The 9 Best Hot Countries to Live in Europe

If you’ve been searching for European destinations with consistently hot weather, look no further.

I’ve put together this fantastic list of the hottest countries and regions in Europe where you can bask in the sun and live life to the fullest.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the hottest countries and regions in Europe, detailing each place’s unique attractions and why they make excellent spots to call home.

Each spot offers something unique, so read on and let’s dive into these amazing destinations to help you find your ideal sun-soaked haven in Europe.

For each location, you’ll be able to see the average high/low temperature in June and January. And at the end of this post, I’ve included a master table that lists all the locations’ average high temperatures for each month of the year.

1. Spain: Sunshine and Tapas Galore

You simply can’t talk about warm European destinations without mentioning Spain.

Spain offers an array of climates across its mainland and islands, with the Mediterranean coast and the Canary Islands standing out for their warm weather.

The country boasts vibrant cities, rich history, and a laid-back lifestyle, making it a popular choice for expats. Here are some of the hottest major cities in Spain and their average high/low temperatures in Fahrenheit:

• Malaga: January (63°F/46°F), June (84°F/64°F)
• Valencia: January (61°F/45°F), June (82°F/64°F)
• Barcelona: January (57°F/43°F), June (79°F/66°F)

2. Italy: La Dolce Vita (A Sweet Sunny Life)

Italy isn’t just for the history buffs and foodies—it’s a sunny paradise perfect for nature lovers.

From Rome’s hidden speakeasies to Naples’ buzzing street art scene, Italy has a little something for everyone. Sail along the Amalfi Coast, hike the picturesque trails of Cinque Terre, or chill at a hip beach club in Sardinia. Seriously, with Italy’s awesome climate and diverse experiences, you’ll never want to leave.

• Rome: January (55°F/39°F), June (83°F/64°F)
• Naples: January (55°F/42°F), June (82°F/63°F)
• Palermo: January (59°F/51°F), June (84°F/69°F)

3. Portugal: Catch a Wave and Ride the Good Life

Portugal is a hidden gem when it comes to sunny European living.

Picture yourself catching waves at the famous surf spots in Peniche, strolling through the colorful streets of Lisbon, or dancing at a music festival in Porto.

The Algarve region, with its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere, is a fantastic place to call home, while the Azores Islands offer lush landscapes and epic whale watching.

• Lisbon: January (59°F/47°F), June (79°F/63°F)
• Porto: January (55°F/44°F), June (73°F/57°F)
• Faro (Algarve region): January (61°F/46°F), June (82°F/64°F)

4. Greece: A Sun-Kissed Playground for Adventure Seekers

Greece, with its ancient history, mythology, and breathtaking landscapes, offers one of the warmest climates in Europe.

The mainland and numerous islands feature beautiful weather and friendly locals, making it a top choice for a European home. Here are some of Greece’s hottest major cities and their average high/low temperatures in Fahrenheit:

• Athens: January (56°F/43°F), June (88°F/70°F)
• Thessaloniki: January (50°F/36°F), June (84°F/63°F)
• Heraklion (Crete): January (61°F/48°F), June (82°F/66°F)

5. Cyprus: A Mediterranean Gem Straddling Europe and the Middle East

Cyprus, an enchanting island nation in the eastern Mediterranean, offers a perfect blend of sun-soaked beaches, captivating history, and a warm, welcoming culture.

With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Cyprus is an ideal choice for those looking to embrace a relaxed, outdoor lifestyle.

The island is brimming with activities, from hiking the scenic trails in the Troodos Mountains to exploring the stunning coastline dotted with ancient ruins and picturesque villages.

Cyprus also boasts a lively expat community, making it an easy place to settle down and find new friends.

The island’s unique blend of Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern influences can be seen in its rich culinary scene, making Cyprus a true melting pot for food lovers.

As a member of the European Union, Cyprus offers excellent infrastructure, healthcare, and education, making it an alluring destination for those looking to call the Mediterranean their home.

