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Warm winter holidays in europe: The 15 WARMEST Places to Visit in Europe This Winter

Опубликовано: December 31, 2019 в 10:12 am

Автор: alexxlab

Категории: Miscellaneous

The 15 WARMEST Places to Visit in Europe This Winter

When you think of ‘warm winter getaways’, it’s usually not European cities that come to mind.
Most people think of islands in the Caribbean, safaris in Africa, or over-water bungalows in the Maldives. However, Europe has some decently warm cities during winter, many more than you might have previously thought.

Just because it’s winter doesn’t meant you have to scratch Europe off your holiday bucket list. We’ve researched all the warmest places you can travel to in Europe during the winter months of December, January, February and March.

Why visit Europe in winter?
As you will see in the places mentioned below, a pattern starts to emerge. All of these European cities during the winter months are cheaper, less crowded, and free of sweltering 35+ degree weather, making it a great time of year to visit.

While everyone else is on a crowded beach in Cancun, you can be checking some insanely beautiful countries off your bucket list, and not freeze your buns off at the same time. Here are the warmest places with the highest temperatures to visit in Europe this winter.

-Malta-

1. Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands are a cluster of beautiful Spanish islands just off the coast of Morocco and only a 4 hour flight from London. These islands boast some of the warmest and sunniest weather in Europe during winter.

Which island should you visit?
You really can’t go wrong with any of them, but the most popular are Tenerife, Grand Canaria, and Lanzarote. No matter where you end up be prepared for endless amounts of outdoor activities, sports, hiking and natural wonders.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 21°c – 70°f
January: 20°c – 68°f
February: 20°c – 68°f
March: 21°c – 70°f

2. Limassol, Cyprus

Not only is Limassol fairly warm throughout the winter months, but it’s also a city that has the best of both worlds. You’ll love the mixture of modern areas with the strikingly beautiful old town.

The narrow stone streets wind out from the old fishing harbour with buildings dating back to medieval times. Combine that with beaches, castles and Greek ruins and Limassol is a winter getaway you won’t regret.

Any city in beautiful Cyprus will have similar temperate weather because of the island’s location in the far east of the Mediterranean Sea.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 18°c – 65°f
January: 17°c – 63°f
February: 17°c – 63°f
March: 20°c – 68°f

3. Azores Islands, Portugal

The Azores Islands sitting along in the North Atlantic Ocean have been long referred to as “Europe’s Hawaii” and it’s not hard to see why. Waterfalls, volcanos, natural thermal pools, mountains, lush greenery and miles of beaches are just some of the similarities.

Many people haven’t even heard of the Azores before and that’s a good thing! Enjoy the unspoilt nature while you still can!

If you need to get out of the snow, fly into the Azores direct from New York in 5.5 hours, or from Lisbon in 2 hours.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 18°c – 65°f
January: 17°c – 63°f
February: 16°c – 61°f
March: 17°c – 63°f

4. Seville, Spain

Seville is officially the warmest city year round in continental Europe and winter is a great time to visit. While you might get caught in the occasional downpour, it’s much better than trying to visit in summer when temperatures commonly reach over 40°C! Ouch!

Winter brings less tourists and much lower prices, with even some of the highest rated hotels coming down to under $100 a night.

You won’t run out of gorgeous cathedrals, handsome museums and fine art shows to fill your days with.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 17°c – 63°f
January: 16°c – 61°f
February: 18°c – 65°f
March: 21°c – 70°f

5. Faro, Portugal

Faro is the southernmost city in Portugal and the perfect getaway spot for someone seeking quiet R&R time. It’s a quaint and charming town offering an escape from the hustle and bustle, and has warm weather in winter unlike most of Europe.

Just like in Seville, tourist numbers are lowest in winter, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t lots to do. The winter season only bring around 5 days of rain each month, so there are still many sunny days to golf, beach walk, bird watch and cycle.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 17°c – 63°f
January: 16°c – 61°f
February: 17°c – 63°f
March: 19°c – 66°f

6.

Gibraltar, UK

Many people have heard of the ‘The Rock of Gibraltar’, but not as many could place it on a map. (Especially us North Americans!)

Gibraltar is a tiny 6 square kilometre British Overseas Territory, located on the tip of Spain, with views toward Morocco. It’s been under British rule since 1713, but has exchanged hands many times before that.

While it’s small, Gibraltar is a great winter vacation spot for it’s mild climate and long list of things to do. You can explore over 150 caves, 50km of World War II tunnels, botanical gardens, take the cable car, or walk on the suspension bridge. You’ll also be a stones throw from both Spain and Morocco to easily add some extra warm winter destinations to your trip.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 17°c – 63°f
January: 16°c – 61°f
February: 17°c – 63°f
March: 18°c – 65°f

7.

Valletta, Malta

I honestly can’t think of a more strikingly beautiful city than Valletta. It almost seems like it’s out of a movie scene. In addition to Valletta’s beauty, the capital city of Malta is also warm during winter, because of its location south of Italy in the Mediterranean Sea.

In fact all of Malta’s cities will have similar warm climates, so don’t scratch gems like Mdina, Rabat, or Zabbar off your list.

Valletta was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, and was just named the European Capital of Culture.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 17°c – 63°f
January: 16°c – 61°f
February: 16°c – 61°f
March: 17°c – 63°f

8. Crete, Greece

Escape the snow and head to Crete, the largest island in Greece.
If I’m being honest, Crete can be a little rainy during winter but that won’t stop you from enjoying it’s hundreds of miles of beaches. I’d rather be on a gloomy beach than in the freezing cold! Plus, if you get stuck inside, you can just eat delicious authentic Greek food all day long. Problem solved!

Visiting Crete in the winter opens up a different type of Greece than in the summer – one that is more relaxed, hospitable and charming. You won’t have line ups, inflated prices, or cities overrun with tourists.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 17°c – 63°f
January: 15°c – 59°f
February: 16°c – 61°f
March: 17°c – 63°f

9. Palermo, Italy

Palermo is Italy’s 5th largest city, and because it’s located on the ‘rock’ that the ‘boot’ of Italy kicks on the map, it’s also one of the warmest.

Thanks to the warm Sirocco winds that blow in from Africa, winters in Palermo are mild and have reach up to 20°C on some afternoons. This means you can enjoy everything from the unreal street food to the clear turquoise waters, all year long.

If you’re a fan of ‘The Godfather’, then Palermo is probably already on your bucket list.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 16°c – 61°f
January: 15°c – 59°f
February: 15°c – 59°f
March: 17°c – 63°f

10. Mallorca, Spain

The third entry for Spain on the list is dazzling Mallorca with its impossibly crystal clear waters. It’s located in the cluster of islands off the east coast of Spain, and is usually synonymous with spring break parties, but Mallorca is more chill than the infamous Ibiza. Thanks to it’s location in the Balearic Sea, the weather is warm and sunny all year round.

Since mass tourism has been on the island since the 50’s, winter is the best time to go. You’ll have all the world famous spas and hotels all to yourself, as well as over 3400 restaurants and 262 breathtaking beaches.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 16°c – 61°f
January: 15°c – 59°f
February: 15°c – 59°f
March: 17°c – 63°f

11.

Toulon, France

Toulon isn’t well known, but it’s weather should be! It’s the warmest city in France during the winter and it’s also much more affordable than it’s nearby neighbours. Close to Toulon you’ll find Saint Tropez, Cannes and Monte Carlo, Monaco – all sharing the same mild winter weather.

Thanks to the mountains to the north of the city, the cold winter winds are kept away from Toulon, making winter relatively warm, dry and sunny.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 14°c – 57°f
January: 13°c – 55°f
February: 13°c – 55°f
March: 16°c – 61°f

12. Kotor, Montenegro

This spectacular fortified city looks exactly like it’s from the pages of a children’s story book. Hidden inside the protection of a winding bay, Kotor is an ancient walled city with a history spanning back to the Middle Ages.

Not only is Kotor quite mild for a country in the Balkans, but it’s also one of the most affordable places on this entire list! Your budget will stretch 2-3x’s here compared to warm European islands in the winter months.

A visit here during winter will be quiet and relaxed as most of the cruise ships won’t return until spring. Use the cooler weather to hike, bike, jog and stroll around the old town and many fortifications throughout the city.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 13°c – 55°f
January: 12°c – 54°f
February: 13°c – 55°f
March: 16°c – 61°f

13. Sibenik, Croatia

Game of Thrones lovers will be all over this one! Sibenik is a charming old city along the Dalmatian Coast with lots of history to be discovered, but most recently was used as a filming site for the insanely popular series. Sibenik is much smaller and less crowded than other Croatian cities that have exploded in popularity due to GOT.

While highs of 12 and 13 aren’t sweltering, it’s sure warmer than the 0º freezing weather of nearby Baltic countries. Warm winds and waters from the Adriatic Sea keep Sibenik quite mild and tolerable during winter.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 13°c – 55°f
January: 12°c – 54°f
February: 12°c – 54°f
March: 16°c – 61°f

14. Istanbul, Turkey

Okay, so is Istanbul technically in Europe or Asia? Both! The city straddles both continents and has heavy influence of each culture throughout its streets.

Istanbul enjoys a moderately mild winter compared to the rest of Eastern Europe, but it’s not going to be the place for sun worshipers. There is little sun during the winter, but that might give more time and freedom to explore the hundreds of attractions scattered throughout the ancient city.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 11°c – 52°f
January: 9°c – 48°f
February: 9°c – 48°f
March: 12°c – 54°f

15.

Isles of Scilly, United Kingdom

Located just off the coast of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly is the warmest place in England during winter. We actually stayed in Penzance (just on the main land before you get to these islands) in the winter and quite enjoyed the peacefulness and temperate climate of the area.

The North Atlantic Current keeps the islands warm throughout the winter months, making frost or snow extremely rare.

Visiting the Isles of Scilly is like taking a step back in time. Everything moves a little more slowly on these beautiful islands, as it should.

Average Daily Highs °

December: 11°c – 52°f
January: 10°c – 50°f
February: 10°c – 50°f
March: 11°c – 52°f

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Pin: Warmest Places in Europe

24 Best Warm Winter Destinations in Europe

European cities are usually last on the list of places to go to for warm winter destinations. Truth be told, if warmth is what you’re looking for, a trip to the tropics sounds more sensible.

But before eschewing what many regard as a chilly continent in favor of sweltering alternatives, know this: there’s more to Europe than just freezing France, juddering Germany or the uncomfortably cold UK, and it has several decently warm cities during winter…and there’s a lot more than you might actually know about!

To promise you the warmest holidays, I selected 24 of the best warm winter destinations in Europe.

Visiting these cities during the winter months has several advantages, including cheaper fares, fewer tourists, and a respite from ridiculously hot summer weather without having to freeze your socks off.

Winter is a great time to visit any of the cities on this list if you’re aiming for a more relaxed travel experience.

I’ve also included the best accommodation options for various budgets, so you know where to spend the night!

Table of Contents

1. Limassol, Cyprus

Despite its reputation as a summer destination, Limassol is a winter excursion not to be missed! The region is one of Europe’s greatest winter sun destinations, with temperatures dropping to a comfortable 13°C at night.

The historic fishing harbor’s winding stone alleyways snake outwards, with structures dating back to the Middle Ages. Limassol is a winter retreat you won’t regret, with its beaches, grand European castles, and Greek ruins.

In addition to lower accommodation prices and flights, there is a long list of archaeological and cultural sites to visit during winter, along with bustling nightlife and great food.

Outdoorsy travelers will find plenty to do during their visit. Cycling, hiking, bird watching, horseback riding, sailing, air sports, snow skiing, and tennis are just some of the more active excursions available.

One can also explore the wine routes in the region for a deep look into the heart of Cyprus’ wine industry, or take a cultural excursion along the Byzantine church routes and take photos of the region’s majestic monasteries.

Stay the night

Luxury: The Royal Apollonia
Mid-tier: Surf & Sun Holiday Apartments
Budget: White Hostel

2. Palermo, Italy

Do you want to spend your winter in the sun while being linked to the rest of Europe? Palermo, Sicily’s sun-kissed capital, is one of the best winter destinations Europe has to offer. It is famous for its culture and gastronomy as well as being the fifth biggest city in Italy.

Winter is also a great season to visit the island because of the numerous sunny days – as composer Richard Wagner famously mused, Palermo is a great winter destination.

Palermo’s winters are moderate, with temperatures reaching a balmy 20°C on certain afternoons, thanks to the warm Sirocco winds that sweep in from Africa. This means you can enjoy everything from the unbelievable street cuisine and fantastic wine, to the stunning picture-perfect blue ocean, no matter the time of the year.

If the sun doesn’t shine, there’s absolutely no reason to fret. Palermo has a diverse range of culture, fashion, history, and art to explore.

In the winter, the seasonal flora and fauna are especially lovely, and the spectacular ancient Roman monuments and Greek temples are less crowded.

Stay the night

Luxury: Grand Hotel Wagner
Mid-tier: La Maison del Sole
Budget: Casa Jolanda B&B

See Related: 5 Best Theme Parks in Europe (Ranked!)

3. Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands are one of the warmest winter destinations in Europe, and its perpetual promise is a pleasant climate all year. The average temperature in the winter is approximately 20 degrees Celsius, and it seldom rains.

The weather is ideal for touring and seeing the area’s stunning volcanic scenery.

The Canary Islands’ natural richness includes unexpected regions sculpted by volcanoes, such as Timanfaya National Park on Lanzarote, Mt. Teide (Spain’s tallest peak), and breathtaking views from El Hierro.

Athletes from all over the world go to the Canary Islands to take advantage of the warm temperature and practice at any time of year. You’ll discover the ideal sceneries for a range of outdoor sports here, whether you’re hiking, scuba diving, cycling, or windsurfing.

Aside from great weather, volcanic landscapes, and beautiful beaches, the Canary Islands also offer fascinating cultural attractions. San Cristóbal de La Laguna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Tenerife, while César Manrique’s art merges with the natural surroundings on the island of Lanzarote.

Stay the night

Luxury: Hotel Cordial Mogán Playa
Mid-tier: Casa Doramas B&B
Budget: Casa Creativa

4. Seville, Spain

Seville might not be the first city you’ll think of when talking about the best warm winter destinations in Europe, but more and more visitors are traveling to the city during the colder months. With typical winter temperatures of a comfortable 10-12 degrees Celsius, the city still keeps its appeal even in the less frequent periods when the weather turns colder.

In the winter, lines for admittance to Seville’s cultural attractions are also shorter. Enjoy the Cathedral’s amazing architecture or the Alcazar Palace’s magnificent grounds.

If the temperature drops and the chill of winter arrives, most of the city’s traditional tapas become the ideal comfort food to warm the soul, and if you’re visiting for the holidays, Seville has a number of great Christmas markets spread around the city.

In the days leading up to Christmas, a stroll through the streets of Seville will reveal spectacular nativity scenes in store windows and churches all around the city.

As days become shorter, a stroll around the charming Plaza de Espaa and the lovely Maria Luisa Park adjacent to it is the ideal way to spend a winter evening. Overall, Seville’s numerous stunning monuments evoke a romantic type of charm that’s absent during other seasons of the year.

See Related: 12 Best Travel Apps for Europe

Stay the night

Luxury: Eurostars Torre Sevilla
Mid-tier: Hotel Fernando III
Budget: El Viajero en Sevilla

5. Azores Islands, Portugal

The Azores are a collection of nine islands with historic villages, cathedrals, forts, palaces, volcanic beaches, and spectacular lakes. The Azores islands are considerably less busy in the winter, making them ideal for some alone time.

Visit Angra do Heroismo, the archipelago’s oldest community, and marvel at the beautiful churches and residences from various historical periods, go on a relaxing trip to Terra Nostra Garden, or enjoy whale watching. Then tour a Cha Gorreana tea estate, or kayak in one of the numerous volcanic lakes.

This Portuguese archipelago’s volcanic origins have resulted in a spectacular array of hot springs and natural pools. In fact, many people consider the Azores to be a thermal bathing paradise.

Swimming is one of the region’s many hot springs is a popular way to unwind. Because of the high iron concentration, the water from the thermal springs is a rusty orange/brown color. The water temperature ranges between a sizzling 35 and 40 degrees Celsius. When it rains, it’s really rather pleasant to be in a thermal bath, making it a great warm winter pastime.

Stay the night

Luxury: Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico
Mid-tier: Canadiano Urban Nature Hotel
Budget: My Angra Boutique Hostel

6. Valencia Province, Spain

“Picking tea leaves (Azores Islands, Portugal)” by Ignacio Ferre is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

A far cry from the icy winter temperatures of the UK, winter months in Valencia experience typical daily temperatures of roughly 16°C with nighttime temperatures seldom falling below 7°C.

During the holiday months, Valencia is bustling with Christmas booths selling festive decorations, delectable sweets, and other seasonal treats. One market is located in front of the cathedral, while another is located in the streets around the city’s Central Market.

A Christmas amusement fair is held every year in the city, as well as numerous unique holiday circuses. They’re great places to get youngsters into the Christmas mood!

Valencia’s food culture is best explored during the winter months. Away from the peak season, the city’s streets and pubs are crowded with residents rather than tourists, and visitors are few, making it the best time to get a genuine sense of the city and its cuisine.

Whether you’re eating your way through Christmas markets or savoring delectable tapas coupled with local wines, you’re guaranteed a winter vacation you won’t forget. Make the most of your getaway and cruise Spain by turning it into a full European road trip.

Stay the night

Luxury: Palacio Vallier
Mid-tier: RH Bayren Hotel & Spa
Budget: Cantagua Hostel

7. Faro, Portugal

Faro, in the Algarve area of southern Portugal, is one of the hottest towns in Portugal, if not Europe. Winter in Faro is unlike the usual winter you see anywhere in Europe, especially if you’re used to piles of snow, bone-chilling damp, and biting winds.

With more than 10 hours of sunshine on most days, it seems more like a lovely late spring. This isn’t to say that the weather is always good for the beach, but you can depend on clear skies and warm temperatures that won’t require scarves or a jacket.

Faro is a fascinating city in and of itself, with a lovely old town, medieval fortifications, a sun-drenched harbor, and a tangle of cobblestone alleyways lined with antique houses.

There are lots to see and do outside of the city, including beaches, wetlands, parks, and even islands just off the coast where day-trippers may find golden dunes, alfresco eateries, and medieval towns.

If you’re really looking for a taste of the tropics, the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa’s lagoons and neighboring beaches, (notably the islands of Ilha de Faro to the southwest and Ilha da Barreta to the south) lie right outside Faro’s door.

Stay the night

Luxury: Pine Cliffs Gardens
Mid-tier: Roots Hotel
Budget: Hostel A Casa da Árvore

See Related: Can You Use Data on a Plane?

8. Athens, Greece

Looking for the most beautiful winter destination in Europe? In the summer, Athens is a paradise, but it’s also pretty attractive in the winter. As the capital of Greece and one of Europe’s oldest cities, the city offers a diverse range of activities and sights to see.

Athens, winter is met by colder weather and chances of rain, but the temperatures are still considerably higher compared to Eastern or Northern Europe, so it’s still one of the best warm winter European vacations!

For visitors to Athens for the first time, archeological monuments such as the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, and Temple of Olympian Zeus are the primary highlights. While most of these tourist spots are open during the winter, note that you’ll have less time to explore as days are shorter during the winter months.

The Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum are two excellent museums in Athens that provide tourists with a deeper understanding of Ancient Greece. These are perfect for visiting Athens in the winter as they allow you to explore Greek history even on wet days!

Stay the night

Luxury: Electra Metropolis
Mid-tier: Acropolis View Hotel
Budget: Athens Raise Acropolis Project

See Related: Italy vs Greece: What’s the Difference?

9. Gibraltar, UK

Gibraltar is a fantastic alternative for a winter break as the temperature seldom dips below 10°C between November and February.

Gibraltar, a small British Overseas Territory on the southern tip of Spain, has a fascinating history and culture that draws many tourists. During winter, it is a little quieter, but the bustling mood remains. You may roam around freely and enjoy the lovely town without having to worry about throngs of tourists.

Gibraltar, despite its modest size, is an excellent winter holiday destination due to its extensive list of activities. Over 150 caverns, 50 kilometers of tunnels from World War II, verdant botanical gardens, cable cars, and a suspension bridge are all available for exploration.

You’ll also be close to Spain and Morocco, allowing you to quickly jump to other warm places for your itinerary.

