This article is for those who don’t like cold winter too much and prefer to bask under the warm sun rather than go skiing. That’s why we have decided to list the Warmest winter destinations in Europe.
The List of the Warmest winter destinations in Europe
Valletta, Malta, ©ru.hotels.com/go/malta
Valletta
Firstly, if the sun is your top priority, then Malta’s tiny capital, Valletta, is your best bet.
With the average max sea temperatures in the low 20s through to December, Malta is the ideal destination for those wanting to enjoy sea swimming until the New Year.
Malta has more than 230 sunny days yearly, with average outdoor temperatures of 10-15 degrees Celsius in January.
Tenerife, Canary Islands, ©istock.com/Balate Dorin
Tenerife
First, Tenerife is the warmest place on the entire continent in January, and this spectacular island has no shortage of activities. More importantly, it is the place for the winter sun because there are many walking trails, markets, and festivities.
Tenerife offers stunning landscapes and natural wonders. That’s why go hiking in the Anaga Mountains for the most scenic trails and enjoy a loop walk at Roque Cinchado to visit something diverse. For a spectacular sunset, head to Punta de Teno.
Ultimately, experience the sea life. Namely, one of Tenerife’s most memorable adventures is joining a Whale and dolphin Watching Tour and watching dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. So, are you ready?
Paphos, ©istock.com/AIS60
Paphos
It is a coastal city in southwest Cyprus filled with art, history, and historical marvels. Most importantly, January is a great time to see it without crowds because temperatures are mild.
What to see: The Kato Paphos Archaeological Park is a great place to learn about the history of Cyprus, as it houses an exhibition of ruins from the Middle Ages and the Roman Empire. There, you’ll also find the Tombs of the Kings, an underground maze of tomb chambers that date back to the 4th century.
If you still haven’t had enough, go and see the birthplace of Aphrodite. Legend has it that the goddess of love was born at the picturesque Aphrodite’s Rock in Paphos, rising from the waves between the rocks. Today, you can climb up this rock for spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.
Madeira in January, ©istock.com/Juergen Sack
Madeira
We have traveled all over Europe but failed to see a place more captivating than Madeira. Furthermore, it has a perfect climate, never too hot or cold. Madeira is also an ideal destination for leisure, sports, rest, or rejuvenation in hotels immersed in nature or luxury hotels; everything you dream of is in Madeira.
Welcome to Paradise! Come trekking, watch the dolphins, or rest on the beaches of Porto Santo. Ultimately, Madeira is the perfect destination to discover with family, lovers, and friends all year.
Positano, ©istock.com/DigiStu
Positano, Italy
It is a spectacular beach town nestled in the hills of the stunning Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. In warmer months, the crowds can be unbearable, and prices skyrocket. But January allows you to see the beauty of Positano without the chaos and is far less expensive.
What to do? Hike the Path of Gods. Enjoy one of the best hikes in Italy without the burning sun. The trail runs between Nocelle (a short bus ride from Positano) and Bomerano. It’ll take you through breathtaking coastal views and is easy enough for anyone.
Enjoy the views: Positano is exceptionally scenic. However, tourists might make its beauty harder to enjoy in the warmer months. However, in January, you can have the place entirely to yourself and take a quiet stroll at Spiaggia Grande to admire the best views in town.
Insider Tip: When planning a trip here, remember that while the local SITA buses run year-round, some hotels and restaurants in Positano are closed in January.
Otranto, Puglia, ©istock.com/Balate Dorin
Otranto, Italy
Otranto, one of the most beautiful towns in Puglia, is one of the warmer places in Europe in January. Winter is also a great time to see Otranto’s Old Town and charming narrow streets without the crowds but still filled with historical sites.
Most importantly: Never forget you are in Italy! So, indulge in the local cuisine. Puglia is famous for its many regional specialties, including parmigiana di melanzane (eggplant parmesan), orecchiette (small ears pasta), and fave e cicoria (fava bean purée with chicory). Make sure to try these in restaurants!
Majorca, Porte de Soller, ©istock.com/Balate Dorin
Majorca
Why visit in January: Majorca is the largest Balearic island in the Mediterranean Sea. While it is a popular summer destination, seeing it in January will allow you to experience the most significant festival on the island, cheaper airfares, and better temperatures for hiking.
Note: There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the local culture! The Festes de Sant Sebastià is the biggest annual festival in Majorca and takes place every January. In addition, the exciting festivities last an entire week and include free concerts, enormous bonfires, parades, flamenco shows, and other spectacular performances.
Algarve, ©istock.com/Poike
The Algarve
The Algarve is a destination that brings joy to everyone, including royals, celebrities, families, nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and night owls. It’s like a close friend, with a constant smile, positive attitude, and ability to ease the day’s worries. If you’re seeking a sunny escape during the winter months in Europe, the Algarve is ideal. While northern Europeans bundle up in warm coats, visitors to the Algarve can enjoy surfing and sunbathing. Additionally, the region is home to many charming towns and villages, showcasing the best of Moorish architecture.
Blue Mosque in Istanbul, ©istock.com/Anton Aleksenko
Istanbul
It is one of the finest places in Europe. More importantly, the city 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.
The temperatures in the city are mostly hovering around the 11 Degrees Celsius mark. So it’s pleasantly mild, therefore it is one of the Warmest winter destinations in Europe. Additionally, spending a few days in Istanbul during winter is a delightful experience because of its vibrant Turkish culture.
The best things to do in Istanbul include Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Suleymaniye Mosque, Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar, and Spice Bazaar.
Overall, I can say that a winter vacation to Europe is incomplete without exploring Istanbul.
Please read our article about The Top things to do in Istanbul.
Agios Nikolaos, Crete, ©istock.com/VladimirSklyarov
Agios Nikolaos (Crete, Greece)
Crete’s winter climate is similar to the South of Spain and Cyprus. These regions have the warmest winters in Europe.
Known for having “three faces to the sea,” Agios Nikolaos seamlessly blends the charm of a small fishing village with the glamor of a fashionable resort town. Also, with a diverse range of dining, shopping, and nightlife options, you can find your paradise in Agios Nikolaos.
In addition, at the center of town sits Lake Voulismeni. Here, you’ll find residents and visitors chatting over coffee, sipping ouzo at authentic tavernas, or savoring lunch at a fine dining restaurant. Last but not least, prices drop significantly during the wintertime. So, pack your bags if you are a budget traveler.
Dubrovnik, ©istock.com/sorincolac
Dubrovnik
Think again if you believe the best time to visit Dubrovnik is summer. The winter in Dubrovnik has namely many charms. While most European cities are covered in snow and fog, here you can sit on the terraces of restaurants or cafés alongside the main street, Stradun, and drink cappuccino. Whichever cultural or historical site you visit in the wintertime, you won’t encounter unbearable crowds, and a selfie won’t greet you each step of the way.
Warmest winter destinations in Europe: Final thoughts
We hope this article has given you tons of inspiration about where to warm up yourselves in Europe. Additionally, if you’re planning to travel Europe in January, don’t forget that there are tons of remarkable hidden gems on the continent! From the lush islands of Portugal to the scenic coasts of Italy. So, the possibilities are endless.
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