By the Epiclectic Editorial Team · Last updated: October 2026 · Refreshed every month with the latest climate data
Quick answer: where is warm now?
Right now, in October, the warmest places within about four hours of the UK are Marrakech (around 28°C), Lanzarote and Cyprus (about 27°C) and Gran Canaria (about 26°C). For heat with properly warm sea, Egypt’s Sharm el Sheikh averages 28°C with 27°C water. From November, the Canary Islands and long-haul spots are the only reliable choices.
Once the clocks go back, it doesn’t take long for grey mornings and early sunsets to send people searching for somewhere warmer. The trouble is that most “where’s hot” pages are either selling a specific holiday or burying you in data. This guide does something simpler. It tells you where is genuinely warm right now, what those temperatures feel like in practice, and where to look for every other month of the year.
Why trust this guide
- Temperatures are long-term climate averages from the Met Office holiday weather service and national weather agencies, not brochure claims.
- We show sea temperatures, rainfall and sunshine alongside air temperature, because a hot afternoon means little if the sea is too cold to swim in.
- The “right now” section is rewritten each month with new data, not just given a fresh date.
- Destinations are picked on climate data and practicality for UK travellers.
Where is warm now? (October 2026)
In October, reliable warmth within a short flight of the UK is concentrated in three places: the Canary Islands, the eastern Mediterranean and North Africa. Most of mainland Europe is cooling quickly by now. It still has pleasant, sunny days, but evenings need a jacket and the sea is losing its summer heat. The scorecard below compares the strongest options side by side.
| Destination | Avg daily high | Sea temp | Sunshine | Rainfall (month) | Flight from UK* | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt | 28°C | 27°C | Very sunny | Almost none | about 5 hrs | Beach and snorkelling |
| Marrakech, Morocco | 28°C | Inland | 8 hrs/day | 22 mm | about 3.5 hrs | City break in the sun |
| Lanzarote, Canaries | 27°C | about 22°C | 7 hrs/day | 11 mm | about 4 hrs | Dry, sunny beach break |
| Paphos, Cyprus | 27°C | 24°C | 10 hrs/day | Low | about 4.5 hrs | Swimming and sightseeing |
| Gran Canaria, Canaries | 26°C | 22°C | Sunny | 19 mm | about 4.5 hrs | Families, half term |
| Kos, Greece | 26°C | Still swimmable | 8 hrs/day | 55 mm | about 4 hrs | Early-October island trip |
| Algarve, Portugal | 23°C | Cooler Atlantic | 7 hrs/day | 56 mm | about 3 hrs | Golf, walking, mild sun |
| Cancún, Mexico | 33°C | Very warm | Humid | 140 mm | about 10–11 hrs | Long-haul heat (end of wet season) |
Temperatures, sunshine and rainfall are long-term October averages from the Met Office holiday weather service. Sea temperatures are shown where the Met Office records them; entries such as “still swimmable” are general guidance. *Flight times are approximate direct flight times and vary by UK departure airport.
How to read October’s numbers
Two things stand out. First, the sea often matters more than the air. Cyprus and the Red Sea are still at their warmest after a long summer, while the Canaries’ water sits a few degrees cooler even though the afternoons feel similar. Second, timing within the month counts. The Greek islands and the Algarve are lovely in early October but become more changeable as the month goes on, with cloud and rain increasing. If your dates fall in the last week of October, including the half-term holiday, lean towards the Canaries, Cyprus or Egypt.
Looking ahead: where stays warm over the next six to eight weeks?
As November arrives, the Mediterranean drops out of the running for reliable warmth. Your realistic options narrow to:
- The Canary Islands: Tenerife and Fuerteventura still average about 24°C in November, with the sea around 22°C.
- Madeira: a milder 22°C or so, better suited to walking than lying on a beach.
- Cape Verde: about 28°C and very dry, around six hours from the UK.
- Long-haul: the Caribbean (Barbados and the Dominican Republic at 30°C or more) and Thailand, where the dry season is beginning.
Full details are in the November section below.
Warm, hot or beach-hot? What the temperatures actually mean
A destination that is “warm” on paper can still feel chilly if you plan to spend the day in a swimsuit. Holiday temperatures are almost always quoted as the average daily high, which is the warmest point of the afternoon. Mornings and evenings are cooler, sometimes by 8–10°C in dry or desert climates. Use the scale below as a practical guide to what a figure will feel like.
