Even after summer ends, the quest to find sunny destinations continues. Europe, in all its diversity, has plenty of sunny spots, especially in its southern regions.
Let’s explore some of these dreamy destinations that might be perfect for an early spring getaway.
According to Holidu, a holiday rental search engine, Spain boasts the most sun-drenched cities in Europe, with 12 out of the top 30 cities by average monthly sun hours. Spain, along with Italy—where 11 of the sunniest cities are found—offers some of the warmest locales with average monthly temperatures ranging from 19 to 21 degrees Celsius.
Alicante, Spain, tops the list with 349 sun hours per month. According to data from World Weather Online, Catania in Italy lands the second spot with 347 sun hours monthly and an average temperature of 20 degrees.
Here are the sunniest Spanish cities in order of average sun hours:
Alicante, as the sunniest city in Spain, offers much to its visitors. From the beautiful Costa Blanca for exciting beach days to numerous museums and historical sites, there’s plenty to see and do.
Murcia, with its unique micro-climate, remains warm throughout the year. Its endless beaches and small coves are perfect for watersports or simply soaking up the sun.
Other top sunny destinations in Spain include Malaga, Valencia, Las Palmas, and Granada. These cities offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beach or have a picnic in lovely open areas.
In Italy, Catania holds the second spot for the most sunny days in Europe, and it’s the sunniest in Italy with an average of 347 sun hours per month. This ancient port city in Sicily is famous for its active volcano, Mt. Etna, and its picturesque old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Palermo, also in Sicily, wraps up the list of sunniest cities in Europe. Known for having Italy’s largest opera house and numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Palermo is perfect for both culture lovers and sun-seekers, with an average of 340 sun hours per month.
While Spain and Italy dominate the list, there are other notable mentions. Nice, France, ranks as the seventh sunniest city in Europe with 342 sun hours per month. It offers sandy beaches, charming bars and restaurants, and a wealth of cultural and architectural attractions.
Marseille, also in France, is another great option, with an average of 339 sun hours. If you prefer a bit less sun, this might be the spot for you.
Other sunny destinations include Tirana in Albania with 336 sun hours, followed by Athens in Greece, Sofia in Bulgaria, Zurich in Switzerland, and Lisbon in Portugal.
While sunny spots are highly desirable, it’s crucial to remember that prolonged sun exposure can be risky, especially during extremely hot days. To stay protected from the weather and other potential issues, purchasing travel insurance is always a good idea.
Ultimately, having travel insurance is essential, providing much-needed protection against various risks and ensuring peace of mind during your travels.