The joy of winter ushers in a series of holidays, giving us the chance to embark on a global journey and satisfy our wanderlust. This season allows us to see the world from a fresh perspective, framed by the beauty of winter. Europe stands out as one such destination that undergoes transformation with each season, enchanting travellers and beckoning us to uncover the wonders of the continent.
While winter in Northern Europe is indeed known for its frigid cold and heavy snow, this doesn’t hold true for all of Europe. Destinations like the UK, Ireland and Germany fit this description. Southern Europe, on the other hand, is influenced by the Mediterranean Sea, leading to sunny winter days that entice you to spend your vacation there. If you are curious about these places where you can enjoy the pleasures of the winter sun and pleasant weather, we’ve compiled a list of the top destinations in Europe that offer the best of both worlds.
Top European destinations for winter sun seekers
Cyprus
Resting in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, the picturesque island of Cyprus is characterised by its pristine blue waters. It carries the influence of its European neighbours, resulting in a unique blend of culture and traditions, from Greek to Turkish.
While Cyprus is a dream destination during the summer, its winters are equally enchanting. The European winter in Cyprus brings sunny days, cool breezes and light rain showers. The wonderful Mediterranean climate makes it one of the warmest places in Europe, offering a mild winter for a pleasant holiday on the island nation.
Average temperature in December: Minimum 11 degrees Celsius and maximum 17 degrees Celsius
Best places to visit in Cyprus
The beautiful weather encourages outdoor exploration in Cyprus, allowing you to discover its remarkable cities. Learn about the nation’s history at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Paphos, which is home to several archaeological sites lining its coast, capturing the essence of the city. The largest mountain range, the Troodos Mountains, is home to churches and monasteries from the Byzantine Empire decorated with some of the most beautiful paintings, making the Painted Churches in the Troodos Region a part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. Explore prehistoric ruins at the Choirokoitia, another iconic UNESCO site.
What to eat in Cyprus: Souvla, kleftiko, stifado, sheftalia, commandaria, halloumi and labneh.
How to reach: Larnaca International Airport and Paphos International Airport are the major international airports in Cyprus.
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Malta
Five islands come together to make up the archipelagic nation of Malta. This country boasts fortified cities that bear traces of European, African and Middle Eastern influences, thanks to its geographical location in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Of the five islands, only two are inhabited in the archipelago, namely Malta and Gozo.
With over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, the Maltese winter is a sunny affair with plenty of light to brighten your days. The light winters are often accompanied by rain showers, keeping the weather cool but not freezing cold, unlike Northern Europe.
Average temperature in December: Minimum 11 degrees Celsius and maximum 17 degrees Celsius
Best places to visit in Malta
The fortifications of Malta’s capital are so grand and beautiful that the entire city is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. Enjoy a ride on the traditional water taxi, known as ‘dgħajsa’, from Valletta to the famed Three Cities — Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. Mdina, also known as the Citta Notabile (Noble City), is an ancient fortified city that was once the capital of Malta. It stands as one of the finest examples of Norman and Baroque architecture. The island of Gozo is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes like caves, cliffs and beaches. However, the water can be a bit chilly during the winter, so it might not be the most ideal time for swimming.
What to eat in Malta: Ġbejna, pastizz, ftira, aljotta, bigilla, bragioli and platt malti.
How to reach: Malta International Airport is the only commercial airport in Malta.
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Canary Islands, Spain
The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago nestled in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Northwest Africa. Famous for their picturesque black and white sand beaches, these isles were formed millions of years ago as a result of underwater volcanic eruptions.
Winters in the Canary Islands are pleasant and sunny. There is no need for scarves and thick jackets, as the subtropical climate keeps the weather mild and relaxing. Furthermore, the volcanic isles record approximately 5,000 hours of sunshine in a year, making the winter months feel more like spring.
Average temperature in December: Minimum 17 degrees Celsius and maximum 22 degrees Celsius
Best places to visit in the Canary Islands
While the archipelago has seven main islands, the best places to see in the winter are Lanzarote and Tenerife. The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife has an average winter temperature of 21 degrees Celsius, allowing you to enjoy your vacation without worrying about the cold. You can learn about local history at the UNESCO-listed San Cristobal de La Laguna, explore the volcanic landscapes of Parque Nacional del Teide and witness the traditional Canarian culture of La Orotava. Lazaroate enjoys year-round warm weather, with an average winter temperature of 22 degrees Celsius. The island is designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and offers various adventures like hiking in Timanfaya National Park or scuba diving at the underwater museum of Museo Atlantico.
What to eat in the Canary Islands: Mojo, papas arrugadas, mojo verde, mojo rojo, pescado seco, bienmesabe, plátano de Canarias, queso majoereo and queso palmero.
How to reach: Lanzarote Airport, Tenerife Norte Airport and Tenerife South Airport are the main airports of the Canary Islands.
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Madeira, Portugal
If you are a wine aficionado, particularly of Madeira wine, then head to the islands where this fortified wine is produced and enjoy a blissful and relaxing break. Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal, comprises four islands off the Northwest coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. The volcanic archipelago’s subtropical climate makes it a top winter destination.