Under 18°C
Mild. Fine for walking and city breaks, but not beach weather.
18–22°C
Pleasant. T-shirt afternoons and lunch outdoors; sunbathing in sheltered spots.
23–27°C
Beach-warm. Comfortable all day by the pool or on the sand.
28–32°C
Hot. Great for beaches; sightseeing is best early or late.
33°C and above
Very hot. Midday is for shade and air conditioning.
This scale is our editorial guide to how average highs tend to feel for UK visitors. It is not an official classification.
Why sea temperature matters as much as air temperature
The sea warms up slowly in spring and holds its heat well into autumn. That’s why an October afternoon in Cyprus can feel similar to one in May, while the water is several degrees warmer. As a rough guide, most people find the sea comfortable for a proper swim at around 22°C and above. Around 19–21°C is refreshing, and anything below that feels bracing. If swimming in the sea matters to you, check the water temperature, not just the headline air figure.
Other things that change how warm it feels
- Wind: A steady breeze, common in the Canary Islands and on some Greek islands, can make 24°C feel several degrees cooler.
- Humidity: Tropical destinations at 30°C can feel far hotter than a dry 30°C in Morocco or Cyprus.
- Daylight: In winter, short-haul destinations have fewer daylight hours, so the warm part of the day is shorter.
- Sun strength: UV levels near the tropics stay high even when the air feels mild, so sunscreen is still essential.
Short haul or long haul: how far do you need to fly?
| Flight time from the UK | Typical winter warmth | Example destinations |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 4.5 hours | Around 20–23°C; pleasant rather than hot | Canary Islands, Madeira, Morocco |
| 5 to 7 hours | Around 24–28°C; reliably warm | Egypt’s Red Sea coast, Cape Verde, the Gambia, Dubai |
| 8 hours or more | Around 28–32°C; hot and often humid | Caribbean, Mexico, Thailand, Maldives, Sri Lanka |
In spring and early autumn, short-haul trips cover most people’s needs. Between December and February, the Canaries are the warmest mainstream choice in Europe. Beyond them, you need to fly at least five hours for proper heat.
Where is warm in October?
Short answer: In October, the warmest easy-to-reach places are Cape Verde (around 29°C), the Red Sea coast of Egypt (about 28–30°C), the Canary Islands, Cyprus, southern Turkey and Tunisia (all around 26–27°C). Further afield, Dubai stays very hot at about 35°C, while Florida, Bali and the Seychelles sit in the high 20s to low 30s.
October is a transition month. Summer heat lingers across the south and east of the Mediterranean, but it fades noticeably as the month goes on. The first half of October feels close to late summer in many resorts. By the half-term week at the end of the month, you are better off heading south to the Canaries, Egypt or Cape Verde.
Warm places in Europe and nearby in October
| Destination | Avg daily high | Sea temp | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Verde (Sal) | 29°C | 26°C | Warm nights around 24°C; about 6 hours’ flight |
| Antalya, Turkey | about 27°C | 24°C | Much warmer sea than Bodrum on the west coast |
| Ayia Napa, Cyprus | 27°C | up to 25°C | Less humid than summer; cooler after dark |
| Djerba, Tunisia | 27°C | about 25°C | Evenings drop to about 18°C; pack a layer |
| Gran Canaria | up to 27°C | 23°C | The safest bet for the late-October half term |
| Rhodes and Kos, Greece | about 26°C | Still swimmable early in the month | Best in the first half of October |
Long-haul warmth in October
- Dubai and Oman: Very hot at around 34–35°C, with seas above 30°C. This is heat for pool days, not long walks.
- Florida: Miami averages about 29°C with sea around 28°C. Orlando is slightly cooler inland, which suits theme-park days.
- Bali: Dry season, with highs around 32°C and a 28°C sea.
- Seychelles and Mauritius: Calm, warm conditions in the high 20s, with a strong midday sun.
Watch out in October
- The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs until 30 November. Florida, Mexico and the Caribbean can still be affected by tropical storms in October. Check the forecast and make sure your travel insurance covers weather disruption.
- Half-term demand pushes up prices for the last week of October. Travelling the week before can be noticeably cheaper.
- Coastline matters in Turkey and Greece: The south-facing Turkish Riviera around Antalya holds its warmth far better than the Aegean coast.
