Much of Europe seems to be brightest in the summer, at least to the tourists who flock there during the warmest months. But true travelers know that sunshine is far from the only indicator of a good time. Sometimes, a misty rain or moody fog can make a destination feel even more magical. They also know that visiting a place during the off-season can deepen their connection with the local landscape.
You may also want to avoid the snow-seeking crowds at popular European ski resorts. Instead, consider these European destinations where winter weather is decidedly milder, but no less beautiful. In fact, you may find them even more charming during this cold but picturesque moment.
Venice, Italy
Venice in winter is filled with fog, wind and rain, just like the atmosphere in a romance novel. (Remember to bring a waterproof layer.) While this usually discourages the summer crowds that flock to the city, more tourists may be passing through La Serenissima during the Olympics, which will be held in nearby Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo from February 6 to 22. The Winter Olympics are also held concurrently with the iconic Venice Carnival, which in 2026 is themed “Olympus – The Origin of the Games” and will be held from January 31 to February 17, with most of the activities concentrated in the second week.
However, there are certainly periods of calm before and after these major events. With few people around, you can admire landmarks such as the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica and the city’s iconic bridges. If it’s too cold, check out the art at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection or the San Marco Art Center. Day trips are much quieter to places like Murano and Burano, where you can see iconic glassblowing and lacemaking workshops. The same goes for the opera house, where tickets are easier to get.
TPG Tips: No matter the season, the opulence of the St. Regis Venice is unparalleled, with soft, inviting rooms and suites decorated with original Murano glass artwork by Berengo Studios. Be sure to enjoy views of the Grand Canal from the Arts Bar, where drinks are served in unique custom glassware. Rates this winter start at $950 per night or 101,500 Marriott Bonvoy points.
Athens, Greece
Winter temperatures are mild (think temperatures in the low 50s) and there are far fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to visit the Acropolis, hike up Mount Lycabettus, and all of Athens’ other ancient favorites. The city has a relaxed feel this time of year, without the heat and tourist burden, but still has a rich culture and many very quiet museums.
It might not be beach weather on the Athens Riviera. However, you can still enjoy this popular local resort during the winter with a stroll by the sea or even a peaceful swim in the always warm thermal waters of Lake Vouliagmeni.
TPG Tips: It may seem counterintuitive to book a beach resort during the non-sunbathing season, but the massive Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel in Athens is a beautiful seaside resort that offers excellent spa treatments and sumptuous cuisine year-round. Rates this winter start at $670 per night, or book through American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts and enjoy perks like free daily breakfast for two and guaranteed 4 p.m. check-out.
Edinburgh
Winter in Edinburgh can bring fog, frost and light snow, and you’ll definitely need a coat and hat, but you should still be comfortable enough. The city has a very festive feel at this time of year, especially during the holidays, with its Christmas markets and the multi-day New Year’s festival Hogmanay, where thousands of people carry torches through the city on December 29.
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Cozy winter activities include watching a traditional Scottish folk dance performance, ice skating on George Street, taking a ghost tour, or just sipping a glass of scotch in a local pub. At night, see the winter light trails of Edinburgh Castle, and during the day, explore the National Museum of Scotland and learn about history. January 25th is a particularly lively day in Edinburgh as it is the birthday of Robert Burns and is also an important occasion for a special traditional dinner and poetry reading.
TPG Tips: The capital’s latest and greatest accommodation option is 100 Princes Street, a 30-room luxury townhouse hotel with clear views of Edinburgh Castle, stunning fireplaces and your favorite tartan pattern. Rates this winter start at $224 per night, or book through Fine Hotels + Resorts with American Express and enjoy perks like free daily breakfast for two and guaranteed 4 p.m. checkout.
Portugal Algarve
Although winter is the rainiest time in the Algarve, there is also plenty of sunshine and low temperatures in the 60s. For surfers, now is a prime time to take up the salty sport. Kayaking is also an option for those who don’t want to get too wet, and there are many hiking trails for those who want to stay on land and watch migratory birds fly by.
The less active can still put on a beanie and maybe a cute cardigan and take a walk on a windswept beach, enjoying the feeling of southern Portugal’s wide, long sandy beaches lapped by turquoise waves. In the towns and villages along the coast, you can enjoy history, fresh seafood, and traditional Portuguese fado shows indoors.
