These Tropical Escapes Are All Under 8 Hours From London — and Offer Sea, Sand, and Year-Round Sunshine

Tropical destinations close to London, like the Canary Islands and Madeira, offer a perfect escape from the UK’s often chilly weather. With millions of Britons flying to sunny getaways each year, these destinations provide the perfect mix of warm climates, pristine beaches, and lush landscapes—all within an 8-hour flight.

Picture yourself soaking up the sun on Tenerife’s volcanic black sand beaches or exploring Madeira’s verdant levada trails. You don’t have to cross the globe to experience tropical beauty; places like the Azores and Morocco deliver incredible weather, exotic vibes, and a quick trip back to the UK.

We’ve selected these destinations based on accessibility and variety. Whether you want to relax on Gran Canaria’s stunning beaches, experience the vibrant culture of Marrakesh, or hike the dramatic cliffs of São Miguel, these 12 tropical destinations near London will make you feel worlds away—without the long-haul travel.

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Crete, Greece

• 6 hours from London

Crete, Greece, is one of the most popular tropical destinations near London, and with good reason. Like many of Greece’s islands, Crete is famed for its dazzling beaches, historical landmarks, and vibrant towns and cities. Conveniently for travelers from London, you can reach Crete on a direct flight in less than 6 hours.

You’ll likely spend most of your time in Crete exploring the island’s most famous locations, sunbathing on the beaches, and swimming in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. Two popular places to stay on the island are Chania and Heraklion. Stay at the highly rated beachfront Porto Veneziano Hotel in Chania Old Town.

Meanwhile, noteworthy attractions include the Old Venetian Port of Chania, Knossos Palace, and Samariá Gorge. Regarding beaches, don’t miss Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

Travel Tips

• Rent a Car for Flexibility: Renting a car lets you explore remote beaches, villages, and historical sites at your own pace.
• Pack for Warm Weather: Bring lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes for the hot Mediterranean climate, especially in summer.
• Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss local dishes like antikristo and fresh seafood at traditional tavernas. Go to Kapari for Cretan cuisine with a modern twist.

Read also: Top Beach Destinations in Europe

Madeira, Portugal

• Approximately 4 hours from London to Funchal

Madeira, often called the “Island of Eternal Spring,” is a lush subtropical paradise perfect for a quick escape from London. Known for its dramatic cliffs, colorful gardens, and year-round mild weather, Madeira offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

The island’s capital, Funchal, is charming, with cobblestone streets, local markets, and lively nightlife. Don’t miss the Monte Palace Tropical Garden or the iconic toboggan ride down the hill from Monte. For nature lovers, Madeira’s levada trails wind through verdant forests, waterfalls, and panoramic mountain views, offering some of the most unique hiking experiences in Europe.

Madeira is also home to breathtaking beaches, including Praia Formosa and Calheta Beach, where you can unwind on golden sands or swim in crystal-clear waters. Adventure-seekers can try paragliding over the cliffs with the highly rated Madeira Paragliding with friendly and experienced pilots.

Travel Tips

• Try Local Food and Drinks: Madeira wine and the island’s traditional dish, espetada (skewered beef), are must-tries. Go to the top-rated Restaurante Santo Antonio for their espetada.
• Pack Comfortable Shoes: The island’s terrain is steep, so good walking shoes are essential for hiking and exploring.
• Visit During the Flower Festival: Held in spring, this event fills the island with vibrant floral displays and parades.

Read also: Natural Wonders in Europe

Rhodes, Greece

• 6 hours 25 minutes from London

Rhodes is another tropical destination in Greece near London. The largest of the Dodecanese Islands, Rhodes, is one of my favorite places to visit in Greece. It’s only a 6-hour and 25-minute flight from London.

In Rhodes, you can expect world-famous historical landmarks, authentic Greek towns and villages, and magnificent beaches with crystal-clear water and soft sand. Better yet, you’ll also experience temperatures as high as 86°F (30°C) in the summer. Some of the most popular places to stay on the island include Rhodes City, Pefkos, Faliraki, and Lindos.

