Writer: Helena Bergström
Are you one of those people who longs for sun and warmth as soon as the cold weather sets in? We actually like both Warmth and snow, but beautiful beaches are perhaps even more appealing to us. Today, we recommend eight affordable destinations for sun and swimming this winter.
Tweet
Share
Share
Pin
Share
ShareThis article contains affiliate links. This means we may earn a commission if you book through our links - at no extra cost to you.
Table of contents
Do you long for warm sand beneath your feet?
When winter feels like it's at its longest, there are few things that beat the feeling of warm sand under your feet and a dip in the salty sea. We recommend eight sun-kissed destinations that we have visited ourselves – all of which are affordable and offer great value for money.
1. Canary Islands
When talking about sun and swimming in winter at a reasonable price, it is almost impossible not to mention the Canary Islands. These Spanish islands are one of Europe's safest bets for winter sun. The flight is not too long and there is a wide range of direct flights, whether you choose to travel by charter or scheduled flight.
We have visited two of the islands ourselves (Gran Canaria and Tenerife), but there are several other exciting islands to discover, such as Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma and La Gomera. The Canary Islands are ideal for both families and couples who want a simple, safe and enjoyable sun and beach holiday.
- Flight time: Approximately 5–6 hours
- How to travel: Direct flights are available year-round from Sweden, both charter and scheduled.
- Price level: €€
- Winter climate: 22–25 °C, sea 18–20 °C
- Budget tips: Try apartment hotels for cheaper accommodation.
- Guides/travel tips: Cruise around the Canary Islands
2. Hurghada, Egypt
Egypt is another destination that is perfect for those seeking sun and swimming during the winter months. There is a wide range of charter trips to Egypt, which is why it is often very affordable. In addition, the price level on site is relatively wallet-friendly.
The winter climate in Egypt is pleasant (albeit a little cooler in the evenings!) and there are excellent opportunities for beach life, swimming, snorkelling and various excursions. We think that both Hurghada and neighbouring El Gouna are great options for those who want sun, relaxation and great value for money.
- Flight time: Approximately 5 hours
- How to travel: Charter flights are often both the most convenient and cheapest option.
- Price level: €
- Winter climate: 22–26 °C, sea 22–24 °C
- Budget tips: All-inclusive can be very affordable and at the same time gives you control over your costs.
- Guides/travel tips: 17 things to do in Hurghada and Tips for El Gouna
3. Agadir, Morocco
North Africa is a great destination for Swedes looking for sun and swimming in winter without having to fly too far. It's really fascinating that you can fly early in the morning and land in Africa before lunchtime, and it doesn't have to be too expensive either.
Agadir is a holiday gem with long sandy beaches, a relaxed atmosphere and a colourful culture influenced by Europe, Africa and Arab culture. Agadir is ideal for couples and travellers who want to combine beach life with city and cultural experiences.
- Flight time: Approximately 4.5–5 hours
- How to travel: Direct flights during certain periods, otherwise fly via Europe or Casablanca. Charter flights can be convenient.
- Price level: €€
- Winter climate: 20–25 °C, sea 17–18 °C
- Budget tips: Eat locally and at street stalls, and consider simpler accommodation in less touristy areas.
- Guides/travel tips: 12 tips for Agadir and 15 Moroccan dishes
4) Sri Lanka
Travelling to Asia is both longer and more expensive than travelling to North Africa, but once you arrive, the prices can often be very favourable. It is often most affordable per day if you plan to stay a little longer.
Prices in Sri Lanka are reasonable, and there are plenty of opportunities for those who want to stay on a budget. At the same time, there is lots to experience – everything from beach life to wildlife and cultural attractions. Sri Lanka is an exotic destination that suits curious travellers and couples, as well as surfers.
- Flight time: Approximately 12–14 hours
- How to travel: Fly to Colombo with one stopover.
- Price level: €
- Winter climate: 27–30 °C, sea 27–29 °C
- Budget tips: Look for simple guesthouses and eat at small, local places.
