Does Europe have a Warm Winter?
All this gloomy weather in Germany has me wondering, “does Europe have a warm winter?”
And if so, where are they located?
Being from sunny California, I thought I’d enjoy a change of weather when I PCS’d to Germany with the US military. To be honest, I was excited for a German winter, hot Gluhwein, and of course all the traditional German Christmas Markets.
But the cold temperatures got old, real fast.
So I went on a mission.
The Mission: Where can I go to escape the cold, with warm weather year-round—so I can leave that heavy coat at home?
Table of Contents
Know Before you Go!
Prepare Your Travel Documents
Make sure to pack vital travel documents required for a seamless journey, including ALL passports, visas, travel insurance, and important identification, ensuring all paperwork is in order for stress-free travel.
Look at individual identification card pictures (with your EYES) to make sure you have the right one.
Top 5 Warm Winter Destinations from Europe (And a Bonus You Can’t Miss!) 🌞
Winter doesn’t have to mean cold! If you’re like me and prefer sun-kissed beaches over layers of clothing, here are the top spots you should visit for a warm winter getaway (from Europe).
#5 Canary Islands
Off the coast of Africa, this Spanish archipelago is known for its year-round warm weather, volcanic landscapes, and beaches. Whether you’re looking to hike mountains, relax by the sea, or explore villages, there’s something for everyone here.
The Islands: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro.
Tenerife: The largest island, famous for Mount Teide (Spain’s highest peak) and its black sand beaches.
- Must-do: Hike Mount Teide, take a boat ride from Puerto Colón, and visit my favorite beach, Fañabé.
Gran Canaria: This island offers a variety of landscapes from mountains to forests and beaches.
- Must-do: Hike Roque Nublo, explore Vegueta district, and relax at Maspalomas Beach.
#4 Morocco
Morocco is a sensory experience with its blend of vibrant cities, breathtaking mountains, and delicious cuisine. It’s an easy escape from Europe with a completely different vibe.
Tangier: A port city where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic. It’s a cultural blend of African and European influences, with a bustling medina (old town) and historic sites.
- Must-Do: Visit the Caves of Hercules, find a guide through your hotel and explore the medina and Kasbah Museum. Don't forget to eat at Le Saveur du Poisson (aka Popeyes).
Marrakesh: Full of excitement, from its lively markets to its quiet gardens. It’s the perfect place to experience Moroccan culture. Watch out for the scammers though!
- Must-Do: Explore the souks (markets), visit the Majorelle Garden, and experience Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Find the goats that climb trees!
Atlas Mountains: The Atlas Mountains offer stunning landscapes and a taste of traditional Moroccan life. Here, you have to try the fresh bread and olives.
- Must-Do: Visit a Berber village with a guide, enjoy mint tea and a traditional Moroccan meal of tagine.
Chefchaouen: This "Blue City" in the mountains is famous for its beautiful blue-painted streets and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great place to get lost strolling the streets and taking pictures for the “gram.”
- Must-Do: Wander through the blue streets, hike the Rif Mountains, and visit the local artisan shops.
#3 Southern Spain
Southern Spain is full of lively cities, ancient architecture, and sunny beaches. Whether it’s castles or flamenco dancing, this region has it all.
Malaga: A cultural hub on the southern coast. As the birthplace of Picasso, it’s full of art and history, as well as some of the best beaches in Spain.
- Must-Do: Visit the Picasso Museum, explore the Alcazaba fortress, and enjoy a day at the beach - Playa de la Misericordia.
Granada: Home to the breathtaking Alhambra palace, a mix of Moorish and Spanish architecture. Wander through narrow streets and enjoy the view of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
- Must-Do: Tour the Alhambra, visit the Albaicín district, and watch a flamenco show.
Marbella: Known for its luxury, but it also has beautiful old town streets and gorgeous beaches. A walk through the town’s orange tree-lined squares is a must.
- Must-Do: Stroll through the old town, visit Puerto Banús marina, and enjoy one of the main beaches - Playa Casablanca, Playa de Venus, & Playa de Rio Real.
Ronda: Famous for its dramatic cliffside setting and the stunning Puente Nuevo bridge. It’s a charming town filled with history and beautiful views.
- Must-Do: Walk across the Puente Nuevo bridge, learn how to make paella in the wine vineyards (guided tour through your hotel), and explore Ronda’s old town. We had a lovely lunch at the Bodega Joaquín Fernández winery.
Day Trips
From southern Spain, you can take day trips to other amazing cities like:
- Gibraltar: Visit the famous Rock of Gibraltar and see the wild monkeys!
- Cadiz: Explore Spain’s oldest city with its narrow streets and historic buildings.