Similar to its island neighbour, the Canary Islands, Madeira experiences mild and sunny winters. The days are filled with five hours of sunshine, keeping the weather warm and pleasant, offering an excellent place to soak in the winter sun. You may experience some light rain showers as well.
Average temperature in December: Minimum 18 degrees Celsius and maximum 20 degrees Celsius
Best places to visit in Madeira
The archipelago has four islands, and only two of them are inhabited — Madeira and Porto Santo. Explore the island of Madeira by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Laurisilva Forest, Porto Moniz, São Vicente, Santana, Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, Machico, Santa Cruz and Ponta do Sol. Head to the island of Porto Santo to experience diving, kayaking, boating, golfing, whale watching, windsurfing and other outdoor adventures.
What to eat in Madeira: Espetada, black scabbardfish, queijada, honey cake, honey biscuits, custard apple mousse and surinam cherry pudding.
How to reach: Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport is the main airport in Madeira.
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Seville, Spain
Famous for Flamenco dancing and the unique blend of Moorish, Christian and Jewish architecture, Seville is the capital of the Spanish autonomous community of Andalusia. It is one of the best places to see in Spain, and in winter, Seville is simply serene.
Enjoy the winter sun of Europe in Seville, where you may want to carry some warm clothing but can still enjoy the outdoors, thanks to the Spanish weather. While the sky may occasionally be overcast, the daytime temperatures remain mild and pleasant.
Average temperature in December: Minimum 8 degrees Celsius and maximum 17 degrees Celsius
Best places to visit in Seville
The city is etched with Islamic, Gothic and Renaissance influences, and its magnificent architecture stands as a testament to this rich and complex history. Learn about the history of bullfighting at Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza, dance at the Flamenco clubs of Triana, go boating on the Guadalquivir River, take a dip in the many Arab Baths of Sevilla, and explore the beauty of Royal Alcázar of Seville.
What to eat in Seville: Carrillada de cerdo, vino de naranja, zanahoria aliñadas, espinacas con garbanzos and montadito de pringá.
How to reach: Seville Airport is the main airport in the city.
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Sicily, Italy
Sicily is the largest Mediterranean island in our list of best places to bask in the winter sun of Europe. The Italian island has been a beloved tourist destination, and recently, it gained even more fame after serving as the backdrop for season two of the award-winning series The White Lotus.
The Sicilian winter offers a unique experience compared to its Mediterranean counterparts. The weather is cool, and the day is filled with an average of four to five hours of sunshine, along with occasional rain showers. Winter in Sicily is all about exploring the city’s culture and walking in the sun rather than relaxing on the beach or swimming in the sea.
Average temperature in December: Minimum 11 degrees Celsius and maximum 16 degrees Celsius
Best places to visit in Sicily
Palermo, Catania and Syracuse are excellent cities to explore during the winter. Tour the capital of the island by traversing through Catacombe dei Cappuccini, Norman Palace, Palermo Cathedral, Teatro Massimo, Antonino Salinas Regional Archeological Museum and Quattro Canti in Palermo. Learn about Catania’s history as an ancient port city by checking out Palazzo Biscari, Castello Ursino, Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena, Greek-Roman Theatre and Mount Etna. Syracuse also boasts of legendary archaeological sites, like the Neapolis Archaeological Park, Duomo and Teatro Greco.
What to eat in Sicily: Caponata, arancini, parmigiana di melanzane, zucca in agrodolce, bottarga and caciocavallo all’argentiera.
How to reach: Palermo’s Falcone Borsellino Airport and Catania–Fontanarossa Airport are the main airports on the island.
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The Algarve, Portugal
The sunkissed shores of the Faro district make up a magnificent destination in Portugal’s southernmost region, the Algarve. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, the coast is lined with golden beaches and stunning cliffs facing the Atlantic Ocean.
With one of the warmest winters in Europe, the Algarve region basks in five to six hours of sunshine a day, making it an excellent place to visit. You’ll enjoy the refreshing cool breeze and occasional gentle rain showers that maintain mild and pleasant temperatures. While the water may be a bit chilly, you can still enjoy a dip in the ocean.
Average temperature in December: Minimum 11 degrees Celsius and maximum 18 degrees Celsius
Best places to explore in the Algarve
Learn about the local history in the capital, Faro, by visiting Cidade Velha, Museu Municipal, Parque Natural da Ria Formosa and Sé (cathedral). Explore the coastal beauty of Carvoeiro at Benagil Caves, Algar Seco Rocks, Praia do Carvalho, Praia do Paraíso, and Praia do Vale de Centeanes. Adventure enthusiasts can go surfing, hiking, bird watching and cycling across Sagres’ coast in places like Cabo de Sao Vicente, Praia da Mareta and Praia da Martinhal.
What to eat in the Algarve: Cataplana, frango assado com piri piri, carne de porco à alentejana, pudim de laranja, dom rodrigo, medronho and queijo de figo.
How to reach: Faro International Airport is the main airport in the Algarve.
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Crete, Greece
Once the cradle of the Bronze Age Minoan civilisation, Crete is the largest island of Greece, resting in the Mediterranean Sea. While summer is synonymous with Greece, exploring Crete in winter promises a unique experience of Greek culture and lifestyle.