- Guides/travel tipss: Galle in Sri Lanka and All reports on Sri Lanka
5. Vietnam
Vietnam is another wonderful Asian destination: tropical, friendly and very affordable – especially for longer trips. The country offers everything from charming cities and cultural attractions to fabulous beaches and delightful boat trips.
When we were in Vietnam, we visited Hanoi, Halong Bay and Hoi An (amazing places!), while Phu Quoc is often recommended as a destination for sun and beach lovers. Vietnam is particularly well suited for couples, long-term travellers and digital nomads.
- Flight time: Approximately 14–16 hours
- How to travel: Fly regularly via major Asian hubs to Ho Chi Minh City and onwards domestically.
- Price level: €
- Winter climate: 26–30 °C, sea 26–28 °C
- Budget tips: Find simpler hotels or mid-range hotels and try Vietnamese street food.
- Guides/travel tips: 10 things to do in Hoi An and Hanoi and Halong Bay
6. Hammamet or Sousse, Tunisia
Tunisia is undoubtedly one of our favourites. There are many beautiful places in the country, and if your main purpose for travelling is sun and swimming, we can recommend Hammamet or Sousse. Both of these resorts offer beautiful beaches, relaxing tourist environments and opportunities for exciting excursions. Please note that the sea can be cool in winter, so choose a hotel with a heated pool for more comfortable swimming.
Tunisia is a country that offers a Mediterranean feel, a wonderful climate, safe surroundings and interesting sights. It is not too far to fly and the prices are reasonable. A great destination for couples, seniors and those who want to travel in comfort and are looking for mild warmth.
- Flight time: Approximately 3.5 hours
- How to travel: Chartering can be a convenient option.
- Price level: €
- Winter climate: 15–20 °C, sea 16–17 °C
- Budget tips: Charter hotels with heated pools can be combined with free entertainment, public transport and street food.
- Guides/travel tips: 13 tips for Hammamet and 15 things to do in Sousse
7. Cyprus
Are you looking for a peaceful winter destination with mild temperatures? Southern Europe is generally not very warm in winter, but if you just want a milder climate and the opportunity to enjoy sunny, pleasant days, then Cyprus could be an option.
Cyprus is a delightful island nation, offering excellent opportunities for sunbathing and swimming, boat trips, good food, and nature and cultural experiences. In winter, the island is ideal for couples, seniors, and active travellers seeking mild warmth.
- Flight time: Approximately 4 hours
- How to travel: Direct flights during certain periods, otherwise via Europe.
- Price level: €€
- Winter climate: 17–22 °C, sea 17–18 °C
- Budget tips: Choose budget hotels or book accommodation in an apartment where you can also cook your own meals.
- Guides/travel tips: All our tips for Cyprus and Cypriot cuisine
8. Philippines
Travelling to the Philippines is not necessarily cheap, but once you are there, you can easily get value for your money. If you want, you can both stay and eat at low cost.
The Philippines offers a tropical dream with white beaches and turquoise waters. We can recommend Bohol, Malapascua or beautiful Palawan, for example. This Asian island nation is suitable for adventurous travellers, couples and travellers who are on a longer trip.
- Flight time: Approximately 16–18 hours
- How to travel: Long-haul flight to Manila or Cebu, then domestic flight or boat.
- Price level: €
- Winter climate: 26–30 °C, sea 27–29 °C
- Budget tips: Travel for longer than two weeks to get value for money on the flight, and stay in simpler hotels.
- Guides/travel tips: 30 things to do in the Philippines and Tips for Bohol
READ MORE: 12 destinations where you can swim in February and March
Which payment card to choose for travelling?
As you know, there are different payment cards to choose from. It may also be useful to know that there are often fees attached to the cards. Most Swedish cards charge 2-3% per purchase when you use them while travelling abroad. Some ATMs also add an extra fee on top of the bank's withdrawal fee.
The card you choose can therefore make a big difference to the cost of your holiday. The Northmill card is an example of a card that is completely free of charges both within and outside Sweden.