Regarding attractions, Rhodes has something for everyone. Families can have fun at Waterpark Rhodes. History enthusiasts can explore the medieval Rhodes Old Town, and beachgoers can sunbathe and relax at Elli Beach.

Travel Tips for Rhodes

• Explore Beyond the Main Attractions: Visit less-known places like Archangelos village or Prasonisi beaches.
• Attend Local Festivals: Check for local festivals to experience traditional music, dance, and food, like the festivity for the dormition of Virgin Mary on August 15 in Ialyssos.

Read also: Unique Places To Stay in Europe

Paphos, Cyprus

• 6 hours 25 minutes from London

Paphos, a coastal city in southwest Cyprus, is only a 6-hour and 25-minute flight from London. That makes it one of the closest beach getaway destinations to London, offering tropical vibes. Paphos is a breathtaking city known for its scenic beaches, hot weather, and lively beach resorts.

The city is also well known for its fascinating archaeological sites. When you’re not swimming in the turquoise water off Paphos Municipal Beach, visit the Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos. Other must-visit attractions in Paphos include Venus Beach, the Archaeological Site of the Tombs of the Kings, and Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark. If you visit Paphos between July and August, daily highs will be 86°F (30°C).

Travel Tips

• Use the Local Bus System: Take the affordable local buses (€2 per trip or €6.50 for a full day pass) to explore the city easily without a car.
• Explore the Old Town: Stroll through Paphos Old Town to experience traditional Cypriot architecture and street art.

Read also: Affordable European Beach Destinations

Palma, Spain

• 2 hours 25 minutes from London

Palma, one of the most popular beach resorts on the Spanish island of Mallorca, is only a 2-hour and 25-minute flight from London. It’s also one of the most affordable tropical destinations to travel to from the English capital. You can book a flight to the island for as little as £15 ($18.76).

Palma is the capital of Spain’s Balearic Islands. It’s known across Europe for its beautiful beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and luxurious beach resorts. There are many things to see and do in Palma, but you’ll likely want to spend most of your time on the beaches.

Cala Major, Platja de Palma, and Playa Ciudad Jardin offer powdery sand, turquoise waters, and sunny skies. Sounds perfect.

Travel Tips 

• Use the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Take the bus to visit major attractions like Bellver Castle and the Cathedral easily.
• Explore the Old Town on Foot: Walk through Palma’s charming narrow streets to discover local shops and cafes.
• Visit During Off-Peak Seasons: Plan your trip in spring or fall for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

Read also: Hidden Beaches in Europe

Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain

• 4 hours 15 minutes from London

Lanzarote is one of the most exciting tropical destinations close to London. Despite being considered a part of Spain, Lanzarote is situated off the west coast of Northern Africa. While you might think it’s far away, direct flights from London only take 4 hours and 15 minutes. The island is best known for its impressive landscapes, year-round warm weather, and lively beach resorts.

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One of Lanzarote’s biggest draws is how it offers something for everyone. Beachgoers can enjoy postcard-perfect places like Playa de Papagayo and Playa Grande. Partygoers can have fun in Puerto del Carmen, the island’s party capital. History lovers can explore Castillo de San Gabriel, and outdoor adventurers can hike Peñas del Chache.

Travel Tips

• Rent a Car: Easy access to attractions like Timanfaya National Park and beaches.
• Pack for Activities: Comfortable shoes for hiking and outdoor adventures.
• Try Local Food: Sample seafood and papas arrugadas with mojo sauce. Go to the top-rated Restaurante El Barquillo (El Sótano) for authentic Spanish cuisine.

Read also: Bucket-List Worthy European Destinations

Ölüdeniz, Turkey

• Approximately 5.5 hours from London

Ölüdeniz, a picturesque beach resort in Turkey, is one of the closest tropical destinations in Asia to London. However, you can’t fly directly to Ölüdeniz as there is no airport. Instead, you’ll have to catch a flight to Dalaman before getting a taxi, car, or bus to Ölüdeniz. 

The flight time from London to Dalaman is 4 hours and 5 minutes. Your journey from Dalaman Airport to Ölüdeniz will take approximately one hour and 15 minutes. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by sunny skies, hot weather, and a gorgeous coastline with white sand beaches and turquoise waters. 

