If winter is the time of your discontent, then we’ve got some great getaway ideas for you if you’re looking for a break from the long dark days and cold dark nights. Some of our favourite City Sightseeing destinations are great places to head for a spot of pretty much guaranteed winter sun.
Here’s a list of some of the top spots we operate where you’ll be able to feel the sun on your face as you tour the city on the top deck of the bus (if that’s what takes your fancy).
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Hop on and head for one of those sunny hotspots
Malta
Malta, in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, offers the perfect winter getaway, promising warm weather, stunning scenery, and a wealth of cultural attractions.
With average temperatures hovering around 15°C (59°F) during the winter months, Malta provides a welcome respite from the cold and gloomy weather that grips much of Europe. The sun shines brightly for an average of six hours a day, casting a warm glow over the island’s idyllic beaches, charming villages, and historic landmarks.
Immerse Yourself in Malta’s Cultural Tapestry
Malta’s rich history is evident in its captivating architecture, diverse museums, and vibrant cultural scene. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Valletta, Mdina, and the megalithic temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, each whispering tales of the island’s past.
Indulge in Culinary Delights
Maltese cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavours, influenced by its rich history and diverse cultural influences. Sample the national dish of fenek (rabbit stew), savour the fresh seafood dishes, or indulge in the sweet treats like pastizzi and imqaret.
Hop on and explore
Our hop-on hop-off bus is a brilliant way to discover Malta. We visit every corner of the island so you’re guaranteed not to miss a thing. Beaches, ancient temples, brilliant buildings, spectacular views. You’ll see it all on our two Malta routes.
Dubai
Another great location if you want to bask in some winter sun is Dubai, an oasis of luxury and excitement in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, which offers the perfect antidote to the cold and dreary weather.
With average temperatures reaching a comfortable 24°C (75°F) during the winter months, Dubai provides a welcome respite from the frigid temperatures that many of us endure. The sun shines brightly for an average of eight hours a day, casting a golden glow over the city’s iconic skyline, pristine beaches, and luxurious shopping malls.
Embrace the Thrills of Dubai’s Vibrant Culture
Dubai is a city that never sleeps, offering an endless array of activities and entertainment options to suit every taste and preference. From adrenaline-pumping adventures to cultural immersion and culinary delights, Dubai has something to offer everyone.
Scale the heights of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape. Conquer the twists and turns of the world’s fastest rollercoaster at IMG Worlds of Adventure. Or take a leisurely stroll along the Dubai Creek, where traditional abra boats glide across the water, transporting you back in time.
Unwind on the Shores of Dubai’s Beautiful Beaches
Dubai boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the world, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. From the pristine sands of Jumeirah Beach to the secluded coves of Palm Jumeirah, there’s a beach to suit every mood and preference.
Indulge in water sports like surfing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relax on a sun lounger and soak up the sun’s warmth. For a truly luxurious experience, book a treatment at one of the many beachfront spa resorts and pamper yourself with a rejuvenating massage or holistic treatment.
Hop on and explore
Just like in Malta, our bus is the best way to discover Dubai. Our different routes take you to ever corner of this amazing city that’s an amazing mix of the modern and the old, from its markets, to its malls and its amazing attractions.
Cartagena
A little further afield, depending on where you start out of course, is Cartagena, a vibrant coastal city in Colombia, which offers the perfect escape from the cold and dreary winter.
With average temperatures reaching a comfortable 27°C (81°F) during the winter months, Cartagena provides a welcome respite from the frigid temperatures that many of us endure. The sun shines brightly for an average of 8 hours a day, casting a golden glow over the city’s colonial architecture and pristine beaches.
Embrace the Charm of Cartagena’s Historic Centre
Cartagena’s UNESCO-declared Historic Centre is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets lined with colourful colonial buildings. Wander through the narrow passageways, admire the intricate architecture, and discover hidden plazas and squares.
Visit the Gold Museum to marvel at the impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts or delve into Cartagena’s history at the Naval Museum. Explore the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a massive 16th-century fortress that offers stunning views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.
Indulge in Cartagena’s Vibrant Food Scene
Cartagena’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavours, influenced by its rich history and diverse cultural influences. Sample the local specialties like ajiaco (a hearty stew), arepas (cornmeal patties), and bandeja paisa (a hearty plate of rice, beans, meat, and fried egg).
Don’t miss out on the fresh seafood, including the delicious ceviche and grilled fish. For a taste of local street food, we recommend you try some empanadas, pastelitos, and chicharrones.
Relax on Cartagena’s Beautiful Beaches
Cartagena boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Colombia, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. From the pristine sands of Bocagrande to the secluded coves of Playa Blanca, there’s a beach to suit every mood and preference.
