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 also included the best accommodation options for various budgets, so you know where to spend the night!
Best Warm Winter Destinations in Europe
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.
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, flora and fauna are especially lovely, and the spectacular ancient monuments and Greek temples are less crowded.
Stay the night
- Luxury: Hotel Politeama
- 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. See 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 at 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, 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. 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. It’s also a great way 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, 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.
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.
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.
In Athens, winter is met by cold weather and rain, but the temperatures are lower 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 reopen 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 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
10. Naples, France
While Naples is not Italy’s most popular tourist destination, its beauty and 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 since as it is usually bustling with visitors.
The Piazza del Gesu Nuovo Area in Naples’ old center is a tiny but busy square. This 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 the island is so much more 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, so you can stroll through the region 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 city. Corfu town will be quieter, the traffic less intense, and walking from one point to the other can reveal an 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.
With fewer tourists during the off-season and several tourist destinations closed over the winter, the town 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! Because the island is so near to Egypt, the winter temperatures are mild.
While you may want to avoid going to the beach in the winter as the weather isn’t 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 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
