9 Amazing Short-Haul Cities That Are Still Warm In Winter

Winter is a fantastic time for a city break – you get the chance to see iconic landmarks and attractions without the crowds and the off-season prices make it easy to travel on a small budget.

And while we’re all for seasonal festivities (who doesn’t love a Christmas market?), a winter city break doesn’t have to be defined by woolly hats and hot cocoa. Fly just a few hours south and there are plenty of cities where warm temperatures simmer all the way from November through to February.

Whether you’re dreaming of sightseeing under blue skies or al fresco lunches, here are nine exciting short-haul cities perfect for a warm winter break.

1. Marrakech, Morocco

Average winter highs: 21C

The three-and-a-half hour flight to Marrakech is a no-brainer when you know there’s 21C sunshine awaiting. The dense North African city, sheltered by the Atlas Mountains, maintains its warm weather throughout winter, making it a top option for a hot city break.

It’s a great time to get acquainted with Marrakech’s famous chaotic souks. You’ll be able to experience the hubbub of the market stalls and street performances without the overwhelming summer crowds. The same goes for the city’s most popular landmark, Koutoubia Mosque.

For a quieter moment, seek out secret gardens and rooftop cafes.

Be Live Experience Marrakech Palmeraie

Marrakech, Morocco
3 December 2024
All-inclusive
Luton

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£340

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2. Palma, Majorca

Average winter highs: 16C

Majorca’s capital is a summer holiday stalwart, and with pleasant winter highs reaching the mid-teens, it's a top pick for a short winter escape too.

Exploring the Old Town, Casco Antiguo, should be first on the to-do list. You’ll find a warren of cobbled alleys, baroque buildings and some of the city’s best restaurants, both hole-in-the-wall and Michelin-starred.

Use the 44m-tall (144ft) towers of Palma’s cathedral to guide you to its doors. Stunning stained glass windows and frescos lie within. From here, it’s a short walk to the city’s beach. With chilly 15C waters, swimming may not be on the itinerary, but sandy-toed walks and picnics are.

Catalonia Majorica

Palma De Mallorca, Majorca, Spain
1 February 2025
Room only
Gatwick

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3. Valletta, Malta

Average winter highs: 17C

Valletta’s warm weather isn’t the only ace up its sleeve when it comes to a winter city break. The pint-size capital, packed with architectural wonders and encased within 16th-century walls, can feel full to the brim with tourists in summer. They all but disappear in November, meaning your chances of sightseeing in peace – and finding affordable accommodation deals – are at their best.

If you’ve only got a couple of days here, St John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master’s palace are must-see masterpieces, as are the Archaeological Museum’s incredible prehistoric artefacts.

Evenings are best spent dining on delicious seafood overlooking the grand harbour.

4. Palermo, Sicily

Average winter highs: 16C

Palermo’s Mediterranean climate and its Sicilian hospitality promise warmth in spades. Yes, you’ll want to pack a jacket for the evenings, but there’s so much to see and do that you’ll easily stay warm during the day.

Work up a sweat as you set off on foot to discover the pretty Norman, Arab and Byzantine architecture that fills the city, from the central cathedral to the hilltop palace. Plazas and side streets keep the energy levels high with market vendors cheerily flogging everything from clothes to vegetables.

The street food is in a league of its own, too. Arancini and cannoli are just a taste of what the city has cooking.

5. Paphos, Cyprus

Average winter highs: 18C

Cyprus is one of Europe’s best destinations for winter sun thanks to 18C temperatures that are warm enough for shorts and tees, and (if you’re brave) a swim in the sea.

Capital Paphos is steeped in legend, making it perfect for city breaking history buffs. Visit the Paphos Archaeological Park to see the remains of castles, villas, fortresses and mosaics, before taking a trip to the extensive underground chambers of the Tomb of the Kings.

Looking to refuel? A feast of Cypriot cheese and grilled meats, washed down with a glass of native xynisteri wine, will re-energise you for more sightseeing.

Paphos Gardens Hotel

Paphos, Paphos Area, Cyprus
8 February 2025
Bed & breakfast
Bristol

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6. Faro, Portugal

Average winter highs: 16C

The Algarve’s capital comes into its own in winter. While the region’s popular beach resorts wind down for the low season, Faro’s restaurants, shops and nightlife do no such thing. Even better? The weather’s still wonderfully mild and package deals are jaw-droppingly cheap.

It’s a great city to get a taste of traditional Portugal. Wonder the old town for charming cobbled streets, café-lined plazas and historical landmarks including Faro Cathedral and the Arco da Vila, before stocking up on local goods at the Municipal Market.

Beyond the city’s walls, the Ria Formosa Nature Park adds adventure activities to Faro’s sightseeing repertoire.

Faro

Faro, Algarve, Portugal
26 December 2024
Bed & breakfast
Manchester

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7. Athens, Greece

Average winter highs: 15C

Athens’s winter highs may not seem a lot compared to its mid-thirty summer temperatures. But picture yourself climbing the 250 steps up to the Acropolis in unrelenting heat, and 15C suddenly sounds far more appealing.

Once you’ve visited the hilltop icon, make the most of the emptier city by ticking off other top attractions such as the ancient necropolis of Kerameikos and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Thousands more Greek artefacts await at the National Archaeological Museum.

Afternoons are best spent exploring the city’s neighbourhoods. Hit the markets in Monastiraki, snack on souvlaki in Plaka or simply enjoy some sunshine in Syntagma Square.

Urban Frame Hotel

Athens, Athens Area, Greece
12 February 2025
Bed & breakfast
Manchester

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8. Seville, Spain

Average winter highs: 17C

Yearning for a Christmassy city break that won’t freeze your toes off? Seville is your answer.

Christmas markets begin as early as 5 November in the city centre, decking the streets with festive stalls and lights. Feria de Artesanía Creativa is great for handcrafted souvenirs, while Feria del Belén is dedicated to the Nativity. Expect elaborate nativity scenes and stalls selling traditional figurines.

If you’re visiting in the new year or just want to avoid the festivities, winter is the prime time to experience all of Seville’s best bits without the humidity – or the queues. Highlights include the Plaza de España, Seville Cathedral, flamenco shows and some of Spain’s tastiest tapas.

America

Seville, Costa Del Sol, Spain
31 January 2025
Room only
Gatwick

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9. Funchal, Madeira

Average winter highs: 19C

Adrift off the coast of North Africa, Madeira has a similar climate to Morocco – balmy, but with a few sea breezes thrown in. It’s known for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture and delicious wine. All are best combined in its capital city, Funchal.

Nature lovers will want to get stuck into outdoor activities: whale watching, mountain biking and canyoning are all on offer here. Culture cravers can visit the huge Monte Palace tropical gardens, browse the historic Farmers’ Market, or take a wine tasting tour to really get to know the island’s fortified liquor.

If you’re hitting the city for New Year, don’t miss Funchal’s fireworks display. It’s spectacular.