5 Reasons to Visit the Canaries This Winter

In these chilly times, holiday destinations that are both sunny and cheap are hard to find. Luckily, the Canary Islands tick both boxes and then some – we’re talking winningly warm temperatures year-round and fantastic-value package deals!

There are seven main islands to choose from, each with their own fair share of postcard-perfect beaches and unique landscapes, though Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura are the big hitters when it comes to package holidays.

Whether you’re after beach time or a taste of traditional Spain, here’s five reasons why the Canaries should be top of your list for a winter sun getaway.

1. Sunshine is almost guaranteed

Let’s start with the obvious – what are the sunshine stats? While the Canaries hit their highest temperatures in summer, their winters are not to be sniffed at with temperatures during the day rarely dropping below 20°C. In fact, the weather is so reliable that Tenerife has even been nicknamed the ‘Island of Eternal Spring’. Pair that with seven to eight hours of sunshine a day and barely any rain, and you’ve got yourself a winner!

At just a four-hour flight from the UK, the Canary Islands are also some of the only short-haul destinations that have decent weather in winter. So yes, shorts and tees are definitely still on the packing list and you can top up your tan on golden, sandy beaches, even in the depths of December. We’re already sold.

2. It’s fantastic value for money

Compared to other popular winter sun destinations such as Florida, Dubai and Mexico, the Canaries really are a bargain! Its short distance from the UK means you can easily snap up a cheap flight from most major airports in the UK and its huge all-inclusive hotel scene means you can cover most costs upfront and indulge while you're away – all without worrying about blowing your holiday budget. Sounds pretty dreamy to us!

If you do want to treat yourself to a tour or activity while you're away, you’ve got a fab chance of finding more competitive deals in the winter compared to the busy summer months – so that quad tour is yours for the taking. Plus, there’s a ton of affordable hotels and cheap restaurants, making it easy to keep your spending in check.

Look to the islands’ biggest resorts like Playa de las Americas in Tenerife and Puerto del Carmen in Lanzarote for the best prices.

3. You can see a different side to the islands

During the summer months, the Canaries’ seaside resorts and beaches are packed with peak season crowds. While winter holidays still draw in plenty of sun-seekers, you’ll usually find fewer tourists around and more golden opportunities for quieter getaways.

It’s a great time to get a taste of traditional Spain in the islands’ historic old towns. Wander the pretty cobbled streets and colonial buildings of Vegueta in Gran Canaria’s capital, Las Palmas, or explore the whitewashed buildings and local markets in the little town of Teguise in Lanzarote.

The winter months also bring big cultural events such as February’s Carnival – picture a spectacle of floats, music and dancers parading the streets!

Of course, you can also just find a heavenly stretch of sand to yourself if you’re in need of some R&R.

4. You’ll experience Christmas with a Spanish twist

Christmas celebrations in Spain last throughout December and beyond, so a winter sun holiday in the Canaries is sure to take in some of the festivities!

Streets are adorned with decorations and lights and, as Spain is primarily a Catholic country, you’ll see nativity scenes in public squares and churches. Get your haggle on at Christmas market stalls if you’re after a taste of home or just head to the beach if you’re seeking a complete Christmas escape!

Christmas Day is observed as a religious holiday, but the main celebrations are on 6 January, when Three Kings Day is celebrated with feasts and presents. Why not book yourself a new year treat and go over for the festivities?

Christmas market in Puerto de Santiago city, Tenerife

5. It’s the ideal time for outdoor adventures

While hot summers make anything more than lying on the beach seem like way too much effort, the pleasant winter temperatures give you the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and explore!

Go walking in Tenerife’s Teide National Park, discover Mount Tindaya in Fuerteventura on a 4x4 tour, or be amazed at the lunar landscape of Lanzarote’s Timanfaya National Park. Alternatively, head out into the waves to windsurf along Tenerife’s popular El Médano coast, set sail on a whale watching tour in Gran Canaria or dip beneath the waves to spot some of the islands’ underwater inhabitants, which include sea turtles and rays.

The activities aren’t just limited to the day time either. The Canary Islands are incredible for stargazing, and the winter months offer some of the best sky conditions for it!