Your Winter Escape, Closer Than You Think

Winter, for many, can be a slightly depressing time to be in the UK. The weather is dreary, the nights are dark, and the mood can be sombre, especially if you aren’t a fan of Christmas. If you suffer from seasonal blues, as many do, the season can seem to drag on forever.

Fortunately, this is a great time of year to plan an overseas holiday. In doing so, you’ll give yourself a much-needed break from the dreaded British winter.

But exactly which destinations might appeal? There are a few great European ones to consider.

Milan, Italy

Milan is famous for its amazing retail scene. Widely regarded as the fashion capital of Europe, there are plenty of amazing shops to explore. During winter, there are also the amazing Christmas markets. As part of a tour of the region, you might make time for various much-loved sights and experiences, like the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, or even a scenic trip to Lake Como. Italy ski holidays are among the best in Europe, too, and well worth considering.

Barcelona, Spain

If the winter chill is bothering you, then you might seek out a city break in a slightly warmer climate. Barcelona offers exactly that: the city is mild during winter, but the crowds are much sparser than they are during summer. You’ll be able to enjoy La Sagrada Familia, and other amazing structures by Gaudí, without having to peer over the heads of other tourists. There are a number of amazing events to consider during Christmas time, as well as the year-round appeal of Las Ramblas, and the various tapas on offer in the Gothic Quarter.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

The Dutch capital is unlike any other city on the continent, thanks to a mesh of concentric canals, an amazing nightlife, and a fantastic cycling culture. During winter, the canals are lit up at darkness as part of the local Light Festival, which runs all the way through to late January. You’ll also be able to visit the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and the various Christmas markets.

Dublin, Ireland

Think of Dublin, and what might spring to mind is a series of cosy pubs, where you can settle beside a roaring fire in the company of a quality stout. This is exactly what you’ll get, more or less, during winter. There’s the Phoenix Park, the Temple Bar, and the Guinness Storehouse to consider, as well as countless live events.

Geneva, Switzerland

A sizeable number of people visiting the Swiss Alps tend to arrive in Geneva. From here, you can easily access Chamonix and Mont Blanc, which makes it a great staging ground for a ski adventure. At the same time, the city itself has a great deal to offer. You might enjoy a steaming cup of hot chocolate by the famous lake, before exploring the Old Town on foot.