When you’re craving sunshine but don’t fancy a long-haul flight, there are plenty of dreamy destinations just a few hours from the UK.
You may have been to a few of them already, especially if you’re big on city breaks and can’t resist a good Ryanair or Jet2 deal. However, if you’ve not been on holiday in a while and are desperate for a bit of sun, sand, or even some historic sites, there are plenty of options pretty close-by. Here are 10 sunny spots that bring the heat — without the jet lag.
1. The Algarve, Portugal
With golden cliffs, turquoise waters, and over 300 days of sunshine a year, the Algarve feels like a proper escape without the long haul. Flights from the UK take just under 3 hours, and the moment you land in Faro, it already feels like holiday mode has switched on. Whether you’re into chilled beach days or hopping between scenic coastal towns, there’s no shortage of sunshine and sea breeze here.
What makes it such a win is how easy it is — great food, friendly locals, and loads of hidden coves to discover, all within a short drive of each other. It’s relaxed but not boring, scenic without being overpriced, and perfect if you want warm weather without the hassle. Plus, the grilled sardines are reason enough to book a flight.
2. Costa del Sol, Spain
The clue’s in the name — “Coast of the Sun” says it all. With its famously sunny skies, Costa del Sol is an easy favourite for Brits wanting a quick dose of heat and coastline. Malaga’s airport is just under 3 hours away, and from there you can hop along to Marbella, Nerja, or one of the lesser-known towns if you’re after something quieter.
You’ll find beach bars, tapas on every corner, and plenty of palm-lined promenades to stroll. It’s the kind of place where doing very little feels completely justified. Sun, sea, and a cold sangria in hand? That’s the vibe here.
3. Nice, France
For sunshine with a touch of chic, Nice is a perfect short-haul getaway. The flight time clocks in at around 2 hours, and once you arrive, you’re met with blue skies, Mediterranean sea views, and that unmistakable French Riviera charm. It’s ideal for anyone who likes their sunshine with a side of style.
From wandering the old town to beachside lounging on pebbly shores, there’s something breezy and effortless about Nice. And if you fancy a quick detour, Monaco and Cannes are right nearby. It’s sunshine, but with better bread and better wine.
4. Valletta, Malta
Malta might not be the first place people think of, but it absolutely should be. Valletta, the island’s historic capital, is warm, walkable, and drenched in sunshine most of the year. It’s around a 3.5-hour flight and feels like you’ve landed somewhere completely different — all stone streets, blue harbours, and warm breezes.
The bonus? English is widely spoken, the food scene is underrated, and there’s plenty to explore beyond the city, including gorgeous beaches and ancient ruins. It’s a sun-soaked spot with loads of personality and not nearly enough hype.
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia
If you’re after warm weather and incredible views, Dubrovnik’s a standout. It’s just shy of 3 hours away and offers a beautiful mix of sunshine, sea, and history. The old town, with its terracotta rooftops and marble streets, looks even better in the glow of the sun — and there’s plenty of coastline nearby for beach days and island hopping.
It’s sunny, but also packed with character. You can wander the city walls, sail to nearby Lokrum Island, or just chill by the Adriatic with something cold in hand. And the sunsets here? Next level.
6. Paphos, Cyprus
Just under 5 hours away, Paphos is on the longer end of the list — but it earns its spot with year-round sunshine and a super laid-back vibe. It’s one of those places where time slows down, the food is fresh, and the beaches stretch for miles. If you like your getaways sunny and slow, this one’s for you.
There’s history tucked into the town, too, with ancient ruins and mosaics around every corner. But really, it’s the easygoing pace and consistently warm weather that make it such a reliable escape, especially in spring and autumn when other places are cooling off.
7. Marrakech, Morocco
This one’s a bit of a wildcard, but still under 4 hours away — and absolutely bursting with sunshine and colour. Marrakech is warm most of the year and offers something totally different from your typical beach break. Think rooftop tea terraces, orange trees, and the kind of light that makes everything feel golden.
Wander through the souks, relax in a riad, or head to the Atlas Mountains if you want a bit of contrast. It’s vibrant, sunny, and full of experiences that feel far more exotic than the flight time suggests.
8. Cagliari, Sardinia
Sardinia’s capital, Cagliari, often flies under the radar — but it’s a gem. About 2.5 hours from London, this southern city has sunshine, crystal-clear waters, and a charming, unfussy vibe. It’s Italian island life without the crowds of the Amalfi Coast or Rome’s intensity.
You’ll find beautiful beaches just outside the city, plus plenty of local spots for seafood and gelato. It’s a brilliant blend of culture and coast, and feels a little more laid-back than the big-name Italian hotspots. Great if you want sunshine with a quieter, local feel.
9. Athens, Greece
With a flight time of just under 4 hours, Athens is another warm-weather winner. It’s got the ancient ruins and historical wow-factor, sure — but it also has sunshine, great food, and an easy pace. Once you’ve done the Acropolis, the rest of the city is yours to explore at a leisurely, sun-soaked pace.
Plus, the coast is nearby if you fancy a beach day or two. And thanks to the Mediterranean climate, it stays warm well into autumn. You get city vibes with a holiday feel — which is a pretty great combo.
10. Seville, Spain
Seville is one of the sunniest cities in Europe — and it feels like it. With temperatures often rising into the 30s, even outside of peak summer, it’s a great spot for some guaranteed heat. Flights take just under 3 hours, and once you’re there, it’s all flamenco vibes, tiled courtyards, and orange-scented streets.
It’s more of a city break than a beach trip, but the sunshine makes it feel like a proper holiday. You can wander through palaces, sip something cold in the shade, and genuinely feel like you’ve escaped the grey skies back home. A total mood-lifter.
