10 European destinations where it's warm in winter

Where in Europe is it warm in winter – countries for winter travel: what to do in Italy, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Georgia.

Where to go for a week or two in the winter to be warm and tasty. And not too far away to avoid buying expensive tickets. I ask myself this question every year and gradually accumulate new directions and impressions.

Of course, it is ideal to go to hot countries for the winter. But, first of all, many of them are now closed. Secondly, if you cannot leave for a long winter, you can always choose the nearest relatively warm country. For example, in Europe or Middle Asia, to warm up for a week, eat delicious fruits and vegetables. Here is my ranking of countries based on my personal experience.

Italy – southern Sicily and Calabria

The island of Sicily is the southernmost part of Italy and I highly recommend going here in winter and early spring. The temperature in winter is not lower than +15 degrees, with many sunny days. In February, almonds bloom in Sicily and oranges and tangerines ripen. And fish markets continue to sell the freshest seafood.

Recommendation – Rome in winter – what to see in three days

Sicily’s neighbor is Calabria, which is located close to the island on the very tip of the Italian boot. It’s as warm here in winter as in Sicily – of course, you won’t be able to swim in the sea, but the warm air, cheap prices and delicious cuisine can make your vacation very pleasant. I advise you to look in the direction of the most beautiful town in Calabria – Tropea where we vacationed in October.

Advantages of a winter trip to the south of Italy:

The warm, mild climate means that almonds are already blooming and oranges are ripening in February. Compared to the winter in Ukraine, Sicily and Calabria are paradise.
Restaurant prices in Sicily and Calabria are lower than in Tuscany or northern Italy.
Low price for car rental this season. We rented a car in March and paid about 20 euros per day. In summer, the price tag is completely different. You can compare prices and find a car at a low cost on Rentalcars.com.
In winter, there are very few tourists here, and you can rent a house for a penny. Apartments in the center of Catania cost from 25 euros. And in Taormina, where in the summer you can’t get through the number of tourists and cars, you can rent an apartment for 30 euros. Here are examples of hotel reservations for the winter season – Booking.com-Taormina.
There is snow on Mount Etna – you can climb the volcano, play snowballs, and then go down to the coast in the warm spring.

Disadvantages of winter vacation in the south of Italy:

It is impossible to swim in the sea.
Unstable weather – it may rain.
Expensive fuel in Sicily. In fact, fuel prices in Italy are among the most expensive in Europe. In Sicily, due to the distance from the mainland, gasoline is even more expensive – about 2.1 euros per liter (on the mainland – 2 euros).

I recommend you to read what are the prices in Sicily, driving features, what to see during a week-long trip: Spring in Sicily – road trip for a week

Spain – Canary Islands

The Spanish archipelago of the Canary Islands, made up of eight main islands, has long been a favourite destination for sun-seekers (even in winter). The islands are officially the warmest place in Europe in winter. Temperatures can reach 20°C, with an average temperature of around 16°C.

Temperatures also vary between islands, with Fuerteventura and Lanzarote being slightly warmer than Tenerife and Gran Canaria.

A beach holiday in the Canary Islands in winter is quite possible, given the sea temperature of 20°C and an average of six hours of sunlight per day.

Advantages of traveling to Canary Islands in winter:

Warm sunny weather, the opportunity to swim in the ocean on Tenerife and other islands of the archipelago.
The ability to choose islands with different moods and vibes.
Cheap flights via Barcelona and Madrid – tickets are inexpensive in winter.
Accommodation in the Canary Islands is more affordable than on other warm islands.

Disadvantages of traveling to Canary Islands in winter:

There can be strong winds and rain cyclones coming from the ocean.
The water in the ocean is not super warm – it is the Atlantic, not the Indian Ocean.

Portugal – Algarve

Portugal is warm even in winter – a light jacket and a nice scarf are enough in case the wind blows sharply from the Atlantic. The gastronomy here is beyond praise, and the prices are not expensive. In winter, you can make your best trip to Portugal without rushing and stuffiness.

I recommend – 10 destinations for a day trip from Lisbon

The thing about Portugal is that it is not like most European countries. There are no polished, sterile cities here, and Portugal has a lush nature – the Atlantic Ocean alone is worth coming here at any time of the year. Portugal has a long coastline with picturesque hiking trails along it. In the southwest, even in winter, you can walk along the route Rota Vicentina. And in the north of Porto the Spanish Santiago de Compostela leads the world-famous route Camino de Santiago.