The weather is milder in January and February, making it an ideal time to hike the famed Rock of Gibraltar and see some Rock Apes – watch out though; these fearless monkeys have no shortage of cheek!

If you’re not into hiking, you can take the cable car or visit St. Michael’s Cave to see the rock on lower grounds.

Stay the night

Luxury: Luxe Holiday Rentals
Mid-tier: Rock Hotel
Budget: Jasmine Coral Jay Boutique Botel

See Related: 21 Best Gardens in Europe to Visit

10. Naples, Italy

While Naples is not Italy’s most popular tourist destination, its beauty should certainly not be overlooked, especially during the winter months.

Because of Naples’ position in Southern Italy, sightseeing in the city is not hampered by frigid weather. Winter also means fewer visitors in Naples while airline and lodging rates are significantly lower.

During winter, head to the most visited street in Naples, Spaccanapoli Road for shopping, touring, and learning about the local culture. This road has a lively vibe and is usually bustling with visitors.

The Piazza del Gesu Nuovo Area in Naples’ old center is a tiny but busy square. A visit here is a brief excursion, but it’s worth your time. Two historic churches, as well as an exquisite Immaculate Virgin spire, can be seen in this area.

Castel Sant’Elmo, a historic fortification perched atop a high hill near Naples, offers spectacular views of the city and the Bay of Naples.

Another well-known sight is the Piazza del Plebiscito. It houses the Royal Palace as well as a number of other must-see attractions. Many concerts, including those by Maroon 5 and Elton John, have been held here.

Stay the night

Luxury: Relais Della Porta
Mid-tier: Palazzo Salgar
Budget: Napoli Boulevard B&B

See Related: 11 Most Famous Hotels in Paris, France

11. Valetta, Malta

Visitors come to Malta to soak up the sun and swim in the warm seas that surround the archipelago, but there is so much more to Malta than the sand and sea that it is known for. Winter temperatures of 10–16°C are ideal for getting out and about in Valetta.

Walking through Valetta’s streets in the winter is an eye-opening experience. The views of picturesque little alleys and historic buildings are worth seeing on this UNESCO World Heritage site. Valetta is small in size, and you can stroll through the city in a short amount of time.

The human history of Malta is as old and exciting, and the vestiges of this past may be found all around the Maltese Islands, but Valletta’s National War Museum, which displays Maltese wartime history, is a good place to start.

The Grand Master’s Palace, which houses the President of Malta Office and has gorgeous gardens, statues, and fountains, is one of the city’s most famous tourist attractions.

The seafood in Malta is some of the best in the world – arrive with an empty stomach!

Stay the night

Luxury: The Phoenicia Malta
Mid-tier: Coral Apartment (Valletta)
Budget: Valletta Kampnar City Living

12. Corfu, Greece

Locally known as Kerkyra, Corfu is one of the most popular Greek Islands for parties and summer vacations.

Usually crowded, noisy, and busy in summer, (to say the least), a trip to Corfu in winter will certainly show you a new side to the island. Corfu town will be quieter in winter, the traffic less intense, and hiking around the island is a most enjoyable exercise.

Corfu is home to a network of different trails and hiking paths that extend alongside the island’s coast and the island’s interior areas.

Paths and trails make the island a perfect destination for those who love to take mild exercise in the open and still avoid the scorching temperatures typical of Corfu during the summer.

Despite fewer tourists during the off-season and several tourist destinations closed over the winter, Corfu still has plenty of pubs, shops, and restaurants open for you without having to deal with crowds!

Stay the night

Luxury: Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa
Mid-tier: Rarakos Houses Corfu
Budget: Panos Apartments

See Related: 5 Fun, Exciting Month-Long Vacation Ideas

13. Crete, Greece

Visiting Crete in the winter is a terrific opportunity to get away from the cold and experience the history and culture of one of Europe’s most popular islands without having to cope with the crowds that arrive in the summer! Found in the heart of the Med, the winter temperatures are mild to warm.

While you may want to avoid going to the beach in the winter as the weather isn’t always exactly bathing suit-friendly, there are still plenty of things to do in Crete.

Chania is a delightful town all year, but if you want to see its stunning architecture without the crowds that arrive during peak season, come in the winter!

The Firka Fortress, the Venetian Lighthouse, and the multicolored sea-side buildings are just a few of the attractions on the port.

If you need to get out of the cold for a few moments, visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which is regarded as one of Europe’s most important archaeological museums.

Stay the night

Luxury: Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa
Mid-tier: Ibis Styles Heraklion Central
Budget: Omiros Boutique Hotel

See Related: 15 Best Quiet Greek Islands to Visit on Holiday

14. Messina, Italy

Messina is one of the best reasons to travel to Italy during winter.

Here, the winter season lasts from December through February, is warm, with sunny intervals interspersed with wet ones. Although it seldom gets really cold, there are occasionally chilly, windy, and wet days with highs around 10 °C.

The grandeur of winter in Messina is bountiful sunshine under which to tour the city: the average is more than five hours each day in January. Away from the peak season, it’s also a great time to see how the locals live.

Messina has a plethora of art, culture, history, and fashion to immerse oneself in. Siciliy’s numerous warm, sunny days in winter make it an ideal time to go on adventures.

The flora and fauna of Sicily are especially lovely in the winter, and the spectacular ancient monuments and Greek temples are void of throngs of tourists.

The temperature in the region is also ideal for active outdoor activities. From water sports in the vast seas or a run around the city’s numerous green areas, you’ll find something to boost your adrenaline and get your heart rate up.

Stay the night

Luxury: Altafiumara Resort & Spa
Mid-tier: Hotel Messenion
Budget: Hotel Touring

See Related: 10 Best Car Museums in Italy

15. Malaga, Spain

The frigid north winds do not reach Malaga due to its steep geography, and this is why winter in Malaga is so pleasant. On average, the temperature reaches 17 degrees Celsius. During the winter, all of Malaga’s principal streets and squares are flanked with mandarin trees – a truly charming sight to behold.

The holidays in Malaga are a fantastic time when the streets are festooned with lights. The action centers on Calle Larios, a prominent pedestrian thoroughfare lined with stores, restaurants, and cafés. The street itself is lovely, and with all the Christmas lights, it becomes a magical sight.

Malaga is a one-of-a-kind destination due to its blend of Catholic, Moorish, and European cultures. The remnants of an old Arab well may be seen near the old Medina in the middle of Malaga.

Next to these remains is the Hammam Al-Andalus, which transports you to Arabian-era Andalucia. A Hammam in Malaga will transport you to the enigmatic Marrakesh in Morocco.

Stay the night

Luxury: Gran Hotel Miramar GL
Mid-tier: Madeinterranea Suites
Budget: Terraza del Limonar

See Related: 10 Best Travel Gifts for Backpackers

16. Palma de Mallorca, Spain

You’ll never be bored in Mallorca in the winter as there’s still enough to see and do, especially without the throngs of tourists. In the winter, the island hosts a number of local events. Sant Sebastia and Sant Antoni celebrations take place in January, following the festivities of Christmas and the Three Kings.

If you wish to sample some of Mallorca’s superb native wines, there are over 70 bodegas to choose from. Following the Wine Route for the Binissalem DO is a fantastic way to explore the city’s love for merlot.

If you’re looking for a dose of culture, you can discover some of Mallorca’s many intriguing galleries and museums. Visit Inca’s sleek contemporary museum of shoes and leather, where you’ll be shocked by how much machinery is involved in creating footwear.

See Related: 6 Cheapest Shopping Destinations in the World

Stay the night

Luxury: Hotel Cappuccino – Palma
Mid-tier: Protur Naisa Palma Hotel
Budget: Palma Port Hostel – Albergue Juvenil

17. Larnaca, Cyprus

Even in the dead of winter, this lively Cypriot city remains a popular tourist destination. For this, the Mediterranean climate takes the credit, so don’t be shocked if you spot a few vacationers sitting on the beach and swimming during your visit.

The city was erected on top of the ruins of the ancient city of Kition. From its own Marina, tourists may sail to mainland Greece, other islands, and back on a regular basis.

Larnaca offers a variety of local attractions, museums, churches, commercial centers, tourist attractions, and more.

The Agios Lazarus Church, which originates from the 9th Century, is well worth seeing. The Church has an intriguing history, and travelers interested in religion and architecture should include it in their itinerary.

Just like any good resort, Larnaca goes beyond just simply sand and sea, and the winter months are ideal for getting out and about.

Cycling, horseback riding, and hiking are excellent ways to explore Cyprus’s wild landscapes, or you may travel to the wide waters for a boat excursion and some fishing.

Stay the night

Luxury: Radisson Blu Hotel, Larnaca
Mid-tier: Qbic City Hotel
Budget: Lakis Court

18. Istanbul, Turkey

Winter in Istanbul lasts from mid-December until mid-March, with temperatures seldom exceeding 10 degrees Celsius. It’s hardly scorching, but you’ll be free from snow and frost!

While there are sunny days, the sky may be dreary sometimes. This doesn’t mean that winters in Istanbul are dull, it just means that you need to reorganize your itinerary differently to get the best experience.

During winter, the core neighborhoods, like Beyoglu and Nisantasi become crowded, whereas the Bosphorus coastlines are quieter.

It is a nice time to visit this part of Istanbul since there are hardly any visitors compared to the rest of the year, allowing you to appreciate all of the city’s landmarks and museums in solitude.

After a cold morning strolling around the city, nothing beats the warmth of a Turkish bath and the experienced hands of a masseuse to cap out the day. Klç Ali Paşa Hamam was built in 1590 and is located in the neighborhood of Tophane. It features recently renovated interiors with impeccable service.

If the weather isn’t cooperating after seeing the ancient sites, there is a long list of museums to visit such as the Museum of Industry and the Military Museum.

Stay the night

Luxury: Pera Palace Hotel
Mid-tier: Tan Hotel – Special Category
Budget: Pruva Hotel

See Related: How To Travel Full Time (And Make Money)

19. Lanzarote, Spain

Lanzarote offers comfortably warm weather in the winter that is not as scorching in the summer. Temperatures in December range from 19°C to 22°C on average. Combine the never-ending sun with a little rain here and there and you have one of the world’s best climates.

As the island’s population shrinks, you’ll have a better opportunity of seeing everything it has to offer. Lanzarote’s Christmas is one of a kind. On New Year’s Eve, spectacular nativity displays are shown in the towns. Resorts are bedecked with lights and beaches are lit by fireworks on New Year’s eve.

Lanzarote’s winter months are ideal for stargazing. The island is well-known as one of the greatest sites in the Northern Hemisphere to see what’s going on in the sky. Teide National Park, widely regarded as one of the greatest spots to stargaze away from light pollution, has been designated as a “starlight destination”.

Stay the night

Luxury: Dreams Lanzarote Playa Dorada Resort & Spa
Mid-tier: Apartamentos Islamar Arrecife
Budget: Hostal San Gines

See Related: 11 Best Apps & Websites to Book Hotels in Europe

20. Algarve, Portugal

When much of Europe is experiencing cold and dreary days, the sun-kissed southern section of Portugal is the ideal retreat.

Unspoiled beaches, towering cliffs, charming fishing villages, and fantastic surf are just a few of the highlights of winter in the Algarve. During winter, the Algarve experiences a nice combination of sunny days interspersed with wind and rain.

Whether you choose to swim or stay on shore, you may visit some of the most beautiful beaches in Algarve without having to deal with throngs of tourists during the summer months. This allows you to fully appreciate their beauty. In the winter, the beaches are ideal for sunning yourself throughout the day and a calm stroll at dusk.

You’ll find a plethora of lovely villages in the Algarve, and the benefit of visiting in the winter is that they aren’t as busy. This allows you to get a sense of what life is like in the region. Tavira and Olho are both excellent starting points for exploring Ria Formosa Natural Park.

You may either walk across to Tavira Island to visit the anchor Cemetery or take a boat tour to explore the neighboring islands.

Stay the night

Luxury: EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel
Mid-tier: Pure Formosa Concept Hotel
Budget: Dream Lagos B&B

21. Cagliari, Sardinia

With the typically Meditteranean climate, the summers in Sardinia are dry and hot and the winters are warm with only a little rainfall. The winter days are usually at about 10°C – 14°C and quite sunny, perfect for a walk along the marvelous Cagliari Coast.

Winter in Cagliari provides the perfect backdrop for exploring the city’s ancient streets and immersing yourself in its history. The cooler temperatures make exploring much more pleasant than it is during the sweltering summer heat.

Plus, without the crowds, you’ll have a much more peaceful experience exploring the alleyways, piazzas, and old churches.

Visitors can explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, each having a variety of restaurants, pubs, and cafés to visit. Culture vultures can learn about Sardinia’s history in any of the city’s museums. It has its own beaches, too!

While the waters are slightly too cold to swim in during the winter, you may still admire the sand and sea. Indeed, without all of the summer swimmers, sunbathers, and families, the beaches become much more pleasurable to be in.

Stay the night

Luxury: Palazzo Doglio
Mid-tier: Hotel Nautilus
Budget: Thanit Rooms

22.

Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza winter extends from November to April, with an average daily temperature of 15°C but rises to 25°C at the height of the day.

Winter also heralds the start of the rainy season, although the precipitation is not an issue as it is quite light even in October, the wettest month. When it does rain, it usually dissipates quickly thanks to the island’s winds, which blow away heavy clouds.

Visitors in January might find swimming to be a bit difficult as the water can get pretty frigid, but you can still enjoy a good day at the beach.

One of the best ways to make the most of the relatively warm weather is by taking a beach cruise through the island’s many beaches. Discover new locations to visit while sipping sangria and listening to some fantastic music!

You could also plan something romantic with your partner: a seaside lunch in any of the city’s Instagram-worthy beaches or a sunset dinner paired with wine. Choose any of Ibiza’s popular beaches and bask in the splendor of the Mediterranean Sea.

Stay the night

Luxury: Cas Gasi
Mid-tier: Lux Isla
Budget: Hostal Marí

23. Barcelona, Spain

Winter in Barcelona lasts from December to March. Compared to other cities in Europe, winter here is mild. The temperature is usually 12°C and seldom drops below 5°C at night.

In winter, the days are mostly sunny and there are fewer people out and about. However, this does not prohibit one from having a fantastic experience in any of the city’s various attractions.

It’s not a secret that Barcelona is one of Europe’s most popular tourist (and party) destinations. In January, however, the city is far less crowded.

Swimming is not recommended in the winter, but you’ll find plenty of activities to enjoy in the warm winter sun.

Here, famous architect Gaudi created unique works of contemporary architecture, the majority of which are distributed across Barcelona. Aside from the well-known Park Guell and La Sagrada Familia, make sure to see Casa Batllo and Casa Mila.

In town, there are various yearly celebrations during January. On the 5th, for example, the Cavalcada dels Reis takes place: a magnificent procession filled with clowns, elves, and acrobats.

On the 17th, another parade takes place with animal blessings as part of the Festa dels Tres Tombs.

Stay the night

Luxury: Hotel Boutique Mirlo Barcelona
Mid-tier: Catalonia Portal de l’Angel
Budget: Hostal la Palmera

24. Lisbon, Portugal

In comparison to many northern European locations, Lisbon’s weather in December and January is relatively mild. Temperatures may still reach a warm 16 degrees Celsius with a low of 8 degrees once the sun goes down.

The city is one of the most popular in Europe, which means it’s generally very busy. In January, however, you’ll witness a different side to this charming city – one that’s far less frantic. During the winter, climbing the city’s hills doesn’t come with the sweltering heat of summer.

Belém’s area is rich in historical treasures and stunning UNESCO monuments. You won’t want to miss the magnificent Belém Tower which you’ll be able to see up close without the throngs of people during the busy season. You’ll want to visit the Jerónimos Monastery as well, where Vasco Da Gama slept his final night before sailing to Asia.

Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest district, with lovely cobblestone streets and a charming feel. It is also the birthplace of traditional Fado music, which can be heard throughout the area’s bars and restaurants.

Stay the night

Luxury: MYRIAD by SANA Hotels
Mid-tier: Vincci Liberdade
Budget: We Love F Tourists

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The best winter-sun destinations in Europe

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Inspiration

Keep your next trip closer to home with our pick of Europe’s best winter-sun destinations

By David Annand

25 August 2022

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The Thai islands or Bali may be more synonymous with scorching-hot beaches in January, but there are alternatives for when you just want a quick blast of vitamin D to see you through to March. From golden islands to city breaks bathed in elusive December sunshine, these warmer climes in Europe mean escaping the blustery UK days are just a quick plane right away. For some further-flung ideas, see our pick of the best winter-sun destinations.

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Cyprus

Best for: nature lovers
December temperature range: 10–19°C

It’s easy to forget that Cyprus is only about 130 miles off the coast of Lebanon. And, unsurprisingly, its winter temperatures run closer to those of the Levant than much of continental Europe, which means T-shirt weather during the off season. Winter is also a great time to go hiking in Cyprus’s dense forests, where you can stumble across fascinating Byzantine monasteries.

Where to stay: The seaside city of Paphos is a brilliant base for exploring the island and is home to many of the best hotels in Cyprus, including Almyra design hotel where the chef is a Nobu alumnus. In the north are some of the island’s prettiest beaches, where loggerhead and green turtles come to nest, along with the beachside Anassa hotel (closed 28 November to 31 March), located a short boat ride away from the Blue Lagoon.
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Canary Islands

Best for: dyed-in-the-wool sun seekers
December temperature range: 11–21°C

In summer, the breeze that hits Lanzarote and Fuerteventura is blessed relief from the intense heat and a major draw for windsurfers. In winter, said breeze brings with it a bit of a chill, so you’re better off heading to the other Canary Islands: Tenerife or Gran Canaria. The former has made great strides repositioning itself as a cultural hub with an art gallery designed by Swiss firm Herzog and de Meuron and Santiago Calatrava’s concert hall in Santa Cruz. And the latter has plenty of charm beyond the overdeveloped tourist spots. The capital, Las Palmas, has a lively food scene and the landscape, particularly around village Artenara, is manna for hikers. Flights to both islands from London are under four and a half hours.

Where to stay: In Las Palmas, Bed and Chic is a cool 12-room hotel reminiscent of the Ace Hotel look, but without the pretension. On Tenerife, Hotel San Roque, is a pretty 18th-century manor house where dining and lounging takes place around the turquoise courtyard pool.
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Madeira

Best for: thrill-seekers (but still good for pensioners, too)
December temperature range: 15 – 20°C

The long-time destination of choice for Britain’s blue-rinse brigade, staid old Madeira has been busy reinventing itself as a place for adrenaline-fueled adventure. And why not? The island is an outdoor Eden in miniature, with black-sand beaches, tumbling canyons and epic rock faces. Which means great mountain biking and wonderful views for those who dare to go paragliding. The network of levadas (water-irrigation channels carved into the volcanic island) makes for thrilling trail running. It is also, as far as we know, the only place to offer year-round urban tobogganing in wicker sleds, which are steered downhill at great speed.

Where to stay: The island’s most famous hotel is Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel – a pink cliffside palace with a Michelin-star and stunning ocean pool. If you’re travelling in a group, Okulus sleeps eight, and thanks to its curated interiors, is easily the coolest villa in Madiera.

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The Algarve, Portugal

Best for: getting away from it all
December temperature range: 9–18°C

Continental Europe’s most south-western region has its own sunny microclimate that makes it consistently warmer than the rest of Portugal. You won’t be in a bikini in winter, but the pleasant T-shirt temperatures mean that an increasing number of hotels and restaurants stay open year-round, and cities such as Albufeira retain a buzz. Away from the package tourist haunts, there are dramatic red-cliff coastlines and Moorish villages dotted among the hills to explore.

Where to stay: Enjoy a tranquil escape to Casas da Quinta de Cima, where a series of nine little cottages sit on a serene farm estate in rural eastern Algarve. For something more grand, reserve a room at Bel Vista, a turn-of-the-century villa hotel with a swimming pool framed by slender palm trees, a L’Occitance Spa and a one-star Michelin restaurant by Chef João Oliveira. See our pick of the best hotels in the Algarve for more options.
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Athens, Greece

Best for: culture seekers
December temperature range: 9-15°C

Perhaps surprisingly, the Greek capital stays much warmer than many places on the country’s salty-aired coastline once winter rolls in. All the better for those who want a slice of sunshine without being marooned on a beach somewhere. Athens is a classic city-break destination, but an influx of artists, chefs and hoteliers over the past few years means the quirky neighbourhoods and must-visit restaurants are now as much a draw as the big-hitting sites. Spend days exploring the many museums, libraries and galleries – we particularly like the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, which is home to the National Library of Greece, the Greek National Opera and a 42-acre park.

