Europe winter sun holidays: ITALIAN TRIP ABROAD | Best UK Travel Couple Blog 2020

Walk around the city markets to try out homemade mole and mezcal to keep you satiated as you wander around the city taking in the colourful street art. Oaxaca is best explored on foot, starting in the Zocalo (the city centre) and working your way out into the popular neighbourhoods. Once you’ve had your fill of the city, take a day trip to Monte Alban, well-preserved archaeological ruins.

6. Koh Lanta, Thailand

While partygoers may fare better on Koh Phangan, home of the Full Moon Party, Koh Lanta is perfect for a relaxed beach holiday in the middle of winter. A holiday in Thailand isn’t complete without warm weather and sunny days, and Koh Lanta delivers with temperatures in the low 30s°C and clear skies (at least in January and February).

Do as the other travellers do and grab a scooter to explore the island on two wheels, heading for the southern beaches. With snorkelling and paddle boarding available, you’ll have plenty of activities to fill your days.

The best destinations for a winter city break

If your tactic for surviving the long winter is to face the cold head on, then you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing a destination. Much of Europe turns into a winter wonderland, with festive markets, winter sports and, if you’re lucky, some snow too.

You may even want to make the most of the chilly weather by booking an action-packed luxury ski holiday. But if skiing isn’t your thing, there are so many great spots to explore this winter instead.

Here are our favourite places for a wintertime city break.

Budapest

Hungary’s capital city is one of our favourite city break destinations all year round, but the city is especially beautiful during the winter months. Yes, you’ll have to wrap up pretty warm to admire Budapest’s famous outdoor attractions like Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament buildings, but it’s so worth it.

After some exploring, you can experience one of Budapest’s world-renowned hot baths, some of which are heated up to 40°C and beyond. Perhaps the most famous of them all, Széchenyi Thermal Baths shouldn’t be missed; head to the heated outdoor pools for an unforgettable wintertime experience.

Reykjavik

Speaking of winter wonderlands, Reykjavik is an excellent place for a winter city break – if you’re happy to embrace the cold! This compact city is small enough to explore on foot and you can always duck into one of Reykjavik’s many cosy cafes to warm yourself up.

And, if you’re up for a bigger adventure, you can explore more of the landscapes that make a trip to Iceland so memorable. Head off to the Golden Circle to see some of the country’s most spectacular natural attractions or head off on a guided tour of an ice cave.

Copenhagen

With its rows of colourful and photogenic buildings that really seem to pop against a backdrop of fresh snow, Copenhagen has to be one of the prettiest places you can choose for a European winter city break.

Take in the city’s most famous sights, including the Little Mermaid and Christiansborg Palace, or have a lengthy brunch at one of the city’s hip cafes. For a little bit of Christmas all year round, head to Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, which is packed full of rides and delicious food options.

London

Sometimes you don’t have to go too far to find a fantastic city break destination, and this is certainly the case with London. The UK capital is packed with all sorts of things to do, from exploring the chilly Royal Parks to its wealth of indoor attractions, including the Natural History Museum and St Paul’s Cathedral.

London is also a top choice for anyone in need of some retail therapy or for foodies, as this city is packed with some of the best restaurants in the world. London offers so much variety that you may just forget that you’re only on a staycation!

Helsinki

While many travellers head to northern Finland to meet Santa and his reindeer over Christmas, a winter city break to Helsinki shouldn’t be dismissed. The Finnish capital is packed with all sorts of things to do, including some wholesome winter activities.

After taking in popular attractions like Helsinki Cathedral, Old Market Hall and the Design Museum, hop on a ferry to Suomenlinna; this sea fortress is especially beautiful in winter. Warm up afterwards with a visit to a traditional Finnish sauna.

Tallinn

A popular day trip from Helsinki, Tallinn is completely worthy of its own winter city break. It also happens to be one of the more affordable options on our list. The Estonian capital is packed with attractions to explore, as well as unique experiences.

Explore Tallinn’s pretty Old Town, where you can even ice skate during the winter months, and don’t miss out on a visit to the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. End your day with an evening at Olde Hansa, a medieval restaurant that pulls out all the stops!