Where is warm in November?
Short answer: In November, the Canary Islands are Europe’s warmest mainstream option at around 22–24°C. Cape Verde is hotter at roughly 28°C and very dry. For genuine heat, look long-haul: the Dominican Republic and Barbados average around 30°C, Orlando about 29°C, and Bangkok over 33°C.
November is when the map of reliable warmth shrinks sharply. The Mediterranean still has bright days, but a sunny week in Greece or southern Spain is now a gamble rather than a safe bet. Evenings turn cool almost everywhere in Europe. This is the month when most UK sun-seekers switch their attention to the Atlantic islands or to long-haul destinations entering their dry season.
Warm places within about six hours of the UK in November
| Destination | Avg daily high | Sea temp | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Verde | about 28°C | Warm | Very little rain and light winds; the hottest option under seven hours |
| Tenerife | about 23–24°C | about 22°C | Warmest in the south of the island; evenings around 15°C |
| Fuerteventura and Lanzarote | about 23–24°C | about 22°C | Often a little sunnier than Tenerife, but breezier |
| Gran Canaria | about 23°C | about 22°C | Southern resorts such as Maspalomas are the warmest |
| Madeira | about 22°C | Cool for swimming | Mild and green; better for walking than sunbathing |
| The Gambia | Hot, around 30°C+ | Warm | Dry season under way; about six hours’ flight |
Long-haul warmth in November
- Caribbean: The Dominican Republic and Barbados average around 30°C. The region is coming to the end of its wet season, so expect some tropical showers alongside plenty of sun.
- Florida: Orlando averages about 29°C, with lower humidity and far less rain than in summer. It’s a comfortable month for theme parks.
- Dubai and the Gulf: Temperatures ease to a far more pleasant level than the summer extremes, and rain is rare.
- Indian Ocean and South Asia: Mauritius is warm at around 28°C, and Sri Lanka’s west coast is in the high 20s as its main season begins.
- Thailand: Bangkok is hot at around 33°C. The dry season is arriving in the north and centre, but some coastal areas are still wet.
Watch out in November
- Phuket and the Andaman coast of Thailand can still be very wet in November. Barbados also sees noticeably more rain this month than in its peak season.
- The Atlantic hurricane season officially ends on 30 November. Late storms are uncommon but possible, so insurance still matters.
- Don’t rely on the Greek islands or Turkey for beach weather. Some days will be warm, but it isn’t guaranteed and many resorts close for the season.
November does have one big advantage. Outside the Christmas rush and between school holidays, it is often one of the better-value months for winter sun, especially in the Canaries.
Where is warm in December?
Short answer: In December, the Gambia is the hottest destination within about six hours of the UK at around 31°C, followed by Cape Verde (about 26°C) and Egypt’s Red Sea coast (about 25°C). The Canary Islands are mild at 20–21°C. For guaranteed heat, the Caribbean, Goa, Thailand, the Maldives and Sri Lanka all sit around 29–33°C.
December is when short-haul warmth becomes genuinely scarce. The Canary Islands remain pleasant, but “pleasant” is the right word: comfortable T-shirt days rather than baking beach weather, with sea that feels cold to most swimmers. To be properly hot in December, you need to fly roughly six hours or more.
Warm places within about six hours of the UK in December
| Destination | Avg daily high | Sea temp | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Gambia | about 31°C | about 25°C | Hot, dry and sunny; the warmest option at this distance |
| Cape Verde | about 26°C | about 25°C | Virtually rain-free; breezy; peak season prices |
| Marsa Alam, Egypt | about 25°C | about 24°C | A little warmer than Sharm el Sheikh, whose sea drops to about 23°C |
| Luxor, Egypt | about 24–25°C | Inland | Around nine hours of sun; ideal for temples and Nile trips |
| Canary Islands | about 20–21°C | about 20°C | Six or more hours of sun; sea feels bracing |
| Marrakech, Morocco | about 19°C | Inland | Lovely for sightseeing; nights fall to around 6°C |
Long-haul warmth in December
- Caribbean: Barbados averages about 29°C with a 27°C sea and up to nine hours of daily sun. From December the region is out of hurricane season and moving into its driest, least humid months.
- Goa and the Kenyan coast: Both are in the low 30s with a sea around 28°C, the warmest water on this list.
- Thailand, the Maldives and Sri Lanka: Around 30–31°C as the main dry season gets going on the west side of these regions.