Where to stay: For a room with a view, some suites at xenodocheio Milos have huge terraces overlooking the old Parliament. If you’re here for some sun and food, Ergon House is more than just a restaurant with rooms – the ground floor is a perpetually buzzy deli, roastery, bakery and dining room. See our pick of the best hotels in Athens for more.
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The Greek Islands

Best for: open-water swimmers
December temperature range: depending on which island you’re on, temperatures range from 12–17°C

The gorgeous Aegean is surely the loveliest of Europe’s seas and the water off many of the Cyclades, such as Paros, Santorini and Milos, is still tolerable in winter, making it a year-round destination for swimmers. In places like Santorini, visiting in the off-season means you can explore the picturesque vistas without the crowds, while Rhodes is known to have clear blue skies and warm temperatures well into winter.

Where to stay: On Paros, newcomer Summer Senses Luxury Resort (closed October 16 to May 12) is a get-away-from-it-all haven where rooms range from deluxe hideouts to suites with private pools. The Vasilicos (closed October 16 to May 28) is one of the few hotels in Santorini that doesn’t have an adults-only policy, making it a great option for families. For a couples trip, Perivolas (closed November 1 to May 1) is wonderfully understated, preternaturally calm and home to a cracking guest-only restaurant. See our pick of the best Greek Island hotels for more.
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The Azores

Best for: eco-conscious adventurers
December temperature range: 13–18°C

You might think that including the Azores is stretching the definition of Europe to breaking point, but the Atlantic archipelago is actually about five hours from London. And, in any case, they’re not your typical isolated island group. For starters, it’s never that hot here, even in summer. People don’t visit to laze on the beach Maldives-style. They come because it’s a natural nirvana, rich in wildlife, full of rugged, dramatic craters and caverns, hot springs and lush forests. All of which are being sustainably managed: only 5 per cent of the land is developed and the islands are dotted with marine conservation parks.

Where to stay: Stay at Santa Barbara Eco-Beach or the similarly green-minded Sete Cidades Lake Lodge, both on São Miguel. See our Azores hotels guide for more.

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Malta

Best for: design buffs and hotel obsessives
December temperature range: 11–17°C

Its frankly ridiculous 300 days of sunshine a year would be the standout selling point for most islands of Malta’s size, but the understated Mediterranean gem is also a history-soaked gastronomic hub, packed with first-class hotels and surrounded by some of the world’s best diving sites. Visit in winter for a weekend exploring striking Valletta, the ancient capital that’s had a bit of a revival of late, converting some of its gorgeous townhouses into excellent design hotels. The restaurant scene is thriving, too. Head to Panorama at the British Hotel in Valletta or Barracuda near the Sliema coast for a taste of traditional Mediterranean food.

Where to stay: Domus Zamittello in Valetta is a restored baroque masterpiece by the bombed-out opera house, with painted coffered ceilings. Iniala Harbour House offers a front row seat to the Grand Harbour across its four smartly renovated townhouses.
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Sicily

Best for: adventurous foodies
December temperature range: 11–17°C

Italy’s southernmost island is closer to Tunis than Rome and has winter weather to match. Visiting at this time of year allows you to get up close to Sicily’s incredible historic spaces such as the Temple of Concordia in Agrigento, which is reliably overrun in high season. With a distinct food culture, Sicily has gastronomic delights beyond summer’s glut of glorious fruit and veg – visit in February to experience the sea urchin season in full swing.

Where to stay: Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo is Sicily’s grand dame hotel, with opulent marble bathrooms and a pianist that cajoles couples to dance on the elegant balcony overlooking Amalfi-style Taormina. We also love Agriturismo trailblazer Monaci Delle Terre Nere, one of the region’s smartest and most stylish country hotels. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Sicily.
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Antalya

Best for: stop-and-flop and families
December temperature range: 10–16°C

Straddling two continents, Turkey’s enormous landmass is diverse enough to justify its nickname: the land of four seasons. For winter sun, the best part of the country to visit is, predictably, the south coast, particularly the area around Antalya. There’s a long stretch of fairly upmarket hotels to the west of the city, many of which are family-friendly entertainment retreats in their own right, with golf courses and adventure playgrounds beside the beach. On Turkey’s wilder south-west coast, there’s the pretty city of Bodrum and lovely Didyma with its astonishing ruined temple.

Where to stay: The Bodrum Edition (closed from November 1 to April 20), where Ian Schrager’s trademark all-white minimalism and knock-out proportions combine with a soft sand beach full of children splashing about on paddleboards.

TopicsInspirationWinter SunMaltaCanary IslandsMadeiraCyprusCreteSicilyAlgarve

More from Condé Nast Traveller

The Best Places in Europe for Winter Sun

By Michael Cullen, Co-founder

Yes, it is possible to bask in warm winter sunshine within a 4 or 5 hour flight from northern Europe. Here are seven fabulous hideaways for all budgets.

1

Gozo, Malta

December sun: 18-21°C

Why go: Malta boasts some of the balmiest winter sunshine in Europe, and the crowd-free island of Gozo is its shimmering jewel. Easy to reach by ferry (25mins), Gozo is a treasure trove of red sandy beaches, sapphire blue waters, mysterious temples, and pretty seafront restaurants (try the Gozitan pizza!). Head for Ta’Cenc clifftops for a heart-melting sunset.

Stay here: Beautiful Gozo Hideaway is a warm, rustic townhouse in the charismatic small Gozitan town of Xaghra. With 3 bedrooms and a small private pool in its walled courtyard, it’s ideal for families or friends, and can sleep up to 8 using the sofabed. Prices from £271/night.

2

Southern Cyprus

December sun: 18-20°C

Why go: Cyprus was recently named the best affordable winter sun holiday for Brits. It also offers a fantastic mix of buzzy urban culture and sleepy village life. The city of Limassol (or Lemesos, either is fine) has a lively cafe-culture and boutique shopping scene. And it’s steeped in history and romance. Richard the Lionheart was married at the medieval castle near the old harbour, while lovebirds young and old still flock to legendary Aphrodite’s Rock down the coast.

Stay here: A short hop away, in the tiny hamlet of Psematismenos, we’ve unearthed a gorgeous and ultra-affordable sextet of rustic-chic suites and cottages for 2-4. Clustered around a central pool and courtyard garden, with loungers and sociable terraces, Modus Vivendi is the perfect spot for a lazy holiday of reading, sunbathing, fish tavernas and gentle sightseeing. Prices from £76/night.

3

Garachico, Tenerife

December sun: 19-22°C

Why go: The largest of the seven Canary islands, Tenerife might raise an eyebrow if all you know is the boozy reputation. There is, however, another Tenerife. A world away from the high-rise resorts, Garachico is a pretty fishing village on the north coast surrounded by nature reserves, volcanic rock pools and close to the stunning Punta de Teno beach, with its coastal cliffs stretching out ahead of you.

Stay here: Movie-star good looks make Hotel San Roque a must-visit hideaway for winter sun. This 18th-century mansion conversion combines exquisite traditional architecture with modern décor. It has a cloistered courtyard with a sleek swimming pool (lamp-lit at night), and the food is outstanding. Prices from £172/night.

4

Ponta do Pargo, Madeira

December sun: 19-21°C

Why go: Madeira may look like a lonely outcrop in the Atlantic Ocean, but this beautiful Portuguese archipelago is just a 4-hour hop from London. Unshackled from its ‘blue rinse brigade’ past, the island now draws adventurous travellers who come to see its incredible wildflowers and dramatic cliffs, which are straight out of Jurassic Park. Ponta do Pargo, on the westernmost tip, is famed for its lighthouse and superb seafood, and it gets the most winter sunshine.

Stay here: We absolutely loved Casas da Levada, a gorgeous collection of six rustic houses (for 2-10) tucked away in the emerald foothills of Ponta do Pargo. Incredibly good value, you’ll share wild gardens and a sensational infinity pool which faces the ocean. Fully self-catering. Prices from £103/night.

5 Cabo de Gata, Spain

December sun: 19-21°C

Why go: Europe’s only desert, Cabo de Gata is a magnet for creative souls. It’s where David Lean shot Lawrence of Arabia, and John Lennon wrote Strawberry Fields Forever. The heady atmosphere of beautiful isolation, beguiling beaches and wild, rugged terrain should spark your imagination, making it the perfect place to write that novel you always promised.

Stay here: Little Agave is a super-welcoming, affordable, off-grid 4-bedroom guesthouse, set amid the dramatic desert- and seascapes of the Cabo de Gata. Almería airport is just a 35-min drive away. Prices from £67/night.

6 Lanzarote, Canary Islands

December sun: 21-23°C

Why go: With chic new guesthouses and a flourishing wine scene, Lanzarote is quickly shedding its ‘Lanzagrotty’ reputation. The island sits on the same latitude as the Bahamas, which means you can spend Christmas Day on the beach. There are plenty more crowd-free Blue Flag beaches and world-class surfing spots to explore. Be sure to stay for 28 Dec – it’s Lanzarote’s equivalent of April Fools’ Day.

Stay here: Bijou and stunningly beautiful, The Ocean Hideaway is a dreamy hideout in northern Lanzarote. Sleeping 2-4, this romantic villa comes with an outdoor bathtub and stylish interiors. The wonderful owner, Luc, also provides a bespoke service. Prices from £230/night for entire villa.

7 Taghazout, Morocco

December sun: 21-24°C

Why go: OK, so Morocco definitely isn’t Europe. But consider this: it’s quicker to fly to Agadir (3h 45m) than to Mykonos, and being further south means winter temperatures are far warmer. Just an hour from Agadir, the small fishing town of Taghazout is populated with surfer-dudes, yoga-goddesses and photo-savvy nomads seeking good vibes and winter sunshine.

Stay here: A surfing-yoga-spa retreat set on a glorious golden beach, Paradis Plage Resort is a magnet for chilled-out couples and families. The resort offers a free kids club, a full gym, 4 restaurants, great eco credentials and epic ocean views from every room. Prices from £119/night.

For more places to stay in Europe, browse our full collection

Winter Sun

Where is Hot in January in Europe? The Top 35 Warmest Places for Winter Sun

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

Where Are the Warmest Countries in Europe for Winter Sun?

If you’re craving winter sun and wondering where’s hot in January in Europe, then look no further – this is the only European winter sun destination list you’ll ever need!

If you’re planning your Europe winter sun holidays to escape dreary weather, you’re in the right place! But we have to let you know that there are only a handful of places that are truly hot in January in Europe on a short-haul flight. Most of them only get warm, it’s still winter after all, so we’ve included a few mid-haul destinations from western Europe to help you keep your options open.

Our travel guide has been compiled with the help of travel bloggers who have visited these destinations, and they share their top tips for your best holiday, with all the climate information you need to decide where to go for your winter sun holiday in Europe.

Quick Overview of Where is Hot in January in Europe

If you just want to know the answer to the question “where is the warmest place in Europe in January?”, it’s the Canary Islands. Spain’s archipelago off the north-west coast of Africa has an average January temperature of a whopping 20.8° celcius | 70° fahrenheit, and the best weather in Europe in winter.

Best place for hot January holidays in Europe >>> The Canary Islands of Spain
Best warm place in Europe for activity and adventure >>> the Portuguese island of Madeira
Best hot place in Europe for beach life and taking it easy >>> Portugal’s Algarve coast
Warmest city in Europe for winter sun and street life >>> Seville in Spain
Hottest place in Europe for culture vultures and history buffs >>> Athens in Greece
And if you’re happy with mid-haul for your winter sun fix? >>> Give Cape Verde a try!

Winter Sun in Europe Map

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Winter Sun Destinations Europe

Almeria, Spain

Explored by Sonja of Migrating Miss

Best For: beach lovers and adventurers
January Temperature Range: 16 – 18° celsius | 61 – 64° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 2 days

Wondering where is warm in January Europe? Well, Spain is the warmest country in Europe in winter and the southern city of Almeria is located in the driest area in Europe, with very little rain throughout the year. This makes it a great location for some winter sun!

There are plenty of things to do in Almeria too. You can visit the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress perched above the city that was featured as a Game of Thrones filming location. The nearby Tabernas Desert was also a popular filming location in the 1960s, and the beautiful beaches of Cabo de Gata nature reserve are featured in Indiana Jones.

Andalucia is known for its tapas, and Almeria is no exception. In fact, I would argue the tapas in Almeria are the best in the region. You often get to choose your tapa from an extensive menu of traditional and modern fusion tapas, usually made from local ingredients.

Almeria is only two hours from Granada and the Sierra Nevada, so you can have the best of both worlds in the winter with access to the sunny beach and the snowy mountains within the same day.

During the Spanish Civil War Almeria was targeted by bombers, and an extensive network of tunnels and shelters were built under the city. These were forgotten about and rediscovered in 2001, and you can now take a tour of the tunnels to learn more about this period in the history of the city.

Almeria is a little off the beaten track when it comes to places to visit in Spain, so don’t expect as many people to speak English or for there to be English menus in all of the cafes and restaurants. However, people are friendly and it’s easy to visit the city and the surrounding areas without speaking Spanish.

Stay at HO Puerta de Purchena for its very cool rooftop pool, spacious rooms and excellent location.

RELATED POST: Six of the Best Road Trips in Spain

Flamingos at Las Salinas in Cabo de Gata

Athens, Greece

Explored by Allison of Sofia Adventures

Best For: culture vultures and city wanderers
January Temperature Range: 13 – 17° celsius | 55 – 63° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 5 days

If you’re looking for warm places in Europe in January but still want to get your culture on, Athens is a fantastic destination and one of Europe’s warmest winter city breaks.

Sure, you won’t be enjoying the Greek beaches the country is known for in summer, but you also won’t be sweating it out at the Acropolis with thousands of other tourists.

Athens has very mild weather in winter, with average high temperatures around 15° C, making it great weather for sightseeing! Add to the fact that Athens is a dry destination – most winter months have only five days of rain a month, giving you plenty of sunshine in between – and you’ve got a fantastic winter destination that isn’t your average sun holiday.

Flights to Athens are plentiful year round and often quite affordable, so you won’t struggle to get here. Once you arrive, you can enjoy the best of what Athens has to offer with a fraction of the summer crowds and none of the summer heat!

Some of the best things to do in Athens in winter include visiting the Parthenon and other sites of the Acropolis, visiting the excellent Acropolis Museum and National Archaeological Museums, checking out the local street art, enjoying delicious Greek coffee at hip Athens cafes, indulging in all the delicious Greek food at cozy tavernas, and visiting the Athens Christmas Market.

Or take a Greece road trip to ancient Delphi and the Peloponnese for a taste of ancient Greek history.

Stay at InnAthens for it’s fabulous central location, lovely courtyard and chic design.

RELATED POST: Greece Road Trip – Two Incredible Routes

Monastiraki Square, Athens

Barcelona, Spain

Explored by Vicki of Vicki Viaja

Best For: party animals and city moochers
January Temperature Range: 14 – 17° celsius | 57 – 63° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 9 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 10 days

Barcelona is an absolutely unique city. With its modernist architecture, narrow medieval streets, open and relaxed culture, and varied and tasty food, the Catalan city on the Mediterranean simply enchants every visitor. Many travellers choose to visit because of the many hours of sunshine the city offers.

The temperatures here don’t drop as much in winter, as is the case in most European cities. That’s why you can enjoy your coffee on one of the many bar terraces, which are a large part of the Mediterranean way of life, even during the cold months.

There are also other advantages to visiting Barcelona in winter. The lines in front of the city’s sights are shorter and move faster, so you save a lot of time. Accommodation prices also tend to fall, and its the perfect party city in which to spend New Year.

If you are travelling to Barcelona during the Christmas season, you should definitely visit one of the city’s Christmas markets. Even if these are not the typical Central European Christmas markets as we know them from other countries, the Barcelona Christmas markets have their very own charm. They are full of Catalan culture and typical local souvenirs and traditions.

As you can see, a visit to Barcelona is not only worthwhile in summer.

Stay at W Barcelona for its iconic beachfront location, infinity pool and superb facilities.

RELATED POST: One Day in Barcelona – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

The Sagrada Familia dominating the Barcelona skyline

Bari, Italy

Explored by Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

Best For: food lovers and city wanderers
January Temperature Range: 13 – 15° celsius | 55 – 59° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 9 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 7 days

Bari is the capital of Puglia, one of the most southern regions of Italy, down in the heel of Italy’s ‘boot’. Whilst most visitors view it as a transit hub for getting to destinations elsewhere in Puglia, this compact city is a worthy destination in its own right.

Its medieval core is quite well-preserved and is a joy to wander around and get lost in. Be sure to visit the Basilica di San Nicola, which serves as the final resting place of St. Nicholas. And yes, I’m talking about Santa Claus! If you’re here at Christmas time, visiting his tomb will be especially meaningful.

Locals are very friendly and welcoming, perhaps because they don’t see foreign tourists that often. Despite being a modern city, old traditions are still alive and well here. Take a stroll down Arco Basso, and you’re bound to see Italian mothers and grandmothers rolling out orecchiette pasta by hand, deftly creating the dimpled shape with their thumbs.

You’ll definitely want to taste the local Puglian food while you’re here, as orecchiette is just one of many delicious local specialties.

While it’s not warm enough to swim, Bari’s weather stays pretty mild in winter and the mercury rarely drops below freezing. As the regional capital of Puglia, Bari is well-connected by train to other parts of Italy, and its international airport also receives flights from various European cities.

Stay at iH Grande Albergo Delle Nazioni for its seafront location, world-class service and fantastic breakfast.

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Little Harbour, Bari

Cagliari, Sardinia

Explored by Claudia of Strictly Sardinia

Best For: nature lovers and history buffs
January Temperature Range: 12 – 15° celsius | 54 – 59° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 9 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 7 days

One of the hidden gems of Europe and lesser visited compared to many other destinations in Italy, Cagliari is one of the best places for winter sun in Europe. When countries like Sweden or Norway are suffering from frigid temperatures, Cagliari typically (save from cold fronts that occasionally hit the city) enjoys a balmy sun during the day, and colder nights that are still pleasant.

Cagliari can be easily reached by plane from mainland Italy as well as many other cities in Europe, via either main or budget flights. The city is easy to explore on foot and using public transportation, but should you wish to visit the surroundings on day trips, you are probably better off renting a car (or joining guided tours).

There are many things to do in Cagliari. Make sure to hit the historical quarter of Castello, where you will find the well curated Museum of Archeology, the two watchtowers, and the beautiful Cathedral. From Via Santa Croce you will enjoy one of the best views of the city, over the roofs of Stampace, another historic quarter.

Scattered around town you will find several archaeological sites. The most famous one is the Roman Amphitheater; but you should also visit the Necropolis of Tuvixeddu and walk by Villa Tigellio.

If you fancy a bit of air, go for a walk along Poetto, the main urban beach which you can easily reach by bus from the centre of town. From there you can also access Molentargius Nature Reserve, a great place for birdwatching and where pink flamingos nest and live.

For incredible views of the Gulf of Cagliari, hike to the Sella del Diavolo. This easy to follow trail departs from the second urban beach – Calamosca – and within 30 minutes takes you to a fabulous viewpoint.

Stay at Hotel Aristeo for its perfect location, simple and stylish decor, and excellent breakfast.

Cagliari, Sardinia

Cefalu, Sicily

Explored by Kezzy of So Today We Found

Best For: photographers and gastronomes
January Temperature Range: 11 – 17° celsius | 52 – 63° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 9 days

Popular due to its Mediterranean coastline and balmy temperatures all year round, Sicily is one of the best European destinations for winter sun, especially when the warm African winds blow north. More specifically, the north of Sicily offers a lot to travellers wishing to escape the bleak, cold winters back home, and one town in particular stands out for us.

Cefalu, located just a few hours drive away from the capital city of Palermo, is the perfect spot to settle into for a winter break in Europe. Known for its 12th century cathedral, typically Sicilian winding streets, boutique hotels and picturesque beaches, the town is a haven for those seeking a winter getaway.

We visited in February when the United Kingdom was in the midst of back-to-back storms, and to feel the sun on our faces and actual warmth was very much appreciated and we had lots of time to soak in the atmosphere with a glass of local wine and fantastic food in the town square or lounging on the beach.

If you’re feeling more active you can hike up to the top of the Rocca, an unmissable hill looming up above the town from behind the cathedral. It’s a steep but rewarding climb, with incredible views out across the town and the ocean beyond. Rumour has it, it’s the place to be to watch the sun go down.