This Greek Island experiences milder winters than Northern Europe, with over four hours of sunshine. The Mediterranean climate keeps Crete pleasant, cool and sunny, although it does see some rain during the winter months.
Average temperature in December: Minimum 9 degrees Celsius and maximum 15 degrees Celsius
Best places to visit in Crete
While the cold water might not be ideal for beach activities, it’s the perfect time to explore the rich history of the island. Head to Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Knossos Palace and Heraklion’s Old Town to witness remnants of Minoan culture in Crete’s capital, Heraklion. Explore the coastal charm of Chania at the Old Venetian Port, the Lighthouse of Chania, the Maritime Museum of Crete and the Monasteries of Akrotiri Peninsula. Hike the longest gorge in Europe — Samaria Gorge.
What to eat in Crete: Dakos, kaltsounia, kolokythoanthoi, coclious me hondro, apaki, loukoumades, raki and Cretian wine.
How to reach: Heraklion International Airport is the major airport in Crete.
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Gibraltar, British Overseas Territory
Resting at the Southern end of the Iberian Peninsula is Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory that surprises travellers with its unique blend of cultures. The world-famous Rock of Gibraltar may dominate the landscape; however, the destination’s allure also lies in the Palladian architecture of the cities, breathtaking cliffs and the Barbary apes.
Gibraltar’s winter is unlike the chilling, cold European winter. Around six hours of sunshine keep the city sunny and bright each day, and the weather is windy and chilly. You will require a light jacket, but you may end up taking it off if the sun is shining too bright in the middle of the day. The winter is also blessed with light rain showers.
Average temperature in December: Minimum 12 degrees Celsius and maximum 17 degrees Celsius
Best places to visit in Gibraltar
The destination is a tiny city filled with history, culture and natural beauty. Hop on a cable car to the top to see the Rock of Gibraltar, from where you can see the African coast, the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the St Michael Caves in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve and also check out the Mediterranean Steps here. Head to the Moorish Castle to learn about Gibraltar before it was under colonial rule. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean at Europa Point, or catch glimpses of some of the most stunning yachts at the Ocean Village Marina. The winter is also an excellent time for dolphin and whale watching in Gibraltar.
What to eat in Gibraltar: Calentita, rosto, borrachuelos and rolitos.
How to reach: Gibraltar International Airport is the only airport in the city.
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Amalfi, Italy
The majestic cliffsides and blue waters of Amalfi have made it one of the most picturesque destinations in Europe and a popular vacation spot in the summer. This tiny Italian town is tucked away on the side of a mountain in Southern Italy’s Amalfi coast, offering the bliss of the hills along with the pleasures of the coast.
The Mediterranean weather of Amalfi ensures that the winter is mild and pleasant, making it a great time to experience a calmer side of the city. You may require some warm clothes as it can get very windy on the mountain, along with an average of six to seven hours of sun. Occasional rain showers may surprise you during your winter vacay to Amalfi.
Average temperature in December: Minimum 9 degrees Celsius and maximum 14 degrees Celsius
Best places to visit in Amalfi
Soak up the sun and the culture by walking around the city during the winter. Visit the Duomo di Amalfi, Museo della Carta, Saint Andrew’s Fountain Amalfi and Villa Rufolo to learn about the history of the city. Spend your days navigating the narrow alleys of Amalfi, shopping or trying the cafes of the Ruga Nova Mercatorum. Hike around nature and experience the rich wildlife of Amalfi at the Riserva Statale Valle delle Ferriere. If you are willing to brave the cold sea, you can spend some time on the beautiful beaches or take a boat ride along the coast. You can even drive to the iconic Positano, Ravello, Sorrento and Salerno.
What to eat in Amalfi: Alici di cetara, mozzarella di bufala, gli scialatielli all’amalfitana, pasta all limone, risotto ai frutti di mare and paccheri con la rana pescatrice.
How to reach: Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport is the main airport near Amalfi.
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Related: Your European Summer Vacation Is Possible Even Without A Schengen Visa: Here’s How
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– What can I expect in terms of weather during a winter vacation in Europe?
The type of weather you’ll encounter largely depends on your destination. Northern Europe can be quite chilly during winter, so it’s advisable to visit the destinations mentioned in our list for a milder winter filled with sunshine.
– Are European destinations crowded during the winter months?
No, European destinations are generally not crowded during the winter, as it is considered the off-season for tourism. During the festive seasons like Christmas and New Year’s, however, these destinations come alive with celebrations.
– Is it possible to go swimming in the ocean during a winter vacation in Europe?
You can enjoy a dip in the picturesque blue waters of the ocean in the Algarve, Madeira and the Canary Islands.
– Do I need a visa to visit Europe in winter as a tourist?
Yes, you do need a tourist visa to visit Europe, regardless of the season you plan to visit.
Written By
Priyaja Bakshi
Priyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism at Lady Shri Ram College For Women (DU). She is extremely curious about the world and wishes to visit all the countries once in her life. She identifies as a foodie and loves to spend her free time exploring different cuisine and curating new dishes. ..Read More
