Aching to feel the warmth of UV rays on your skin? Struggling to remember what it’s like when the sun sets after 5pm? Same. For those of us in the freezing north, winter sun is on our minds right now – but where are the best places to head for some sweet, sweet vitamin D?
While Europe doesn’t get properly hot until well into the spring, there are still plenty of destinations that offer pleasant, balmy temperatures that will feel warm compared to the wind and rain we’ve been trudging through lately.
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One of these is the Canary Islands, which tops our list of the best places on the continent to catch some rays in these darker months. You can check out our guide to the best Canary Islands to visit here.
As far as winter sun in Greece goes, the likelihood is that in February, you won’t actually find a lot. However, temperatures on the warmest islands still teeter at around 12C (which is hardly scorching, obvs), but we’re here to make the case that February is actually a brilliant time to go to Greece.
The country has been ravaged by wildfires the last few summers, and the soaring temperatures from late spring to early autumn mean it’s basically far too hot to do anything active. So why not see Greece in February instead? Below is a roundup of four of Greece’s toastiest locations in February, as well as the best things to do when you’re there.
These are the best winter sun destinations in Greece
Rhodes
Average Feb temperature: 12C/54F
If you’re after some sun, Rhodes is probably your safest bet in February. The island brags low humidity (but also the occasional rain shower) which makes it a great time to see the island sites, whether that’s the Lindos Acropolis or the charming, higgledy-piggledy streets of the Old Town (the Street of Knights is one of the best preserved mediaeval alleys in Europe).
☀️ Check out the best things to do and the best places to stay in Rhodes.
Crete
Average Feb temperature: 11C/52F
As Greece’s largest island (and fifth largest in the Med, as it goes), you can bet Crete has plenty to do, see and explore, even when the sun isn’t beating at its hottest.
The island is full of historical museums, such as the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Domenikos Theotokopoulos Museum, but if you're still keen to head outside, why not give the longest gorge in Europe a go? A rugged 16km trek follows the path of the stunning Samaria Gorge, which journeys all the way from the Lefka Ori - White Mountains - to the taverna-lined streets of Hora Sfakion.
☀️ Check out the best things to do and the best places to stay in Crete.
Kos
Average Feb temperature: 12C/54F
Kos is actually much closer to Türkiye than it is to mainland Greece, and its southeasterly location makes it one of the warmest islands. The area around Kos Town is cluttered with ancient Greek and Roman landmarks, and it’s a brilliant time to wander the island's lush landscape while visitor numbers are low.
Athens
Average Feb temperature: 11C/52F
Even if it’s not too warm out, you won’t be short of things to do in Athens. In fact, the city’s ancient ruins, museums and quirky cultural spots are best explored when the temperatures are cooler, and the crowds are at a minimum. Remember when the Acropolis was closed because of the summer temperatures? It doesn’t sound fun. Then there’s all the cool neighbourhoods the city has to offer, with plenty of fun shops, cute bars, and really great restaurants.
☀️ Check out the best things to do and the best places to stay in Athens , as well as the city's best restaurants , beaches and museums.
Not warm enough? Have a look at the best places for winter sun all over the world, along with the best places to visit in February.
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