Where Brits Are Travelling This Winter: The Top Winter Sun Destinations for 2025

As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, thousands of Brits are swapping frosty mornings for warm beaches and blue skies. Whether it’s a quick escape to the Canaries or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the other side of the world, we’ve looked at Travel Insurance policies from the past 12 months to reveal where people are heading for some much-needed winter sun — and there are a few surprises!

The Most Popular Winter Getaways for 2025

When it comes to escaping the chill, the Canary Islands and Spain remain firm favourites. Easy to reach, affordable, and blessed with year-round sunshine, it’s no wonder these destinations top the list of holidays booked between November 2025 and February 2026.

But many travellers are venturing much further afield too.

Here are the top 10 winter travel destinations for 2025.

5. Portugal

10. Italy

While Europe still dominates, more Brits are taking long-haul adventures – from exploring the wonders of Thailand to soaking up the southern hemisphere’s summer in Australia.

Improved flight routes and flexible travel options mean it’s easier than ever to turn a winter break into a bucket-list trip.

The Rise of Multi-Country Adventures

We’re also seeing a growing trend for multi-country holidays, with travellers combining destinations like:

• Spain and Portugal
• Canary Islands and Portugal
• Spain, Portugal and the Canaries

Many of these are likely cruise holidays, giving travellers the chance to visit several countries in one trip without the hassle of multiple flights or hotels.

Winter cruises are especially popular among those over 65, offering the perfect mix of comfort, exploration, and relaxation.

Whether it’s a Mediterranean voyage or a transatlantic trip to the Caribbean, cruises continue to be one of the easiest ways to see the world.

(Top tip: make sure your Travel Insurance includes cruise cover — this can protect against missed port departures, cabin confinement, and more.)*

Where Over-65s Are Travelling This Winter

Who says adventure is just for the young?

Our data shows that over-65s are some of the most intrepid travellers this winter, heading to both classic and far-flung destinations.

Top destinations for over-65s include:

5. India

10. USA

From cultural tours in India to summer-in-December escapes to Australia and New Zealand, older travellers are showing no signs of slowing down.

Why the Canary Islands Still Come Out on Top

There’s a reason the Canary Islands top both lists. With year-round sunshine, short flights, and no time difference, they’re the ultimate stress-free getaway.

Whether you’re lounging on Tenerife’s golden beaches, exploring Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes, or enjoying an all-inclusive break in Gran Canaria, the Canaries offer something for everyone — families, couples, and retirees alike.

Planning Your Own Winter Escape?

If you’re dreaming of a sunny getaway this winter, don’t forget to arrange your Travel Insurance as soon as you book. It protects you against cancellations (for insured reasons), medical costs abroad, and those unexpected surprises that can derail your trip.

At Just Travel Cover, we provide single trip, annual multi-trip, and specialist cruise policies – with cover for all ages and a wide range of pre-existing medical conditions.

Get a quote today and travel with confidence this winter.

In a nutshell

• Spain and the Canaries remain the UK’s go-to winter sun spots
• Older travellers are venturing further than ever
• Multi-destination and cruise holidays are on the rise
• Travel confidence remains strong heading into 2026

From tropical beaches to cultural city breaks, Brits aren’t letting the cold weather stop them from exploring the world – and wherever you’re going this winter, Just Travel Cover is here to help you get there with peace of mind.

Data based on policies issued across the JIAL group between October 24 and October 25 and filtered to single trip travel dates between November 25 and February 26