Stay at B&B del Giglio for its perfect location, classic style and pretty garden.

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Cefalu, Sicily

Cadiz, Spain

Explored by Sally of Loving Life in Spain

Best For: water sports enthusiasts and foodies
January Temperature Range: 10 – 16° celsius | 50 – 61° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 9 days

Cádiz is one of the best places for winter sun in Europe. Cádiz has 313 days of sunshine a year with the winter months (December through February) having almost 200 hours of sun each month. However, many people love it because it is mild, not hot nor cold.

The city of Cádiz is located within the province of Cádiz in the southwest coast of Spain. If it was not for a very narrow strip of land, it would be an island. Thus, Cádiz is one of the best places to visit for people who love the beach and water sports.

Being almost completely surrounded by water, there are countless spots for sailing, surfing, kite surfing, fishing, diving, and numerous beach activities. The city has one main promenade that stretches from one end to the other end. It is flanked with countless tapas bars, restaurants, and cafés with dishes to appease every palate.

Being one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in western Europe, Cádiz has over 100 watchtowers. Archaeologists have found remains in the area dating back approximately 3,124 years, meaning Cádiz was first inhabited around 1104BCE. The old city is a delightful maze of narrow winding streets full of history, shops, museums, and squares, perfect for wandering.

Stay at Hotel Alquimia Cadiz for its city centre location, historic architecture and roof top terrace.

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Cadiz

Crete, Greece

Explored by David of Delve Into Europe

Best For: beach lovers and sun seekers
January Temperature Range: 14 – 16° celsius | 57 – 61° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 5 days

Crete is as far south as you can go in Europe, and it stays warmer there longer than anywhere else on the continent, making it one of the best European winter sun destinations. Winter temperatures are also much higher than on the continent, so it’s a great place to head for if you’re looking for a dose of Mediterranean sun.

The island is almost deserted in comparison with the summer peak season, and you get such a different perspective of it when you have it almost to yourself. Chania, the main city in western Crete, is open year-round, and makes an ideal base for exploring the island.

The west of the island has many of the best beaches in Crete, and it’s possible to visit them in winter – you’ll just need your own transport. Falassarna beach is around 90 minutes from Chania, and the pink sand beach at Elafonissi two hours drive away.

Crete in winter can reach daily highs of 16°c, with occasional days around 18°c or 19°c, with sunny weather prevailing around half the time. There’s also a chance of wet, even stormy weather, and the White Mountains in the west of the island are often snow-capped.

Getting to Crete in winter requires a bit more legwork than the rest of the year. Many of the airlines stop serving the island between November and March, so a connecting flight from Athens to Chania may be necessary.

Stay at the Calle Veneziana holiday home for its location in the old town, very cute decor and highly rated hosts.

Sitia, Crete

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Explored by Constance of The Adventures of Panda Bear

Best For: traditional sight seeing and history buffs
January Temperature Range: 7 – 12° celsius | 45 – 54° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 9 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 11 days

Spend a few days in Dubrovnik for some of the best winter sight-seeing in Europe. Though there are rainy days during the winter, the weather tends to be mild and more often sunny rather than not.

With the crowds gone during the cooler weather, the city is more easily explored during the winter low season. Dubrovnik hotels, flights and attractions will also be cheaper, making this a good budget destination in the low season.

Walk along the old city walls for amazing views of all the orange roofs in the city and the Adriatic Sea. The city walls of Dubrovnik are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and have been considered to be among the best fortification systems of the Middle Ages.

Be sure to check out Fort Lovrenjac, a fort located just outside the western walls of the city of Dubrovnik. Famous for resisting Venetian rule, the fort was built and rebuilt over time, playing a crucial role in Dubrovnik’s line of defence.

Within the city’s walls, visit one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe. Founded in 1317, it is still in operation and located inside the Franciscan Monastery.

The city is easily reached by plane or by car from elsewhere within Croatia. Dubrovnik is full of history, and things to do, making it the perfect place to visit in January (or indeed any winter month!).

Stay at Heritage Villa Nobile for its wonderful central location, gorgeous outside spaces and stunning bedrooms.

Kolorina Bay, Dubrovnik

Estepona, Spain

Explored by Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Best For: sun seekers and socialites
January Temperature Range: 12 – 20° celsius | 54 – 68° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 6 days

Estepona is one of Europe’s top winter sun destinations! Situated on the Mediterranean coast in the region of Malaga, this little yet socially vibrant town is a great winter holiday spot on the Costa del Sol. It is undoubtedly an excellent place for winter sun and is one of the warmest places in mainland Europe in winter.

From Estepnoa’s captivating culture to archaeological attractions and splendid Mediterranean wintertime sunshine, you can explore the town, including the Botanical and Orchid Gardens, Santaverde Cosmética Natural, the charming Centro Historico and the Teatro Auditorio Felipe VI.

There are numerous other things to do in Estepona, like sea and boat excursions, water sports, fishing and playing golf. Additionally, you can attend carnivals and events, like Flamenco, go shopping and taste the seafood.

Estepona has warm and mellow weather because of the Mediterranean warm breezes during winters. So, the climate is another inevitable reason to visit for winter sun. You can appreciate a lot of daylight throughout the winter season and there is almost no rain.

Estepona is easily reached by bus from Malaga. If you’re flying to Spain, pick up a hire car in Malaga and head down the coast, perhaps visiting Estepona as part of a wider Andalucia road trip.

Stay at Hotel Estepona Plaza for its fantastic location, modern decor and fabulous breakfast.

Straits of Gibraltar from Estepona Beach

Funchal, Madeira

Explored by Nichola of Globalmouse Travels

Best For: thrill seekers and garden lovers
January Temperature Range: 14 – 18° celsius | 57 – 64° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 3 days

Banish all thoughts of Madeira as a destination for older folk, the island is the perfect location for a family break at all times of the year and delivers the perfect mix of beach breaks and cultural activities for all ages. Madeira in winter is when the island really shines though.

Madeira sits 350 miles from the coast of Morocco and enjoys temperatures in double figures and delightful sunny days throughout the winter months. Start your visit in the capital city of Funchal where the islands Portuguese influences are on show in the old town. Take the cable car high above the streets for a spot of people watching, before exploring the historic tropical gardens.

Adventurous types can enjoy a spot of street tobogganing, a 100-year-old tradition on Madeira, where you are steered down steep hillside roads in a land sledge.

Out of the capital, head for the centre of the island where you can enjoy long treks in tropical surroundings along ancient paths, or explore the craggy north coast line near Seixal and Porto Moritz, where you can discover secluded inlets where the locals enjoy a dip in the sea.

Stop in at the impressive São Vicente caves formed hundreds of thousands of years ago by volcanic activity and end your day watching the sun setting over the sea at the breath taking Cabo Girão Skywalk, a glass platform perched on a cliff edge 580 metres above the crashing waves beneath your feet.

Stay at Susy’s Garden Villa for its excellent location, cute swimming pool and excellent host.

Funchal, Madeira

Gibraltar, Spain

Explored by Izzy & Phil of The Gap Decaders

Best For: a taste of Great Britain in Spain!
January Temperature Range: 9 – 15° celcius | 48 – 59° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 7 days

Known simply as ‘the Rock’, Gibraltar is a tiny six square kilometre British Overseas Territory at almost the southernmost tip of continental Europe), only pipped to the post by Tarifa, just down the coast in Spain – one of the the hottest European countries in January.

A literal point of contention for centuries, Gibraltar has, at various times in history, been under the control of the Moors, the Spanish, and now the British. Each of these cultures have left their mark, and give the peninsula a unique culture of its own.

At a comfortable 15°c in January, the weather is perfect for hiking around the rock and along the suspension bridge, or taking the cable car to the top, for fabulous views across to Morocco and North Africa. Alternatively, go subterrenean and explore over 150 caves and 50km of World War II tunnels, or visit the Barbary macaques that Gibraltar is famous for.

You’ll also be a stones throw from Spain, from where it’s easy to hop across to Tangier in Morocco and add another warm winter destination to your trip!

Stay at the Eliott Hotel for its rooftop pool and terrace, enviable location and sylish decor.

RELATED POST: How to Take a Day Trip from Spain to Tangier

The Rock of Gibraltar and Algeciras

Ibiza, Spain

Explored by Sylvie of Travels With Eden

Best For: beach lovers and families
January Temperature Range: 14 – 18° celsius | 57 – 64° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 6 days

Ibiza is the perfect option for a winter break in Europ, located in the Balearic Islands off the east coast of Spain. The island is famous for its world-class nightclubs but during the winter season there is a different opportunity to see the beauty of the island. From mid-October to mid-May, the clubs shut for the winter, the crowds leave and Ibiza sinks into a peaceful winter.

There are 57 perfect beaches to explore in Ibiza, many boasting white sand and crystal clear waters making Ibiza perfect for families to visit in the low season. Even in the winter months, the beaches are great to walk along, and the sea stays relatively warm all year round.

The town of Santa Eulalia is thriving most of the year in comparison to the resorts of San Antonio and Playa d’en Bossa which are more geared towards the clubbing crowd. One of the best things to do during winter is walk to the nearby Es Cana along the coastal path where you’ll see stunning views and plenty of other beaches. Santa Eulalia marina is also lovely to take a walk around where you can spot super yachts, or watch the sunrise.

The best way to reach Ibiza is to fly to Ibiza airport where you can get a taxi to anywhere on the island. Regular ferries run to Ibiza from the mainland port of Denia in Spain as well as from the neighbouring islands of Majorca and Formentera.

Stay at Boutique Hotel Jardines de Palerm for its estate location, choice of infinity pools and beautiful Spanish decor.

Ibiza

Istanbul, Turkey

Explored by Vaibhav of The Wandering Vegetable

Best For: historical sites and Asian vibes
January Temperature Range: 10 – 14° celsius | 50 – 57° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 9 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 18 days

Istanbul is one of the best places in Europe to take a winter sun city break. The city, in the on the European side of the country, is a delight to explore in the winter as it’s the off-season and you won’t find hordes of tourists at important historical sites. It is also the cheapest time to visit Istanbul, so a vacation here during winter is more pocket-friendly.

Because of it’s vibrant Turkish culture that extends to both European and Asian continents, spending a few days in Istanbul during winter is a delightful experience, with temperatures being pleasantly mild. You usually see the sun shining but once in a while, you may experience snow!

The best things to do in Istanbul include visiting the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Suleymaniye Mosque, Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar.

The one hidden gem that not many people know about is the Pierre Loti Hill. From here, you can enjoy the ultimate panoramic view of the Golden Horn, a major urban waterway and the primary inlet of the Bosphorus, shaped like a horn. Nothing’s better than sipping a hot Turkish coffee on a nice winter morning at the Pierre Loti Cafe and admiring the view.

If you feel like experiencing the buzzing party scene of Istanbul, then head to Istiklal Avenue in the Taksim Square area. My personal recommendation to you, however, would be to do the Bosphorus night cruise.

Sailing over the calm waters of the Bosphorus Strait, you get to enjoy the sights of the dazzling monuments at night. Feeling the winter breeze in your face, while sipping Turkish wine and admiring the sight of the spectacular Bosphorus Bridge, is an experience that you’ll cherish for life.

All in all, I can say that a winter vacation to Europe is incomplete without exploring Istanbul.

Stay at Mula Hotel for its incredinly central location, fantastic outdoor spaces and modern decor.

The Blue Mosque, Istanbul

Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

Explored by Linn of Brainy Backpackers

Best For: authentic Spain and sherry lovers
January Temperature Range: 14 – 18° celsius | 57 – 64° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 9 days

One of the best places for winter sun in Europe is the underrated Andalusian city of Jerez de la Frontera. In the shadow of Seville and the rising popularity of Cadiz, the city is mainly visited by Spanish which means you get an authentic local experience when visiting Jerez de la Frontera.

With more than 300 days a year of sunshine, it is perfect for a sunny city break and if you want an escape to the beach, it isn’t too far to the little vibrant beach town El Puerto de Santa Maria.

Jerez has a lot of great attractions, though. Being the sherry capital of Spain, you can enjoy numerous sherry tours and experience the famous bodegas to learn more about its sherry culture. Stroll around the charming streets getting lost between medieval buildings, visit the stunning cathedral which is a perfect fusion of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Gothic from the 17^thcentury.

The separately built bell tower stands on top of the minaret of an old mosque. Go on a guided tour of the Alcazar and stroll around Alameda vieja. If you like to visit astounding churches and convents, Jerez is the perfect place to be. With more than 20 of them spread around the city, it’s the perfect place to get lost in the streets discovering these astounding structures one by one.

Jerez de la Frontera has its own international airport and is well served by train and bus from both Cadiz and Seville.

Stay at Suites Alfonso X Aparthotel for its central location, beautifully simple decor and outdoor pool.

Alcazar of Jerez de la Frontera

Mahon, Menorca

Explored by Nadine of Le Long Weekend

Best For: nature and getting away from it all
January Temperature Range: 11 – 14° celsius | 52 – 57° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 7 days

The Balearic Island of Menorca is a nature-lovers paradise. Relatively unscathed by the overdevelopment that has scarred some parts of its bigger sibling Mallorca, Menorca, in contrast, remains magnificent in its natural beauty.

A joy to visit at any time of the year, in winter it benefits from a mild Mediterranean climate. Days linger in the mid-teens, but the bright, sunny skies and longer daylight hours than many of its European neighbours mean it’s the perfect place to escape the winter blues.

While your accommodation options will be more limited in the cooler months (but subsequently much cheaper), it’s a great time to take advantage of the pristine beaches that dot the island’s coast, many of which you can reach via the ancient Cami de Cavalls walking trail.

Other winter activities include warming up with a gin tasting at a local distillery, or marvelling at the island’s many megalithic sites that date back to the bronze age. Daily life in the towns still hums with quiet activity in winter and you’ll gain an untarnished view of what life in Menorca is really like, when not swarming with visitors.

Due to decreased demand in winter, direct flights are hard to come by. But you can reach the island via many of the main Spanish cities, or from Mallorca via plane or ferry.

Stay at Hotel Nou Sant Antoni for its perfect location, stylish decor and wonderfully comfortable beds.

Cala Macarelleta, Menorca

Nice, France

Explored by Elisa of France Bucket List

Best For: art lovers and stylish foodies
January Temperature Range: 7 – 16° celsius | 45 – 61° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 9 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 6 days

Nice is a great destination to spend a winter sun break in Europe. Located on the French Riviera of southern France and an eight hour drive south from Paris, Nice is bathed by the Mediterranean Sea. Temperatures in Nice are always mild, making it a perfect destination for a French winter road trip.

Nice is a great place for sightseeing and I recommend spending at least 2 days in Nice to get a taste of what the city has to offer and visit the main sights. The city has beautiful Baroque architecture, interesting museums, and a delicious local cuisine.

The historical centre of old Nice is a wonderful place to get lost, especially in late autumn and winter when the crowds are gone and it feels a little more off the beaten path.

Walk the little streets and wide avenues of Nice but also try to see the city from other points of view: from the water, perhaps on a cruise, and from one of the hills of Provence that surround the city.

People with longer holidays won’t be disappointed. Nice is a great base for fantastic day trips along the French Riviera, to neighbouring Monte Carlo or to the hilltop villages inland. In most cases you will need a car but there is also a big variety of guided tours for people without four wheels.

Stay at the Quai Promenade apartment for its stylish decor, perfect location and exceptional facilities.

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The Bay of Angels, Nice

Paphos, Cyprus

Explored by Maggie of The World Was Here First

Best For: sun seekers and lovers of ancient ruins
January Temperature Range: 10 – 18° celsius | 50 – 65° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 13 days

This Mediterranean island nation boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year and has historic cities, beautiful beaches, ancient sites and perennial warm weather, making it one of the top winter sun holiday destinations in Europe.

The city of Paphos itself is a perfect place to visit in the wintertime as the daily high rarely dips below 16 degrees in January, the coldest month. There are also lots of things to see and do in Paphos that are sure to keep you entertained.

Arguably, if you’re interested in all of the historic sites and being outside, visiting Paphos in winter is a better bet as there are fewer tourist crowds and you won’t have to contend with the oppressive heat of summer.

Some of the best things to do in Paphos include wandering through the incredible Kato Paphos Archaeological Park and gazing in awe at the Hellenistic-era mosaics and countless other Greek ruins, visit the nearby Aphrodite’s Rock (Paphos claims to be the birthplace of the mythical goddess of love and beauty) or explore the fascinating Tomb of the Kings.

Paphos is an excellent place to visit any time of the year, but the winter provides an excellent time to soak up the sun and avoid the tourist crowds, making Cyprus one of the best destinations for hot holidays in January.

Stay at Louis Paphos Breeze for its beachside location, low rose architecture and fantastic resort facilities.

The village of Peyia and Paphos

Lagos, Portugal

Explored by Anisa of Two Traveling Texans

Best For: activity lovers and sun seekers
January Temperature Range: 14 – 20° celsius | 57 – 68° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 3 days

Portugal’s Algarve Coast is the perfect place to visit if you are looking for the winter sun in Europe. While it may not be swimming weather, it will be pleasant to be outside as in the balmy climate thanks to its westerly position on the continent.

The winter is the off-season in the Algarve, so hotels will be more affordable and places will be less crowded. Don’t worry there are still plenty of fun things to do in the area, and if you base yourself in Lagos, you’re within easy reach of the whole Algarve coast.

If you want to see the famous caves, it’s best to take a boat tour. There are also several small towns worth visiting. Silves has a castle and Loule has a famous Saturday Market. You can also go to a nature reserve like Ria Formosa Natural Park or do a coastal walk like the Seven Hanging Valleys hike.

If you like to golf, there are plenty of golf courses. Be sure to try some of the local seafood. There are also some wineries worth checking out. To get to the Algarve, you can fly into the airport in Faro.

Alternatively, it is about a 3 hour drive or bus ride from Lisbon. It will be easiest to explore the area if you have a car or even a campervan, the perfect way to see the Algarve in winter!

Stay at Palmares Beach House Hotel Lagos for its amazing view, excellent facilities and adults only vibe.

RELATED POST: Road Trip Portugal – Two Incredible Itineraries

Cape St Vincent, Algarve

Lecce, Italy

Explored by Paul of The Two That Do

Best For: historical architecture buffs and city moochers
January Temperature Range: 13 – 15° celsius | 55 – 59° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 9 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 7 days

The historic city of Lecce located in the heel of Italy lies 150 km south of Bari, the region’s largest city and major port linking Italy with Greece and the Balkans.

Visitors driving from Rome some 600km and a six hour drive north west should not miss the opportunity to experience the unique cave city of Matera. Lecce is also a perfect base from which to explore other delightful Puglia towns such as Polignano a Mare, Alberobello and Otranto.

Winter in Lecce with its Mediterranean climate is a delight. These are the wetter months with a little more rainfall, but with an average temperature in the mid to high teens it is a perfect winter destination.

Known as the ‘Florence of the South’ due to the many stunning examples of Baroque architecture in its central pedestrianised old town Lecce is a city to experience, rather than do.

Walking its centuries old cobbled streets and narrow lanes you will be treated to some of Italy’s most fabulous and well preserved buildings. The remains of a 2,000 year old Roman Amphitheatre, the stunning Piazza del Duomo with its striking Cathedral and the Basilica di Santa Croce are just a few of the many highlights.

Once you’ve finished exploring, find a seat at one of Lecce’s charming restaurants and enjoy a glass of two or the local red wine and one of the region’s many traditional dishes.

Stay at the Donna Teresa Guest House for its perfect central location, fantastic bathrooms and welcoming host.

Roman Amphitheatre of Lecce

Lisbon, Portugal

Explored by Amanda of A Dangerous Business

Best For: city wanderers and enophiles
January Temperature Range: 14 – 19° celsius | 57 – 66° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 15 days

When it comes to sunny destinations where you can escape the European winter, look no further than Portugal, possibly the warmest country in Europe in January. And not just Portugal’s famous coastal regions, either; the capital city of Lisbon also makes for a great winter sun destination if you’re looking for warm cities in January – or any time in winter!

Lisbon enjoys a year-round Mediterranean climate, with more than 290 days of sunshine per year. And while the city can get downright hot and uncomfortable during the summer months, average winter high temperatures generally stay in the late teens, making it a pleasant time to visit.

In the winter, Lisbon sees fewer tourists (and few cruise ships), but still has regular flight service from just about everywhere in Europe. And since you can enjoy all the must-dos Lisbon has to offer any time of year, winter really is a great time to visit.