Ölüdeniz Plajı, Kumburnu Plajı, and Kumburnu Plajı are three places you can enjoy the warm climate.

Travel Tips

• Take a Dolmuş: A cheap, frequent minibus from Fethiye to Ölüdeniz, costing about 7.5 Turkish lira (0.30 USD).
• Visit Butterfly Valley: Take a boat trip to this secluded spot with hiking and stunning views. It costs around USD 65 per person.
• Try Paragliding: Paragliding from Babadag Mountain offers amazing coastal views at reasonable prices.

Read also: Hidden European Gems

Agadir, Morocco

• Approximately 4 hours from London

Agadir is Morocco’s premier beach destination, offering golden sands, warm Atlantic waters, and a tropical vibe just a short flight from London. This coastal city is known for its palm-lined boulevards, bustling souks, and year-round sunshine.

Relax on Agadir Beach, where you can lounge under the sun or take part in watersports like surfing and jet-skiing. For a more cultural experience, explore the Souk El Had, one of Morocco’s largest markets, where you’ll find everything from spices and handcrafted goods to traditional Moroccan textiles. It is open 9 AM – 9 PM every day except Monday.

Agadir’s beachfront promenade is perfect for evening strolls, offering stunning ocean views and access to excellent seafood restaurants like Pure Passion. For a dose of history, head to the ruins of Agadir Oufella, a hilltop kasbah that provides breathtaking views over the city.

Travel Tips

• Pack Sunscreen: The sun in Agadir is intense, even in winter, so don’t forget to protect your skin.
• Learn Basic Bargaining Skills: Negotiating prices is common in the souks and can lead to great deals.

Read also: Amazing Tropical Destinations

Hvar, Croatia

• Approximately six hours from London (no direct flight)

Hvar, Croatia, is only a 4-hour and 10-minute flight and a 1-hour and 50-minute drive from London. To get there, you’ll fly into Split before transferring to Hvar by bus, car, or taxi. Most vacation packages from London include a bus transfer to your resort in Hvar. 

Hvar is a beautiful seaside town on a Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea. It’s loved most for its scenic coastline, luxury beach resorts, and memorable architecture. Numerous bridges connect the island to mainland Croatia. 

Spending your entire vacation in Hvar at the beach can be tempting, but there is much to see. Notable attractions include the 13th-century walls, Fortica Fortress, and Baterija. Meanwhile, Pokonji dol Beach, Strand Mekićevica, and Beach Križna Luka are among the best beaches.

Travel Tips

• Book Ferry Tickets Early: Book tickets from Split to Hvar in advance, especially in summer.
• Explore Beyond Hvar Town: Visit towns like Stari Grad and Jelsa for a more relaxed experience and local cuisine.
• Try Local Wine: Taste Hvar’s famous wines, and consider a vineyard tour to learn about the wine-making process.

Read also: Hidden Tropical Islands

Sousse, Tunisia

• 7 hours 20 minutes from London (no direct flight)

Sousse, Tunisia, is one of the best tropical places close to London for travelers who want to maximize their 8 hours of travel time. This stunning coastal city in Northern Africa is a 7-hour and 20-minute journey from London. You’ll take a flight from London, transfer to France, and carry on to Monastir Airport, 8.5 miles (13.7 kilometers) from Sousse.

This journey is long, but the rewards well outweigh the effort. When you arrive in Sousse, you’ll understand why. This famous beach resort city offers tropical white sand beaches with palm trees, turquoise water, and beachfront resorts.

Furthermore, the city regularly experiences highs of 86°F (30°C) in the summer. What’s not to like?

Travel Tips

• Explore the Medina: Wander narrow streets, markets, and local crafts.
• Visit the Ribat Early: Go early for views and fewer crowds.
• Try Local Street Food: Try makroudh and seafood from local stalls.

Read also: Underrated Tropical Destinations

Sarandë, Albania

• Approximately seven hours from London (no direct flight)

Sarandë is one of the best hidden-gem destinations near London. This is partly because you can’t fly directly into the coastal city. While not tropical in the traditional sense, you can still easily get to Sarandë in under 7 hours. 