- Dubai: About 26°C, which is warm, sunny and comfortable rather than scorching.
- Florida: Miami reaches about 24°C with a 25°C sea. It’s mild and dry, but not tropical-hot.
- Cape Town: About 24°C and very sunny as its summer begins. The Atlantic sea stays cold, at around 18°C.
Watch out in December
- Prices split the month in two. The first two weeks can be good value. Once schools break up for Christmas, long-haul and Canary Islands prices climb steeply.
- Desert nights are cold. In Marrakech and inland Egypt, a warm afternoon can be followed by an evening close to single figures.
- Swimming in the Canaries or Egypt’s Red Sea is for the hardy in December. Choose a hotel with a heated pool if you want to swim.
For a warm Christmas without a long-haul flight, the Gambia and Cape Verde offer the best balance of heat, dry weather and manageable travel time. If you’d rather stay closer to home, the Canary Islands give you mild sunshine and almost no jet lag. Just manage your expectations about the sea.
Where is warm in January?
Short answer: In January, the warmest places within about seven hours of the UK are the Gambia (low 30s), Cape Verde (about 25°C), Dubai (about 24°C) and Egypt’s Red Sea coast (low to mid 20s). The Canary Islands are mild at around 20–21°C. For real beach heat, Barbados, Cancún and the Maldives sit at 29–30°C.
January is the coldest month across the Mediterranean, and the drop is sharper than many people expect. Even Cyprus, usually a safe bet for sun, turns decidedly cool as chilly air sweeps in from eastern Europe. Spain’s Costa Blanca is one of the mildest spots on the European mainland, yet its afternoons only reach the mid-teens. In practice, January warmth starts at the Canary Islands and gets hotter the further south you fly.
Warm places within about seven hours of the UK in January
| Destination | Avg daily high | Sea temp | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Gambia | about 32°C | Warm | Around nine hours of sun; about 6.5 hours’ flight; no jet lag |
| Cape Verde | about 25°C | Pleasant | Dry and breezy; the warmest Atlantic islands in January |
| Dubai | about 24°C | about 23°C | Eight hours of sun; nights around 13°C; the coolest month of the year |
| Marsa Alam, Egypt | low to mid 20s | about 23°C | Sunny, but the sea feels cool; choose a heated pool |
| Tenerife and Lanzarote | about 20–21°C | Cool | Rarely drops below 19°C by day; comfortable but not hot |
| Aswan, Egypt | about 23°C | Inland | Very sunny for Nile sightseeing; evenings fall below 10°C |
Long-haul warmth in January
- Caribbean: Barbados sits just under 30°C, with nights rarely below 21°C. The southern islands are generally the sunniest at this time of year.
- Mexico: Cancún averages around 30°C and is in its dry season, which makes it one of the hottest easy long-haul picks.
- Maldives: About 30°C, with only a handful of rainy days in January. It’s one of the islands’ driest months.
- Southern hemisphere summer: Cape Town averages about 27°C with very little rain, while Sydney is in the high 20s. Both are long flights, but ideal for a combined sun and city trip.
- Singapore: About 30°C, but humid and rainy, so better for a stopover than a beach holiday.
Watch out in January
- Don’t book the Mediterranean for sun. Cyprus, Malta, Crete and southern Spain are fine for walking and culture, but not for beach days.
- Big day-to-night swings in desert climates. In Aswan, Luxor and Marrakech, a warm afternoon can give way to evenings that need a proper jumper.
- Humidity versus rain in Asia. Singapore and parts of Southeast Asia are hot in January but can be wet. Check which coast is in its dry season before booking.
The strongest short-haul choice for most UK travellers in January is still the south of Tenerife or Gran Canaria. They offer mild sunshine, short flights and no time difference. If you want heat you can swim in, you’ll need to add at least two more hours of flying, to the Gambia, Cape Verde or the Gulf.
Where is warm in March?
Short answer: In March, Egypt’s Nile Valley warms up fast, with Luxor averaging about 29°C and almost no rain. Cape Verde is around 26°C and the Canary Islands reach about 22–23°C. For proper heat, the Gambia, the Caribbean, Cancún and Phuket all range from about 30°C to 34°C.