TPG Tips: Praia do Canal Nature Retreat is an SLH hotel that immerses you in the idyllic wilderness, with a spa with sauna and Turkish bath to keep you warm on cold days. Rates this winter start at $240 per night or 60,000 Hilton Honors points.
Sicily, Italy
Pleasant day and night temperatures between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit are one of the many attractions of Sicilian winter. There are also fewer people around and there’s plenty to do, including festivities like Palermo’s Christmas markets and Catania’s Feast of St. Agatha in February.
At the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Agrigento, visit the ancient Greek temples dedicated to Concordia and Hercules before the sun sets in the late afternoon. For some culture, catch a show at Teatro Massimo or take a break in the natural mud baths or hot springs of Vulcano and Segesta. Maybe go skiing on Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, which has groomed ski and snowboard slopes on its north and south slopes.
TPG Tips: Book a stay at Villa Athena Resort in the Valley of the Temples Archaeological Park, an SLH hotel housed in a 300-year-old former villa. Rates this winter start at $130 per night or 51,000 Hilton Honors points.
french burgundy
You don’t go to Burgundy for outdoor activities in winter, unless you count walking through the vineyards. You get super cozy when you drink wine. There’s a chance of rain and snow, which makes the shorter days and darker nights snuggled up in the bodega all the more sanitary and inviting.
You can explore museums in places like Dijon (Museum of Dijon) or daydream in historic castles, with opportunities to warm up in cooking classes, charming bistros or decadent spa treatments. But the highlight during the coldest months is definitely the wine, so don’t miss any chance to sample Pinot Noir, Gamay and other reds in this misty, tranquil region.
TPG Tips: Nestled among the bare vineyards of the Côte de Beaune, the magnificent COMO Le Montrachet resort is housed in a set of 19th-century buildings and now has 28 luxurious rooms and suites, as well as an acclaimed restaurant serving local Burgundian cuisine. (You can also take a guided tasting in a vintage car.) Rates this winter start at $364 per night, or book through Amex’s The Hotel Collection and get perks like a $100 property credit that can be used toward qualifying dining, spa treatments and resort activities for stays of two nights or more.
barcelona
One of the biggest reasons to visit Barcelona in the winter is to visit Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece La Sagrada Familia, which will finally be completed in 2026. In addition to smaller crowds, daytime temperatures hovering around 60 degrees Fahrenheit also make visiting more convenient. It’s never too cold in the city, which hosts a variety of charming local events, including the Three Kings Parade in January and the Feast of St. Eulalia in February.
Now’s a great time to discover hidden gems in a lively and sunny atmosphere, wander the nearly deserted Gothic Quarter, and skate on the seasonal outdoor rink. If you’re really craving some skiing, there’s also skiing in the nearby Pyrenees, but otherwise, winter trips to Barcelona are all about art, culture, and architecture, with tour groups smaller and more intimate, and museums like the Picasso Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art Barcelona less busy.
TPG Tips: This winter, the artsy Hotel Art Barcelona beachfront welcomes guests to revamped guest rooms and public areas redesigned by Meyer Davis, featuring either warm, earthy mountain-inspired tones or a range of blues that reference the Mediterranean. Rates this winter start at $401 per night or 82,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik has few winter tourists, so it’s possible to get a more authentic look at life in the famous “Pearl of the Adriatic.”
Come Christmas, there are markets and plenty of lights to attract tourists, and everything is much cheaper than in the tourist-heavy summer months. Your energy will be more relaxed as you stroll through the Old Town or along the 16th-century city walls. Some places may be closed, but there are still plenty of cafes and restaurants open, not to mention the major holiday on February 3, the feast of St. Blaise, Dubrovnik’s patron saint. This is as much a joy to witness as the bustling annual Carnival that happens every year before Lent.
TPG Tips: Stay at the Excelsior Hotel Dubrovnik overlooking the Old Town and enjoy the contrast of the indoor heated pool and rocky beach walks. This winter, rates start at $263 per night, or get 20,000 World of Hyatt points with Mr & Mrs Smith.
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