Some of the top things to do in Lisbon include wandering the steep, historic streets in the Alfama neighbourhood; riding on historic trams and funiculars; catching a sunset from one of the city’s famous miradouros; listening to Fado music; and eating as many pastéis de nata as you can stomach.

If you manage to hit one of Lisbon’s non-sunny winter days, there are also some cool museums to visit like the National Azulejo Museum, the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery) in Belem to explore, and the Time Out Market to eat your way through.

Stay at the Altis Avenida Hotel for its superb location, sheer glamous and intriguing mix of architecture and design.

RELATED POST – One Day Lisbon Itinerary with Map & Tips

Tram in Lisbon

Palermo, Sicily

Explored by Tom of The Travelling Tom

Best For: city lovers and gourmets
January Temperature Range: 11 – 17° celsius | 52 – 63° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 9 days

If you’re thinking of heading to somewhere in Europe which has a bit of sun during the bleak winter months, Palermo is one place you should consider. The city isn’t the most visited destination in Europe, but there are lots of flights to this beautiful city on the island of Sicily from all over the continent.

Due to its southern location, the weather remains temperate throughout winter. It won’t be hot, but you won’t be freezing cold either. One reason to visit Palermo is to check out the architecture. The city is renowned for its impressive buildings, some of which date back thousands of years.

Quattro Canti is a unique intersection in the middle of the city, which has buildings with prominent statues on all four corners. You can visit La Zisa, a former Royal Palace, built in an Arabic style and check out the grand Cathedral in the middle of the city.

Perhaps the most intriguing place to visit in Palermo is the Capuchin Catacombs. Here you will find the mummified remains of friars and vicars from as far back as the 12th century.

Don’t forget about the famous food market held daily, where you can pick your fish or meat and have it prepared in the traditional way. My advice is to spend 3 days in Palermo to get the most from your trip. This will allow you to see the amazing buildings and head to the beach at nearby Mondello while seeing everything this beautiful Italian city has to offer!

Stay at the Casa Nostra Boutique Hotel for its fabulous location, charming terrace and fantastic facilities.

RELATED POST: One Day in Palermo – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Palermo, Sicily

Positano, Italy

Explored by Lori of Travlinmad

Best For: Fashionistas and lovers of cafe culture
January Temperature Range: 10 – 13° celsius | 50 – 55° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 9 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 9 days

Positano is one of Italy’s most iconic destinations, even in winter. Getting to the Amalfi Coast is easy by train from anywhere in Europe to Naples or Sorrento. From there, it’s a short ride to the Costiera Amalfitana. Even easier is to arrange private transport and leave the driving to the professionals.

Positano sits perched on the cliffs overlooking the deep turquoise blue Mediterranean Sea, and the colourful buildings appear set to tumble into the water. Winding through the village is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways that are a joy to explore.

The scene is one of Italy’s most famous landscapes to behold. While the water might be a bit too chilly for swimming, the winter sun is the big draw in colder months, and it’s even warm enough to get out on the water for a boat tour up and down the coast.

There are lots of fun things to do in Positano from dining in amazing restaurants to strolling the narrow streets for some serious shopping. Limoncello, ceramics, and handmade leather sandals (made while you wait) are some of the best items to look for.

Winter is also a good time of year to hike the hills above the Amalfi Coast. Whether you choose to walk the Path of the Gods, or hike the upper mule paths between the small towns, the warm sun is a welcome break from the winter blues, making this one of the best winter sun destinations in Europe.

RELATED POST: A Bucket List Amalfi Coast Road Trip

Stay at the Hotel Marincanto for its fabulous location, infinity pool and private beach.

Positano on the Amalfi Coast

Rhodes, Greece

Explored by Maria of Europe Up Close

Best For: culture vultures and history buffs
January Temperature Range: 13 – 15° celsius | 55 – 59° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 5 days

If you are planning a winter getaway to Europe, but don’t want to lug around heavy winter clothes, I suggest you add Rhodes to your list of winter sun Europe destinations.

Rhodes is one of the most stunning Greek Islands that is perfect for beach and culture lovers. Home to one of the historic Seven Wonders of the World, the Colossus, you will find an island rich in history and culture.

During the winter months, the destination is very off the beaten path, and you might not find many other tourists making it one of the best places to visit in January in Europe if you want to get away from it all.

Some of the top sights are the old town of Rhodes City, a UNESCO Heritage Site and the Acropolis in the cute village of Lindos.

Rhodes City is the largest city on the island, but with only 50,000 residents, it still has a small-town feel. Definitely add a visit to this city and the Citadel of Rhodes to your itinerary.

The fortification of the old town was built in the 14th century and is one of the best preserved medieval towns in the world.

Lindos on the other hand is beautiful small fishing village with narrow cobble-stone streets and alleys, white washed houses and an Acropolis perched on top of the hill. It is also known for its beautiful beaches and a favourite tourist spot – for a very good reason.

Stay at the Attiki Hotel for its traditional decor, sun terrace and location in the heart of Rhodes old town.

Lindos, Rhodes

Rome, Italy

Explored by Anya of Unexpected Occurrence

Best For: city lovers and history buffs
January Temperature Range: 10 – 13° celsius | 50 – 55° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 9 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 9 days

Rome is a wonderful destination to get a little bit of winter sun. It’s not so busy during the winter season, and the winters are extremely mild and it’s warm enough to stay outside and explore. If it does get a little cold, hop into a bar for a cafe.

Winter in Rome is the perfect time to explore all of the main sights, as the lines will be much shorter than the peak summer season. I highly recommend exploring Trastevere, a charming area of Rome that has plenty of restaurants and bars. It really comes alive during the wintertime, where you can cozy up in a wine bar for an aperitif.

On particularly sunny winter days, there are so many amazing parks and gardens to check out – some have ancient Roman aqueducts, others have insane views of the Colosseum!

To get to Rome, you can fly into one of two airports. Most European budget airlines will fly into Ciampino and most major carriers will fly into Fiumicino. From the airport, you can take a bus or train to Roma Termini.

RELATED POST: Rome in a Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Stay at Casa Fabbrini for its location in the heart of the historical centre, charming atmosphere and stylish vibe.

Sao Miguel, Azores

Explored by Alexandrina of Earthosea

Best For: sun worshippers and hikers
January Temperature Range: 14 – 18° celsius | 57 – 64° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 15 days

Sao Miguel island in the Azores is the perfect destination for spending winter days in a place with a mild climate. The temperature is always warm and it offers lots of stuff to do when you’re there. It is usually sunny in the Azores during the winter, but there is also a chance also might be overcast with lots of rain. Thus, it is good to be prepared for this too.

While in Sao Miguel, it is best to hike to Boca do Inferno in Sete Cidades village, which is the most well-known spot in the Azores. Another spot you should not miss is the Lagoa do Fogo, the most beautiful lake in the Azores providing one of the best vistas over the Atlantic Ocean.

Furthermore, the lake provides a beautiful beach that is usually uninhabited and you can relax peacefully. If you prefer a more serene place which is less crowded, Lagoa do Congro surely offers that. It is a beautiful emerald lake set deep in the tropical forests of the island.

Going further into the island of Sao Miguel, it is best to check out the hot springs of the island. They are for sure a place you should visit in the winter. Most of the thermal pools on the island are around 30-40 degrees, which is quite normal. Some of the most well-known thermal pools are the Dona Beija and Terra Nostra.

However, if you prefer a more serene place to take a dip in and relax, then you should head to Caldeira Velha. It is close to the hiking trail for Salto do Cabrito and is surrounded by a lush tropical forest.

Last but not least, make sure to check the Gorreana Tea Factory in the north of the island and try the nicest green and black tea Then, make sure to walk around the plantation and take a few pictures of the breathtaking landscapes!

Stay at Casa das Cinco Apartments for their stunning seafront location, cool decor and outdoor pool.

Gorreana, Azores

Seville, Spain

Explored by Jiayi of The Diary of a Nomad

Best For: Spanish passion and tapas
January Temperature Range: 11 – 17° celsius | 52 – 63° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 8 days

If you’re looking for a beautiful place to enjoy the winter sun, look no further than Seville ⁠- one of the hottest cities in Europe! Located in the stunning region of Andalucia, Seville’s weather averages at a pleasant 11°c – 17°c in the winter months, and the city is known to be sunny all year round. In fact, it only has about 80 days of rain per year!

You can do a lot in Seville in three days, which is typically enough to cover all the important places in town. Start your trip at Plaza de España, a magnificent square with gorgeous architecture and a canal in the middle. It’s an awesome place for photography and relaxation!

From there, you can take a walk to the colourful Barrio Santa Cruz for some delicious tapas, and then head over to Casa de Pilatos, a beautiful civil palace. Not far from there is the unique contemporary structure of the Metropol Parasol, and the famous restaurant El Rinconcillo (it’s a must-try!).

Some of the other unmissable spots in Seville are the Royal Alcázar, the Cathedral, the Giralda Tower, and the best tapas bar in town, Espacio Eslava. I also highly recommend watching a flamenco show during your time there!

Getting to Seville is very easy. You can either fly into Seville Airport or take a high-speed train if you’re coming from other Spanish cities such as Barcelona, Granada, Cordoba, or Madrid.

Stay at Hotel Casa del Poeta for its city center location, beautifully renovated rooms and regular live music.

RELATED POST: One Day in Seville – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Plaza Espana, Seville

Taormina, Sicily

Explored by Derek & Mike of Robe Trotting

Best For: beach lovers and hikers
January Temperature Range: 11 – 15° celsius | 52 – 59° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 9 days

The charming hilltop town of Taormina is one of the best destinations in Europe for winter sun. Taormina is located in view of Mount Etna, along the east coast of Sicily. In Taormina you’ll discover dramatic cliffs sweeping to the sea below and a picturesque old gate to enter the medieval walls of the city.

There are so many things to do in Taormina but the biggest draw is the surrounding beaches. Taormina’s most incredible beach is Isola Bella, a nature reserve just off the coastline. Reaching Isola Bella requires hiking down a footpath but you can also take a bus or buy a ticket for the funicular.

Once you reach the shoreline you can set up your blanket or rent a sun chair on the shore. In order to reach the island and nature reserve you will have to walk along a sandbar. Depending on the time of day, you may have to wade into the water because the sand bar is submerged during high tide.

When in Taormina, make a trip to the gorges of Alcantara. They are a natural canyon carved into black lava flows. The tallest are 50m tall tall and you can wade into the cold water running through the canyon.

Other attractions include the Teatro Antico di Taormina, an ancient Greco-Roman theatre. It’s still in use today and a great place for a winter sunset.

While it’s great all year long, the winter in Taormina is full of sun and things to do without the crowds.

Stay at the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo for the iconic Mount Etna view, five star luxury and charming service.

Taormina and Isola Bella, Sicily

Tarifa, Spain

Explored by Joanna of The World in My Pocket

Best For: wind or kite surfing and beach lovers
January Temperature Range: 11 – 15° celsius | 52 – 59° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 9 days

Tarifa is probably one of the best places to travel to in winter. With mild temperatures in the cold months and gorgeous beaches, Tarifa is known as the capital of windsurfing and kite surfing in Spain. Getting to Tarifa is very easy, no matter which southern Spanish airport you use. The closest airport is in Gibraltar, with Malaga and Jerez following.

Tarifa is a lovely small town, with a very laid-back character and a rural atmosphere. You won’t find any big chains here, just small businesses run by locals.

In winter, even if it may not be warm enough to sunbathe, you can still take advantage of the sunny weather and learn how to windsurf or kite surf. There are over 60 schools which can teach you how to tackle waves on a board, and have fun doing acrobatic tricks in the air.

Tarifa is one of the windiest places in Spain because of its location, between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean and this is why water sports lovers come here year round. You can actually walk on on the island bridge that divides the Mediterranean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean and notice how the color changes from one side to another.

Tarifa is also the most Southern point of continental Europe making it a great place to spend time in a campervan over winter.

Stay at Hotel Tarifa Lances for its spa and pools, funky vibe and extensive facilities.

Playa de Los Lances, Tarfia

Tenerife, Canary Islands

Explored by Izzy of The Gap Decaders

Best For: true sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts
January Temperature Range: 16 – 22° celsius | 61 – 72° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 8 days

Wondering where is hot in January in Europe? If you’re looking for the warmest place in Europe in January (or December or February even!) then the Canary Islands are the best of the hot winter holiday destinations in Europe, averaging temperatures in the high teens to low twenties.

A large archipelago off the north-west coast of Africa, the Canaries are rugged volcanic isles. The best know islands are Tenerife (the largest), Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Graciosa.

The Canary Island seas are temperate enough to swim in all year round, the winter sunshine hours longer than most of Europe and they have less rainfall than Spain and Portugal. The islands can be windy in the winter months, but if you enjoy sailing, wind-surfing and kiting, then so much the better!

Visit Tenerife for a lively atmosphere and great night life. Gran Canaria is best for hiking, national parks and huge beaches, whilst Lanzarote is ideal for a family holiday, with unique volcanic landscapes and natural wonders, typified in the imposing and dramatic Timanfaya National Park.

Head for Fuerterventura if you’re looking for the best wind and water sports, and La Palma for fabulous snorkelling and local wildlife. La Gomera is a hidden gem and the most authentic of the larger islands and perfect for getting away from it all.

Stay at Hotel Hacienda del Conde for its world-class service, resort vibe and fantastic range of facilities.

Famous for their black sandy beaches, The Canaries are a staple of European winter holidays and is the warmest place in Europe in winter, in fact they offer the best winter sun in Europe! | Playa del Duque, Tenerife

Valencia, Spain

Explored by Sonia of The Littlers Travel

Best For: eclectic attractions and authentic charm
January Temperature Range: 10 – 16° celsius | 50 – 61° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 6 days

The world-famous song ‘Valencia’ by Padilla goes a little something like this: Valencia is the land of flowers, light and love… He didn’t fall short because Valencia has almost everything.

From the outside, Valencia is undoubtedly one of the most charming destinations of eastern Spain, and one of the most beautiful cities of the entire Spanish geography. You can catch a suntan on its idyllic beaches, visit the Arts and Sciences Museum, tour the rice paddies of the Albufera, walk among sharks in the Oceanografic, feel like royalty at Museum of the Marqués de Dos Aguas and take a stroll through its streets while you delight yourself with its stunning architecture.

But what’s inside is what matters, and for you to fall in love with everything this city has to offer. Try a tasty paella by the Mediterranean and get lost in the neighbourhood of El Carmen, buy a horchata drink from a traditional artisan, shop for local produce in the Central Market, party at the Umbracle, enjoy its traditional festivities, the Fallas Festival, and become a hipster for a day in Ruzafa.

We stand corrected, Valencia has everything! Want to come and visit?

Stay at Venecia Plaza Centro for its city centre location, stunning decor and great service.

Arts & Science Museum, Valencia

Valletta, Malta

Explored by Stephanie of History Fangirl

Best For: sun seekers and photographers
January Temperature Range: 13 – 18° celsius | 55 – 64° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 8 days

If you want to get away and enjoy some sun in winter, fly to sunny Malta. The temperatures and warm, and while you may not want to swim (though some will) it’s still worth it to visit the beaches just to enjoy walking on them.

In the winter, you can also enjoy the highlights of Valletta, Malta’s capital, including going on a city tour and visiting St. John’s Co-Cathedral.

The best part of visiting Malta in the off-season is getting to tour popular spots like Dwerja and Mdina without the typical crowds. This means you can visit some of Malta’s best photography spots without competing with throngs of tourists.

Even sunny Gozo, which isn’t as busy as Malta, is still lovely when things are a bit more closed down. Book your accommodation early and find out what will be open near you since restaurants might be closed in the off season.

Getting to Malta is relatively easy since budget carriers offer discounted airfares. You can also visit by taking a ferry from Sicily, which is handy if you want to keep your own car with you during your trip. Driving is one of the best ways to get around Malta, especially if you want to travel between Malta and Gozo.

Stay at the The Embassy Valletta Hotel for its rooftop pool, decadent bathrooms and city centre location.

Valletta, Malta

Other Low Season Holiday Ideas…

Mid-Haul Winter Sun Destinations

Fethiye, Turkey

Explored by Phil & Izzy of The Gap Decaders

Best For: old town wandering and ancient heritage sites
January Temperature Range: 15 – 18° celsius | 59 – 64° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 12 days

The Aegean region of Turkey where Fethiye is located is actually further west than Istanbul and located close to the Greek islands, making it a great mid-haul winter sun destination.

But, don’t come to Fethiye with the mistaken view that it will be hot, hot, hot. The further east you go through Europe, the more unpredictable the weather becomes. It never snows in Fethiye, although you’ll see it on the peaks of nearby Babadag Mountain, but it can be rainy and chilly, although this does come and go, so you’re unlikely to face a protracted spell of poor weather,

Fethiye is a wonderful destination if you like mooching around interesting old towns, visiting ruins and grabbing the odd beach day, or boat trip, when weather allows. Nearby is good hiking, ancient ruins and the fabulous beach at Oludeniz, a small town to the east, where you can also go paragliding.

Stay at Liberty Fabay for its beachfront location, fantastic uber all-inclusive offer and in-house entertainment.

Fethiye and Kapıdağ Peninsula

Marrakech, Morocco

Explored by Phil & Izzy of The Gap Decaders

Best For: old town wandering and ancient heritage sites
January Temperature Range: 16 – 23° celsius | 60 – 74° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 7 days

The jewel in Morocco’s crown, Marrakech is a magical jumble of tradition and modernity and a wonderful place for a city break in January. The medina is a feast for the senses and will leave you reeling as you struggle to comprehend the different smells, sounds and tastes that are unique to Morocco’s ancient walled quarters.

Known as the Red City, for its beaten clay buildings and ramparts, Marrakech is a fantastic city for a January city break. Underlying what feels like pandemonium in the souks is a laid-back vibe and a growing contemporary scene with lots on offer for every type of visitor.

You can even visit the Sahara Desert from Marrakech, although you’ll need a minimum of three days to get to the Sahara, so make sure to factor this in if seeing the vast rose coloured sand dunes and experiencing the desert is high on your list!

Stay at Riad Al Rimal for its superb medina location, hot-tub, pool and hamman, and chic decor.

RELATED POST: How to Go to Morocco & Visit the Sahara Desert

Djemaa el-Fna Square in Marrakech

Sal, Cape Verde

Explored by Phil & Izzy of The Gap Decaders

Best For: historical sites and eastern vibes
January Temperature Range: 20-24° celsius | 68 – 75° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 11 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 1 day

Officially the Republic of Cabo Verde, Cape Verde is an archipelago and island country in the central Atlantic Ocean, consisting of ten volcanic islands. Cape Verde is considered part of the African continent, but has close ties to Europe through its history as a colony of Portugal from the initial settlement of the islands in 1462 until the independence of Cape Verde in 1975.

It’s a perfect spot for a winter sun holiday from Europe, offering travellers a whopping eleven daily sunshine hours along with wonderful hospitality in a landscape of mountains, blue seas dotted with islands and and windswept beaches.

Sal is the most popular island and our top mid-haul destination for January sun, and the main town of Santa Maria is a beach lovers paradise. With stunning clear turquoise waters great for snorkelling, and powdery white sandy beaches, relaxing in the heat will be easy! Boa Vista is another similar island, also popular with travellers.

Other islands in the archipelago offer volcano experiences, fabulous hiking and a taste of Cape Verde’s diverse culture.

Stay at Sal Beach Club for its superb location, good food and laid back vibe.

Chaves Beach, Boa Vista

Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt

Explored by Phil & Izzy of The Gap Decaders

Best For: beach lovers and activity enthusiasts
January Temperature Range: 16 – 22° celsius | 61 – 72° fahrenheit
Average January Sunshine Hours: 10 hours
Average Rainy Days in January: 1 day

The Rea Sea resorts of Egypt are the best places for guaranteed January sunshine, certainly warm enough for sea swimming and snorkelling – and none more so than Sharm El Sheikh, the original and arguably the best resort in this mid-haul destination.

Known for its sheltered sandy beaches, clear waters and coral reefs, this is a great destination if you love being active whilst grabbing a bit of beach time.

Diving is the big activity here, and many people come to learn. If you’re not a diver, then there are also amazing snorkelling spots in the clear waters, and places like Ras Mohammas National Park, Egypt’s premier location for marine life. You can get a boat trip there, jump in and snorkel or dive the day away!