March marks the turning point of the year. Days lengthen noticeably, and destinations that felt only mild in January start to warm up again. Even so, it is still too early for a Mediterranean beach holiday. The sea there is at its coldest, and afternoons in most of southern Europe struggle to reach 20°C. The biggest improvement in March comes in North Africa and the Canaries.
Warm places within about seven hours of the UK in March
| Destination | Avg daily high | Sea temp | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Gambia | about 34°C | Warm | Hot and dry; one of the hottest options under seven hours |
| Luxor, Egypt | about 29°C | Inland | Ten hours of sun and no rain; nights still cool at around 11°C |
| Cape Verde | about 26°C | about 22°C | Virtually rainless; windy, which is ideal for kitesurfing |
| Fuerteventura and Tenerife | about 22–23°C | Cool | Warming again after winter; the easiest short-haul pick |
| Hurghada, Egypt | about 22°C | Cool | The Red Sea coast lags well behind the Nile Valley this month |
| Morocco | about 22°C | Cool | Pleasant for Marrakech city breaks; under four hours away |
Long-haul warmth in March
- Mexico: Cancún is one of the hottest choices at about 34°C, and March is among its driest months.
- Thailand: Phuket averages about 33°C, near the end of its dry season.
- Caribbean: Barbados and the Dominican Republic are around 29–30°C and still in high season, with Cuba slightly cooler at about 27–28°C.
- The Gulf: Dubai and its neighbours warm to about 28°C, a comfortable level before the fierce heat of late spring.
Watch out in March
- Easter falls early in 2027. Easter Sunday is on 28 March 2027, so late-March school holidays will push up prices across the Canaries, Egypt and the Caribbean. Travelling in the first half of the month is usually better value.
- Coast versus inland in Egypt. The Nile Valley can be seven degrees warmer than the Red Sea resorts in March. Pick a Nile cruise or Luxor stay if heat is the priority.
- Wind in the Atlantic islands. Cape Verde and Fuerteventura are breezy in March, which is great for water sports but can make beach days feel cooler than the thermometer suggests.
Where is warm in April?
Short answer: In April, the warmest places within about six hours of the UK are Luxor (around 34°C), the Gambia (about 35°C) and Egypt’s Red Sea coast (about 30°C). Morocco reaches the mid-20s, while Cyprus and the Canary Islands sit around 22–24°C. Long-haul, Thailand, the Maldives and the Caribbean range from about 30°C to 35°C.
April is when the Mediterranean starts to wake up. Resorts reopen, the days get noticeably longer after the clocks change, and afternoons in the south and east of the region climb into the low twenties. It isn’t yet reliable beach weather in Europe, though. The sea is still cold from winter, and a week of sun can easily be interrupted by showers. For guaranteed warmth, North Africa and the Red Sea pull ahead this month.
Warm places within about six hours of the UK in April
| Destination | Avg daily high | Sea temp | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxor, Egypt | about 34°C | Inland | Already hot; sightseeing is best early in the day |
| Marsa Alam, Egypt | about 30°C | Warming | Proper beach warmth returns to the Red Sea |
| Morocco | mid-20s | Cool (Atlantic) | Around nine hours of sun; the best month for walking in the Atlas Mountains |
| Cape Verde | about 25°C | Pleasant | Dry and dependable, with a steady breeze |
| Paphos, Rhodes and southern Turkey | low 20s | Cool | About nine hours of sun; the sunniest corner of the Med |
| Canary Islands | about 20–23°C | Cool | Gran Canaria is the warmest, Lanzarote the coolest; around eight hours of sun |
Spain’s Costa del Sol and Benidorm reach similar temperatures to the eastern Med in April, but with an hour or two less sunshine each day. The Algarve, Majorca, Malta and Tunisia feel roughly like a good June day in southern England: pleasant and bright, but not hot.
Long-haul warmth in April
- Thailand: The hottest time of year, with highs of about 33–35°C. Phuket is still dry, while Chiang Mai in the north is very hot.
- Dubai: A little over 30°C, with a sea around 25°C and about ten hours of sun. It’s one of the last comfortable months before summer heat sets in.
- Caribbean and Mexico: Barbados and the Dominican Republic are about 30°C, and Cancún about 32°C, with sea temperatures near 27°C.
- Florida: Miami is in the high 20s and April is one of its driest months, which makes it a good pick for families.
- Indian Ocean: The Maldives and Sri Lanka are around 32°C. The Seychelles reach about 30°C, with brief tropical showers on many days.
