
From Venice to Budapest, via the islands of Tenerife and Madeira, not forgetting Andalusia… Europe is full of ideal destinations for a cheap trip, a change of scenery for a week or a long weekend. We’ve put together our top 10 destinations in Europe to go to in January, February or March. So get packing!
1. Discover Sicily in a different light
Imagine Sicily without traffic jams, queues or crowds to spoil your photos. It’s all possible in low season! To top it all off, it’s a great opportunity to take advantage of much cheaper flights and accommodation than in summer. The Greco-Roman ruins are yours to explore at between 10 and 18°C, in the sunshine. And even in rainy weather, there are plenty of museums, castles, theaters and religious buildings to visit. Palermo, Taormina, Catania, Syracuse, Trapani… If the island abounds in architectural and cultural treasures, it also boasts natural treasures. Enjoy the reserves, pretty beaches, charming ports and picturesque villages! Looking for a sporting vacation? How about skiing on Mount Etna? A unique experience!
2. Enjoy the quiet streets of Athens
With its unparalleled historical heritage, Athens has many treasures for you to discover. In winter, take advantage of the tourist-free archaeological sites and monuments , or enjoy a coffee in one of the charming addresses in the city center. If you have the time, don’t hesitate to visit the surrounding islands, such as Aegina. Pretty fishing harbours, crystal-clear coves and superb beaches… a true Greek island just a stone’s throw from the capital! Another option for nature lovers: the romantic island of Poros, 1h15 away by boat. Between green hills and pine forests, it’s the ideal place for incredible walks overlooking the Aegean Sea!
3. Soak up the sun in Andalusia
Looking for some sun in the middle of winter? Discover the towns and villages of Andalusia! Fall under the spell of Seville ‘s majestic architecture and Granada’s iconic Alhambra palace. Soak up the Arab-Muslim influences of its streets and gardens, then head for Malaga: the beach! Then take in the city’s museums and sites: Picasso Museum, Centre d’Art Contemporain, Alcazaba… In southern Andalusia, don’t miss the superb white coastal villages of Mijas and Nerja, and lose yourself in their narrow streets. An air of Greece in Spain! For even more escapism, head for the Sierra Nevada by car, American road trip style. A guaranteed change of scenery!
4. Experience a typical winter in Budapest
Winters in Hungary are undeniably cold. However, properly equipped, it’s the perfect season to discover all the charm of Budapest! Take a trip to the City Park ice rink and the Opera House, then enjoy a streetcar ride before sampling traditional Hungarian cuisine at the Grand Central Market. If you’re planning to travel in February, don’t miss Farsang, Budapest’s carnival: atmosphere guaranteed! What better way to warm up than by taking advantage of the superb thermal baths for which the city is famous? Head for the famous Szechenyi or the Gellert, Kiraly or Lukacs baths. Finally, to round off a great day out, you can find a ruin pub. These bars, housed in once-abandoned buildings, are a must if you want to fully experience the atmosphere of the city!
5. Let yourself be seduced by the charm of Venice and its surroundings
Leave the gondolas behind in Venice… Or rather, take a trip there at the beginning of the year! You’ll discover all its charm as you stroll through its colorful streets. Often crowded in fine weather, which can make it difficult to get around, it’s much quieter in winter. There’s more room in the restaurants and cafés, cheaper or at least more reasonable accommodation, fewer queues… Enjoy a ride on the vaporetto, the city’s bus boats, or on a gondola, before visiting the Doge’s Palace or St. Mark’s Basilica. Take a trip to the islands of Murano and Burano, famous for their handicrafts. If you have time, take the train to Padua or Verona: the city of Romeo and Juliet is sure to seduce you!
6. Dive into a subtropical winter in Madeira
With its subtropical climate and beauty, Madeira is sure to charm you. In Funchal, the historic capital, take the cable car to a splendid panorama of the bay before visiting the Monte Palace Madeira tropical garden, with exotic plants from the 4 corners of the world. To return to the city, take a ride down the slopes on carreiros do monte, wooden sledges docked by two people: an experience like no other in the world! Along the coast, you’ll find beautiful strolls along pebble or black sand beaches. For the more athletic, there are hikes for all abilities along the levadas, the island’s typical canals. Off the coast of Madeira, you can also admire whales, dolphins and monk seals on a boat trip. Not to be missed!
7. Pretend you’re Sissi in Vienna
In January and February, the ball season is in full swing in Vienna! Brush up on your dance steps and pack your best dress or tuxedo! And don’t forget to buy advance tickets for one of the city’s 300 balls: an absolute must! If you’re more into outdoor activities, a huge open-air ice rink awaits you at the foot of City Hall. For the more sporty, it’s also possible to ski in Vienna. To warm up, head for the spas or hammams, or the superb Viennese cafés, such as Café Sacher or Café Central. A hot chocolate, chocolate Sachertorte or apple strudel is sure to make you forget the cold!
8. Enjoy the delights of Malta, the island of honey
As a family, a couple or a group of friends, Malta is an ideal destination for an inexpensive trip at the start of the year. Affordable accommodation, sightseeing and walks away from the crowds, advantageous climate… The perfect time to enjoy the charms of Malta, with its pretty coves, grandiose architecture and delicious gastronomy. On the authentic island of Gozo, you can stroll along pretty sandy beaches and enjoy the surrounding blue sea. You can also discover the island’s rich cultural heritage, with its archaeological sites and handicrafts. Back on the main island, a visit to Valletta is a must, with its picturesque streets and museums. Stroll along the ancient ramparts, take a look at the pretty Maltese balconies or enjoy the carnival if you’re traveling at the end of February!
9. Enjoy a sunny adventure in Tenerife
Full of contrasts and promises of discovery, the island of Tenerife guarantees a sunny holiday, even in the dead of winter! It’s a great opportunity to soak up the sun and enjoy the sea on a low-cost holiday: but it would be a shame to limit yourself to just these activities! Don’t hesitate to rent a car for a short roadtrip: discover the pretty village of Viraflor or the picturesque towns of La Orotava and Garachico. Ideal for strolling the streets, visiting the market or enjoying a drink on the terrace. If you like hiking, don’t miss the chance to climb the Teide volcano, overlooking the green island and the ocean. Another point of interest is the Masca Gorge, with its unforgettable panorama. Swimming, cycling, water sports… The island is a sportsman’s paradise, but just as ideal for lazing around: there’s something for everyone!
10. Take advantage of Prague’s festive season
February is the ideal month for a trip to Prague, one of Europe’s must-see destinations for cheap travel. And it’s also one of the least touristy periods of the year! The only drawbacks are the rather cold temperatures, which are normal for this time of year, and the early nights. All you need to do is organize your day and get up earlier to take full advantage of the city’s atmosphere. Bohemian Carnival, Masopust, local festivals or even Valentine’s Day for lovers: many celebrations take place at the beginning of the year in Prague! Take advantage of its cultural sites, such as Prague Castle or the markets, and sample the local gastronomy. Goulash and other comforting soups are yours for the taking!