Feeling energetic? A couple of hours drive north is Mount Sinai, located deep in the South Sinai Desert. You can hike to the top of this holy mountain, where, according to the Bible’s Old Testament, God handed down the ten commandments to Moses.

You can even take a two day trip from Sharm to Cairo and Luxor, although it does involve getting on another plane!

Stay at the Rixos for its plush adults only environment, low rise architecture and fantastic all-inclusive facilities.

Naama Bay, Sharm El Sheikh

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10 Warmest Places in Europe in Winter

Tenerife is one of the best destinations for a warm winter holiday in Europe

Winter in Europe usually means low temperatures and snow, depending on the country that you’re planning to visit.

However, if you’re not a fan of snow and cold winter weather, there are still a few places in Europe where the temperatures are mild and the weather allows for visitors to enjoy some much-needed winter sun.

Winter sun in Europe: 10 hottest places and countries in Europe in winter
1. Tenerife, Canary Islands
2. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
2. Lanzarote, Canary Islands
4. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
5. Malaga, Spain
6. Limassol, Cyprus
7. Madeira, Portugal
8. Alicante, Spain
9. Malta
10. Sicily, Italy
Warmest places in Europe in December: TENERIFE and GRAN CANARIA
Warmest place in Europe in January: TENERIFE
Warmest places in Europe in February: TENERIFE and FUERTEVENTURA

Winter sun in Europe: 10 hottest places and countries in Europe in winter

We know that some people, ourselves included, are desperately looking for a bit of warm winter weather somewhere in Europe. And if that place happens to be somewhere near the beach or the sea, that is even better!

There are a few places where you can travel if you want to find the best winter weather in Europe and we have several recommendations, depending on how you plan to spend your time: relaxing on the beach, hiking or sightseeing and discovering places full of history.

So, this is our list of recommendations for the sunniest places in Europe in winter and also the best winter beaches in Europe, where you can sunbathe and even swim. Remember that UV protection is still necessary even when sunbathing in winter, so don’t forget about protecting your skin!

The Canary Islands – the hottest place to visit in Europe in winter, from December to February

The Canary Islands have one of the best climates in the world and here you can enjoy a day on the beach and a swim in the ocean at any time of the year. The Canary Islands are part of Spain, so you can travel here just as you would to any other part of Spain.

1. Tenerife, Canary Islands

A photo from the north of Tenerife in December at Playa de las Teresitas

If you haven’t been visited any of Canaries and you don’t have a favorite yet, we would recommend choosing Tenerife or Gran Canaria as the best places for a winter break.

The south of Tenerife is considerably hotter and sunnier than the north during the winter season, so for a warm holiday, we recommend staying around the areas of Los Cristianos, Playa de Las Americas, Costa Adeje up to Puerto Santiago and Los Gigantes.

Tenerife South has a warmer climate compared to the north of the island, which is why most of the tourist resorts are concentrated here. Temperatures still rise above 20°C on most days and you can see more photos of Tenerife in December, to get a better sense of how the weather usually is.

Tenerife	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
December	22.8 (73.0)	16.5 (61.7)	30 (1.19)	4	6
January	21.7 (71.1)	15.2 (59.4)	17 (0.65)	2	6
February	22.0 (71.6)	15.0 (59.0)	20 (0.78)	2	7

Tenerife in winter – December, January, February

Warmest month: December

Least amount of rain: January

Most hours of sunshine per day: February

2.

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Explore the magical sand dunes of Fuerteventura

The Canary Islands are located very close to the coast of Morocco, with Fuerteventura being the closest island to the African continent.

Winters in Fuerteventura are hot enough to allow for sunbathing and swimming in the ocean, although some people might find the ocean a bit too cold…. that’s why many places have heated pools during the winter months!

Corralejo and Caleta de Fuste are the most popular resorts in Fuerteventura, but the south part of the island has some incredible beaches and it sometimes gets a bit more sun during the winter months, so you could also consider booking a holiday to Costa Calma or Morro Jable.

Fuerteventura	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
December	22. 0 (71.6)	15.9 (60.6)	26 (1.02)	3	6
January	20.6 (69.1)	14.7 (58.5)	14 (0.55)	3	6
February	21.0 (69.8)	14.8 (58.6)	16 (0.63)	2	7

Fuerteventura in winter – December, January, February

Warmest month: December

Most amount of rain: December

Most hours of sunshine per day: February

Least amount of rain: January

2. Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Papagayo beach is the most famous beach in Lanzarote

Winter is considered as high season in the Canary Islands, due to the fact that many people from the north of Europe and the UK come here to live for a few months between December and March or April, enjoying the winter sun and hot temperatures of the Canaries.

Except for the very north of Lanzarote and the higher areas like Haria, all of Lanzarote’s resorts enjoy beautiful weather in winter, perfect for sunbathing most of the time. Playa Blanca would be our recommendation for winter as it gets less wind compared to the other resorts, but our all-time favorite resort in Lanzarote is Puerto del Carmen, due to the vibrant atmosphere and nightlife.

Lanzarote	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
December	21.8 (71.2)	15.4 (59.7)	29 (1.15)	5	6
January	20.7 (69.3)	14.0 (57.2)	17 (0.65)	3	7
February	21.3 (70.3)	14.3 (57.7)	18 (0. 72)	3	7

Lanzarote in winter – December, January, February

Warmest month: December

Most amount of rain: December

Most hours of sunshine per day: January & February

4. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

The south of Gran Canaria is probably the hottest place in Europe from December, to January and February

If you want to know more about the weather in the archipelago, you can read our article about the warmest Canary Island, but keep in mind that all the islands enjoy great weather and the differences are not huge, so you should choose in accordance with what you’d like to do and see during your time spent there.

The south of Gran Canaria is definitely hotter than the north, so if winter sun is what’s you’re after, you should look for accommodation around the areas of Maspalomas and Puerto Rico, instead of Las Palmas and the mountainous regions.

Gran Canaria	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
December	22.2 (72.0)	16.2 (61.2)	31 (1.22)	5	6
January	20.8 (69.4)	15.0 (59.0)	25 (0.98)	3	6
February	21.2 (70.2)	15.0 (59.0)	24 (0.94)	3	7

Gran Canaria in winter – December, January, February

Warmest month: December

Least rainy days: January & February

Most hours of sunshine per day: February

Although the Canary Islands are the hottest place to visit in Europe in winter, you can still get the odd rainy days or even a few days of calima, a phenomenon where hot sand dust comes from the Sahara Desert and stays suspended in the air (the days can be very hot during the calima and it can be hard to breathe, due to the sand in the air).

Depending on what activities you prefer during a holiday, you can look here and decide which Canary Island you should visit.

5. Malaga, Spain

Alcazaba de Malaga on a sunny winter’s day

The south of Spain enjoys sunny and beautiful weather all year round, with temperatures still reaching 18°C to 20°C in December in Malaga.

Although it may not be warm enough to lounge on the beach or swim, it’s still warm enough to walk around without freezing to death, while still enjoying outdoor dining when the sun is out.

Visiting Malaga during winter means fewer tourists compared to the summer months, better prices for flights and accommodation and less crowded attractions. You could rent a car and do a tour of the region, hitting Seville, Cordoba, Cadiz, Ronda, and even Gibraltar.

Out of all the winter months in Malaga, February seems to be the best choice, with the highest average high temperature of 17.7°C (63.9 °F) and only 60 mm of rain, spread over the course of 5 days. However, there are no big differences in terms of temperatures, but December tends to get the most rain, up to 100 mm for the entire month.

Malaga	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
December	17.5 (63.5)	8.9 (48.0)	100 (3.94)	7	5
January	16.8 (62.2)	7.4 (45.3)	69 (2.72)	6	6
February	17.7 (63.9)	8.2 (46.8)	60 (2.36)	5	6

Malaga in winter – December, January, February

Warmest month: December & February

Most amount of rain: December

Most hours of sunshine per day: January & February

6.

Limassol, Cyprus

Limassol, Cyprus

Cyprus has a subtropical climate, which means mild winters on the coast, although it is possible to see some snowfalls in the Troodos Mountains.

In the daytime, temperatures can still reach 19°C – 20°C in December and even in January and February, which means that you can leave your thick coat at home and just bring a light jacket for the evenings.

Although Limassol is most popular in summer, you can still travel here for a winter break or to spend Christmas or New Year’s Eve on the island. Cyprus is one of the hottest places in Europe during winter, with over 3200 annual hours of sunshine on the coast.

The most popular tourist destinations in Cyprus are Paphos, Limassol and Aya Napa.

Cyprus is a place full of culture and history, so there are lots to see if you want to go out and explore, or you could just book a nice hotel and soak up some winter sun by the pool.

In the spring there’s also a nice carnival festival in Limassol, which is very popular in Cyprus.

Limassol	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
December	18.9 (66.0)	10.1 (50.2)	100 (3.93)	9	6
January	17.6 (63.7)	8.8 (47.8)	87 (3.41)	9	6
February	17.8 (64.0)	8.5 (47.3)	67 (2.63)	7	7

Limassol in winter – December, January, February

Warmest month: December

Most amount of rain: December

Most hours of sunshine per day: February

7. Madeira, Portugal

You can still get sunny days like this in Madeira in winter

Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago situated in the Atlantic Ocean, just 250 miles north of Tenerife.

Madeira has a Mediterranean climate, although the weather can differ from one island to another and even from one part of the island to the other, just like in the Canary Islands.

In the mountains of Madeira, you can expect snow during the winter months and also rain, which mostly falls between October and April.

Out of all the destinations in our article, Madeira is the one that gets the most rain in December, with around 13 wet days per month.

Even so, Madeira still is one of the best and warmest tourist destinations in Europe in winter, because temperatures still rise above 20°C during the day (especially in December), which means you’ll be able to walk around wearing just a T-shirt.

The best time to visit Madeira during winter is for New Year’s Eve when the island hosts the largest fireworks show in the world, an event which you should see at least once in your lifetime.

Madeira	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
December	20. 7 (69.3)	15 (59.0)	115 (4.53)	13	5
January	19.7 (67.5)	13.7 (56.7)	74 (2.92)	12	5
February	19.7 (67.5)	13.4 (56.1)	83 (3.27)	10	6

Madeira in winter – December, January, February

Warmest month: December

Most amount of rain: December

Most hours of sunshine per day: February

8. Alicante, Spain

View of the beach in Alicante from Santa Barbara Castle

Alicante and the entire Costa Blanca region are already popular summer destinations in Spain, but the weather stays fairly mild and warm even in winter.

While the average high temperature in Alicante between December and February stays at around 17-18°C, the great thing about the climate here is that it rains a lot less compared to the other destinations on this list.

The amount of rain is similar only to the Canary Islands, but considerably less than in any other place on this list, which is why we consider Alicante to be a great warm winter destination during the European winter. Alicante is also among our recommendations as one of the best places to get some winter sun in Spain.

Alicante	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
December	17.7 (63.9)	7.4 (45.3)	22 (0.87)	4	5
January	17.0 (62.6)	6.7 (44.1)	21 (0.83)	4	6
February	17.6 (63.7)	7.1 (44.8)	20 (0.79)	3	6

Alicante in winter -December, January, February

Warmest month: December & February

Most amount of rain: December

Most hours of sunshine per day: January & February

9.

Malta

La Valetta, Malta

Of course, we couldn’t talk about warm weather in winter in Europe without mentioning the tiny island of Malta.

Malta enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which means mild winters, with temperatures around 15°C to 19°C during the daytime, depending on the month.

Although not as warm as some of the other destinations mentioned before, the weather is still warm enough to allow for city-breaks and visiting, as there are lots of cool places to see on the island.

There’s more to Malta than being a beach destination and the winter season is a great time to explore its territory, without bumping into tourists at all times.

Malta has around 3000 hours of sun per year, which almost guarantees a sunny holiday, even though the temperatures may not be as high as in the previous destinations mentioned.

Malta	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
December	17. 1 (62.8)	11.6 (52.9)	109 (4.3)	10	5
January	15.6 (60.1)	9.9 (49.8)	99 (3.88)	10	6
February	15.6 (60.1)	9.4 (48.9)	60 (2.37)	7	6

Malta in winter – December, January, February

Warmest month: December

Most amount of rain: December

Most hours of sunshine per day: January & February

10. Sicily, Italy

View of snowy Mount Etna from Catania, Sicily

Sicily is a popular beach destination in summer, but for those interested in history and sightseeing, winter is still a great season to come for a visit.

While the temperatures are the lowest on this list, you can still enjoy comfortable temperatures of around 16 – 18°C during the daytime, which is pretty good for the European winter.

Just come with moderate expectations in terms of sun hours, as the average is of 4 hours of sunshine per day, for December, January and February.

Sicily	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
December	16.8 (62.2)	6.7 (44.1)	86 (3.38)	9	4
January	15.8 (60.4)	5.3 (41.5)	75 (2.94)	9	4
February	16.4 (61.5)	5.4 (41.7)	53 (2.07)	7	4

Sicily in winter – December, January, February

Warmest month: December & February

Most amount of rain: December

Most hours of sunshine per day: very similar between all winter months

Warmest places in Europe in December: TENERIFE and GRAN CANARIA

View of the ocean in Gran Canaria, one of the hottest destinations in December in Europe

If you’re looking for warm places in Europe in December, then take a look at our list below. You should especially take Spain and Cyprus into consideration if you’re searching for warm European countries in December.

Besides the Canary Islands, which form is an archipelago that is part of Spain, there aren’t many good chances to find hot weather in December in Europe. Since these islands are located so close to the African continent, they enjoy a mild climate, considered by many as the best climate in the world.

Info about the weather in December in the Canary Islands

Warmest weather vacations in December in Europe: Tenerife & Gran Canaria

Least amount of rain in December: Fuerteventura

Where to go in December in Europe for sun: All four Canary Islands & Limassol, Cyprus

December	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
Malaga, Spain	17. 5 (63.5)	8.9 (48)	100 (3.94)	7	5
Limassol, Cyprus	18.9 (66)	10.1 (50.2)	100 (3.93)	9	6
Madeira, Portugal	20.7 (69.3)	15 (59)	115 (4.53)	13	5
Alicante, Spain	17.7 (63.9)	7.4 (45.3)	22 (0.87)	4	5
Malta	17.1 (62.8)	11.6 (52.9)	109 (4.3)	10	5
Sicily, Italy	16.8 (62.2)	6.7 (44.1)	86 (3.38)	9	4
Fuerteventura, Canary Islands	22 (71.6)	15.9 (60.6)	26 (1.02)	3	6
Lanzarote, Canary Islands	21. 8 (71.2)	15.4 (59.7)	29 (1.15)	5	6
Tenerife, Canary Islands	22.8 (73)	16.5 (61.7)	30 (1.19)	4	6
Gran Canaria, Canary Islands	22.2 (72)	16.2 (61.2)	31 (1.22)	5	6

Warmest place in Europe in January: TENERIFE

A hot day in January at Siam Park in Tenerife, our favorite winter place for a warm trip

Most places in Europe are under heavy snow in the first month of the year, but not the ones we recommend to you. Here’s a list of warm destinations in January in Europe.

Info about the weather in January in the Canary Islands

Where is hot in January in Europe: Tenerife

Least amount of rain in January: Fuerteventura

The sunniest place in Europe in January: Lanzarote

January	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
Malaga, Spain	16. 8 (62.2)	7.4 (45.3)	69 (2.72)	6	6
Limassol, Cyprus	17.6 (63.7)	8.8 (47.8)	87 (3.41)	9	6
Madeira, Portugal	19.7 (67.5)	13.7 (56.7)	74 (2.92)	12	5
Alicante, Spain	17 (62.6)	6.7 (44.1)	21 (0.83)	4	6
Malta	15.6 (60.1)	9.9 (49.8)	99 (3.88)	10	6
Sicily, Italy	15.8 (60.4)	5.3 (41.5)	75 (2.94)	9	4
Fuerteventura, Canary Islands	20.6 (69.1)	14.7 (58.5)	14 (0.55)	3	6
Lanzarote, Canary Islands	20. 7 (69.3)	14 (57.2)	17 (0.65)	3	7
Tenerife, Canary Islands	21.7 (71.1)	15.2 (59.4)	17 (0.65)	2	6
Gran Canaria, Canary Islands	20.8 (69.4)	15 (59)	25 (0.98)	3	6

Warmest places in Europe in February: TENERIFE and FUERTEVENTURA

Fuerteventura is one of our top recommendations if you’re wondering where to go in February for some winter sun

Thinking of spending Valentine’s Day in a warm destination? Generally speaking, you don’t really have many options if you want to find a place with a warm climate in February in Europe. Just like in the previous months, the Canary Islands are your best bet to escape the winter boots and heavy coats. So if you want to stay within European borders, these are your best options for hot and nice weather in Europe in February.

Info about the weather in February in the Canary Islands

Warm European places in February: Tenerife (and the rest of the Canaries)

Least amount of rain in February: Fuerteventura

Where is sunny in February in Europe: All 4 Canary Islands & Limassol, Cyprus

February	Average High °C (°F)	Average Low °C (°F)	Rain mm (inches)	Rain Days	Average Sun Hours
Malaga, Spain	17.7 (63.9)	8.2 (46.8)	60 (2.36)	5	6
Limassol, Cyprus	17.8 (64)	8.5 (47.3)	67 (2.63)	7	7
Madeira, Portugal	19. 7 (67.5)	13.4 (56.1)	83 (3.27)	10	6
Alicante, Spain	17.6 (63.7)	7.1 (44.8)	20 (0.79)	3	6
Malta	15.6 (60.1)	9.4 (48.9)	60 (2.37)	7	6
Sicily, Italy	16.4 (61.5)	5.4 (41.7)	53 (2.07)	7	4
Fuerteventura, Canary Islands	21 (69.8)	14.8 (58.6)	16 (0.63)	2	7
Lanzarote, Canary Islands	21.3 (70.3)	14.3 (57.7)	18 (0.72)	3	7
Tenerife, Canary Islands	22 (71.6)	15 (59)	20 (0.78)	2	7
Gran Canaria, Canary Islands	21. 2 (70.2)	15 (59)	24 (0.94)	3	7

It’s true that when most people think of visiting Europe in winter, they think of ski vacations, heavy snow, Christmas markets in Germany, the Swiss Alps and other similar images.

But as you can see, even in Europe you can find some places where you can escape the cold weather and the snow, without having to travel too far. The Canary Islands, although not geographically part of the European continent, is the most accessible hot destination for winter sun in Europe, and if it’s your first time visiting the Canaries, we would recommend choosing one of the 4 larger islands: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura or Lanzarote.

Winter holidays in Europe: 4 destinations

22.10.2019

There is very little time left before the winter holidays, and if you plan to spend them in one of the European capitals, you should worry about buying tickets and booking accommodation right now: those who want to go to There are quite a lot of Paris, Berlin or Vienna, especially during the holidays. It is better to visit these cities in early December: prices are lower at this time, there are a little less tourists, and the atmosphere is the most magical. If you still decide to go on a trip before Christmas, be sure to check out the fairs, try the festive dishes of the local cuisine, and in January, when most people return home, go to a ski resort or health SPA centers.

Austria

Every holiday in Austria is an event thought out to the smallest detail, thanks to which a special atmosphere is born. Pleasant Christmas chores begin here a month before Christmas: at this time, decorated streets and houses turn the city into a real winter fairy tale. Every year, a town of tiny wooden huts grows up in the center of Vienna, selling Christmas decorations, treats and souvenirs. If you are lucky enough to be here in December, then, in addition to the most picturesque fairs, be sure to visit the town hall: the best European and American choirs traditionally give free concerts here.

Although Vienna is considered the Christmas center of Austria, Salzburg, which the locals call the “musical capital”, is no less interesting: the most magnificent fair here beckons with the smells of hot pastries, roasted almonds, chestnuts, apple strudel and spicy punch. Twinkling garlands, clusters of Christmas decorations and coniferous wreaths have been transforming the city since the beginning of winter, and in any lane you can feel like in a medieval Austrian fairy tale.

One way flights:

Moscow – Vienna, December 23 – from 5865 rubles (stop)
Moscow – Salzburg, December 21 – from 9166 rubles (stop)

Moscow – Vienna, December 28 – from 10002 rubles (one transfer)

Moscow – Salzburg, January 11 – from 3479 rubles (stop)

Moscow – Vienna, January 18 – from 5865 rubles (stop)

Germany

Germany is known for its New Year’s fairs: only in Berlin they count every year more than 50, the main of which are located on squares like the Gendarmenmarkt or Alexanderplatz. Here you will find countless stalls with cute souvenirs, pavilions with national cuisine, an ice rink, a New Year tree and a real holiday atmosphere. If you plan to stay in the city for a couple of days, go for a walk along the central avenues, warming up with mulled wine, visit the majestic Reichstag or local museums. After the holidays, it’s best to go skiing, take treatments in SPA centers or go shopping in Munich – at this time it’s time for seasonal sales.