Watch out in April
- Easter school holidays. With Easter Sunday on 28 March 2027, many UK schools will be off in late March and early April. Exact dates vary by council. Travelling after the holidays is usually noticeably cheaper, especially to the Caribbean.
- Air warm, sea cold. Mediterranean water is near its coldest point of the year in April, so a heated pool matters more than a beachfront location.
- East beats west in the Med. Cyprus, Rhodes and southern Turkey usually get more sunshine than Spain or Portugal this month.
Planning an April trip? For Easter breaks, festivals and city ideas beyond the weather, see our guide to the best places to travel in April.
Where is warm in May?
Short answer: In May, Europe finally joins the warm list. Cyprus leads at around 28°C with about 11 hours of sun, followed by southern Turkey, Seville and Crete in the mid-20s. Marrakech and Egypt’s Red Sea resorts pass 30°C. Long-haul, Barbados and Bali are about 31°C.
May is the month when a short-haul trip to the Mediterranean becomes a genuinely warm holiday rather than a gamble. Sunshine hours jump to nine or ten a day across much of the region, rain becomes rare, and humidity stays low. The Canary Islands, so dominant in winter, now fall behind. They are roughly five degrees cooler than the eastern Med, with less sunshine.
Warm places in Europe and nearby in May
| Destination | Avg daily high | Sea temp | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt | 30°C+ | Warm | Around 11 hours of sun; nights about 20°C |
| Marrakech, Morocco | about 30°C | Inland | About nine hours of sun and almost no rain |
| Cyprus | about 28°C | about 22°C | The warmest island in Europe this month |
| Seville and Andalucía | about 27°C | Inland | The hottest city in western Europe in May |
| Antalya, Turkey | about 26–28°C | Warming | Hot, quiet and good value before summer crowds |
| Crete, Greece | about 23–24°C | about 19°C | Ten hours of sun, but the sea is still cool |
Long-haul warmth in May
- Caribbean: Barbados averages about 31°C and is a steadier bet than Mexico this month.
- Bali: About 31°C with around nine hours of sun as the dry season begins.
- Mauritius: About 28°C as the island moves into its cooler, drier months.
- California: Los Angeles is in the low 20s with plenty of sunshine. It’s great for sightseeing, but not beach heat.
Watch out in May
- The sea lags behind the air. Mediterranean water is typically around 20–24°C in May, warmest in Cyprus and southern Turkey. Crete and much of Greece can still feel chilly for adults.
- Bank holidays and half term. The 2027 bank holidays fall on Monday 3 May and Monday 31 May. The late-May half-term week pushes prices up, so early to mid-May is usually the sweet spot.
- Mexico turns wetter. Cancún is hot but humid in May, with rainfall rising well above its dry-season levels.
Where is warm in September?
Short answer: In September, the whole Mediterranean is still warm. Cyprus and Bodrum lead at around 30°C, Malta and Turkey’s Turquoise Coast are about 28–29°C, and Athens is close to 29°C. Fuerteventura reaches about 27–28°C. The seas are at their warmest of the year, so it’s one of the best swimming months.
September is arguably the best-value warm month of the year for UK travellers. Schools are back, prices fall away from their August peak, and the Mediterranean keeps almost all of its summer warmth. The key point many people miss is the sea. After three months of summer sun, the water is at or near its warmest. In parts of southern Turkey it can even be warmer in September than in July, because the sea takes weeks to catch up with the air.
Warm places in Europe and nearby in September
| Destination | Avg daily high | Sea temp | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paphos, Cyprus | about 29–32°C | about 26°C | Almost no rain; warm evenings around 19–21°C |
| Bodrum, Turkey | about 31°C | Warm | Hot and dry, with long sunny days |
| Kaş and Kalkan, Turkey | about 28°C | about 28°C | Some of the warmest sea in the Med this month |
| Malta | about 29°C | Mid-20s | Just over three hours’ flight; hot, bright and easy |
| Crete, Greece | high 20s | about 23°C | Rain is rare; nights usually stay above 18°C |
| Fuerteventura, Canaries | about 27–28°C | Pleasant | Breezy; the Canaries’ warmest time of year |
Long-haul warmth in September
- Egypt: Cairo averages about 33°C. The Red Sea resorts are hotter still. This heat suits people who mainly want pool and beach time.