We traveled to Portugal twice in winter: the first time in January between Porto and Lisbon. Plus, we rented a car to drive to Sintra and the surrounding ocean beaches.

The following year, we flew to Portugal for the second time in February, traveling from Lisbon to Porto.

With over 300 days of sunshine a year and 87 Blue Flag beaches, the Algarve is becoming an increasingly popular holiday destination in winter. It’s the season when waterfalls come to life in the eucalyptus-filled Monchique mountains and migratory birds flock to the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Even the popular Quinta do Lago beach is blissfully quiet at this time of year – without the crowds. If you can withstand the sea temperature of +14°C, you can try your hand at surfing (wetsuits will be provided to keep you warm in the cold water).

Advantages of a winter trip to Portugal:

There are few tourists and no lines to popular museums or attractions.
Affordable housing prices (from 30 euros for apartments in Lisbon and Porto).
Inexpensive car rental – 10-15 euros per day for a small car. You can compare prices and find a car at a low cost on Rentalcars.com.
The weather is comfortable for walks and excursions – in January, it reaches +20 degrees during the day.
No need to book a table in a cafe or restaurant.
January sales.

Cons of a winter trip to Portugal:

Most apartments do not have heating – it can be quite cold in the evenings. Bring your pajamas.
Expensive fuel for cars – 2 euros per liter
Even in the south, the ocean is not for swimming – you have to go here in summer and September for a seaside vacation.

I recommend reading: How to choose a neighborhood and housing in Lisbon (many nuances)

Spain – Barcelona and Andalusia

Barcelona is quite warm in winter. If it doesn’t rain, it’s very possible to walk around the city playing football at noon. In winter, the sun shines during the day, and the temperature rises to +15, sometimes up to +20 degrees. We visited Barcelona for the first time in early January – a great way to escape from our cold weather to the Spanish sun, walks by the sea and the green city even in winter.

Here you won’t need to save money by eating fast food. You can easily afford wine and tapas, or seafood in non-touristy cafes and restaurants. It’s a pleasure to walk around the city all day, and if it rains in winter, there are many interesting museums. Gaudi’s masterpieces alone are worth spending a couple of days on.

Book a hotel in Barcelona – here’s a guide to the best neighborhoods in Barcelona.

I also advise you to look towards Andalusia, which is the warmest region of Spain. In winter, you can sunbathe on the beach and go skiing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains near Granada. A very interesting cultural program for those who want to immerse themselves in the historical heritage of Moorish Spain – in Seville, Granada and Cordoba, magnificent palaces and fortresses have been preserved: Alhambra, Mesquite, Alcazar.

Benefits of a winter trip to southern Spain:

Warm weather – throw on a jacket or sweater at most in the evening.
Delicious cuisine, seafood at reasonable prices.
You can rent a car and drive along the Barcelona coast: Tossa del Mar, Figueiras, Girona, Cadaques and Cape Cabo Creus. Or take a week-long route through Andalusia: Granada, Malaga, Cordoba, Seville, Ronda.
In winter, there are no lines, so you can enjoy the cultural program to the fullest: museums, flamenco concerts, parks – all without tourist crowds (except for early January – holidays and sales).
Sales – you can update your wardrobe inexpensively.

Cons of traveling to Spain in winter:

There is no low season in Barcelona, so hotel prices do not drop.
The apartments do not have central heating – check before booking for heaters.

Recommended: A week’s itinerary in Andalusia – what to see in southern Spain

Montenegro – Budva Riviera

Montenegro is located on the Adriatic, but in winter, the temperature of the coast does not drop below +15 degrees. The coldest and rainiest month is February, while the rest of the months are warmer and sunny. In winter, renting an apartment by the sea is much cheaper than in summer, and inexpensive products of high quality are available. In general, in Montenegro, you can afford to spend the winter without spending a lot of money, enjoying the warm sun and walks by the sea.

Advantages of winter travel in Montenegro:

Life in Montenegro is cheaper than in other European countries.
The products are very environmentally friendly and of high quality – there are no plastic vegetables and fruits with GMOs.
There are restaurants for every taste and budget, from meat to fish.
Inexpensive public transportation on the Budva Riviera.
Renting a car in winter is also much cheaper than in summer. You can find a car here.
You can live in the warmth of the sea, and if you want, go to the mountains to go skiing.
The distance between the cities is short. In addition, Montenegro is quite small, so you can see the whole country in time. And also the neighboring ones Croatia and Albania.

