The 7 WARMEST Places to Visit in Europe This Winter

When Americans think of a ‘warm winter getaway’, it’s usually not European cities that come to mind. The default is a quick, easy flight to the Caribbean or Mexico. But what if we told you that you could trade the usual all-inclusive scene for ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and incredible food—all while still getting a solid dose of winter sun?

Here at Travel Off Path, we’re all about finding that smart, unexpected alternative. While everyone else is on a crowded beach in Cancun, you can be checking some insanely beautiful European destinations off your bucket list, and not freeze your buns off at the same time.

We’ve done the research to find the warmest places you can travel to in Europe this winter. Get ready to pack your sunglasses. ☀️

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1. Canary Islands, Spain

Often called the “Hawaii of Europe,” this Spanish archipelago is the undisputed king of winter sun. While the rest of Europe shivers, the Canaries are enjoying beach weather. The best part? There are now direct flights from the U.S. (Newark to Tenerife), making this a surprisingly easy-to-reach paradise for East Coasters. It’s Europe’s answer to the Caribbean, offering otherworldly volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches, and epic mountains.

Average Daily Highs °

• December: 21°c – 70°f
• January: 20°c – 68°f
• February: 20°c – 68°f
• March: 21°c – 70°f

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2. Madeira, Portugal

Known as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” Madeira is a hiker’s paradise that is at its absolute best in the winter. The summer crowds are gone, but the weather remains consistently mild and beautiful. For Americans looking for an active, stunning, and incredibly relaxing escape that feels a world away, this is it. You can spend your days exploring the dramatic volcanic landscapes and hiking the famous levada trails through lush forests.

Average Daily Highs °

• December: 20°c – 68°f
• January: 19°c – 66°f
• February: 19°c – 66°f
• March: 20°c – 68°f

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3. Limassol, Cyprus

Located in the far eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus boasts some of the warmest winter weather in the entire region. For Americans seeking a culturally rich getaway that still delivers plenty of sunshine, Limassol is the perfect base. It offers a fantastic mix of modern city life and a beautiful, historic old town. You can spend your mornings exploring medieval castles and ancient Greek ruins and your afternoons relaxing at a seaside cafe.

Average Daily Highs °

• December: 18°c – 65°f
• January: 17°c – 63°f
• February: 17°c – 63°f
• March: 20°c – 68°f

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4. Seville, Spain

Seville is officially the warmest city in all of continental Europe, and winter is the secret season for an American to visit. The brutal, 100-degree heat of summer is a distant memory, replaced by pleasant, sunny days perfect for exploring. The transatlantic crowds are smaller, and hotel prices are much lower. It’s the perfect time to get lost in the charming streets, see a world-class flamenco show, and enjoy all the tapas you can handle.

Average Daily Highs °

• December: 17°c – 63°f
• January: 16°c – 61°f
• February: 18°c – 65°f
• March: 21°c – 70°f

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5. Sicily, Italy

Dreaming of Italy without the summer crowds? Head to Sicily. As the southernmost region of Italy, it enjoys the country’s mildest winter climate. Major cities like Palermo and Catania are still vibrant and full of life, and the pleasant weather is perfect for exploring world-class ancient Greek and Roman ruins without breaking a sweat. It’s a foodie paradise that offers an authentic Italian experience at a fraction of the summer cost.

Average Daily Highs °

• December: 16°c – 61°f
• January: 15°c – 59°f
• February: 15°c – 59°f
• March: 17°c – 63°f

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6. Valletta, Malta

It’s hard to find a city more strikingly beautiful than Valletta. The capital of Malta is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its golden-hued limestone streets and grand harbor are a sight to behold. Thanks to its location south of Italy, it enjoys a mild Mediterranean winter. It’s a perfect destination for history lovers looking to escape the cold and immerse themselves in a unique and captivating culture. The best part? Americans can now fly to Malta non-stop for the first time in 25 years.

Average Daily Highs °

• December: 17°c – 63°f
• January: 16°c – 61°f
• February: 16°c – 61°f
• March: 17°c – 63°f

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7. Faro, Portugal (The Algarve)

Portugal’s southern coast is a well-known summer hotspot, but it’s an even better secret in the winter. The crowds are gone, but the sun is still shining. While it might be a bit too chilly for a proper swim, the weather is perfect for Americans looking for an active European getaway—hiking the stunning cliffside trails, playing a round of golf, or enjoying fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant with the place all to yourself. Average Daily Highs °

• December: 17°c – 63°f
• January: 16°c – 61°f
• February: 17°c – 63°f
• March: 19°c – 66°f

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Before you book your warm-weather getaway, be sure to run our essential 1 Minute Trip Check to instantly verify all current entry requirements and travel advisories for your destination.

Happy travels!