While the UK has well and truly succumbed to the greyness of autumn, there’s a whole host of Spanish destinations that are still decidedly sunny. You could get your fill of vitamin D without flying too far away!
Seville
Flight time: Two hours and 45 minutes from London
Average November temperature: 20°C
The capital of Andalusia, Seville, is a firm favourite with Brits looking for a taste of sunshine and sangria in a city while the UK shivers. It has the buzz of Barcelona, while being much more easily accessible on foot. Summer months are frankly sweltering so it’s genuinely better to visit in the autumn and winter months—that way you can explore the Royal Alcázar of Seville, walk across the modern cloud-esque formation of the Setas de Sevilla and visit the imposing cathedral without sweat getting into your eyes. This is the area of Spain where flamenco is best loved so be sure to book in for a show or two!
Málaga
Flight time: Two hours and 50 minutes
Average November temperature: 20°C
The city of Málaga has had a reinvention in recent years. Yes, it still boasts a glorious 16 golden beaches and there are bars and restaurants aplenty that are kind to the wallet and generous on the booze, but now there’s a strong sense of art and history here too. It was, after all, the birthplace of Picasso and that’s heavily celebrated. Located in a 16th-century palace, the Museo Picasso Malaga, provides a grand backdrop for over 200 of Picasso’s works. It’s a must-visit for fans of the artist!
Valencia
Flight time: Two hours and 25 minutes
Average November temperature: 19°C
Spain’s third city enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year, meaning that you’re in with a very good chance of glorious weather when visiting here. Not only are there golden beaches aplenty to lounge upon, but there are also an impressive array of museums. Both the Museo de Historia de Valencia and the Museo de Bellas Artes are free to visit too—something of a rarity in Spain!
The city is also the birthplace of the paella, making it a bit of a foodie hub! The traditional Valencian way of cooking this famous dish is with rabbit, chicken and green beans, so be sure to hunt down the original.
Lanzarote
Flight time: Four hours and 15 minutes
Average November temperature: 23°C
The Canary Island of Lanzarote is a firm favourite with holidaymakers looking for sunshine all year round. This island, unlike the others in this archipelago, is largely graced with golden beaches. It’s not all about the beach either—winter is a great time to explore the volcanic Timanfaya National Park. These otherworldly landscapes are often described as being similar to those of the moon. Pack your walking shoes and get ready for a hike you’re sure to remember!
Tenerife
Flight time: Four hours and 30 minutes
Average November temperature: 23°C
The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife has a real buzz to it. The popular beach resorts of Playa de las Américas and Costa Adeje have everything you need as a holidaymaker: tapas restaurants sit beside wallet-friendly bars in these resorts. Looming over the island is the dormant volcano of Mount Teide. Take the cable car to the top for panoramic views out over this rugged isle.
Looking to explore two islands in one trip? La Gomera is just a short boat ride away, and is a great option for a day trip!