The best winter ski holidays

Love the cold and want to experience all that winter has to offer? Why not opt for a winter ski holiday? There are a number of European destinations that are renowned for their skiing and snowboarding holidays – Italy, France, Switzerland and Austria, to name but a few!

As with all of the most popular ski destinations, you’ll want to book well ahead if you have a particular ski resort in mind. But you can find plenty of decent last-minute ski holiday deals too, especially if you’re flexible when it comes to the destination.

Just make sure that your chosen resort offers all the amenities your group may need and always double check whether there’s any ski or snowboarding equipment you can hire while you’re out there! Lastly, remember to soak it all up – a ski holiday is one of the best ways to embrace winter and all it has to offer.

Winter spa and wellness breaks

Winter is the perfect time to slow down and relax, which is exactly why spa and wellness holidays are so popular during these colder months!

Whether you’re keen to experience some pampering or healthy living as part of a staycation or somewhere abroad, your winter wellness holiday will provide everything you need to go into spring feeling fresh.

As with any spa or wellness break, make sure that you’re well acquainted with what your chosen accommodation or provider is offering, from the included spa treatments to the included activities, classes and experiences.

Quite frankly, we’re jealous – and have no doubt that you’ll find the ultimate blissful spa and wellness break deal this winter.

Top bucket list-worthy winter holiday destinations

If a spot of winter sun or a cosy winter break isn’t quite enough for you, why not go really big and tick off a bucket list experience this winter?

No matter what ‘bucket list’ means to you, whether that’s a big adventure holiday or a luxury five-star hotel stay, don’t let the cold weather stop you from going all out. In fact, the timing might mean you find an unusually cheap deal to your dream destination.

To help get your inspiration going, here are some fun bucket list experiences for the upcoming winter.

Maldives

For us – especially in winter – every image of the Maldives seems to scream ‘bucket list’. It’s not exactly the cheapest destination around but every penny you decide to splash here really pays off. As an added bonus, the temperature hovers around 30°C throughout the UK’s winter months.

Splurge by booking a waterside chalet at one of the Maldives’ gorgeous beach resorts; some of the fanciest have the run of their own entire island – ideal for really feeling like you’re getting away from it all. While here, try your hand at snorkelling or hop on a boat cruise.

Australia

Another destination that requires some time to get to, Australia is an unbeatable destination to visit during the UK’s long winter. For one, you’ll be visiting during the country’s summer months and, secondly, Australia is packed with bucket list experiences.

Hire a campervan and take a lengthy road trip along the coastline on stretches like the Great Ocean Road or the east coast with stops in Sydney and Brisbane. If you’re willing to brave the intense heat, check out the interior instead at places like Uluru and Kings Canyon.

Egypt

Whether you’re drawn to Egypt for its impressively long history or its lovely beaches, winter is a great time to visit. Not only will the weather be pleasantly mild, with highs of 22°C (perfect for some outdoor exploring), but you’ll also find that attractions and tours are in full swing as this is Egypt’s peak travel season!

For this reason, it’s best to book ahead for the cheapest prices. But what could be better than finally seeing those ancient pyramids in person, followed by some chill time at one of Egypt’s excellent beach resorts?

Lapland

We think it’s safe to say that seeing the Northern Lights is on just about everyone’s bucket list, and the Arctic Circle is one of the prime locations to see this breathtaking natural phenomenon.

Although Lapland is officially part of a few different countries, most people associate this part of the world with northern Finland. It’s here that you can find Santa’s headquarters, herds of free-roaming reindeer and cosy wooden holiday resorts. It’s the ultimate place for a winter holiday.

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Sunny winter holidays. We are extending the summer.

If you like sunbathing and swimming, we invite you to do it during the winter holidays. It is not at all necessary to freeze in winter, especially since there are many places where you can again enjoy the summer sun and the gentle sea.

Tulum, Mexico 28C.

Tulum, on the East Coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, nestled among Mayan ruins on the shores of the sparkling Caribbean Sea. Tulum Playa has many restaurants, bars and boutique hotels. Local fishermen, becoming guides, will show you the mangrove swamps and other interesting places in the reserve. Diving in the nearby cenotes (underground caves and tunnels) and snorkeling around the coral reefs will be an unforgettable experience for you in these places. The ruined Mayan city and the thatched huts on Luna Beach will amaze you with their exotic beauty. nine0003

Orotava, Tenerife, 21C.

