Naples Joins Barcelona, Porto, Lisbon, Rome, Florence, Budapest, Munich, and More in Offering the Best Sunshine and Winter Getaways Across Europe in 2026: Know More

Published on December 23, 2025

Naples joins Barcelona, Porto, Lisbon, Rome, Florence, Budapest, Munich, and more in offering the best winter sun getaways across Europe in 2026, thanks to its combination of sunny weather, rich culture, and scenic beauty. With an average of 5 hours of sunshine per day in January, Naples provides a welcome escape from the cold and gloom of northern Europe. The city’s historic landmarks, stunning views of the Bay of Naples, and proximity to famous sites like Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast make it a prime destination for those seeking both sunshine and cultural exploration during the winter months. As part of this list of top winter destinations, Naples stands out for offering a unique mix of warmth, history, and natural beauty in the heart of Italy.

As the winter solstice fades into memory, the days start to stretch a little longer, yet the frosty grip of winter still holds strong. Even when the sun shines brightly, it can be deceiving, as the temperatures often remain frigid, leaving us yearning for warmth and daylight. The dark mornings and early evenings can easily dampen the spirit, and it’s easy to feel a little drained by the long stretch of winter.

For those looking to escape the chill and get a healthy dose of sunshine, a winter getaway to a sun-soaked European destination might be the perfect solution. You don’t have to board a plane for a far-flung tropical island to find respite from the winter gloom. Numerous cities in Europe offer more sunlight than the UK during the coldest months, making them ideal for those seeking warmth without the long flight. From historic cities to coastal retreats, Europe has no shortage of destinations to lift your spirits and rejuvenate your mood.

According to a study conducted by FlixBus, Barcelona has been crowned Europe’s top winter sun destination for 2026. The research examined cities based on factors such as the number of sunshine hours in January, the amount of green space, happiness levels, and overall affordability. After weighing these elements, Barcelona emerged with a remarkable score of 9 out of 10.

Barcelona offers a stellar combination of sunny weather, with an impressive 6.5 hours of sunshine per day during January, and more than 50% green space scattered throughout the city. Whether you’re basking in the sun along the Mediterranean coastline, strolling through the lush expanses of its parks, or soaking in the grandeur of Gaudí’s iconic Sagrada Familia, Barcelona offers both sunshine and plenty of activities to keep you engaged. It’s the perfect city to shake off those winter blues while enjoying a healthy dose of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.

Flights to Barcelona are also surprisingly affordable, with one-way fares starting as low as £18 from Manchester Airport in January (note: additional fees for baggage and seat selection may apply). This makes it an accessible and inviting destination for those looking to escape the dreary winter weather.

In second place is Porto, a gem in northern Portugal. Known for its charming riverside views and vibrant cultural scene, Porto offers an average of 5.2 hours of sunshine per day during January. The city is a perfect blend of history, art, and food, with its famous azulejo-covered churches, colorful neighbourhoods like Ribeira, and traditional Francesinha sandwich, a local culinary delight. Porto also has plenty of green space, making it a wonderful place to relax between exploring the city’s rich heritage.

Lisbon, Portugal’s sunny capital, takes the third spot in the rankings. Offering 5.7 hours of sunshine per day in January, Lisbon is known for its vibrant pastel-hued buildings and picturesque streets that make it feel like a warm escape from the grey UK winter. The city also boasts 39.4% green space, allowing visitors to unwind in peaceful parks between sightseeing. Lisbon’s mix of sunshine, history, and modern culture makes it a fantastic winter destination.

For those craving a bit more sun, the following European cities round out the top 10 for winter sun in 2026:

4. Turin – This Italian city offers 5 hours of sunshine in January and is known for its elegant architecture, art museums, and proximity to the Alps. It’s perfect for both city exploration and outdoor activities.
5. Rome – The Eternal City shines with 5.4 hours of sunlight per day in January, making it ideal for exploring historical sites like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican.
6. Florence – A cultural treasure with 4.9 hours of sunshine in January, Florence is the place to soak in Renaissance art, history, and some of Italy’s best food.
7. Naples – Boasting 5 hours of sunshine, Naples is a great base for exploring the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and enjoying authentic Italian pizza.
8. Budapest – With 4.5 hours of sunshine, Budapest offers a charming winter escape, complete with its thermal baths, majestic architecture, and rich cultural heritage.
9. Munich – The Bavarian city provides 4.5 hours of sunshine in January, and visitors can enjoy winter sports, hearty food, and historic sites, all while basking in the occasional sunlight.
10. Bologna – This Italian city, known for its medieval towers and gastronomic delights, enjoys 4.5 hours of sunshine in January, making it a cozy and culture-filled destination.

Naples joins Barcelona, Porto, Lisbon, Rome, Florence, Budapest, Munich, and more in offering the best winter sun getaways across Europe in 2026, thanks to its sunny weather, rich history, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both sunshine and culture during the colder months.

These destinations offer the perfect winter escape, with sunny weather, cultural experiences, and plenty of green space to relax and recharge. Whether you’re strolling through vibrant streets, discovering rich history, or simply enjoying the outdoors in pleasant temperatures, these cities offer the ideal antidote to the winter blues. So, if you’re looking to make the most of the colder months, consider a trip to one of these top European cities for a much-needed dose of sunshine.