I recommend reading: Boka Kotor Bay – vacation on the Montenegrin fjord

Cons of wintering in Montenegro:

The apartments have no heating – only air conditioners or electric heaters. During the day, the apartment is warm, but the floor can be cold – warm socks are useful during the day, and warm pajamas are good for the night.
Not all villages function normally in winter – look for accommodation in large cities such as Budva and Bečići.

Turkey – Lycian Coast

And although Turkey is not exactly Europe, I will still add it to make my review complete.

The tourist season in Cappadocia lasts all year round. Balloons fly in summer and winter, adjusted for weather conditions. In winter, the temperature drops to 0…-15 degrees at night, and can rise to +10 degrees Celsius during the day. By the way, no one has canceled the hammam, where you can bask every evening after walking in the valleys.

In winter, prices for balloon flights are many times lower than in summer. Just compare: in the summer, it costs $150 to fly a balloon, while in the winter it costs $55. As they say, feel the difference! And in winter, the weather is great for hiking in the Martian valleys of Cappadocia – it’s not hot, there’s no heavy rainfall. If you haven’t been to Cappadocia yet, you should definitely go – it’s a stunning place and the same service, and this combination doesn’t happen often.

Advise you to read: Lycian coast – big guide to unusual Turkey

The mild temperatures mean that hiking isn’t nearly as sweaty as it would be in August. And it’s almost the perfect time to hike, at least part of, the 540-kilometer Lycian Way (I did it in 2020). The route winds between Fethiye and Antalya, past countless ancient ruins and cliff-top wonders, including the remains of ancient Patara.

Rainy day tip: warm up, give your feet a rest, and enjoy a hammam (Turkish bath) treatment, which is available in most major cities.

Advantages of traveling to Lycian Coast in winter:

Low prices for hotel accommodation.
Very few tourists, but all the infrastructure works.
Delicious vegetables and fruits that are sold in Fethiye all year round.
Everything is constantly blooming – you don’t feel winter, it’s a real spring here.

Cons of traveling to Lycian Coast in winter:

It’s not hot here, so you need to dress warmly.
Some cafes and restaurants may not work during the low season.

I recommend reading: Car rental in Turkey – review and own experience of choosing a rental company

Malta

In contrast to the hot summer, this small archipelago is quite warm in winter – during the day the air temperature can rise to + 20°C. With a centuries-old colonial history, the islands of the Maltese archipelago offer hikers some of the most beautiful scenery in the Mediterranean. It was in winter that I went to Malta to soak up the warmth and sun during the winter depression.

I advise you to read:
Winter Malta – My Travel Experience in February
Where is the best place to stay in Malta
Malta for 7 days – how to plan a trip

In a week in Malta, you can see all its interesting places:

Valletta is an ancient city and the capital of the archipelago country, with magnificent cathedrals and palaces, nice restaurants and cafes, where in winter you can calmly drink coffee, admiring the warm sun.
Mdina and Rabat are the perfectly preserved ancient capital of Malta and its satellite city, where you can immerse yourself in antiquity, visit underground catacombs, see the island around from the high tower of the Cathedral.
Island of Gozo – the rural and wild natural beauty of this island encourages walking along the coast. I walked from the port in Mgarr Harbor to the Ta’ Senk rocks, along the coast of Dweira Bay, where the Turquoise Window once stood.
Visit the Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino – people swam here even in winter, although I did not dare. The small sandy beach is packed with tourists in the summer, but in the winter there is a place to run into the blue water and then fry on the white sand.
Seeing the Maltese Carnival – I was delighted with the scale and diversity of this holiday in Valletta. One of the most beautiful carnivals in Europe is held in Malta.

Where to stay in Malta in winter:

Mandera’s Boutique Suites & Dorms≫ –A nice hotel in Valletta for a reasonable price – there are double rooms, a rooftop pool and jacuzzi, located near the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
Tritoni Harbour suites – Valletta≫ – The apartment with a kitchen is small, but very clean and comfortable – for those who need to cook on their own.
Strand Suites by NEU Collective≫ – The hotel in Sliema has a wonderful view from the window, clean rooms, a nice pool opposite and close to bus stops and many places in Malta are easily accessible by bus or boat.
Antoniel Suites≫ – good location right in the centre of St Julians, close to all the restaurants and cafes but on a quiet street. The price includes access to the beach club, located 450 metres from the hotel on the beach in St Julians.

