The short-haul sunshine islands in Europe where you can still find warmth this autumn and winter - from Spain favourites to lesser-known Greek isles

Published: 08:07 BST, 9 October 2026 | Updated: 08:09 BST, 9 October 2026

As summer fades and autumn sets in across the UK, Britons dreaming of one last dose of sunshine needn’t travel far to find it.

From balmy autumn escapes to winter sun hotspots, there are plenty of European islands where temperatures stay pleasant long after the summer crowds have gone.

Tenerife remains a favourite for winter sun, with temperatures still reaching a balmy 22C in December.

Meanwhile, the lesser-known Greek island of Alonissos can still see temperatures of around 24C in October, meaning there’s life in those shorts and T-shirts yet.

From classic Canary Island escapes to under-the-radar Mediterranean gems, here is the Daily Mail’s guide to the best European islands for autumn and winter sunshine.

Ibiza is forecast to be a balmy 25C this weekend, so it's perfect for catching some autumn sun

A heaving party island throughout the summer months, Ibiza can also make a great autumn escape.

There should be fewer crowds, while an average temperature of around 20C (68F), according to Tui , means you can still catch the last warm rays of the year and enjoy its beaches without being too cold.

This weekend, temperatures are forecast to reach 25C (77F), so it might feel more like a summer getaway.

Where to go? Head to the north side of the island for a peaceful experience away from the major clubs.

Described as the 'last village in Ibiza' by Ibiza Spotlight , the charming spot has barely been touched by tourism compared to more popular areas.

It has a rural, rustic feel, an 18th-century whitewashed church and an artisan market held every Sunday.

Sicily's village Cefalù is a beautiful spot and the island is 29C at the moment

If you want to take in the dreamy coastline and historic piazzas without standing shoulder to shoulder with other tourists, October could be a perfect time to visit Sicily.

The Italian island can be quite mild, around 15C (59F), but at the moment it is a hot 29C (84F), so you could expect much warmer than the average, while the island feels quieter than during the peak summer months.

Where to go? Often dubbed one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, Cefalù can be found on the island's northern coastline.

It has plenty of historic sites to check out including an impressive Norman cathedral and medieval old town area.

Valldemossa in Mallorca is a unique spot to visit during an October escape

The largest Balearic Island, Mallorca has over 260 beaches and the weather is warm enough to still enjoy them in autumn, with an average of 19C (66F) in October.

Visitors in October can experience a different side to the popular island aside from its stunning coastline. There are celebrations for the start of the harvest season as well as fairs and craft markets in rural towns.

It's also the perfect weather to enjoy the island's many cycling routes with the roads much quieter without the summer rush of tourists.

Where to go? Valldemossa is a historic mountain settlement in Mallorca that promises scenic views and plenty to do and see.

It is home to the Palace of King Sancho, a 14th-century royal residence, and a charming old town.

Ramla Bay in Gozo should still be warm enough to visit in October

Known as Malta's quieter sister island, Gozo's balmy weather, Mediterranean landscapes and heaps of ancient history make it a great destination for an autumn break.

The island sees temperatures of around 21C (70F) in October, but at the time of writing is a scorching 29C (84F).

Where to go? Ramla Bay is listed by Tripadvisor as the island's best beach.

It boasts golden sands and crystal-clear waters, definitely worth a visit with the weather still being hot.

Alonissos is less well known than Greek islands such as Crete and Rhodes but it is still worth a visit.

Currently, the island is seeing temperatures of around 24C (75F), so airy dresses and linen shirts should still be on your packing list for an October break.

You can reach Alonissos by flying into mainland Greece and catching a ferry to its main port, Patitiri. The ferry from Mantoudi, in Evoia, to the island takes around two hours according to Ferry Hopper .

Where to go? Alonissos Old Town is a hilltop spot that overlooks the dreamy coastline and offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. From here, it's possible to see the neighbouring island of Skopelos.

Zlatni Rat beach can be found on the Croatian island of Brač, which can be as hot as 20c in October

The Croatian island of Brač is the largest in Dalmatia and holidaymakers won't be disappointed by its gorgeous shores in the autumn months.

Visitors can enjoy temperatures between 14C (57F) and 20C (68F) in October, much warmer than the UK average of 13C (55F).

Where to go? Brač is home to Zlatni Rat beach, also known as the Golden Cape or Golden Horn.

The unique spot is a pebbled beach and visitors will find that its tip constantly changes shape with the wind, waves and currents.

Playa del Duque is a lovely beach in Tenerife South that will still be possible to visit in October

Tenerife is often the warmest of the Canary Islands and Tenerife South is the best region to visit for winter sunshine.