Europe is one of the best places to visit if you want to get away from it all in the winter and experience some of the beauty of the season. Plus, not every country in Europe turns frigid when the winter season hits, so there are actually quite a few wonderful destinations that you can travel to if you want to see Europe in the winter but you don’t want to deal with harsh weather conditions. And if you live in Europe, you can plan a quick winter break and much-needed getaway without having to travel far.
Continue reading for a short list of some of the top destinations for a winter break in Europe, whether you want to visit the countryside or one of the biggest cities in the world.
Nice, France
Nice is one of the most sought-after destinations in the beautiful French Riviera, and the winter is a great time to see it and experience all that it has to offer. During this time of year, you can enjoy reduced airfare and lodging rates, making it ideal for travellers on a budget. Temperatures are also likely to be surprisingly pleasant, much like springtime weather, so you won’t be sweating but you won’t be freezing either. And if you’re planning on heading to Nice in February, you have the added perk of being able to experience the Nice Festival, which is one of the biggest annual cultural events on the planet. So head over to France with your designer Ray Ban sunglasses, lie on the beach and take in the sunshine and warmth, and let go of all of your worries.
Andalucía, Spain
Some of the areas in Andalucía are actually located further south than Africa’s coast, which means this is another destination where you can enjoy warmer temperatures in the middle of the winter season. Crowds also tend to be smaller, and accommodation tends to be more affordable, during this time of year as well. Must-see attractions include Seville’s Cathedral and Granada’s Alhambra.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, which is the 4th-largest city in Austria, is yet another popular winter destination, but you shouldn’t expect the weather to be mild here. Instead, this is a great place for travellers who do enjoy winter weather and activities. Christmas markets are fun to browse, and there are also plenty of opportunities to ski and enjoy the snow here. The gorgeous architecture includes cathedrals, castles, and baroque buildings that are even more spectacular when covered in snow. Just make sure you bring along sunglasses, whether you prefer designer vs knock-off sunglasses, as the sun’s rays can still be harsh in this winter wonderland.
Paris, France
If you’re looking for excitement in one of Europe’s most famous cities, Paris is the ideal choice for your winter getaway. There’s plenty to do throughout the city during this time of year, and it’s just as stunning as ever. Enjoy warm coffee at one of the city’s many charming cafes, browse through the incredible museums to stay in from the cold, and enjoy smaller crowds wherever you go.