Hop on and explore
There are no better views in Cartagena than those from the top deck of our big red bus! We’ll take you to every corner of this fantastic city. We guarantee you won’t miss a thing!
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is one of the most popular winter sun destinations for those from some of Europe’s colder climes. It’s year-round warmth and sunshine and short flight times make it a more than inviting place to head to escape those grey skies.
The city enjoys an average temperature of 20 degrees Celsius throughout the winter months, making it a comfortable spot to soak up the sun on its beautiful beaches, explore its charming Old Town, and enjoy a variety of activities and attractions.
Embrace the Charm of Las Palmas’ Old Town
Vegueta, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria’s historic centre, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its narrow streets, lined with colourful colonial buildings, are home to a wealth of architectural gems, including the Catedral de Santa Ana, the Castillo de Santa Catalina, and the Convento de San Francisco.
Venture into the Mercado de Artesanía de Triana, a vibrant marketplace that offers a unique opportunity to discover traditional Canarian crafts and gifts. For a taste of local cuisine, sample the papas arrugadas con mojo picón, a dish of boiled potatoes served with a spicy sauce.
Explore Las Palmas’ Coastal Beauty
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria boasts a stunning stretch of coastline, with over 15km of beaches to choose from. From the lively Playa de Las Canteras, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, to the secluded coves of Playa del Confital, ideal for snorkelling and diving, there’s a beach for everyone.
In between sunbathing sessions, take a boat trip to the nearby island of La Isleta, a nature reserve with volcanic landscapes, caves, and a lighthouse. For a more active adventure, go hiking or cycling in the mountains surrounding the city.
Hop on and explore
If you need someone to show you round Las Palmas then we’re here to help. We know the city like the back of our hand, so we’ll make sure you get to see everything that this jewel of a city has to offer.
Funchal
Like Las Palmas, Funchal is a European city on an Atlantic island. Madeira is a popular destination year-round, and unlike Clacton, which can be chilly in winter, you’re pretty much guaranteed sunny, warm days in Funchal.
With an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius throughout the winter months, Funchal provides a welcome respite from the frigid temperatures that many of us endure. The sun shines brightly for an average of 7 hours a day, casting its glow over the city’s charming streets, stunning levadas (irrigation canals), and the majestic Mount Pico Ruivo.
Embrace the Charm of Funchal’s Historic Centre
The narrow streets of Funchal’s historic centre are lined with pastel-coloured buildings and are home to a wealth of architectural gems, including the São Pedro Church, the Câmara Municipal (City Hall), and the Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers’ Market).
For a taste of local cuisine, sample the espetada, a traditional Madeiran dish of skewered meat, or indulge in the fresh seafood, including the delicious espada (swordfish) and tuna.
Explore Funchal’s Natural Beauty
Funchal is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the lush Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a guided walk or hike through the forest, and you’ll encounter a variety of native plants and animals. For a more adventurous experience, go canyoning, rock climbing, or mountain biking in the mountains surrounding the city.
Hop on the bus to see all Funchal has in store
There’s so much to see here that we have two routes to cover all of Funchal’s treasures. The views out over the sea and the feeling of the wind in your hair as you explore Funchal’s delights are something you’ll remember for a long time.Pedro
Bangkok
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures plummet, many of us start to dream of escaping the winter blues and basking in the warmth of the sun. Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital city, offers the perfect escape from the cold and dreary weather that grips much of the world.
With an average temperature of 27 degrees Celsius throughout the winter months, Bangkok provides a welcome respite from the frigid temperatures that many of us endure. The sun shines brightly for an average of 7-10 hours a day, casting a golden glow over the city’s bustling streets, iconic temples, and lush green spaces.
Explore Bangkok’s Majestic Temples
Bangkok is home to a plethora of stunning temples, each offering a glimpse into the rich Buddhist heritage of Thailand. Admire the intricate architecture and serene atmosphere of Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, and Wat Arun.
Venture into the bustling Chatuchak Weekend Market, a labyrinth of over 15,000 stalls selling everything from souvenirs and handicrafts to food and fashion. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and discover hidden treasures along the way.
Indulge in Bangkok’s Delicious Cuisine
Thai cuisine is a symphony of flavours, with a blend of sweet, sour, spicy, and salty notes. Sample the iconic Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, and Khao Pad Sapparot (mango sticky rice), and don’t forget to try the fresh seafood at one of the many street food stalls.
Hop on the bus to get best bang for your buck in Bangkok
Our hop-on hop-off tour of Bangkok has been designed to show you everything you might want to see in this sizzling city.
Panama City
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures plummet, many of us start to dream of escaping the winter blues and basking in the warmth of the sun. Panama City, the capital of Panama, located on the Pacific coast of Central America, offers the perfect escape from the cold and dreary weather that grips much of the world.