Orotava is an aristocratic city in the north of Tenerife. Wealthy families settled here after the Spanish conquest, and their mansions and churches still adorn the town. The city is full of quaint museums, botanical gardens and chic restaurants. The city is located in the Orotava valley, between the mountains Teide (Teide) and Anaga (Anaga) has a lively nightlife and magnificent beaches with volcanic sand.

Miami Beach, Florida. 26C.
Winter in South Beach, Miami means sun, shopping and cultural offerings. Museums, art galleries and theaters you will find here in abundance. A walking tour of the art deco district will allow you to understand the deeper historical roots of these places and try local food in small restaurants. nine0003

Essaouria, Morocco, 21C.

Essaouria is a beach town with a relaxed atmosphere and constant sea breeze. Marrakesh and the magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean beyond the ramparts surrounding the Medina will amaze you with their grandeur. Great wind and good waves have made these places very popular among kite surfers. Camel and horseback riding will allow you to get acquainted with the nature and beauties of the local coast.

Diani, Kenya 31C

Diani is a resort on the Indian Ocean coast, south of Mombasa. The area is known for the Colobus primates. Whale sharks will keep you company in joint swims from October to March. Kaya Kinondo, a sacred forest for the indigenous people, can be visited as part of an ecotourism project. nine0003

O Lanthe, Thailand.

Lanta is an island in the Andaman Sea off the southwest coast of Thailand. Nine white sandy beaches have become a favorite destination for divers. The island is home to many cultures, including the Sea Gypsies who settled in the coastal village, having their own language, beliefs and rituals. The old town, caves and your own beach bungalow will surround you with an incredible mix of exotic experiences.

Puerto Rico, 29C

San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, makes this an interesting winter destination with a magnificent fortress and citadel on both sides of the old city’s narrow streets, as well as numerous historic buildings within the city’s ancient walls. El Condado and Isla Verde have the best beaches. There are numerous hiking trails in the El Yunque forest. Gallery Inn in Old San Juan, a unique boutique hotel created by the artist-owner of six 9 townhouses0013 Kent, England, 30C

Kent is not known for its tropical climate, but thanks to its private sandy beach (Retreat Beach Sun, Dymchurch), you can relax and sunbathe here all year round. Swedish technology for reproducing sunlight allows you to filter out harmful rays and constantly reproduce sunlight that is more beneficial than natural sun. Such a sun is useful for mild forms of arthritis and people suffering from eczema.

Inhabitants of many countries suffer from insufficient number of sunny days. “Getting” one or two weeks of sunshine after spending the winter holidays in one of the warm countries is good for health and good mood for the entire period until the next vacation. A trip to many countries is not expensive at all, so if you do not like warm beer, feel free to go on vacation in the winter. nine0003

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Winter holidays: 15 amazing ski resorts

If you love snow, we can rejoice that the ski season in Europe is going to be hot this year.

Après-ski with champagne and cocktails, long runs, cross-country skiing, alpine skiing and extreme slopes – our list contains a wide variety of options for your ski holidays in Europe.

From Switzerland to Spain, from Italy to Austria, every resort is a great choice for your winter vacation. nine0003

Each destination on our list is part of the airBaltic route network. Already a few hours after landing, you can climb the mountains and cut through the slopes.

Here are the places we think are the best for skiing and snowboarding.

• Munich, Germany
  • Garmisch-Partenkirchen
  • Zugspitze
  • Zillertal
  • KitzSki
• Milan, Italy
  • Livigno
• Salzburg, Austria
  • Obertauern
  • Bad Gastein
• Vienna, Austria
  • Ski Arlberg
  • Ötscher
• Zurich, Switzerland
  • Flumserberg
  • Engelberg
• Geneva, Switzerland
  • Praz de Lys
• Verona, Italy
  • Madonna di Campiglio Garmisch-Classic .

    It was here that the Olympic Games were held in 1936, where the best athletes of the world demonstrated their abilities, and the resort has not lost its popularity to this day.

    The trails stretch for 40 kilometers on three different slopes, forming a huge snowy “playground” suitable for both beginners and professionals.

