12 BEST Warm Places to Visit in Europe This Winter (2026)

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Winter in Europe doesn’t have to mean cold, gray days and heavy coats. I’ve spent over two months a year exploring Europe for the past decade. And after visiting 38 countries, I can confidently say there are plenty of places where the sun still shines in winter.

Whether I’m wandering the palm-lined streets of Madeira, sipping coffee in a sunny Andalusian plaza, or hiking along the coast in southern Italy, I always make time for these warm-weather gems when I need a break from the chill.

If you’re craving sunshine without the long-haul flight to the tropics, Europe has you covered. From island escapes to historic cities with spring-like temps, these are the 12 best warm places to visit in Europe this winter. Based on my own travels, these are the spots I keep coming back to!

Best Warm Places to Visit in Europe this Winter

Are you ready to discover the best warm places to visit in winter in Europe? This ultimate guide is your gateway to the hottest winter destinations in Europe right now. From subtropical temperatures to relaxing beaches without the crowds, let’s dive in!

1. Your Chill Winter Escape in Lisbon, Portugal

• 📍 Location: Lisbon, Portugal
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏛️, nightlife seekers 🎶, budget-conscious travelers 💸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Alfama, sunset views from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, tasting pastéis de nata at Time Out Market
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for sunny skies and mild temperatures 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: My Story Hotel Tejo – Stylish rooms in the city center, steps from historic sites and local eats

Lisbon feels like the ultimate winter cheat code. While most of Europe bundles up, this capital city stays sunny and comfortable, with daytime highs around the low 60s. You can walk the hilly cobblestone streets without overheating or freezing, perfect for exploring the city’s mix of old and new.

Start your day in Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district, where you’ll find tile-covered buildings, quiet alleys, and Fado music echoing from tiny bars. Head uphill to a miradouro for sweeping views, then ride the iconic yellow Tram 28 through town like a local.

The city’s food scene keeps things cozy in the best way. Grab a coffee and a warm pastel de nata before hitting Time Out Market for lunch. At night, Bairro Alto comes alive with open-door bars and street parties that spill into the alleys. Lisbon in winter is laid-back, affordable, and packed with personality.

• Read next: Top Landmarks to See in Lisbon

2. Winter Sun and Catalan Fun in Barcelona, Spain

• 📍 Location: Barcelona, Spain
• 🏆 Best For: City explorers 🏙️, food lovers 🍷, architecture fans 🏗️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Wandering the Gothic Quarter, admiring Gaudí’s Sagrada Família, relaxing at Barceloneta Beach
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for fewer crowds and mild coastal weather 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Rec Barcelona – Chic, adults-only stay near El Born and Ciutadella Park

Barcelona in winter still brings the sun, minus the packed tourist scenes. You can walk the beach without freezing, and the Gothic Quarter feels more like a local secret than a postcard. It’s warm enough for café hopping and outdoor strolls, and cool enough to make sightseeing comfortable.

Start with Gaudí’s masterpieces. Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, and Park Güell all hit different when you’re not sweating through the lines. The city’s architecture feels even more surreal under soft winter light.

In between sights, hit up La Boqueria for fresh market snacks or sip sangria in a quiet corner of El Born. Evenings are still lively, especially in neighborhoods like El Raval, where bars buzz with locals and travelers alike. Barcelona in winter is all about culture, comfort, and soaking up that coastal energy without the summer stress.

3. A Sunlit Mediterranean Winter in Valletta, Malta

• 📍 Location: Valletta, Malta
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏰, city wanderers 🚶, sunny island vibes 🌅
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Upper Barrakka Gardens, visiting St. John’s Co-Cathedral, day-tripping to Mdina
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for sunshine and smaller crowds ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Barrister Hotel – Cozy boutique stay within walking distance of top sites

Valletta is tiny but packed with character, and in winter, it shines. With daytime temps hovering in the 60s, you’ll actually want to be outside exploring the city’s golden limestone streets and harbor views. The sun feels warm, and the breeze keeps things fresh. Not bad for winter.

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are a perfect place to start. You’ll get panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and maybe even catch the traditional cannon firing. Just down the road is St. John’s Co-Cathedral, which looks plain outside but is jaw-dropping inside.

At night, rooftop bars and tucked-away pubs fill the narrow alleys with energy. It’s easy to jump between old-world charm and modern hangouts. Want a change of pace? Hop a bus to Mdina, a quiet walled town with medieval vibes. Valletta’s winter mix of sun, history, and island cool is hard to beat.

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Malta
• You may also like: Prettiest Places in the Mediterranean

4. Ancient Wonders and Winter Sun in Athens, Greece

• 📍 Location: Athens, Greece
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏺, budget travelers 💶, Mediterranean city lovers 🌞
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Acropolis, strolling through Plaka, exploring the National Archaeological Museum
•  📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for cool temps and fewer tourists 🌤️
•  🏨 Where to Stay: The Zillers Boutique Hotel – Rooftop views of the Acropolis and a central base near historic sites

Athens in winter is way more relaxed and surprisingly sunny. You can visit the Acropolis without the heat or the crowds, and the views over the city are just as impressive. The cooler weather makes it easier to explore all day without burning out.

