Top 5 destinations for autumn or winter vacation in warmth by the sea

Who wouldn't want to take a break during the autumn holidays or Christmas for a vacation in the warmth? The prospect of warmer, nicer weather is truly tempting, and you have several options for where to go to the sea and for adventure. Get inspired by our tips for the top 5 destinations for autumn or winter vacation in warmth by the sea.

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Closest destinations with warm weather in winter

No one wants to travel to distant exotic places for a short stay with the intention of using a few holiday days, losing vacation time sitting for several hours on a plane. But where to go so that it’s not far and you can enjoy warmth and the sea even in winter? Here are our tips for autumn or winter vacation in warmth by the sea:

1. Canary Islands: volcanic pearls of the Atlantic

The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago known for their diverse landscape, volcanic beauty, and pleasant climate year-round, offering a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural richness. From Bratislava or Vienna, you can reach the Canary Islands in about 4.5 hours. The Canary Islands are in the EU, so you only need an ID card and our health insurance card in case of health issues.

The air temperature here from December to March is around 20-23 °C during the day and 15-17 at night. However, it feels warmer in the sun, so during the day you can rely on being comfortable in a t-shirt and shorts, spending the day on the beach enjoying the sun and sea. Be careful, though, the sea in the Canary Islands is colder year-round than you might expect. It is, after all, the Atlantic Ocean. The sea temperature in winter is about 17 °C, and in summer it can rise to 23 °C.

However, the Canary Islands are not just a destination for sunbathing. You will find long promenades, amazing national parks with hiking trails, volcanoes, cable cars, picnic spots in nature, beautiful views, traditional towns, zoos, water parks, banana plantations, and of course, an endless selection of Spanish wines, cured hams, fish, shrimp, and other seafood delights. Be sure to also order the traditional dish paella or a coffee called bonbon.

2. Madeira: the island of eternal spring

Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean known for its lush diverse greenery, fresh green mountains, rugged cliffs, deep valleys, vibrant botanical gardens, and mild subtropical climate, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers and outdoor activities.

This volcanic island is ideal for hiking and water sports due to its pleasant temperatures year-round. The coldest month is February, with daytime temperatures around 17 °C, and the warmest month is August, with daytime temperatures around 23 °C.

The island is known for the largest preserved area of laurel forest in the world, Laurisilva Forest, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

From Bratislava or Vienna, you can reach Madeira in 4 hours and 50 minutes. Madeira is in the EU, so you only need an ID card and our health insurance card in case you encounter unexpected health issues.

If you don’t mind the cooler ocean, you can also enjoy the sea in Madeira. Seixal Beach is a paradise for all types of swimmers: from beginners to the most experienced. Calheta Beach is one of the few beaches with yellow sand on the island of Madeira.

3. Marsa Alam: the jewel of the Red Sea

If you are wondering where to go for an autumn or winter vacation in warmth by the sea, Marsa Alam is a peaceful coastal town located along the Red Sea in Egypt, known for its amazing coral reefs and untouched beaches, making it an ideal place for snorkeling, diving, and nature lovers.

Paradoxically, Egypt and also, for example, Dubai or Oman, are not suitable destinations for summer vacations, but it is better to visit them in spring, autumn, or winter. In summer, temperatures in these destinations can rise to 40 °C. From December to February, daytime temperatures in Marsa Alam range around 23-25 °C during the day and 13-16 °C at night. The sea temperature is very favorable, around 23-26 °C in winter.

You will fly to Egypt from Bratislava or Vienna in about 4 hours. For the trip to Egypt, you will need a passport valid for 6 months after your return. You can purchase a visa for this country upon arrival in Egypt.

4. Dubai: modern metropolis of the United Arab Emirates

Dubai is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city known for its futuristic architecture and diverse culture. It is a global center for tourism and innovation with iconic landmarks such as Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah.

As mentioned earlier, Dubai is one of the destinations we do not recommend visiting in the summer months – in summer, the air temperature can rise to 45 °C. On the contrary, in the winter months, from December to March, you can expect pleasant temperatures of 23-26 °C during the day and 15-18 at night. The sea temperature reaches 22-25 °C.

You can reach Dubai by plane in 5.5 hours and you will find countless attractions from historical sites to modern skyscrapers with views, amusement parks, Warner Bros World, Legoland, to charismatic mosques and luxury beach resorts.

Don’t forget that for the trip to the United Arab Emirates, you will need a passport valid for 6 months after your return. You do not need a visa for this country unless your stay exceeds 90 days during any 180-day period.

5. Oman: a desert jewel with a beautiful coastline

The flight duration to Oman on a direct flight is 6 hours. Don’t forget that for the trip to Oman, you will need a passport valid for 6 months after your return home and a visa, which you can apply for at the Omani embassy in Vienna or online.

In addition to relaxing in amazing resorts by the sea, you can experience a lot of adventure in Oman. In winter, you will enjoy daytime temperatures around 30 °C. January is the coldest month here, when daytime temperatures can drop to 23 °C. The sea temperature remains warm enough for swimming year-round (min. 24 – max. 27 °C). In Oman, we recommend visiting:

• Muscat – an ancient Arab city nestled between rugged mountains and the azure waters of the Arabian Sea, offers picturesque beaches like Qurum Beach and Al Bustan Beach with top 5-star resorts and high-level services, but it is not only known for its beaches. You certainly won’t be bored in this area. Take a desert trip with typical dunes, where you can see Bedouin camps. Bedouins have lived in this challenging terrain for thousands of years. Enjoy adventurous hiking at Oman’s highest point Wadi Ash Shab. This narrow canyon is home to crystal-clear blue water and also a secret waterfall in a cave. Immerse yourself in history in the ancient Omani city Galhat, which has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since June 2018.

• Salalah – a captivating coastal city in Oman, where the desert meets lush greenery and ancient traditions blend with modern comfort. Salalah boasts untouched sandy beaches along the Arabian Sea, where you can relax by the sea in top resorts.

Don’t let winter discourage you and travel

There are many holidays and festivities in autumn and winter, so don’t hesitate and plan your autumn or winter vacation in warmth in advance. We believe that our tips for destinations with warm weather even in winter have inspired you, and you will enjoy the upcoming winter on the beach, snorkeling, hiking, and unforgettable adventures while discovering new places.