Although Cyprus is considered by some to be technically part of the Asian continent with ties to the Middle East (and the influence on culture is obvious), this country is considered a part of Europe politically.

Here are some of Cyprus’s hottest major cities and their average high/low temperatures in Fahrenheit:

• Larnaca: January (63°F/48°F), June (86°F/68°F)
• Limassol: January (63°F/50°F), June (84°F/68°F)
• Paphos: January (63°F/46°F), June (82°F/64°F)

6. Malta: A Sun-Drenched Haven for Digital Nomads

Malta, a tiny Mediterranean archipelago, is a hotspot for digital nomads and sun-seekers alike.

With mild winters and a burgeoning tech scene, Malta has become a go-to destination for those looking to escape the cold and grow their careers.

Don’t miss Valletta’s quirky bars, the Instagram-worthy Blue Lagoon, or the eclectic music festivals that happen throughout the year.

• Valletta: January (59°F/50°F), June (84°F/66°F)
• Mdina: January (59°F/48°F), June (84°F/64°F)
• St. Julian’s: January (59°F/50°F), June (84°F/66°F)

7. Madeira, Portugal: A Lush Paradise for Outdoor Lovers

Madeira, Portugal’s picturesque archipelago, is a subtropical haven for those who love to immerse themselves in nature.

With its diverse landscapes, Madeira is perfect for hiking, canyoning, and even paragliding.

Soak up the island vibes at a local farmers’ market, or try the local delicacy, espetada—mouthwatering skewers of marinated beef grilled over an open fire. With its lush surroundings and friendly locals, Madeira is a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Funchal: January (64°F/53°F), June (75°F/63°F)

8. Gibraltar, UK: A Unique Fusion of Cultures and Sun

Nestled on the southern tip of Spain, Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory that offers a unique blend of British and Spanish influences, all wrapped up in a warm Mediterranean climate.

This lively outpost is the perfect spot to explore the Rock of Gibraltar and its fascinating network of tunnels. You can also explore the bustling Main Street, or hang out with the Barbary macaques—Gibraltar’s famous resident monkeys.

Here are the average high/low temperatures for Gibraltar in Fahrenheit:

• Gibraltar: January (63°F/52°F), June (79°F/65°F)

9. Tenerife, Spain: A Subtropical Wonderland

Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, boasts a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round and minimal rainfall.

With diverse landscapes, exciting activities, and a thriving expat community, Tenerife is a great option for those seeking sun and adventure.

Here are the average high/low temperatures for Tenerife’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, in Fahrenheit:

• Santa Cruz de Tenerife: January (69°F/60°F), June (78°F/67°F)

Average High Temperatures by Month (in Fahrenheit) for the Above Mentioned European Cities

The table below includes the average high temperatures for each month for the European cities mentioned above.

This goes without saying, but there are approximations pulled from publicly available data, and actual weather is going to vary from year-to-year. But they should provide you with a pretty good directional look at how these location compare.

Remember: we’re still talking about Europe here. You’re not going to find Caribbean or Maldives style weather, but there are still plenty of warm locations year round and the summers offer perfect beach weather for the Mediterranean coast.

Wrapping up: Your Sun-Soaked European Dream Awaits

Hopefully now you’re one step closer to finding your perfect sun-soaked European home. You don’t have to choose between the rich culture and history of Europe or the warm weather.

And while Europe will never be the absolute warmest place on earth to live, there are plenty of spots for those of us who prefer the beach to the snow.

So take your pick, update your passport, and go check these locations off your bucket list. When you find one that clicks, you’ll know you found your new hot home on the old continent.

The Best Warm Weather Countries in Europe:

1. Spain
2. Italy
3. Portugal
4. Greece
5. Cyprus
6. Malta
7. Madeira, Portugal
8. Gibraltar, UK
9. Tenerife, Spain