Wander through Plaka, a neighborhood filled with colorful homes, winding alleys, and friendly street cats. It’s a great spot to grab lunch, browse artisan shops, or just sit back with a coffee and people-watch.

The National Archaeological Museum is a solid pick when you need a break from walking. It’s packed with artifacts that bring Greece’s ancient history to life. Winter also means lower prices, shorter lines, and a calmer vibe across the whole city. If you want sun, ruins, and Mediterranean energy without the summer rush, Athens delivers.

• Read next: Beautiful Spots to See in Athens

5. Bask in the Mild Winter Sun in Rome, Italy

• 📍 Location: Rome, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: History fans 🏛️, foodies 🍝, art lovers 🎨
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the Colosseum, dining near Piazza Navona, exploring the Vatican Museums
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to March for clear skies and fewer tourists ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Albergo del Senato – Elegant rooms just steps from the Pantheon

Rome in winter hits different. The streets are quieter, the light is golden, and you get a front-row seat to history without elbowing through a crowd. Mornings are cool but sunny, perfect for exploring the Colosseum or walking the ruins of the Roman Forum at your own pace.

You’ll appreciate being able to grab a seat at busy cafes or enjoy pasta outdoors with a blanket and a heater. Winter also means easier access to the Vatican Museums, where the halls are quieter and the art feels even more powerful.

Make time for Piazza Navona, where winter festivals sometimes pop up, or simply enjoy the fountains and surrounding architecture without the usual chaos. Rome in winter is slower, cozier, and full of everyday magic. It’s one of those places where the history feels even more alive when things are calm.

• Read next: Hidden Gems to See in Rome
• You may also like: Unique Foodie Spots in Rome

6. A Riviera Retreat in Nice, France

• 📍 Location: Nice, France
• 🏆 Best For: Coastal walkers 🌊, art enthusiasts 🖼️, winter sun chasers 🌞
• 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling the Promenade des Anglais, exploring Old Town, visiting the Chagall Museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for mild days and clear skies 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hôtel Rossetti – Charming stay tucked in the heart of Nice’s Old Town

Nice gives you winter sun without skipping city charm. The Promenade des Anglais is still lively this time of year, and you can walk along the coast with a light jacket, fresh sea air, and views that stretch for miles. It’s the kind of place where even a coffee feels like a vacation.

Old Town is a colorful maze of shops, cafes, and open-air markets. You’ll want to wander without a map and just follow the smell of fresh bread or the sound of a street performer.

Art lovers can dive into local culture with museums like Musée Marc Chagall or Musée Matisse, both quiet in winter and perfect for slow afternoons. Nice in winter is calm, sun-kissed, and surprisingly budget-friendly compared to summer months. It’s a solid pick for a mellow, sunny escape.

• Read next: Enchanting Places to Visit in Nice
• You may also like: Epic Airbnbs in the French Riviera

7. Andalusian Charm and Warmth in Seville, Spain

• 📍 Location: Seville, Spain
• 🏆 Best For: Culture lovers 🎭, foodies 🧀, architecture fans 🏰
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the Alcázar, wandering Santa Cruz, watching flamenco in Triana
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for warm days and festive energy ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Amadeus – Stylish boutique stay with rooftop views near major attractions

Seville brings color, music, and warmth to the winter months. You can walk through Santa Cruz, a charming neighborhood of narrow alleys and flower-filled balconies, without sweating or freezing. The orange trees lining the streets give off a citrus scent that adds to the magic.

Inside the Alcázar, Moorish architecture glows under winter light. You get to explore its quiet courtyards and tiled halls without the summer crowd, making it feel more intimate and peaceful.

When the sun sets, the Triana district comes alive with flamenco shows and cozy tapas bars where locals gather for late-night bites. Seville’s winter feels festive and welcoming, with open plazas, good food, and plenty of daylight to see it all. It’s an easy pick for a city break full of warmth and history.

• Read next: Hidden Gems to See in Seville

8. Warm Italian Winters in Palermo, Sicily

• 📍 Location: Palermo, Sicily
• 🏆 Best For: Street food lovers 🌮, history buffs 🏺, budget explorers 💸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Browsing Ballarò Market, visiting Palermo Cathedral, strolling Mondello Beach
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to March for sunshine and fewer tourists 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Alma Hotel – Modern comfort near Palermo’s top historic sites

Palermo in winter is bright, flavorful, and full of character. The milder weather makes it easier to explore landmarks like the Palermo Cathedral and Palazzo dei Normanni at your own pace. You won’t be stuck in long lines or sweating through ancient ruins.

Markets like Ballarò and Vucciria are noisy, colorful, and packed with street food. Try arancini, panelle, or sfincione while soaking in the lively vibe. It’s one of the best ways to experience real Sicilian culture.