To get to Sarandë, you must take a 3-hour flight from London to Tirana and then a car, taxi, or bus from Tirana to Sarandë. The journey from Tirana to Sarandë takes approximately three hours and 50 minutes. You can often add your transfer to Sarandë in your holiday booking.

In Sarandë, you’ll find white-sand beaches, fascinating landmarks, and warm weather. The city’s must-visit attractions include Sarandë and Mango beaches, Saranda Embankment, and Lëkurësi Castle.

Travel Tips

• Book Transfers Early: Pre-book your transfer from Tirana to Sarandë for a stress-free journey.
• Visit Butrint National Park: Explore the UNESCO site for ancient ruins and scenic views.
• Try Local Cuisine: Sample traditional Albanian dishes, especially fresh seafood and grilled meats.

Read also: Affordable Beach Destinations Around the World

Durrës, Albania

• Approximately four hours from London (no direct flight)

Durrës, Albania, is another tropical-esque destination that isn’t far away from London. Like Sarandë, Durrës features a stunning stretch of coastline with sparkling turquoise waters, powdery sand, and sunny skies. However, you can get to Durrës much quicker than you can get to Sarandë.

You can get to Durrës in less than 4 hours from London. This includes a 3-hour flight to Tirana and a 1-hour drive. In Durrës, beachgoers are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding somewhere to relax. You can relax, sunbathe, and swim at Durrës Beach, Plazhi i Currilave, and the nearby Plazhi i Golemit. 

Durrës itself also has many things to see, including Durrës Amphitheatre, Rrota e Kuqe, and the Venetian Tower of Durrës. 

Travel Tips

• Use Public Transport: Take a bus from Tirana to Durrës for a cheap and easy ride, costing around 300 lek (USD 3).
• Visit Early: Go early to historical sites like the Durrës Amphitheatre to avoid crowds.

Read also: Top Tropical Destinations

Dubrovnik, Croatia

• 3 hours from London

Dubrovnik, Croatia, is one of the easiest tropical destinations to reach from London. You can travel from Stansted, London, directly to Dubrovnik in under 3 hours. Dubrovnik is a fascinating beach getaway destination. 

While it offers many places to enjoy crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and sunny weather, the city is best known for its ancient history. In fact, you’ll likely spend more time exploring Dubrovnik Old Town than relaxing on the beaches. In Dubrovnik Old Town, which appeared in the Game of Thrones series, you’ll find many iconic landmarks.

For starters, the Walls of Dubrovnik offer an excellent insight into the city. You also don’t want to miss Fort Lovrijenac, Pile Gate, and Stradun.

Travel Tips

• Book Accommodations Early: Reserve your stay in advance, especially in summer, as places fill up quickly.
• Walk the City Walls: Enjoy stunning views of the city and sea while walking the Dubrovnik City Walls, which take around 1.5-2 hours.
• Try Local Cuisine: Sample Croatian dishes like seafood, peka, and local wines at konobas (taverns).

Read also: Tropical Destinations To Visit in Your Lifetime

Sardinia, Italy

• 4 hours 25 minutes from London

Sardinia, an Italian island in the Mediterranean Sea, is one of the most highly-rated beach destinations close to London. A direct flight from London takes 4 hours and 25 minutes to reach Cagliari, the island capital. Sardinia is known worldwide for its mesmerizing beaches, picturesque mountains, and charming towns and cities.

We love how Sardinia has something to offer every kind of traveler. Sun-seeking travelers can sunbathe on La Pelosa Beach and Cala Mariolu. History enthusiasts can explore Bastione di Saint Remy. Families can have fun at Aqua Fantasy, and food lovers can overindulge in pizza and pasta. 

If that doesn’t sound like the perfect summer vacation, we don’t know what does.

Travel Tips

• Rent a Car: Rent a car to explore beaches and towns at your own pace.
• Plan Multiple Bases: Split your stay between areas like Cagliari, Alghero, and Costa Smeralda for variety.
• Visit Local Markets: Explore markets like San Benedetto in Cagliari for fresh produce and Sardinian specialties.

Read also: Incredible European Landscapes

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