Let's Explore the Best Winter Holiday Destinations for 2024 and Beyond
Whether you're looking for a tropical escape, a winter wonderland, or an inspiring city break, plenty is on offer in 2024 and beyond to satisfy your winter holiday plans.
In this blog, we'll look at the popular destinations that Brits head to for their winter breaks, as well as some top picks to inspire your next adventure.
Table of Contents
- Where do Brits Go On Holiday in Winter?
- Best Winter Holiday Picks for 2024 and Beyond
- The Maldives
- Lapland
- Thailand
- The French Alps
Where Do Brits Go On Holiday in Winter?
Depending on their preference for either winter sun or snow sports, British travellers tend to visit a variety of destinations during the winter months. Some popular spots include Spain, the Canary Islands and Dubai for the warmer weather. For skiing fanatics, Austria is a go-to place.
Let's take a look at why these are so popular in a bit more detail...
Spain and the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands, particularly Tenerife and Fuerteventura, are the top winter sun destinations for Brits.
With mild temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F) in winter, these islands offer the perfect combination of beaches, outdoor activities, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Mainland Spain, especially Costa del Sol and Alicante, also attracts winter travellers due to its warmer climate compared to the rest of Europe.
Average Winter Temperatures (table 1: Spain, table 2: Canary Islands).
| Month | Average High ℃ | Average Low ℃ |
|---|---|---|
| November | 16 | 10.4 |
| December | 14.1 | 8.8 |
| January | 13.3 | 8 |
| February | 13.3 | 7.5 |
| Month | Average High ℃ | Average Low ℃ |
|---|---|---|
| November | 24.4 | 18.5 |
| December | 22.4 | 16.5 |
| January | 21.1 | 15.2 |
| February | 21.4 | 15.3 |
Dubai, UAE
Another favourite winter destination for Brits is Dubai. Offering luxury shopping, sandy beaches, and year-round sunshine. With flight times under 7 hours, it's a relatively quick escape from the UK's chilly weather.
Dubai also offers cultural experiences such as desert safaris, visits to the historic Al Fahidi District, and culinary experiences from around the world.
| Month | Average High ℃ | Average Low ℃ |
|---|---|---|
| November | 30.6 | 21.1 |
| December | 26.5 | 17.4 |
| January | 24.3 | 15.5 |
| February | 25.9 | 16.6 |
Austria
Austria is a popular ski destination for Brits, especially resorts like St.Anton and Kitzbuhel.
These Alpine destinations offer top-tier skiing conditions, cosy lodges, and an energetic apres-ski scene. Austria's Christmas markets, particularly in cities like Vienna and Salzburg, also attract Brits looking for festive winter experiences.
| Month | Average High ℃ | Average Low ℃ |
|---|---|---|
| November | 8.7 | 2.4 |
| December | 3.8 | -1.8 |
| January | 3.2 | -2.9 |
| February | 5.7 | -2 |
Best Winter Holiday Picks for 2024 and Beyond
The Maldives: Tropical Bliss in Winter
The Maldives is an unbeatable destination for those seeking a sun-soaked escape from the gloomy UK winter.
Infamous for its romantic allure, the Maldives is the perfect winter escape for couples seeking private beaches, world-class spa treatments, and the chance to stargaze after sunset.
Most of us have seen the photos of tell-tale images of the overwater bungalows, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life.
With temperatures hovering around 28°C (82°F) during the winter months, it's the perfect place to unwind, snorkel, dive, or read a book on its pristine beaches.
| Month | Average High ℃ | Average Low ℃ |
|---|---|---|
| November | 28 | 23 |
| December | 28 | 25 |
| January | 28 | 25 |
| February | 28 | 26 |
Why Take a Trip to the Maldives in Winter?
Visiting the Maldives in the winter offers travellers an unparalleled experience of tropical luxury and natural beauty.
Winter is considered the dry season in the Maldives, running from November to April, which means those who visit can expect sunny skies and calm seas.
This period is ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkelling, diving, and island hopping, as the clear waters and abundant marine life, including manta rays, whale sharks, and vibrant coral reef, are at their best.