Over by Mondello Beach, the sea is calm and the air is crisp, perfect for a peaceful coastal walk. Winter also brings lower prices and fewer crowds, giving you more space to explore. Palermo offers a great mix of food, history, and local life that’s easy to enjoy without the summer chaos.

• Read next: Breathtaking Places to Visit in Sicily

9. Your Go-To Winter Island Adventure in Crete, Greece

• 📍 Location: Crete, Greece
• 🏆 Best For: History nerds 🏺, nature lovers 🌿, road trippers 🚗
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Knossos, hiking Samaria Gorge, driving to mountain villages
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for cool weather and quiet roads ☁️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Olive Green Hotel – Eco-friendly stay in central Heraklion with easy access to top sights

Crete is the kind of island that keeps surprising you, even in winter. With fewer tourists around, places like the Palace of Knossos feel more personal. You can actually hear the stories as you walk through its ancient rooms without a crowd pressing in.

Nature is still a big part of the experience. Hike Samaria Gorge if it’s open or take a scenic drive through small villages where time feels slower. The mountain air is crisp, and the sea views never get old.

Food is warm and hearty this time of year. Local tavernas serve rich stews and homemade bread, often by a fireplace. Renting a car makes everything easier, giving you the freedom to explore coastlines, ruins, and local culture at your own pace. Winter in Crete is about slowing down, digging in, and feeling the island’s quieter side.

• Read next: Unique Experiences in the Greek Islands

10. A Mediterranean Winter Paradise in Cyprus

• 📍 Location: Cyprus
• 🏆 Best For: Beach loungers 🏖️, history seekers 🏛️, sunshine chasers ☀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Relaxing on Nissi Beach, exploring Paphos ruins, walking Limassol’s promenade
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for blue skies and budget deals 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Amavi Hotel – Stylish beachfront resort in Paphos with sea views and spa

Cyprus feels like a Mediterranean cheat code in winter. The island offers sunshine almost every day, even during the chilliest months. Nissi Beach may not be swim-ready, but it’s perfect for lounging in a sweater or walking the shore with a coffee in hand.

For a dose of history, head to Paphos. Its ancient amphitheater and Roman mosaics are easier to explore without the summer crowds. Limassol is great for a city break vibe with colorful architecture, hip restaurants, and friendly locals.

The weather stays mild, so it’s ideal for renting a car and seeing the island. Drive up to the Troodos Mountains for pine forests and charming villages. Evenings are perfect for a glass of Cypriot wine on a terrace. Cyprus delivers warmth, history, and coastal peace just when you need it most.

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Cyprus

11. A Subtropical Hidden Gem in Madeira, Portugal

• 📍 Location: Madeira, Portugal
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, nature lovers 🌿, peaceful escapes 😌
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the levadas, riding the Monte cable car, exploring Laurisilva forest
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for cool hikes and fewer tourists 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Castanheiro Boutique Hotel – Stylish stay in central Funchal with a rooftop pool

Madeira gives winter a totally different look. This volcanic island floats in the Atlantic, wrapped in green mountains, flowers, and trails that seem made for slow wandering. Levada walks are the island’s signature, peaceful footpaths running alongside small aqueducts that guide you through forests, cliffs, and valleys.

In Funchal, life moves at a relaxed pace. Grab a bolo do caco (local garlic bread) and walk the harbor or take the cable car up to Monte, where gardens bloom and toboggan rides give you a fast trip downhill.

Even in January, the weather is good for outdoor adventure, but not so hot that you’ll overheat while hiking. Local festivals and markets run year-round, adding color to quiet afternoons. Whether you want to relax or explore, Madeira makes a perfect winter escape with its mix of greenery, sea views, and peaceful charm.

• Read next: Incredible Things to Do in Madeira

12. Endless Summers in the Canary Islands, Spain

• 📍 Location: Canary Islands, Spain
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, adventurers 🧗, winter sun seekers 🌞
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Mount Teide, beach hopping in Tenerife, wine tasting in Lanzarote
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for the best sunshine and least rainfall 🌅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Royal Hideaway Corales Beach – Adults-only luxury in Tenerife with coastal views

The Canary Islands are a winter lifeline if you’re desperate for sun without flying to the tropics. This Spanish archipelago stays warm all year, making it one of the most dependable sunny getaways in Europe.

Tenerife draws visitors for its black sand beaches and Mount Teide, where you can hike or take a cable car to incredible views. Over on Lanzarote, volcanic parks and surreal landscapes create a setting that feels like another planet. Wine lovers will enjoy local tastings in La Geria’s unique, ash-covered vineyards.

For a quieter vibe, check out La Palma or La Gomera. These smaller islands offer misty forests, quiet beaches, and plenty of local flavor. The variety of experiences across the Canaries means you can hop islands and never get bored. With reliable flights and endless sunshine, this is one of Europe’s top winter escapes.

• Read next: Top Activities in the Canary Islands