- Dubai: Still well above 30°C, with extremely high UV. Plan outdoor time for early morning and evening.
- Florida: Orlando is around 33°C, but September sits in the busiest part of the Atlantic hurricane season.
- Thailand: Bangkok is about 33°C, but this is the rainy season, so expect heavy downpours.
Watch out in September
- Early September is still hot. Cyprus and southern Turkey can feel close to midsummer in the first half of the month. If you dislike 30°C afternoons, go later in the month.
- East is drier than west. Rain stays rare on Rhodes, Cyprus and Turkey’s coast, while the Adriatic and the Balearics become more prone to storms as the month goes on.
- City breaks in the south can be sweltering. Seville and Athens often still reach the mid-30s in September, which makes long days of sightseeing tiring.
- Peak hurricane season. The Caribbean, Mexico and Florida are at their most exposed to tropical storms, so choose flexible bookings and check your insurance.
February, June, July and August at a glance
These four months each have their own dedicated guides, so we summarise them here rather than repeat the detail. February is the tail of the winter-sun season. June, July and August are high summer, when warmth is easy to find almost anywhere south of the UK.
| Month | Warmest short-haul | Warmest long-haul | Main thing to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| February | Tenerife (about 22°C), Cape Verde, the Gambia (low 30s) | Phuket (about 33°C), Cancún (about 32°C), Barbados and the Dominican Republic (about 29°C), Cape Town (about 27°C) | Phuket’s driest month; mainland Europe peaks around 18–19°C in Seville and Málaga |
| June | Cyprus, southern Turkey, Crete, southern Spain (about 30°C on the Cyprus coast) | Mauritius and the Seychelles in their cooler, drier season | The Atlantic hurricane season begins on 1 June; monsoon rains start across much of South Asia |
| July | Almost everywhere in the Med; Cyprus coast averages about 37°C | Bali and the Indian Ocean islands in their dry season | Heatwaves are increasingly common: in 2026, parts of southern Europe passed 45°C |
| August | As July; the sea is warmer, prices and crowds peak | Bali, Mauritius, the Seychelles | For milder heat, northern Spain, Brittany and the Canaries are more comfortable |
In high summer, the question usually flips from “where is warm?” to “where is too hot?” If you or your family struggle in strong heat, consider the Canary Islands, northern Spain or the Algarve. All three tend to be warm without the extremes that can hit Cyprus, southern Turkey or inland Spain during a heatwave.
The 12-month warm-weather calendar
Use this calendar to see at a glance where is warm in any month. Each cell shows the typical daytime warmth for that destination, using the same scale as earlier in this guide. Read across a row to find a destination’s best months, or down a column to compare places for your travel dates.
Pleasant: 20–22°C
Warm: 23–27°C
Hot: 28°C+
☂ = wet or stormy season
| Destination | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canary Islands | P | P | P | P | W | W | W | W | W | W | W | P |
| Cyprus | M | M | M | P | H | H | H | H | H | W | P | M |
| Marrakech, Morocco | M | M | P | W | H | H | H | H | H | H | P | M |
| Egypt (Red Sea) | W | P | P | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | W | W |
| Cape Verde | W | W | W | W | W | W | H | H ☂ | H ☂ | H | H | W |
| Dubai, UAE | W | W | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | W |
| Orlando, Florida | W | W | W | H | H | H ☂ | H ☂ | H ☂ | H ☂ | H ☂ | H | W |
| Barbados | H | H | H | H | H | H ☂ | H ☂ | H ☂ | H ☂ | H ☂ | H ☂ | H |
| Phuket, Thailand | H | H | H | H | H ☂ | H ☂ | H ☂ | H ☂ | H ☂ | H ☂ | H ☂ | H |
M = Mild, P = Pleasant, W = Warm, H = Hot. Bands are based on average daily highs from the Met Office holiday weather service and the other climate sources quoted in the month sections above. Months not covered in those sections follow each destination’s established seasonal pattern. Individual days can be warmer or cooler than the average.
Three patterns the calendar reveals
- The Canaries never get cold, but rarely get hot. They stay pleasant or warm all year, which is why they dominate winter sun but lose out to the Mediterranean in summer.
- Cyprus and Egypt swap places with the seasons. Both are hot from late spring to autumn, but Cyprus turns mild in winter, while Egypt’s Red Sea stays warm enough for winter sun.