Winter also coincides with several key festivals and cultural events in the Maldives, such as Fisherman's Day, which adds a touch of local charm to the otherwise indulgent experience.
With new eco-conscious resorts and wellness retreats opening up across the archipelago, visitors in 2024 and in the future will have a range of options to suit different travel preferences, from secluded overwater villas to family-friendly luxury.
Lapland: A Winter Wonderland Destination
If you envision spending your winter surrounding sparkling snow, reindeer and the northern lights, Lapland offers a magical and unforgettable experience, making it one of the most unique winter destinations in the world.
Located in the north of Finland, this arctic region transforms into a true winter wonderland, with snow-covered landscapes as far as the eye can see, frozen lakes, glittering pine forests and the opportunity to meet Santa Claus himself at his official hometown in Rovaniemi. Of course, the temperatures are very different to the above location, the Maldives, with highs of -2°C.
| Month | Average High ℃ | Average Low ℃ |
|---|---|---|
| November | -2 | -6 |
| December | -2 | -3 |
| January | -4 | -7 |
| February | -5 | -8 |
Why Visit Lapland for a Winter Holiday?
Lapland has recently added even more immersive Arctic experiences including, glass igloo accommodations that allow guests to watch the Northern Lights from the comfort of their beds.
Beyond the famous Santa Claus Village, travellers can enjoy snowmobiling, husky sledging, and ice fishing, or visit one of the numerous reindeer farms to experience traditional Sami culture.
For the ultimate bucket-list moment, stay at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, renowned for its igloo villages and warm hospitality.
Thailand: Sun Soaked Shores in Winter
Visiting Thailand in winter offers a perfect blend of warm weather, exciting activities, and beautiful surroundings, making it the ideal escape from winter cold.
Located in the tropics, Thailand's climate is at its most pleasant during the winter months, especially in December and January, when the skies are clear and the humidity is lower.
This makes it a great time to explore Thailand's stunning islands, such as Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi, where crystal waters and white sandy beaches provide a serene retreat.
| Month | Average High ℃ | Average Low ℃ |
|---|---|---|
| November | 31.4 | 21.9 |
| December | 30.5 | 20.1 |
| January | 31.2 | 19.9 |
| February | 32.8 | 21.1 |
Why Visit Thailand for a Winter Holiday?
Even if beaches aren't your idea of fun, Thailand has many temples and markets to explore, as well as the famous Yi Peng Lantern Festival, where thousands of lanterns are lit and sent into the sky.
For adventure seekers, there are opportunities for trekking, biking, and visiting hill tribes.
The French Alps: Skiing and Snow Sports for a Winter Adventure
If you're a fan of skiing or snowboarding, the French Alps remain one of the best winter holiday destinations in Europe.
Iconic resorts in Chamonix, Courchevel, and Val d'Isere offer world-class ski facilities, apres-ski culture, and charming Alpine villages.
Beyond the slopes, the region offers a diverse range of winter activities, from snowshoeing and ice climbing to snowmobiling and dog-sledding, making it ideal for non-skiers as well.
| Month | Average High ℃ | Average Low ℃ |
|---|---|---|
| November | -2 | -7 |
| December | -4 | -9 |
| January | -5 | -11 |
| February | -5 | -11 |
Why Visit the French Alps for Your Winter Holiday?
With 2024 expected to bring strong snow conditions and a growing emphasis on sustainable tourism, many resorts in the French Alps are enhancing their eco-friendly practices, offering green accommodations and environmentally conscious travel options.
For wellness seekers, luxurious alpine spas and wellness retreats provide the perfect escape, combining thermal baths, saunas, and stunning mountain views.
Regardless if you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply to bask in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Alps, this winter could be the perfect time to experience this magical destination.
Best Winter Holiday Destinations: A Summary
Whether you're in search of sunny beaches, snowy slopes, or cultural exploration, various destinations are fantastic for a winter holiday that cater to every type of traveller. From the tropical allure of the Maldives to the festive charm of European cities, there's something for everyone.
As for most Brits, the Canary Islands, Dubai, and European ski resorts continue to remain the top choices this year, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and holiday spirit.
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