    The latter will be delighted with the full adrenaline of the seven-kilometer descent, which begins at an altitude of 1800 meters above sea level. This is definitely one of the most exciting tracks in all of Germany. nine62 meters high.

    From the impressive height of the slopes of this resort, you can see the mountains of four neighboring states and many towns, which from a height seem to be only small dots on a white background.

    The slopes here are suitable for both beginners and intermediate skiers who want to challenge themselves. In the evenings, you can take the cable car up the Zugspitze mountain, where there is a restaurant and an observation deck with a stunning panorama.

    Photo on Instagram

    The largest resort is Zillertal Arena . This is the most popular choice as it has a bit of everything, while other resorts are more suitable for families, freestylers and steep descents.

    Photo on Instagram

    The entire Zillertal has been voted the best mountain valley in 2021, so there is nothing to worry about here.

    You can also easily reach this place by flying into Salzburg.

    As for the trails, their length reaches 234 kilometers, so here everyone will find something to their liking. In addition, the gentle slopes are free of charge, making KitzSki one of the best ski resorts in Europe for beginners.

    What are you waiting for?

    Total length of slopes: 234 km
    Number of lifts: 57
    Altitude: 1630 m – 2313 m

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    Milan, Italy

    Livigno (Livigno)

    Livigno is one of the finest ski resorts in all of Italy, if not all of Europe. Gentle mountains, stunning snow cover and plenty of blue, red and black runs to choose from mean this is the perfect destination for skiers of all levels. nine0003

    There are also 30 km of cross-country skiing trails that fans of this sport will love, making Livigno the perfect destination for a ski holiday in Europe this season.

    Total routes: 115 km
    Number of lifts: 32
    Height: 1816 m – 2798 m

    Buy airlines in Milan

    9000 9000 9000 OBARG, ASTRARG, ASSTRIA, Austri nine0147

    Photo on Instagram

    Obertauern is one of the coziest ski resorts in Austria – it was here that The Beatles filmed part of the film Help! in 1965.

    Obertauern is located south of Salzburg and still has a fun atmosphere. Obertauern puts a lot of emphasis on après-ski entertainment – the resort has plenty of restaurants and terraces for a drink, as well as hot springs for warming up and enjoying fantastic views after a long day on the slopes. nine0003

    Snow cover is guaranteed from November to May, the ski lifts are of the highest quality, and the slopes are also open in the evenings – it is obvious that the smile will not disappear from your face throughout the holiday.

    Photo Onstagram

    Total routes: 100 km
    The number of lifting: 26
    Height: 1630 m-2313 m

    BAD GASTEIN (BAD-HASTEIN) Janis Jekabsons

    Bad Gastein is one of the most popular spas in the Austrian Gastein Valley.

    From this town you will have access to the Schlossalm-Angertal-Stubnerkogel ski resort, which offers a wide range of slopes and is also great for family skiing.

    The red and black pistes are more suitable for advanced skiers, while on the other side of town there is a lift that takes you up the Graukogel mountain, an alpine area lined with trees, with long and difficult slopes that will challenge even the most experienced skiers . nine0003

    In the evenings, this cozy town seems to be made for a hearty dinner with a large mug of beer.

    Total routes: 84 km
    The number of lifts: 18
    Height: 860 m – 2300 m

    Air tickets to Salzburg

    9000 9000 9000

    , Austria

    , Austria, Austrian

    Photo on Instagram

    Austrian ski slopes Ski Arlberg have a total length of 303 km. The resort can be reached from several fabulous towns: St. Anton, St. Christoph, Stuben, Lech, Zürs, Warth and Schreken.

    Despite the fact that this place is extremely popular among Europeans, traditional Austrian hospitality and warmth have been preserved in the local villages.

    The slopes meet all the requirements of a high-class ski resort: there are steep slopes, exciting snow parks and permanent competition tracks, so you will definitely spend an unforgettable time here and decide to come back here next year. nine0003

    The hardest thing will be deciding which village to stay in. We recommend St. Anton.

