sheikh emerges as the number one choice, celebrated for its crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs. Nestled between the Sinai desert and the Red Sea coast, this resort town enjoys average winter temperatures ranging from 24°C to 26°C, basking in approximately 10 hours of sunlight daily. Beyond its pristine beaches, Sharm El Sheikh offers cultural excursions, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Saint Catherine's Monastery, and adventurous activities like camel treks across the Sinai desert.
Affordability is a significant draw, with easyJet pricing a seven-night holiday package, including flights, at just £660 for two people. The average cost of a meal for a family of four is £65, and a pint of beer is around £2.50, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious travellers.
Other Notable Destinations
Hurghada, also in Egypt, secures second place with winter highs of 21°C to 25°C and similar sunlight hours to Sharm El Sheikh. Known for its coral reefs and Saharan landscapes, it offers family-friendly activities such as quad biking and Jeep safaris. A week-long stay costs approximately £650 for two, with meals for four averaging £48.
Gran Canaria ranks third, featuring slightly cooler temperatures of 20°C to 22°C. A seven-night package, including flights, is priced at £560, and a pint averages £1.75, highlighting its value. Lanzarote follows in fourth place, with temperatures of 21°C to 22°C and a week's stay costing £600 for a couple. Both Canary Islands boast volcanic vistas, golden or black sand beaches, and affordable hospitality, with pints available for around £3.
Complete Holiday Hotlist Rankings
The full easyJet Holiday Hotlist includes:
- Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
- Hurghada, Egypt
- Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
- Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
- Agadir, Morocco
- Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
- Tenerife South, Canary Islands, Spain
- Djerba, Tunisia
- Seville, Spain
- Paphos, Cyprus
Agadir in Morocco, with temperatures of 19°C to 23°C and a £560 package cost, places fifth. The Canary Islands dominate the latter half of the list, with Fuerteventura in sixth and Tenerife in seventh, the latter offering a week's stay for £560. Djerba, Seville—the warmest city in continental Europe—and Paphos round out the top ten, providing diverse options for sun-seekers.
Expert Insight on Winter Escapes
Kevin Doyle, easyJet's UK country manager, commented on the findings: 'With many of us ready for a break from grey skies, damp days, and chilly temperatures, now is the perfect time to book an escape to warmer climes. EasyJet's unrivalled network for flights and package holidays offers a fantastic range of family-friendly winter sun destinations across Europe and beyond, from Sub-Saharan islands to Spanish peninsula cities that are all easily accessible and affordable, for those looking to chase the sun on a budget and with ease during the long winter months.'
This comprehensive analysis underscores the appeal of winter sun destinations that combine warmth, adventure, and cost-effectiveness, offering Britons a welcome respite from the UK's seasonal chill.