- Long-haul “always hot” has a catch. Barbados, Phuket and Florida are hot all year, but their wet or stormy seasons cover large parts of summer and autumn.
Example: finding winter sun for a February half-term week
The scenario: A family of four from the Midlands, with children aged 7 and 10, has one week during the February 2027 half term. They want warm afternoons, a pool the children can use all day, and a flight short enough for a seven-year-old. They shortlist three options using the figures in this guide.
| What matters to them | South Tenerife | Cape Verde (Sal) | Egypt (Red Sea) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical February high | about 22°C | about 25°C | low 20s |
| Approximate flight time | about 4.5 hours | about 6 hours | about 5 hours |
| Sea for swimming | Cold for most | Cool | Cool |
| Entry and health | EU rules; GHIC valid | Own entry rules; GHIC not valid | Own entry rules; GHIC not valid |
| Best feature | Shortest flight, lots of family resorts | Warmest and most reliably dry | Snorkelling and reef trips |
The decision: Because none of the three offers a truly warm sea in February, the family makes a heated pool their non-negotiable. With a young child, they choose south Tenerife for the shorter flight and simpler entry rules. They accept slightly cooler afternoons in exchange. Had warmth been the top priority, the data points to Cape Verde, with a flight about 90 minutes longer.
What the example shows: Winter sun decisions are usually a trade-off between warmth, flight time and sea temperature. Decide which one matters most before you compare prices.
Practical checks before you book
Common mistakes when chasing warm weather
Where is warm now: FAQs
Where is warm now in Europe?
Right now, in October 2026, the warmest parts of Europe are the Canary Islands, Cyprus and Turkey’s south coast, all at about 26–27°C. From November onwards, the Canary Islands are the only mainstream European destination that stays reliably warm, at around 22–24°C.
Where is hot now within four hours of the UK?
In October, Marrakech (about 28°C) and Lanzarote (about 27°C) are the hottest options within roughly four hours. Cyprus and Egypt’s Red Sea resorts are a little further, at about 4.5–5 hours, and offer warmer sea for swimming.
Where is the warmest place in Europe in winter?
The Canary Islands. Between December and February, they average around 20–22°C by day, while the Mediterranean, including Cyprus and Crete, turns mild rather than warm. For anything hotter in winter, you need to fly further south to Cape Verde, the Gambia or Egypt.
Is Tenerife warm all year?
Tenerife is pleasant to warm in every month. Winter highs are around 21°C, rising to the mid-20s from late spring to autumn. The south of the island is usually warmer and sunnier than the north. The sea feels cool for swimming in winter, so a heated pool is worth having.
Where is warm at Christmas?
Within about six hours of the UK, the Gambia (about 31°C), Cape Verde (about 26°C) and Egypt’s Red Sea coast (about 25°C) are the warmest choices. The Canary Islands are milder at 20–21°C. Long-haul, Barbados, Goa, Thailand and the Maldives sit around 29–33°C.
When is the Mediterranean warm enough to swim in?
Most people find the sea comfortable at about 22°C or above. Mediterranean water typically reaches 20–24°C in May, warmest in Cyprus and southern Turkey. It peaks in late summer and early September, and Cyprus is still around 24–25°C in October.
Where is warm for February half term?
The Canary Islands are the easiest option at about 22°C. Cape Verde is warmer at around 25°C, and the Gambia reaches the low 30s. Long-haul, Phuket, Cancún and Barbados are all around 29–33°C.
Is Egypt warm in winter?
Yes, but it’s warm rather than hot. The Red Sea resorts reach the low to mid 20s in December and January, with the sea around 23°C. Inland, Luxor and Aswan have sunny, warm days but cold evenings. Egypt becomes properly hot again from April.
What to do next
Start by deciding what matters most: warm afternoons, a warm sea or a short flight. Then use the month sections and the calendar above to narrow your options. Before you book, run through the practical checks, especially entry rules and health cover for destinations outside the EU. This page is refreshed every month, so check back as your travel dates get closer.
Keep planning
- Ideas beyond the weather in our guide to the best places to travel in April
- Winter sun close to home with our guide to package holidays in Lanzarote
- Make your money go further with these budget travel tips for UK holidays and breaks
Last updated: October 2026. Climate averages describe typical conditions, not forecasts. Always check the latest forecast and official travel advice before you travel.