Advantages of a winter trip to Malta:

Very cheap flights with low-cost airline Ryanair, you can fly from different cities in Europe for 70 Euros both ways.
Warm weather, you can even sunbathe on the beach on sunny days.
Cheap accommodation compared to the high season.
In winter, the islands of the archipelago are covered with greenery and flowers – it is very beautiful, considering that the island is brown-sandy in color almost all year round.
Also in winter you can walk along hiking trails around the islands, which is impossible in the summer heat.

Cons of traveling to Malta in winter:

The water in the sea is cold and this is not the season for a full-fledged beach holiday.
There is no heating, so take pajamas or look for a hotel with air conditioning.
Low water pressure in the water supply system. If washing under a weak shower in the summer is not so annoying, then in the winter it is unpleasant and cold. Looking for the hotels on Booking-Malta with good reviews about this particular problem (good hotels install special pumps to increase water pressure).

Côte d’Azur – France

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is one of the best places in Europe to relax on the beach and enjoy fresh seafood. However, many may be surprised to learn that this coastal area is also wonderful to visit in the colder months.

In winter, average temperatures are 13–15°C. Many seaside restaurants are not crowded, which means you can enjoy stunning views of the coast while dining. Although some tourist zones are closed at this time, there are plenty of other unique places you can visit.

You can explore the Côte d’Azur, known as a place of inspiration for many artists and writers. You can spend a day discovering Cannes, Antibes, and Menton, all accessible by train. Cannes is famous for its Belle Époque vibe and festival venues, while Antibes and Menton are most famous for their charm and a much more intimate atmosphere than Nice or other large cities.

What to do in Nice in winter:

Dine at a beach restaurant
Visit the Christmas market
Stroll through the picturesque old town
Ride the Ferris wheel

Where to stay on the Côte d’Azur

While the entire Côte d’Azur is beautiful, the best place to stay is Nice. This city impresses at any time of year, especially in December, as there is a wonderful Christmas market that creates a festive mood. I was in Nice in August—it was unbearably hot and stuffy, so I advise avoiding this month for visiting southern France.

My Nice B&B≫ – good location in the city center. Several shops, the railway station, a gym, and parking nearby. The building is brand new, the rooms are excellent, spacious, and clean.
Homelivia Av Jean Médecin≫ – the apartments are clean and have everything you need: stove, fridge, dishes, pots, coffee maker, air conditioning, TV, iron, and board. Good location near the tram stop and main station.
Trocadero≫ – good value two stars. Location: center, not far from the beach, near the station (easy access to Monaco and Cannes), with a tram stop to the airport nearby. There is air conditioning, which is very important in summer.

Pros of a winter holiday in Nice:

Accommodation is much cheaper than in summer.
You can even sunbathe on the beaches on sunny days.
No crowds in Nice’s old town.
There are hiking trails along the coast you can take in a day, for example, The Pagarine Route, which starts in Nice at Plage des Ponchettes beach.

Cons:

Houses often have no heating – bring warm pajamas.
You need to dress in layers – it can be hot during the day, but mornings and evenings get sharply colder.

Madeira, Portugal

The Atlantic group of Madeira islands is a beautiful, warm destination for a winter trip to Europe. Madeira is well known for its volcanic landscapes, warm sunny days, and green scenery.

At this time of year, the climate in the archipelago is mild, tempting travelers in search of a warm place to spend a week or two in winter.

In February, the temperature hovers around highs of 20°C, with the sea temperature about the same. At night, the temperature drops to 12°C. This means you have to dress in layers to take off extra clothes in time, or put on a jacket for a walk (bring a small backpack to carry your things).

Recommended reading: Madeira in winter – how to plan your trip, what to do, and how to enjoy the island

Where to stay in Madeira, Portugal

The capital of the archipelago, Funchal, is sheltered by lush hillsides and dotted with age-old landmarks. Its harbor boasts a 17th-century fortress and plenty of opportunities to enjoy local cuisine and wine.

Madeira is at once a wild and urbanized archipelago that combines amazing outdoor hiking with elite five-star hotels.

Sea Shell≫ – Apartment in Funchal in a great location with a nice sea view from the balcony. There are several good restaurants and a shopping center just a few minutes’ walk away. It was good value. Free parking available.
Social Lodge – Happiness≫ – The place is in a very convenient location, next to a shopping mall with everything you need. The bus stop to get you to or from the airport is right across the street. The room is clean and the beds are comfortable.
Theos Apartment by LovelyStay≫ – Excellent location. Public transport stops nearby, shopping center across the street. The property has a large living room and small but comfortable bedroom. Fully equipped kitchen. Bathroom with bidet and all toiletries. Balcony with ocean view. There’s personal parking under the building.

