The sunniest European cities are named
Holidu, a vacation rental search engine, decided to find cities where the sun is 100% guaranteed. Using data from World Weather Online, they calculated the average number of hours of sunshine per month and created the best guide for sun lovers.
Find out about the sunniest cities in Europe, as well as tips on the best places for sunsets, rooftops, and beaches in each of them. This was reported by holidu.co.
1. Alicante, Spain - an average of 349 hours of sunshine per month
Alicante is the sunniest city in Europe! With an average of 349 hours of sunshine per month, Alicante is a top destination for sun-seeking travellers. The city is known for its stunning Costa Blanca coastline with wide public beaches where you can soak up the sand or get out on the water and try your hand at some water sports. Alicante boasts a colourful old town, a large number of museums and historical sites, a variety of excellent restaurants and a vibrant nightlife. It has something to offer all travellers.
2. Catania, Italy - an average of 347 hours of sunshine per month
The first Italian city in this ranking is Catania, the ancient port city of Sicily! Catania is located on the east coast of Sicily at the foot of the famous active volcano Etna. The Baroque "old town" of Catania is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so history and culture lovers will be amazed to see such sights as the Palazzo Biscari and Piazza Duomo. To make the most of the beautiful weather, head to La Playa, a favourite beach for locals.
3. Murcia, Spain - an average of 346 hours of sunshine per month
The third place is occupied by Murcia, the capital of the region of the same name in southeastern Spain. The coastal part of the region is actually known as Costa Calida because of its microclimate, thanks to which the water in the region remains warm throughout the year. Endless beaches with small coves are ideal for swimming, water sports and leisurely sunbathing. It also has a historic city centre and magnificent works of architecture, including the Plaza Cardenal Belluga.
4. Malaga, Spain - an average of 345 hours of sunshine per month
The port city of Malaga is located on the southern coast of Spain, the Costa del Sol, and is a favourite tourist destination all year round, especially during the warm summer months. The modern skyline of Malaga is home to a variety of hotels and resorts that are located along the sandy beach, making it ideal for a city break with the beach nearby. Malaga also has a lot to offer culturally. It is also the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, so don't forget to visit the Museo Picasso when you're there.
5. Messina, Italy - an average of 345 hours of sunshine per month
In fifth place with an average of 345 hours of sunshine per month, we return to Italy, namely Messina, the third largest city on the island of Sicily. This port city is a thriving destination for tourist cruise ships and is located in the northeastern part of the island. Its location means that it offers a wide variety of beautiful coastlines to choose from as soon as you dock in the city. Messina also boasts an amazing regional museum and one of the best cathedrals in Sicily, the Norman Cathedral of Messina, which has marble fountains nearby.
6. Valencia, Spain - an average of 343 hours of sunshine per month
Valencia is the sixth sunniest city in Europe, with an average of 343 hours of sunshine per month each year. Located on the southeastern coast of Spain, this port city is a real treat for those who want a city break combined with a beach vacation. Visit the famous Valencia Museum of Arts and Sciences or wander its streets and squares dotted with tapas bars, and be sure to try paella as Valencia is the birthplace of this iconic dish.
7. Nice, France - an average of 342 hours of sunshine per month
In seventh place we have Nice located on the French Riviera. Nice offers visitors sandy beaches, great bars and restaurants, a large number of cultural and architectural offerings and, on top of it all, a fantastic climate! Nice is home to one of the most famous roads in France, the Promenade des Anglais, which stretches for 7 miles and is lined with restaurants, beach clubs and ice cream shops.
8. Las Palmas, Spain - an average of 341 hours of sunshine per month
The capital of Gran Canaria is Las Palmas, the largest city in the Canary Islands. It is a popular base for travellers wishing to explore the volcanic islands. It is an ideal destination during the off-peak months as the average temperature in Las Palmas is 21 degrees in October and November. Playa de las Canteras, a 2 and a half mile long sandy beach, attracts visitors all year round.
9. Granada, Spain - an average of 341 hours of sunshine per month
The mythical Spanish city of Granada takes the 9th position in this ranking. The city of Nasrid is full of romance, magic and beautiful places to escape to with your partner. Its historic centre at the foot of the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada will transport you to a fascinating past where numerous cultures intersect, which are beautifully reflected in the architecture and daily life of the city. You won't find better plans than a stroll through the narrow streets of the Albaicin neighbourhood, which will lead you to see one of the most incredible sunsets in the world in front of the Alhambra. You can also enjoy a charming stroll along the Paseo de los Tristes to Sacromonte with its beautiful streets full of smells and flamenco atmosphere.
10. Palermo, Italy - an average of 340 hours of sunshine per month
In Palermo, the capital of the island of Sicily, an average of 340 hours of sunshine per month is illuminated. This city offers tourists authentic Sicilian street food, Italy's largest opera house and many historic buildings listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city has an average of 340 hours of sunshine per month. Palermo is ideal for sun lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Earlier, TravelWise reported on the best budget cities in Europe for your next trip.