- Seville: Enjoy the stunning Plaza de Espana, the Alcazar palace, & maybe a bull fight?
#2 Türkiye (Turkey)
Türkiye offers a blend of ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the calm of coastal towns, it’s a destination full of surprises.
ℹ️ Note: U.S. military personnel should confirm whether travel to Turkey is allowed BEFORE planning a trip.
Some of the Turkish travel destinations have been known to be “black listed.”
Antalya: The jewel of the Turkish Riviera, where ancient history meets modern beach resorts. Explore the old town, relax by the turquoise waters, or take a boat ride along the coast.
- Must-Do: Visit the ancient city of Aspendos and relax on Konyaaltı Beach.
Alanya: Perfect for history lovers and beachgoers. With its impressive castle and clear blue waters, it’s hard to resist.
- Must-Do: Explore the Alanya Castle and visit Cleopatra Beach.
Istanbul: Although not on the beach, Istanbul is an incredible city with so much to do even in the winter time.
- Must-Do: Visit one of the many beautiful mosques (The Blue Mosque is the most popular), get lost shopping in the Grand Bazaar, take a cheap boat ride on the Bosphorus river, and regenerate your body with a Turkish bath & massage (Hammam).
#1 Portugal
Portugal’s Algarve region is a year-round sunny retreat with beautiful cliffs and hidden caves.
Benagil & the Algar Seco Rocks: Famous for its sea caves, especially the iconic Benagil Cave, which you can explore by foot, boat, or kayak. Taking a smaller boat or kayak is recommended as you'll be able to fit through the smaller caves.
Algar Seco is a unique stretch of coastline with jagged cliffs and rock formations. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who love nature.
- Must-Do: Walk through the natural caves, take a peek inside the Benagil Cave, and take in the breathtaking ocean views.
Carvoeiro: A colorful seaside town that feels like a postcard. Its narrow streets, great restaurants, and lovely beaches make it a great place to relax.
- Must-Do: Spend the day at Carvoeiro Beach (my favorite in Algarve), then enjoy a fresh seafood dinner.
Lagos: Full of history and has some of Algarve’s most stunning beaches. Explore the old city walls, visit ancient forts, and enjoy the sun.
- Must-Do: Discover the Ponta da Piedade cliffs, get lost strolling through the old town, and relax at Praia Dona Ana.
Portimão: A lively city perfect for those who love shopping, food, and fun. Its beach, Praia da Rocha, is one of the most popular in the Algarve.
- Must-Do: Walk along the coast of Av. Tomas Cabreira, visit the Museu de Portimão, and try grilled sardines.
Bonus: Cyprus
Split between the Turkish north and EU-affiliated south, Cyprus offers a rich mix of history, culture, and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re into relaxing beach getaways or exploring ancient ruins, this island has it all.
ℹ️ Note: U.S. military personnel should confirm whether travel to the north side of Cyprus is allowed BEFORE planning a trip.
Otherwise, the southern side is packed with must-see spots.
Karpaz: Known as the “Golden Beach,” this tip of the island offers dense, salty water perfect for floating, and you'll likely see donkeys on your drive.
Famagusta: Check out the "Ghost Town" of Varosha, a fascinating piece of military history, and explore nearby Salamis ruins and Othello’s Castle.
Paphos: Famous for shipwrecks, blue lagoons, and breathtaking coastal views.
Merit Hotels: For a luxurious stay, consider Merit Hotels, offering world-class service and stunning views. If you're visiting between late November and early January, check out the Christmas Markets!
How to Get There
The easiest way to plan and organize your whole trip is to have someone else do it for you 😊
My recommendation, check out US Flights24. This is my trusted travel agent who can give you all-inclusive travel options to pick and choose from.
Here’s how it works:
- Contact them via phone, email, or WhatsApp (preferred)
- Mention “DTV” for 3% CASH BACK!
- Tell them when & where you want to go, length of stay, and # of people
- They will send you options to choose from
- Select an option and get 3% CASH BACK when you return
- You can also search for your own trip on their website here!
We’ve been using US Flights24 for years to travel around the world, and we even price match with them on commercial flights like SATO travel.
If you’re military, US Flights24 should be your “Go-To” travel agency when it comes to discounted military airfare.
Want to learn more about US Flights24? Get a FULL video tutorial here.
📧 info@usflights24.com
📱 US Phone Number: +1 904-299-5799
📱 Germany WhatsApp Number: +49 9641 9258700
Other options: We also look at flights through Booking.com, Skyscanner, and eDreams to name a few.
If you’re on a tight budget, look at the closest RyanAir airport to you and take advantage of cheap flights that go directly to, or near these locations. Sky Express also has a lot of value-priced flights to and from the Mediterranean.
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