One-way flights:

Moscow – Berlin, December 23 – from 4584 rubles (non-stop)
Moscow – Munich, December 23 – from 7058 rubles (stop)

Moscow – Berlin, December 29 – from 7179 r (without transfers)

Moscow – Munich, January 12 – from 5865 r (without transfers)

Moscow – Berlin, January 18 – from 3379 r (without transfers)

France

– probably the most, Paris a romantic place to go for Christmas: the festive season here begins at the end of November, and the main events take place on the Champs Elysees, near the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Those who find themselves in the French capital in December should definitely visit the fairs, enjoy local sweets, warm up with tart mulled wine, or visit the skating rink. If you wish, you can spend time in numerous restaurants in Paris or book a cruise on the Seine. If you don’t like noisy crowds of tourists, go to Strasbourg, which the French call the “capital of Christmas” – from the end of November to December, the most famous fair in Europe takes place here: the city squares are filled with small wooden houses selling a wide variety of delicacies, souvenirs, Christmas tree toys and other holiday baubles.

One-way tickets:

Moscow – Paris, December 22 – from 16998 rubles (without transfers)
Moscow – Strasbourg, December 22 – from 7525 rubles (one change)

Moscow – Paris, December 29 – from 10230 r (one transfer)

Moscow – Paris, January 5 – from 7820 r (one change)

Moscow – Paris, January 18 – from 16998 r (without transfers)

Czech Republic

Christmas incarnation in Prague fairy tales come true: at this time, open-air fairs and skating rinks open, the lights of the main Christmas tree are lit, and the pleasant aroma of cinnamon, ginger and roasted chestnuts can be felt on the streets. There are much fewer tourists here in winter than in summer and autumn, so there is a great opportunity to admire medieval sights, get into many museums without queuing, go on excursions or go shopping. A Christmas holiday in the Czech Republic is a great opportunity not only to enjoy the atmosphere of the holiday, but also to improve your health: the end of January is the best time to visit one of the famous Czech spas, such as Karlovy Vary or Jáchymov.

One-way tickets:

Moscow – Prague, December 23 – from 7220 rubles (non-stop)
Moscow – Karlovy Vary, December 23 – from 4970 rubles (stop)

Moscow – Prague, December 29 – December 29 from 10325 rubles (non-stop)

Moscow – Prague, January 6 – from 6188 rubles (stop)

Moscow – Karlovy Vary, January 20 – from 3550 rubles (stop)

Discount 2100 rubles for the first trip with Airbnb

Photo: @alinakolot

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Dream winter holidays: where to go on vacation

You can warm up in the cold of winter not only in a thick sweater with a cup of tea, but also on the azure seashore. And if you are not afraid of the cold, then you can spend an unforgettable vacation in Europe or in the mountains, conquering the snow-covered slopes. Do you want a vacation and a sea of vivid impressions? Let’s talk about the most interesting winter holiday destinations.

December

European holidays

December is the time of Christmas fairy tale and beautiful fairs. Isn’t this a reason to visit cities whose streets are buried in the warm lights of garlands, filled with spicy aromas of mulled wine and pastries, where there is a light atmosphere of fun and celebration.

New Year’s fairs are held in European capitals at the beginning of winter. The largest and most beautiful are in Prague, Munich, Cologne, Paris and Copenhagen. However, here you can have fun not only with shopping and acquaintance with national delicacies. There are a lot of routes and interesting places for excursions to the choice of travelers. Of the minuses, it is worth noting only the prices for accommodation and entertainment: they grow with the onset of the festive period and an increase in the flow of tourists.

Ski holidays

The second obligatory point of winter tourism is ski holidays. In search of inexpensive options, you should look into the Bulgarian Bansko. Skiing lessons, equipment rental and a daily lift pass will cost 30 euros per person. Approximately the same prices apply in the ski resort of Harrachov in the Czech Republic.

For experienced skiers and snowboarders – a direct route to steep slopes designed for extreme sports enthusiasts. For example, in Chamonix in France, where 100 tracks with a total length of more than two hundred kilometers have been built. The infrastructure here is also at the highest level, as is the ski track.

Sea voyage

If you often look at photos of exotic islands while thinking about a long-awaited vacation, we tell you where to relax at sea in winter. The most popular destinations in December are Phuket and Sri Lanka. At the resorts of Thailand, tourists are waiting for a first-class all-inclusive vacation, water activities and, of course, a hot summer. Here you will also find magnificent landscapes, which are only worth the islands of Phi Phi in the province of Krabi!

January

The second half of January is a great time for sightseeing tours to Europe and for a trip to the sea shores. The flow of tourists at this time is minimal, and accommodation prices are declining after the Christmas boom.

Tours to Europe

A winter trip to Europe makes it easy to combine skiing and sightseeing holidays. To do this, just go to Vienna – the capital of Austria, full of sights and surrounded by mountain slopes (the nearest ski resorts from the city are about an hour away). A couple of days for such an intense tour is unlikely to be enough, so plan your trip for at least a week.

Shopping lovers must visit France. In January, sales are held in Paris, as well as a fashion week that will not leave stylish people indifferent. There are locations in Paris for those with a sweet tooth (and there are a lot of them here!). The most famous are the boutiques of Pierre Herme and the confectionery house Ladurée. But also in any confectionery. which has not yet managed to acquire a big name, will have something to treat and please yourself.

Snow activities

Looking for a winter destination for skiing is better in Eastern Europe. The prices at the resorts here are lower than in the western regions, and the service is not inferior. For example, it is worth taking a closer look at the town of Platak in Slovakia, Pamporovo in Bulgaria or Zakopane in Poland.

An excellent place for a skiing debut is Strbske Pleso in Slovakia. There are trails for beginners, as well as slalom slopes and jumps for extreme sports. A weekly ski pass and equipment rental for an adult will cost 200 euros. Price for accommodation per day – 50 – 70 euros.

Beach and island holidays

In order to plunge into the gentle summer in the middle of winter, it is worth considering popular beach destinations where going on vacation in winter will be cheaper than in the warm season. In January, hot weather stays in Goa: the air around the beaches warms up to + 30 ° C, and the water – up to + 26 ° C. In addition to swimming in the sea, it is worth adding to the list of entertainment a visit to the water park, butterfly exhibitions and an excursion to the reserve of exotic flora and fauna.

The central beaches in Goa are distinguished by gentle slopes, and the infrastructure takes into account the wishes of not only adults, but also young tourists. Therefore, you can safely go here even with small children. While the parents are busy with their own affairs, the kids will be entertained by animators and nannies.

The air temperature in Thailand in January fluctuates around +28°С, and the water in the sea is warmed up to +27°С. Neither adults nor children will be bored here. It offers tourists not only diving, snorkeling and surfing, but also elephant riding, swimming with dolphins. Thai water parks are also known all over the world, where you should definitely go with the whole family.

February

In cold February, it is important not only to relax, but also to strengthen the immune system after a long winter, so it is better to spend holidays at health resorts.

We are going to Europe

The Czech Republic and its Karlovy Vary is an ideal place if you are wondering where to go in winter to relax and improve your health. The resort with 12 mineral springs invites you to therapeutic and spa treatments. And in your free time, it is worth visiting the Peter and Paul Church and the observation tower “Diana”.

Don’t want to go to the Czech Republic? Healing hot springs gush out of the ground in Abano Terme (Italy), from where Venice is only 60 km away. The tourist season does not end all year round in the Austrian Bad Ischl.

Skiing

When looking for ski tours, pay attention to … Turkish resorts! For example, on Uludag (aka Big Mountain). 10 green marked trails make the town an ideal place to learn snowboarding. There are also more difficult descents, as well as one extreme “black” track. The price of a ski pass for a day starts from 15 euros.

The Palandoken complex also offers a good service, where, in addition to first-class ski tracks and training camps, there are hotels of different levels of comfort, restaurants, spa centers and discos.

Sunbathing on the beach

Your soul needs tropical sea relaxation, and you are looking for where to go to relax in winter? Time to go to the Dominican Republic! Here in February the air temperature reaches +35°С, and the water in the sea warms up to +28°С. You can safely come to this paradise with the whole family, because the service in most hotels is also designed for young guests. Parents can relax sunbathing on a sun lounger while children splash in the water.

Do not forget about the Maldives, where summer reigns all year round, as well as other winter destinations – Sri Lanka, Cuba and Cambodia. Warm memories will leave a vacation in the Canary Islands. Ocean waves caressing the shores of the island of Tenerife – something that you will remember with rapture for a long time!

7 places for winter holidays

And what about those who are not interested in skiing? Our today’s review is dedicated to the resort places of Europe, where you can feel the flavor of the country, satisfy the tourist interest, have fun from the heart and, maybe, make useful purchases.

Winter holidays in Germany and Austria

On the 20th of December, holiday fairs take place in all German and Austrian cities. You can buy anything here – up to unique antiques. And the treats are countless: punch, ginger hearts, hot pastries, traditional strudels. But the main thing is the very atmosphere of the holiday. Each fair is notable for its unique surroundings and takes place in historical places.

Best time

From November 21 to December 23

Best time

First half of January

What to visit?

National Reserve (Landscape Park)
Observatory and planetarium
Ice Lake
Local Mountains during walks on the snowmobile ? Of course, to Romanian Transylvania – the residence of Count Dracula. This mountainous area, covered with forests, makes an indelible impression in winter. By the way, wild and gloomy Transylvania, as it is shown in films, is long gone. This is one of the movie myths. Therefore, without any fear, go to real medieval towns – Brasov and Sighisoara. For tourists, there is everything you need here.

Best time

Anytime from December to early February.

What to visit?
- Bran Castle. According to legend, it was here that Count Dracula lived, although, as historians say, this is just a legend
- Peles Castle. Built by King Carol I of Romania in 1873. There is something to see here – from a collection of weapons to … a movie in the cinema
- Sighisoara Fortress. It is located in the town of the same name, founded in the 12th century and retaining its ancient appearance
- Alba Iulia Fortress. Founded thousands of years ago! And now completely restored
Winter holidays in Italy

If you like to spend time actively and “light up” at mass holidays, you will not find a better resort in winter than Venice. In February, the famous costumed carnival takes place here, originating in the Middle Ages – in 1094. This is one of the brightest winter events in Europe, which attracts thousands of tourists, artists, celebrities. Experts recommend booking accommodation in advance, because every year the enchanting Venetian carnival gathers a huge “party”. And don’t forget the suit and mask!

Best time

In 2017, the Carnival in Venice will take place from 11 to 28 February.

What to visit?
- Gallery (museum) of the Accademia with masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, Bellini
- Palazzo Ducale – the seat of the Venetian government, which has the largest hall in the world, the ceiling of which is not supported by any support
- Rialto Bridge – the most important symbol of Venice will be opened after reconstruction just in January 2017!
- Café Florian, operating since 1640, is one of the most famous cafés in the world
- La Fenice Opera House (address Campo San Fantin, 1965, tickets 15-500 euros) on the dates indicated, Francesco Cilea’s opera Gina.
Winter holidays in Croatia

Croatian Rijeka is traditionally referred to as a famous winter holiday resort, where another wonderful carnival takes place in February. Its peculiarity is in the mixture of many styles: Italian, Austrian, Eastern, Slavic. And also that the carnival lasts for more than a month, although the main parade on Korzo Street lasts only 1 day. Although on other days there are many colorful shows and events, for example, a children’s masquerade.

The best time is

In 2017, the carnival in Rijeka will take place from 17 January to 1 March. The main parade will take place on February 7th.

What to visit?
- Stara Vrata. An architectural ensemble built in ancient times
- Trsat district. The most famous district of the city with an ancient castle. From the hill you can admire the surroundings
- Old Town. Historical part of Rijeka with medieval streets
- Risnjak National Park with amazing forests and alpine meadows
- Ivan Zajc Croatian National Theatre. On January 30, the premiere of Otello by Giuseppe Verdi will take place here
Winter holidays in Denmark

If you like the calm atmosphere of an old European city, then visiting Copenhagen will be the best vacation during the winter holidays. By the way, your children will also be interested in the trip, because it is here that the house of Hans Christian Andersen is located. On Christmas and New Year, the Tivoli amusement park lights up its lights. Its peculiarity is in the architecture and design of the 19th century. Taste local dishes and wines right in the fresh air!

Best time

Catholic to Orthodox Christmas

What to visit?
- Andersen’s World Museum with a large-scale fairy-tale exhibition
- Tivoli Amusement Park
- Restaurant Noma. The most famous Scandinavian restaurant in Europe
- The National Gallery with works by Hogarth, Rubens, Rembrandt, Turner, Blake
- Rosenborg Castle, built in 1624 – the former residence of kings with a luxurious garden and an exhibition of jewelry
Winter holidays in Spain

Not all people like frosty and snowy winters. Many go to wait out the cold in warm regions of Europe. One of the best places to spend your winter vacation is Spanish Andalusia. This is the southern region of the country, where even in winter the temperature rises to +18C, so you can walk along the sea coast in a light coat.

Best time

Anytime from January to March.

What to visit?
- Orange Square in Marbella with the XVII Baroque Church, San Juan de Dios Chapel
- Puerto Banus in Marbella – the largest sports port on the Mediterranean Sea with fashionable restaurants and shops
- Alcazar fortress in Seville
- Cordoba – the center of oriental culture of Spain Alcazaba Fortress
If it is still a problem for you to travel around Europe at a convenient time for you due to the need to obtain visas for the whole family, use one of the investment programs that allow you to obtain a residence permit or citizenship in Europe. You get an absolutely official opportunity to move around the Schengen countries without visas. Contact us for advice and travel without restrictions.

Vacation tours, holidays during holidays

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Maldives

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Thailand

Holidays are closer than you think! We, parents, need to have a pleasant and useful time with a child, entertain and improve our child:

Winter holidays – from December 26 to January 10. This is an opportunity to take a break from school everyday life and be with loved ones, so that in sixteen days you can start studying with fresh impressions. It is important to get the maximum positive charge from the rest.
When deciding which route to choose, it is necessary to take into account the age of the child: younger students still dream of meeting Santa Claus, and high school students want to sunbathe under the tropical sun. A good choice for a warm holiday would be Cuba, Thailand, India. The kids will meet the real Santa Claus in Veliky Ustyug, their Santa Claus will be in the capital of Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland.

If your summer was filled with hard work, you certainly deserve a holiday in winter. By the way, you can successfully combine it with school holidays for children and give up on vacation with the whole family. New Year holidays can be spent on the shores of the Arabian Sea in India, or you can go to the South China Sea. You are waiting for the mainland of Thailand with a unique zoo in Bangkok or the islands with the cleanest beaches – Phuket or Koh Samui. For those who are not afraid of long flights, the marvelous Dominican Republic is suitable, where little travelers can frolic with dolphins and dive in the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Also, during the winter holidays, UAE water parks will be waiting for you. For example, in Abu Dhabi, you can spend unforgettable hours in Al Ain, where you can walk through the wildlife park, admire millions of flowers, ride all the attractions of Healy Fun City, jump from the Yas Waterworld waterslides on artificial Yas Island , feel like a Formula – 1 pilot on a real race track and even look into the local aquarium. And you can also see Vietnam and take a sea cruise on Halong Bay. What can we say about winter Europe, which beckons with its narrow streets, unusual houses and cozy cafes. You will definitely remember a vacation in Prague or a tour of Paris.
Is it frosty and snowy outside? It’s good that you can travel where it’s warm and good. Choose tours right now and extend your summer.

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UAE Cyprus India

Turkey Bulgaria Tunisa

Spring holidays from March 25 to April 3. Finishing the longest third term, our children get tired of winter and study, they need to have a good rest! The sea is warm in the Emirates and in Egypt, but the breeze can be cold, very pleasant weather in Southeast Asia: in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, on the Chinese island. Hai Nian. Good in India to Goa. Great weather in the Caribbean: Mexico, Dominican Republic, Cuba at your service. A good time for sightseeing Europe, but the weather in central Europe at this time is not stable, it can rain, and it is quite windy. In the southern countries of Europe: Italy, Spain, just the time for excursions there is great weather.

Summer vacation is always a long-awaited time for our children, a long school year is over, and a magical summer is ahead. But in order to have a good rest after hard work and prepare for the new academic year, our young researchers need a change of scenery. And at the same time, parents will be able to take a break from checking the lessons and everyday work. It’s time to go for a portion of entertainment, warmth and sun. You can buy tours for families with children at the offices of “Geography” or find tours online.

Club hotels in Turkey, Greece, Tunisia and Cyprus will open their doors in the new season. Where the kids will be waiting not only for aqua and amusement parks, but also mini clubs, an animation team and many fun and entertaining adventures. Most family-friendly hotels offer a special children’s menu and evening shows for younger guests.

You can also pay attention to Russian resorts. Not all parents are ready to go abroad with their child; they feel more comfortable in their native country. It is in this case that tours to Sochi, Anapa, Gelendzhik and Crimea are the best fit. By the way, Crimea generally has a huge tourist potential for children’s recreation, because since the 50s the best children’s camps and health resorts have been located here. In addition, you can buy sightseeing tours that are focused specifically on schoolchildren: visit St. Petersburg, take a walk along the avenues of Moscow or get acquainted with the history of the Kazan Kremlin.

Autumn holidays – from 31 October to 8 November. The best time to visit the “hot” countries: the United Arab Emirates and Egypt: warm sea and mild sun are guaranteed. The velvet season is waiting for you in Cyprus. After swimming in the sea, you can continue your history lessons with your student by visiting Dionysus Park in Paphos.

The choice of tours is quite large, the main thing is that you feel good and comfortable, and the managers of our agencies are ready to take care of this. You can complete application for the selection of a tour for the summer holidays, and experts will be able to offer the best options.

You can have a great time in Vietnam, where the famous Vinpearl Park is located. And China will delight guests with its colorful atmosphere.
The largest oceanariums and aquariums are waiting for their guests in the Emirates, and the country is also rich in amusement parks with a variety of attractions.
In addition, you can go on sightseeing tours around Europe. The castles of the romantic Czech Republic, the squares of Spain and Italy, the palaces of Munich and Cologne in Germany will help children get acquainted with world history and culture.
If you need help in choosing a tour, you can fill out an application on our website and our managers will select a suitable destination for a family vacation, advise a hotel, room type and food system. Have a rest together with children and “Geography”.

Come and we will be happy to organize your dream vacation!

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No matter how much time remains before the New Year and Christmas holidays, you need to plan your vacation and book accommodation now. We look where to go for the New Year inexpensively and where you can have a good time.

St. Petersburg
Why you should go: New Year is celebrated in St. Petersburg on a grand scale. Such lights, fireworks and laser shows cannot be found in the province. Nevsky Prospekt becomes pedestrian, New Year’s fairs work, and Palace Square flares up so brightly, as if another revolution has begun there.

How is the weather: during the winter holidays there may be a slight frost down to -10 °C, or it may be around zero. In any case, it is better to warm up to protect yourself from the winds from the Gulf of Finland.

Things to do: watch daily light shows on Dvortsovaya, relax on Nevsky and marvel at the variety of lights, visit museums that offer discounts for children and walk around other iconic places in St. Petersburg.

16 550 accommodation options in St. Petersburg

Moscow
Why you should go: the country’s main Christmas tree on Red Square, Christmas markets, colorful fireworks, large-scale festivities – in Moscow you can have a great New Year’s Eve with your family. The capital will be happy for both an adult and a small child.

What’s with the weather: in late December – early January in the capital is quite comfortable: a slight minus during the day, and a little colder at night. Sometimes there are thaws with rain.

How to have fun: , first of all, go to Red Square and feel yourself in the center of national celebrations, having a ride on the skating rink along the way and shopping at the fair. Folk festivities are also held in other places: Gorky Park, VDNKh, Poklonnaya Gora. Performances are staged for children on Pushkin Square and Tsvetnoy Boulevard. If you get tired of the noise, you can go to one of the many Moscow parks.

9,250 accommodation options in Moscow

Photo: ILIA NEZNAEV / Shutterstock

Sochi

Why you should go: here you can relax, enjoy the fresh air and relative warmth, and if you wish, go skiing in Krasnaya Polyana.