    Total routes: 305 km
    Number of lifts: 88
    Height: 1300 m – 2811 m

    ötscher

    ) from Vienna, take a look at

    Ötscher . This resort, located just 150 kilometers from the city, is proud of its stunning scenery of the Lower Austrian Alps. nine0003

    This is a great resort for families: children and beginner skiers can have fun on one side of the mountain, while on the other side there are more difficult routes for experienced skiers.

    Beautiful pistes complement stunning mountain scenery that you will remember long after you return home.

    Total length of slopes: 19 km
    Number of lifts: 6
    Height: 812 m – 1426 m

    They make sure that the quality of the slopes is perfect both in November and in April.

    Friday evenings are especially interesting here, because then the lights turn on on the pistes and they open for evening skiing.

    Photo on Flumserberg

    Total routes: 65 km
    The number of lifts: 17
    Height: 665 m – 2222 m

    9000 9000 9000

    EngelBERG (Engelberg)

    0002 The list of ski resorts in Europe would be incomplete if we did not mention Engelberg , whose name translates as the mountain of angels. This is a very appropriate name for a fantastic place where the ski season starts as early as October and lasts until May.

    Photo on Instagram

    This resort is ideal for beginners as all three mountains in the resort have plenty of easy slopes that can be accessed directly from the city, as well as some excellent ski schools. nine0003

    Experienced skiers will also have a great time thanks to Mount Titlis and the stunning glacier.

    The village of Valley is home to a 12th-century Benedictine monastery that only cements its position as one of the best ski resorts in the world.

    Total length of slopes: 82 km
    Number of lifts: 23
    Altitude: 1003 m – 3020 m

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    Geneva, Switzerland

    Praz de Lys

    If you were to ask where is the best place to ski in Europe, chances are that Praz de Lys would not be mentioned in the answer. But this does not mean at all that skiing is not worth it here, rather the opposite.

    When it comes to skiing, this is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets and the most outstanding ski resort you’ll ever hear of. It is located in the French Alps, just 65 kilometers from Geneva: you only need to cross the border into France and you are already in the mountains. nine0003

    Although Praz de Lys has six black slopes, it will be interesting for families, children and cross-country skiers. The legendary region of Chamonix has a unique, highly varied landscape and stunning views of Mont Blanc.

    Its slopes will pleasantly surprise not only skiers, but also photography enthusiasts: sunsets cover the picturesque mountain peaks with gold, and this is a must see.

    Photo on Instagram

    Total length of tracks: 53 km
    Number of lifts: 24
    Height: 1500 m – 2000 m

    Air Flights to Geneva

    Verona, Italy

    Madonna di Campiglio (Madonna Cadono) Instagram

    It should be noted that not only romantics in love, inspired by the story of Romeo and Juliet, fly to Verona. This place is also loved by connoisseurs of winter sports, because here is one of the most famous ski resorts in Italy – Madonna di Campiglio .

    Located at an altitude of 1550 meters, it is perfect for a family winter holiday and there is plenty to do besides skiing.

    For example, you can fly over snow-covered fields on a paraglider, climb a frozen waterfall or spend a day cross-country skiing. Add to that dog sledding, ice skating and snowshoeing and you have a true winter wonderland in the magnificent Dolomites.

    Photo Onstagram

    Total routes: 156 km
    The number of lifts: 57
    Height: 852 m – 2504 m

    Buy Verona

    9000

    9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 Gudauri Region (Region Gudauri)

    Countries like Georgia are often overlooked when planning winter holidays, although there are excellent opportunities for skiers.

    Gudauri is the largest ski resort in the country, where you can cut through the snowy slopes of the mountain range that separates Europe and Asia.

    One and a half meters of snow covers the slopes of different difficulty levels from December to April, but the main asset of this Eastern European resort is the endless possibilities for unusual adventures.

    Photo on Instagram

    For example, try heli-skiing and a helicopter will take you to one of the extreme places where you can go down on fresh untouched snow, and in the evening warm up in the bathhouse and prepare for a new day. nine0003

    The total duration of the tracks: 34.8 km
    The number of lifts: 15
    Height: 1993 m- 3276 m

    Buy flights to Tbilisi

    9000

    9000 9000

    , Spain

    , Spain

    , Spain Beret (Baqueira-Beret)

    Photo on Instagram

    If you’re thinking of a ski holiday for Christmas, put Spain at the top of your list of destinations.