The physical card is also included free of charge and travel insurance is included. You become a customer in just minutes using BankID. The personal account is naturally covered by the deposit guarantee and Northmill Bank has a banking license.
Fancy some sun and swimming this winter?
Are you longing for sun and swimming this winter? If so, are any of these destinations appealing, or perhaps you have your sights set on somewhere else? Please let us know!
You might also like:
Travelling to Asia - 10 great destinations
12 destinations where you can swim in February and March
More and more people are planning the Dream Journey - "Once in a lifetime trips" a trend for 2023
English (UK) 
Svenska
Jossu says:
Several of the destinations appeal to me, but not because of the beaches, but because of the sights.
Right now, I'm dreaming of paradise beaches, so I'm longing to return to Chichime, one of the San Blas Islands in Panama.
In early February, you might find yourself with sand between your toes on one of Sydney's beaches. But mostly, it'll be hanging out by the pool and sightseeing.
4 January 2026 - 9:13
Madde says:
North Africa isn't my thing 🙂 I've visited both Egypt and Morocco. Vietnam, on the other hand. I recommend everyone to go there. Fantastic country, cheap, friendly people, good food. Yes, that country has it all.
4 January 2026 - 11:43
Ditte says:
Great tips! I have my favourites, such as Sri Lanka, Vietnam and the Philippines. I would also like to add Thailand, preferably places where charter traffic is not so intense. And right now, I would avoid the border areas with Cambodia. I've visited all the places you suggest and worked in a couple of them. I could also imagine going to Madeira in February. It's a beautiful island with lots to do. And if you just want to take it easy, that works fine too.
I think Malta would also work well. Both at perfectly reasonable prices.
The downside for me when it comes to Egypt is that the resorts on offer are often huge and tend to be a little or a lot ”off the beaten track”. And then there's the issue of tips, which, even according to the travel agencies, you're expected to give to various staff members even if it's all-inclusive. It's not a huge amount of money, but it is annoying. I'm happy to leave a tip without being asked to do so by the staff. I also disliked that it was difficult to get around on my own from the hotels. A couple of times I was there as a single woman and it was difficult to defend myself ”out on the town”. Maybe that has changed. I'm not particularly sensitive after having previously worked in Tunisia. (I also found it difficult to get around as a single woman in Morocco, but maybe that has changed now in the 2020s. )
But we all have different
4 January 2026 - 12:09
BP says:
Yes, we've been visiting European destinations and Agadir for many years. Gran Canaria and Tenerife are foolproof places, and Agadir was a big positive surprise. I think we went there three times and weren't disappointed. Cyprus can be quite rough in December, but it's okay in the autumn.
Yes, most destinations are probably more enjoyable than Sweden at 6.9 degrees below zero, which according to the weather app feels like 13 degrees below zero.
4 January 2026 - 15:57
Hanneles boktips says:
I've never longed for sun and swimming, shovelled a little snow and eaten breakfast on the balcony while snowflakes fell 🙂 But if I leave home, it's often a heatwave!
4 January 2026 - 16:38
Znogge says:
There won't be any sun and swimming this winter, but we've been happy with our various trips to Egypt. We were also happy with the United Arab Emirates and Dubai. Then Brazil was an experience. Our daughter and son-in-law went to Zanzibar, which was lovely. However, we have never been to the Canary Islands, which have never appealed to us. We have such beautiful beaches and lovely bathing water here that I prefer trips that offer more to experience and see. It is usually possible to combine the two. We really liked Sicily, but you don't go there during the winter months.
4 January 2026 - 18:22
Channal says:
Hi Helena! I've been to the Canary Islands and Tunisia. I've seen that the weather isn't great there at the moment. Lots of great tips... perfect inspiration when the winter cold gets too much! Now I really feel like planning a trip to somewhere sunny. I start work on Wednesday and week 8 when I'm off is really expensive! But I'm craving some warmth!
Hugs to you! Anna
4 January 2026 - 19:13