What to do in Madeira in winter:

Swim in the natural pools of Porto Moniz.
Try all the local dishes in local restaurants, especially traditional espetada, milho frito (fried cornmeal), and bolo do caco.
Try the delicious poncha (a typical alcoholic drink made from aguardente de cana and fruits).
Walk the traditional Levadas (a type of irrigation channel found only in Madeira). Explore nature on the Levada Caldeirão Verde route – one of the least demanding hikes on the main island.
See the charming Santana houses and the CR7 museum dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo.
Relax on the beautiful beaches of Porto Santo island.
Explore the deserted tiny archipelagos Desertas and Selvagens by boat.
Fall in love with the views while hiking from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo (the highest point on the main island).
Get ready for an amazing underground world by visiting the São Vicente caves.
Discover the fairy-tale view of the main island from the Funchal-Monte cable car.

Pros of a winter holiday in Madeira:

Mild weather – you can relax on the beach or swim in the natural ocean pools—even in winter in Madeira.
This is one of the richest local cuisines in Portugal and there are many interesting cultural places and traditions.
Tickets to Madeira in winter are half the price of high season. Accommodation prices are more affordable too—you can find apartments for 70 euros per night.

Cons:

Changeable weather—there can be short-term showers.
You need to dress in layers—it can be hot, then chilly because of the wind.
You need to rent a car to see the whole island—public transport isn’t well developed (unlike, for example, Malta). Rental is not cheap.

Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca—this island is a summer hit every year. But did you know that a winter holiday here also has its own charm? From December to February the air temperature is about 15°C. There may be light rain in places, but it’s no problem—the sky usually clears quickly and the weather returns to normal.

Mallorca – mini-guide for travelling around the island

Where to stay in Mallorca:

Universal Aparthotel Elisa≫ – a hotel located near the wonderful Alcudia Beach. Impeccably clean rooms, friendly and helpful staff, rooms have comfortable beds and a great view of the pool. The hotel is only five minutes’ walk from the beach, and there are many shops and restaurants nearby.
Apartamentos Parque Mar≫ – Very nice resort with apartments, located by the beach in Cala D’Or bay. The original white villas scattered through the park’s greenery are especially attractive against the blue of the sea. The apartments have kitchens with everything you need to prepare dinner, but you can also eat in the restaurant—they cook very well here, especially paella and grilled fish.
Meliá Calviá Beach≫ – one of the best hotels in Magaluf. Very tasty and varied food, clean rooms, excellent soft and pleasant bed linen. The rooms have an incredible view of the sea from the balcony. The hotel is perfectly located—there is access to the beach, great loungers, towels, and a pool.

What to do in Mallorca in winter:

Cycling is the main activity on the island at this time of year. Climbing the hill at Cape Cap de Formentor and savoring the view from the famous lighthouse can be the highlight of your winter holiday. Renting a bike will cost from 10 to 35 euros per day.

Those who are not history buffs will prefer to relax in the capital Palmа de Mallorca – it’s much quieter in winter, and it’s incomparable with the madness that reigns here in summer. Admiring the streets or just sitting with a coffee on the terrace is wonderful in the warmth, rather than freezing in cold countries.

You should definitely drop by one of the local restaurants. You’ll definitely enjoy the traditional tapas and local sangria. But if after eating you still want to stretch your legs, you can walk along the Paseo Marítimo promenade.

If you have a driver’s license, I recommend renting a car and driving around the island. Seeing mountain villages and deserted coves is another reason to give a winter holiday here a chance.

Recommended reading: Mallorca itinerary – what we managed to see in a week by car

What to visit in Mallorca in winter?

Genoese cave – exploring natural passages about 36 meters underground will be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Lluc Monastery – this pilgrimage site is hidden high in the Tramuntana mountains. The journey there alone will charm you with breathtaking scenery.
Marineland Mallorca – a visit to the amusement park will delight you and your children. Believe me, you’ll remember the dolphin and sea lion show for a long time.

Pros and cons of a winter holiday in Mallorca:

Advantages:

A big plus is how quickly you can get to the island. Flights from Prague, Bucharest, Warsaw operate at least twice a week in winter.
Few people and low accommodation prices.
Warm weather for hiking, exploring the island

Disadvantages:

The sea is not suitable for swimming and beach holidays—the water is cold in winter, not above +14–15°C.
The weather can change, sometimes there are storms.
Some cafés and restaurants may be closed.

Useful links for independent travelers:

Find train tickets in Europe conveniently on Trainline
Booking of hotels and apartments – Booking.com