Holiday weather: in Sochi it is warm and humid, because the sea is nearby, which does not cool down so quickly, and the mountains, which prevent the winds. During the day on the coast about +5 … +10 °С, in Krasnaya Polyana from +2 °С to -5 °С.

What to do: The main action takes place in the port, on the area of the South Pier. Fireworks rise into the sky no worse than those at the Olympics. And walking through city parks and streets, you can understand that Christmas trees between palm trees and cypresses are magnificent. If you are celebrating the New Year with children, go to Sochi Park, which is modestly called the local Disneyland.

15 800 offers in Sochi

Kazan
Why you need to go: to see how Russian and Tatar traditions merge into one – New Year’s.

What’s the weather like: Winters in the Volga region can be uneven, but on New Year’s days there are usually no surprises, and the temperature stays around -5 . .. -10 °С.

Things to do: Go to the city’s main Christmas tree in the Millennium Park, where you can also go ice skating and buy souvenirs. Near the puppet theater “Eriyat” there is an ice town. Of course, it is worth taking a walk along the Bauman pedestrian street and the Kremlin, which is incredibly beautifully illuminated.

3 600 offers in Kazan

Photo: Vilenia / Shutterstock

Veliky Ustyug

Why go: look into the residence of the main Father Frost of the country, which was built legally, so no one filmed it from drones.

What about the weather: Winters here are frosty, it reaches -20 °C, but is this an obstacle for those who want to get into the New Year’s fairy tale?

Things to do: grandfather’s country residence with a real beard, not a glued one, is located about 30 minutes drive from the city, on Sovetsky Prospekt. The house was built in a beautiful forest, there are attractions here, and excursions around the world of Russian fairy tales are organized for children. Of course, there are entertainment programs and New Year’s performances. In addition to the estate, you can enjoy the city itself, full of merchant mansions and ancient temples.

Veliky Ustyug is quite popular with tourists, so we advise you to make an early booking for the New Year 2022.

100 accommodation options in Veliky Ustyug

Ski resorts
Why you should go: and meet the holiday, and go in for sports. In addition, the atmosphere in the resorts is calmer than in large cities with their New Year’s fuss. Such places are one of the best for a New Year’s trip.

Where to go: Sheregesh, Kirovsk, Dombay.

Which resort to choose: The most comfortable resort is Sheregesh in the Kemerovo region. There are 15 tracks with any level of difficulty. The snow does not stick together, which will especially appeal to freeriders.

Dombai is located in the Caucasus Mountains, on the territory of Karachay-Cherkessia. The local mountain valley is so beautiful that it brings pleasure not only from skiing, but also from the contemplation of neighboring mountains, forests and gorges. The trails here are varied, suitable for skiers of different levels.

The base in Kirovsk is located within the city of the same name in the Murmansk region. The slopes are well maintained, the lifts are new. Here you can not only spend time on the slopes, but also go to the city to celebrate the New Year there properly.

390 offers in Sheregesh

340 offers in Dombai

500 offers in Kirovsk

Photo: OlgaKan / Shutterstock

Kaliningrad

Why you should go: to be in a festive atmosphere against the backdrop of ancient European-style architecture.

What is the weather like: quite warm, around zero, it may snow or rain. There is a breeze, so bring warm clothes.

How to have fun: The main festive events are held on Victory Square: concerts, New Year’s performances, fireworks, fairs. However, this is not even the main thing, because in Kaliningrad there is a scattering of interesting places. No matter how fun you celebrate the New Year, be sure to go to the Cathedral, where the Kant Museum is located. It is also worth going through various gates: Royal, Brandenburg, Sackheim. It is unlikely that you will pass by the Amber Museum, the exhibits of which will give odds to any New Year’s garland.

4,200 accommodation options in Kaliningrad

Minsk
Why you need to go: comfortable weather, inexpensive vacation, a visa for Russians in Belarus is not needed, and on the streets, though fun, but at the same time calm.

How is the weather: no severe frosts, mostly from -5 to +5 °С.

Things to do: walk around the central districts and squares, which are literally flooded with festive lights. The building of the National Library is especially beautifully illuminated. The New Year tree is placed on October Square. There you can also go through the luminous balls, buy souvenirs and have a snack with something tasty and warming.

Where to go for the New Year with children? As an option – Nesvizh and Mir, which surprise with ancient castles. After walking in the fresh air, we advise you to eat hot homemade sausages and, of course, potatoes. You can go to Belovezhskaya Pushcha – the Belarusian Father Frost lives there, who entertains children as much as he can.

1 200 offers in Minsk

Photo: panophotograph / Shutterstock

New Year 2022 at sea

Why you should go: is a good chance to escape from the winter – to where it’s warm.

How is the weather: It is unlikely that you will be able to swim on the Russian coast, but it is quite possible to take a walk in warm and comfortable weather.

Where to relax: the most suitable option is the Crimea, where there are two seas at once – the Black and Azov. You can get to the peninsula in any way: by plane, train, own car.

In Crimea, it is rarely below 0 °C, and local beauties and excursions do not disappear anywhere even in winter. Throughout the peninsula, the New Year is celebrated on the same scale as in the rest of Russia. For example, on the Yalta embankment they put up a Christmas tree, hold concerts and light fireworks.

You can go a little further – to Georgia. New Year holidays are also widely celebrated here, it is even warmer outside, and unsurpassed Georgian cuisine is on the table.

25,800 accommodation options in Crimea

1,000 accommodation options in Georgia

Altai
Why you should go: to feel the amazing atmosphere of peace and feel the energy of extraordinary nature.

How is the weather?

Things to do: in Altai you can recharge your batteries for the whole next year. Usually tourists book tours for the New Year, which the locals call Chaga-Bayram, or the White Holiday. You can meet him traditionally (with a Russian steam bath, horse and sleigh rides, playing in the snow and a New Year’s banquet), as well as extreme (for example, going to the mountains).

Belokurikha ski resort is also located in Altai. Here you can perfectly celebrate the New Year with friends. The total length of the slopes in the resort is about 7 kilometers, and all of them are surrounded by beautiful coniferous trees.

900 accommodation options in Altai

170 offers in Belokurikha

Photo: TheOldhiro / Shutterstock

Baikal

Why go: to see the cleanest, deepest and most mysterious lake on the planet.

How is the weather: quite frosty, can reach -22 °C.

Things to do: Traveling to Lake Baikal never gets boring: you can communicate with seals in the nerpinaria, take helicopter rides over the lake or go skiing on Mount Sobolinaya. As for folk festivals, they can be visited in Irkutsk and in the village of Listvyanka.

1,000 accommodation options in Irkutsk

Novosibirsk
Why you need to go: in the capital of Siberia, everything is on the level.

How is the weather: is quite fresh (up to -20 °C), but there are more sunny days at this time than in other winter months.

How to have fun: Lenin Square with ice sculptures and slides becomes the center of folk festivals. You can also take a walk along the Mikhailovskaya embankment, where you can slide down the hill right to the bank of the Ob. Of course, the main attractions of Novosibirsk do not disappear on New Year’s holidays: the Opera and Ballet Theatre, the planetarium, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and other iconic places.

1,930 offers in Novosibirsk

Karelia
Why go: feel the unique natural energy among thousands of lakes and waterfalls.

What about the weather: sunny days are about the same as cloudy days. The average temperature is -5 °С.

What to do: Karelia is suitable for recreation with a large company: ride snowmobiles and dogs, walk around ice towns and go ice fishing if you have the skills. And in Petrozavodsk, you can take a walk along the shores of Lake Onega, visit unique Karelian museums and dance around the main city Christmas tree on Kirov Square.

1,730 accommodation options in Karelia

Photo: Baturina Yuliya / Shutterstock

Nizhny Novgorod

Why you should go: is a good opportunity to spend the holidays brightly and on a budget.

Like the weather: ideal conditions for a New Year’s fairy tale: on average -9 °C and quite a lot of snow.

How to have fun: on holidays the capital of the Volga region looks magical. Minin and Pozharsky Square and Gorky Square are beautifully decorated. Celebrations are also held near the Chkalov Stairs – one of the symbols of the city. From it you can go down to Rozhdestvenskaya Street, which corresponds to the holidays both in name and in essence: a cozy festive town is set up here, treats and souvenirs are sold.

1,500 offers in Nizhny Novgorod

Ekaterinburg
Why go: is one of the best cities in the country, plenty of entertainment and opportunities to celebrate the New Year together or in a company. What about the weather?

What to do: The square of 1905 becomes the center of celebrations, where an ice town is created with figures of not only fairy-tale heroes, but also local celebrities – for example, famous Ural rockers. You can also take a walk along the pedestrian Veiner Street and admire the sights covered with snow: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Sevastyanov’s house and the Vysotsky skyscraper.

2 240 offers in Yekaterinburg

Where to go on New Year’s Eve in Russia: 10 destinations for winter travel

Travel

Sleighs are prepared from the summer, and a trip for the winter holidays is from November. We have selected for you 10 cool places in Russia where you can go for the New Year.

Sofia Shatokhina

Photo by Getty Images

November 15, 2021

Chasing the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights can be seen from several locations in Russia, but one of the most popular destinations is the Murmansk region. Firstly, it is convenient to get there, and secondly, there are more gentle weather conditions (in some places where you can see the northern lights, the temperature in the winter months can reach -45 ° C). There are several options for where to go for the New Year: Polyarny, Teriberka, Vidyaevo, Pechenga. It is best to clarify this issue with the agencies that plan special tours – they will select a convenient program and suggest the dates when you will surely catch this breathtaking natural phenomenon.

Kola Peninsula

If you decide to celebrate the New Year in the Murmansk region, then feel free to book a tour to the Kola Peninsula. There you can not only admire the northern lights, but also go on a snowmobile safari, go on a jeep or sleigh tour, go skiing and just walk through the picturesque places and get acquainted with the local culture.

Aurora Village Dome Hotel

Aurora Village is a small and very cozy eco-hotel with igloo-shaped houses, from where you can watch the northern lights without leaving your room! The hotel is located in a secluded area at 49km from Murmansk – representatives immediately warn that the cellular connection there is very weak, so you are provided with a complete digital detox. You definitely won’t be bored: there is a cafe, an amusement park, a Japanese furaco water bath, as well as various winter activities – fishing, snowmobiling, skiing and snowshoeing.

Book a room

Glamping Aurora Village Murmansk.

Walks in the Leningrad Region

Many people like to go to St. Petersburg for the New Year holidays, but don’t forget that the Leningrad Region also has something to see. At least take a look at Peterhof – in winter, without crowds of visitors and strewn with white snow, it looks completely special. And if you have already visited all the main tourist sites, then here are a couple more ideas for your itinerary.

Maryino Manor

The history of Maryino Manor dates back to 1811, when the wife of Count Pavel Stroganov Sophia ordered to build “a solemn palace in the village of Andrianovo”. In 2008, the estate passed to the current owner Galina Stepanova, who carried out a large-scale reconstruction of the main building and territory (work is still ongoing). With her help, the estate became the first object of historical heritage in the Leningrad region, restored by a private individual. There you can not only admire the interiors and plunge into the two-hundred-year history of Maryino, but also take a walk in the spacious English garden.

Tochka Na Karta Hotel

An ideal place for a winter escape is the Tochka Na Karta hotel designed by Rhizome. Minimalist architecture, pure nature, panoramic windows and a restaurant with local cuisine – it will be good for a young couple, and a family with children, and you can just relax and “reboot” alone. By the way, this year the new “Points on the Map” pavilion won the AD Design Award 2020 in the “Hotels” nomination – another reason to visit it.

Photo: Dmitry Tsyrenshchikov.

Shelepin’s Dacha

Built in 1904, Shelepin’s Dacha is a real architectural example of northern Art Nouveau style. The facade of the building is decorated with carved architraves and elements of Russian wooden architecture, while the interiors are decorated in a classic style and filled with antique furniture and decor. Now the dacha is located on the territory of the Skandinavia country club (next to the dacha of the merchant Likhachev), so anyone can stay in it: the house has eight rooms, most of which overlook the Gulf of Finland.

Ilya Repin’s Estate Museum

Ilya Repin acquired the Penaty estate in 1899 and took care of its architecture and design himself. There were really legendary guests there: Gorky, Chukovsky, Mayakovsky, Yesenin, Kuprin and many others. Now the Penates work as a museum: visitors can see the entrance hall, the dining room, the artist’s office and the living room, which served as Repin’s first workshop (two more are located on the second floor of the house). And of course, everyone can take a walk in the manor park.

Admire the swan lake in Altai

The ice-free lake Svetloe (Swan) in the Sovetsky district is a wintering place for wild whooper swans and 2000 wild ducks of various species and is not in vain considered an amazing natural monument. The purest water in the lake does not freeze even at temperatures below -35 °C, so even rare species of birds can be found there in winter. You can visit Swan Lake only by appointment.

Katun River, Altai.

Go skiing in Krasnaya Polyana

Rosa Khutor ski resort in Krasnaya Polyana became popular with tourists even before the borders were closed. And it is no coincidence, because the resort is designed in the best traditions of European ski resorts: cozy hotels, cafes and a large number of entertainments for guests of all ages. There are 28 cable cars on the slope, and the peak of the resort is at an altitude of 2509 m above sea level.

Rixos Krasnaya Polyana

Rixos Krasnaya Polyana is located high in the Caucasus Mountains in the village of Estosadok, just 100 meters from the ski lift. From the spa to in-house ski and snowboard coaches, everything is there to ensure a comfortable stay for guests. Rixos Royal Spa, by the way, is considered one of the largest in the resort: the complex occupies a separate two-story building. And of course, several restaurants: classic, with Turkish cuisine and Wine House, where the emphasis is on the wine list.

Book a room

Restaurant Vysota 2320

The restaurant with the speaking name Vysota 2320 rises to 2320 m above sea level. The establishment serves local Black Sea and classic European cuisine, and dishes are most often prepared from local ingredients (something is even harvested right on the slopes). But the main feature of the restaurant is, of course, an incredible view of the Caucasus Range, Mount Aibga and the Black Sea.

Conquer Kamchatka volcanoes and geysers

Kamchatka is a place where you can celebrate the New Year in a rather unusual way. The Valley of Geysers is included in the list of seven wonders of Russia and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it is one of the largest geyser fields in the world, spread over 6 km². In winter, there are fewer people who want to go to the Valley of Geysers, which makes excursions cheaper – at the same time, this miracle of nature looks no less exciting than in the warm season. You can get there by helicopter by ordering a special tour – they just don’t let you into the territory of the facility. Of course, in addition to traveling to the Valley, there are places to go in Kamchatka: take a walk along the Pacific coast, ride a dog sled and learn more about the indigenous peoples of the region.

Photo: GettyImages.

Enjoy nature in Dombai

If people go to Krasnaya Polyana for modern and fashionable service, then they go to the ski resorts of Dombai primarily for beautiful nature and wide slopes. It is important to understand that it is better to go there mainly for ski holidays, since this is still the main winter activity of the resort. If you haven’t skied yet, then the comfortable slopes of Dombay are a great place to start! But for lovers of hiking there will also be something to do: you can take a walk to the gorges of Dombay-Ulgen or Gonachkhir, look into the Teberdinsky Reserve and reach the Devil’s Mill canyon.

Plunge into a winter fairy tale in Kaliningrad

Did you miss the winter holidays in Europe, but still plan to celebrate the New Year in Russia? Head to Kaliningrad – its old German architecture looks absolutely magical there in winter! The climate is quite mild, so even in the cold season you can walk for a long time and look at the city, sometimes running for hot chocolate in cozy cafes. Walk through the historical center or go to the region – we have a whole guide with ideas of where to go in Kaliningrad.

Mercure Hotel

Ira and Olya Sundukovs were inspired by the fairy tale “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” (its author, Ernst Theodor Amadeus Hoffmann, from Kaliningrad) – the artist Igor Skaletsky even depicted heroes from the work on the walls. The atmosphere in the rooms is more relaxed than in the lobby: there, the designers tried to recreate the peaceful atmosphere of the Old Town, and in order not to be bored, they diluted the delicate interior with bright details.

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Photo: Nikita Kryuchkov

Restaurant of modern cuisine DA in Kaliningrad

Svetlana Vlasenko was responsible for the interiors of DA, for whom this project became special: for the first time she acted not only as a designer, but also became a co-founder of the restaurant. The space is bright and modern, but not cold thanks to natural linen tablecloths, deep leather sofas and soft ocher cushions, so that visitors can comfortably spend hours at a leisurely dinner with friends. The menu includes familiar dishes of Russian cuisine: dumplings, Olivier salad, fish soup, but in a modern interpretation.

Photo: Ivan Sorokin.

Nordic Spa

A small spa complex in Yantarny with Scandinavian saunas and wood-fired hot tubs. For these New Year holidays, Nordic Spa offers to rent the whole complex (with a company of up to 15 people) – you can gather with family or friends and arrange a digital detox for at least a couple of hours. Looking from the panoramic windows in the rest room to the Baltic, you can forget that you are in Russia.

Nordic Spa in the Kaliningrad region.

To see the impressive natural panoramas of Karelia

It is better to celebrate the New Year in Karelia in a big company. And then go with the group on a tour of the main attractions, which include the most beautiful places in the region: the marble canyon of Ruskeala, the ethno-cultural monument of northern wooden architecture Kivach, Petrozavodsk and much more. Bonus of traveling with a group: no need to worry about complex logistics while traveling and booking accommodation. Be sure to read our guide before your trip.

Winter Karelian forest, spruce trees in the snow and the river, gloomy sky. The river in the Karelian reserve among the snowy firs.Natalia Kurtidi

Winter’s Dacha

Lake Ladoga full of fish, volcanic rocks and endless coniferous forests – such a harsh northern landscape surrounds those who come to the Karelian Cape Taruniemi in the park -Hotel “Dacha Winter”. The name of the complex was given by the country house of Dr. Gustav Winter, a brilliant surgeon and a landmark figure for these places, who in his spare time was enthusiastically engaged in landscape architecture and loved countryside recreation with outdoor games, picnics and boat trips.

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Go skating on the clear ice of Baikal

You will always have time to celebrate the New Year at the table, but skating on Baikal in the evening is a real adventure. Even if you have already been here, a completely different landscape awaits you in winter: nature freezes, the lake turns into glass, so you can comfortably walk and explore it. Don’t forget to visit Olkhon Island and try the main local dishes – smoked omul and golomyanka.

Couple – man and woman in the red jackets is lying on the transparent ice. Baikal, aerial view. Olkhon Island, Lake Baikal, Siberia, Russia Anton Petrus

Olkhoniya coffee house and Port-Olkhon restaurant

The place where the restaurant and coffee house are located used to belong to the Malomorsky fish factory. The enterprise had the only berth for ships on the island, so they decided to name the restaurant Port-Olkhon. It was placed in a new building with a free layout, but the Olkhonia coffee house is located in one of the former administrative buildings of the plant. This building was erected from a powerful larch carriage according to the old method – with moss insulation of the log house.

Port-Olkhon restaurant. Photo: Evgeny Ryazhev

Olkhonia coffee house. Photo: Evgeniy Ryazhev

Go on a gastronomic journey to Kazan

There is definitely something to see in Kazan – and we showed it all in our guide. But it is also worth trying dozens of national dishes here. For a substantial dinner or lunch, head to the Chirem restaurant, where you will be served echpochmaks (dough triangles) with various fillings, vak-belish (chicken pie), kystybay with potatoes and, of course, an incredible amount of meat that you can’t refuse – kazylyk, horse fat, horse meat steak and kyzdyrma (veal) with spicy spices. The establishment also serves the traditional “groom’s soup” with small dumplings – it is believed that the bride prepares it for the family of the future spouse.

“Qolsharif Mosque in Kazan Kremlin in winter, Tatarstan, Russia”klug-photo

If you want to dine in a beautiful setting, we suggest you look into the new Branch restaurant designed by the Artists Collaboration studio, whose designers tried to create a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere in the interior , reminiscent of the atmosphere of noisy summer terraces in Montenegro. For the main course, be sure to order something from the wine list, which has 120 positions.

TagsTravel RussiaTravelNew YearNew Year 2022

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Where to buy

Buying New Year’s gifts at a discount: 11 cool things

We suggest not to wait for December, but to buy New Year’s gifts for loved ones right now – at sales. And with the money you save, treat yourself to something nice. Among the Black Friday offers, we chose the coolest products and even calculated the benefits.

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