5 Quarantine-free European Winter Sun destinations

*AD This post has been written in Collaboration with Jet2.com

After the year we have had I think many of us could do with some winter sunshine, of course health and safety is key and as time goes on it's clear that for any European travel making sure you have had both of your vaccinations is essentials as it will make things considerably easier (depending on destination) although staying up to day with changing rules and regulations is equally important. While some destinations are still tricky to navigate and will require a quarantining process there are some that don't require much more than proof of vaccination and a recent covid test, meaning that some winter sunshine is back on the cards. 

Jet2.com have some fantastic quarantine free holidays to over 40 destinations and have 10 airport hubs in the UK meaning there should be an airport local to you, mine is Bristol. Jet2.com are also a Which? Recommended Provider and all their holidays are ATOL and ABTA protected.  

While the rules and regulations are changeable these European destinations are the "safest" options at the moment for a quarantine-free break with direct flights this winter and with no Foreign Office warnings meaning that travel insurance is also cheaper and easier to obtain. 

1. Madeira

Known are as the islands of eternal Spring, Madeira has a mild subtropical climate throughout the year and makes for a perfect winter sunshine break as it's only just over 3.5hr flight to get there. There is plenty to see and do and something for everyone from hiking to boat excursions to sitting back and reading a book at the beach. 

Current restrictions - You do not need to quarantine or take a test on arrival if you have had both doses of the vaccine 14 days prior to travel or you have recovered from Covid in the past 180 days (you will require a certificate to prove it) or take a Covid PRC test 72hrs before arrival. This excludes children aged 11 and under

2. Malta

Did you know that Malta and Gozo have around 300 days of sunshine a year and while it may not be the hottest destination in the middle of winter it is still very mild in comparison to the UK with most days reaching around 16 degrees and with the beaches and popular spots being uncrowded means this is a great spot to relax and enjoy the sunshine as well take in some history and culture. In fact Malta is steeped in history and no trip to the Islands would be complete without a visit to the Hypogeum megalithic temples which are a Unesco World heritage.

Current restrictions - You need proof of full vaccination at least 14 days prior to arrival. If you have not been fully vaccinated you will be required to quarantine for 14 days on arrival regardless of a negative PRC test. Children aged 5 to 11 can travel if they are accompanying their vaccinated parents/legal guardian and just show evidence of a negative PCR test 72hrs before arrival. 

3.  Alicante, Mainland Spain 

Even during the winter months you can expect around 6hrs of daily sunshine in Alicante, it also means less crowded beaches, restaurants and quieter sightseeing while still being able to wear a t-shirt. The off-peak season is also a great time for finding cheaper accommodation and holiday packages. 

Current restrictions - You must provide proof of either Full Vaccination or a negative PCR test done within 72 hours of arrival. Under 12yr old are excluded from this and do no require to do a PCR test. 

4. Tenerife, Canary Islands

Even in the middle of winter Tenerife still has temperatures over 20 degrees and offers year round sunshine (which is what we want right!) along with gorgeous beaches and an easy to explore island means this is a great choice. There are plenty of direct flights to Tenerife and take around 4,5hrs.

Current restrictions - You must provide proof of either Full Vaccination or a negative PCR test done within 72 hours of arrival. Under 12yr old are excluded from this and do no require to do a PCR test. 

5. Algarve, Portugal

Unlike summer the Algarve is lovely and quite in the cooler months while still offering plenty of hours of sunshine and mild weather which is perfect for hikes along the coast and taking a stroll through the charming old villages. The colder months are also the best time to get good deals on flights and accommodation. 

Current restrictions -  You must provide proof of either Full Vaccination or a negative PCR test done within 72 hours of arrival.

As I said before it's very important to keep up to date with travel rules and regulations as they can change very quickly. Jet2.com have a very useful page on their website which clearly states what you need to do before, during and after your travels.