With an average temperature of 28 degrees Celsius throughout the winter months, Panama City provides a welcome respite from the frigid temperatures that many of us endure. The sun shines brightly for an average of 7 hours a day, casting a golden glow over the city’s stunning skyline, lush green mountains, and pristine beaches.
Embrace the Charm of Panama City’s Historic Centre
Panama City’s Casco Viejo (Historic Centre) is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into the city’s fascinating past. Wander through the cobblestone streets lined with colourful colonial buildings, admire the intricate architecture, and discover hidden plazas and squares.
Visit the Palacio de Las Garzas (The Presidential Palace), a neo-classical palace that serves as the official residence of the President of Panama.
Explore the Casco Viejo’s numerous museums, such as the Biomuseo, a museum of biodiversity, or the Museo del Canal Interoceánico de Panamá, which tells the story of the Panama Canal’s construction and its impact on the region.
Panama City’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, influenced by its rich history and diverse cultural influences. Sample traditional Panamanian dishes like arroz con pollo (rice with chicken), sancocho (meat and vegetable stew), or ceviche (raw fish marinated in citrus).
Don’t miss out on the fresh seafood, including the delicious lobster and shrimp. For a taste of international cuisine, there are numerous restaurants serving everything from Italian to Japanese to French.
We can’t promise you a trip on the canal but we will show you Panama City!
Our hop-on hop-off bus tour of Panama City takes you from the historic centre with all its delights to the modern side of the city with its beaches and shopping centres. Stay on board and hop off at Isla Perico for a whole new view of the city.
Cádiz
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures plummet, many of us start to dream of escaping the winter blues and basking in the warmth of the sun. Cádiz, a vibrant city in southern Spain, offers the perfect escape from the cold and dreary weather that grips much of the world.
With an average temperature of 20 degrees Celsius throughout the winter months, Cádiz provides a welcome respite from the frigid temperatures that many of us endure. The sun shines brightly for an average of 6-7 hours a day, casting a golden glow over the city’s charming streets, stunning beaches, and captivating history.
Embrace the Charm of Cádiz’s Historic Centre
Cadiz’s historic centre, known as the casco antiguo, is a maze of narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings, plazas, and fountains. Wander through the labyrinthine alleyways and discover hidden churches, palaces, and museums.
Admire the intricate architecture of the Catedral de Cádiz, a Baroque masterpiece, or explore the Castillo de San Sebastián, a 16th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Cádiz.
Indulge in Cádiz’s Culinary Delights
Cádiz cuisine is a blend of Moorish, Jewish, and Spanish influences, resulting in a unique and flavourful array of dishes. Sample the city’s signature dish, pescaíto frito, a platter of fried fish, or indulge in tapas at one of the many charming bars and restaurants.
Don’t miss out on the fresh seafood, including the delicious gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) and almejas a la marinera (clams in white wine sauce).
Are you ready to explore?
Hop on our bus and we’ll make sure you see the very best of Cádiz. It’s the best way to see the city and to feel the sun on your face as you take in all the sights.
It's always sunny somewhere!
One of the wonderful things about our world is that when it’s dark and cold in one place, it’s warm and sunny in another. It’s always summer somewhere. Or summeryish at the very least! So, if you’re feeling the cold and the dark days are getting you down, why not head somewhere warm and feel the rejuvenating power of the sun on your skin.
And if you do decide to stay at home, there’s always the tanning saloon for a budget version of a winter break!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely, there are numerous winter sun destinations that are both family-friendly and offer plenty of activities for kids. For example:
- Dubai remains a reliable choice for families, with indoor ski slopes, aquariums, and even a Legoland.
- Las Palmas de Gran Canaria offers beautiful beaches and parks with a family-friendly atmosphere.
- Bangkok has a number of family attractions including amusement parks and children’s discovery museums.
Several destinations come to mind for water sports during the winter:
- Malta provides fantastic opportunities for winter swimming.
- The warm waters of Dubai make it a popular spot for a variety of water sports like scuba diving and jet skiing.
- Panama City is known for great kayaking and sailing conditions.
Solo travellers can enjoy sunny winter destinations in a variety of ways:
- Cádiz, Spain is an excellent winter escape for solo travellers looking for a blend of history, culture, and beautiful beaches.
- Funchal, on the Portuguese island of Madeira, is a bustling and safe city perfect for solo exploration.
- Bangkok provides a multicultural and vibrant cityscape filled with temples and exciting street markets for the solo adventurer.
For wildlife enthusiasts, winter is a great time to explore the biodiversity of several sun-soaked destinations:
- Funchal offers several wildlife-focused tours, including marine wildlife spotting expeditions.
- Panama City, bordered by rainforests, is a paradise for keen birdwatchers.
- Cartagena, Colombia, has nearby natural parks replete with tropical wildlife.