The best-value autumn and winter city breaks

Top autumn city break destinations

October and November herald the start of Europe’s city break season – that short-but-sweet period before the Christmas rush where you can often sneak in a revitalising quick break.

Even better? Cooler weather turns visitors away and holiday prices plummet, leaving off-season travellers to enjoy a quieter version of some of the world’s best – and busiest – cities.

Here are some cracking cities to visit this October and November. Think of it as an early present to yourself.

1. Paris, France

Paris is a classic city break destination, and after a hot and crowded summer, the city feels more like itself again in October.

An October city break promises an exciting line-up of events: foodies will love the five-day Montmartre Wine Harvest, which starts on 8 October, while jazz enthusiasts will want to be in the city for Jazz sur Seine. The two-week festival showcases French jazz culture at its best with more than 200 concerts from 10-25 October.

Of course, there are also all the classic sights to enjoy. See world-class exhibitions at the Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre, join a river cruise down the Seine and get the quintessential Paris photo at the Eiffel Tower. If you're travelling on a budget, Paris is packed with free things to do, too.

2. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is utterly magical as the festive season approaches. Christmas markets open mid-November, so you can get a head start on your shopping and fill up on roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and gingerbread while you’re at it.

You can also pick up gifts at one of the city’s autumn design fairs, with markets popping up throughout October and November.

Culture cravers should check out the city’s autumn art programme too. Vienna Art Week, in its 21st edition in 2025, is a highlight that runs for a week from 7 November.

For year-round favourites, try the street food from Vienna’s würstelstands (sausage stand) and sample a glass or two of wine – you’ll be in the world’s largest wine-growing capital, after all.

3. Copenhagen, Denmark

There’s a reason the Danes are so happy: hygge. Copenhagen's autumn chill creates the perfect environment to embrace this Danish concept, which means ‘creating a cosy atmosphere, drinking and eating with the important people in your life’ (there’s no equivalent word in English).

Create your own sense of hygge by ducking in and out of Copenhagen’s trendy bars for a craft beer, escaping the sea breeze in the quaint cafes of photogenic Nyhavn, or strolling through the grounds of Tivoli Park.

As autumn ushers in the low tourist season, city breaks in October and November are much more reasonably priced.

4. Budapest, Hungary

Go on a city break to Budapest in October or November and you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained.

One option is to take a river cruise on the Danube, which splits the city in two, while on foot you can explore the Castle Quarter in ancient Buda and admire art nouveau architecture in Pest.

The spectacular Hungarian Parliament Building is worth a visit, as is the prestigious Hungarian State Opera House, with its stunning neo-renaissance architecture. Better still, you can book to see a world-class opera or ballet in fabulous surroundings.

If all that sightseeing has tired you out, aching legs can be dealt with at one of the city’s thermal baths, such as the famous Széchenyi Baths.

5. Dubrovnik, Croatia

As summer draws to a close, Dubrovnik’s weather remains warm but the crowds that cram its cobbled streets over the high season recede. Along with the tourists and the temperature, the prices also drop – how many more reasons do you need?

With fewer people piling into the UNESCO-listed city, its pedestrianised streets become even easier to explore on foot.

Outside the city’s famous walls, you can take the cable car up above Dubrovnik for a breathtaking panorama of its fortifications and orange-tiled roofs or hop on a boat to explore the nearby Elaphiti Islands.

6. Barcelona, Spain

Looking for a hot October city break? The mercury reaches 23C in Barcelona, meaning you can still hit up the city’s sandy urban beaches. Even in November, temperatures peak in the high teens, so it's a top pick for some autumn sunshine.

Make the most of the good weather and fewer crowds by visiting some of Barcelona’s most popular landmarks. Getting a good photo of the Sagrada Familia or admiring the mosaics in Park Güell is ten times easier without the hordes of summer tourists!

It’s a lovely time of year to stroll through the city’s parks, too. Parc de la Ciutadella and Parque del Mirador del Poble Sec both have lush tree-lined trails, ablaze in various shades of rust come autumn.

7. Lisbon, Portugal

If you’re seeking milder Autumn temperatures, Portugal’s capital is the ideal city escape. While the rest of Europe shivers, Lisbon typically enjoys pleasant daytime temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

The city's famous hills are much more manageable to explore without summer's heat, while the historic trams are considerably less crowded.

Autumn is the perfect time to explore the city's outstanding museums, including the National Tile Museum (currently closed for renovation) and the Gulbenkian art museum. Don't miss the chance to warm up in a traditional pastelaria with a pastel de nata and bica (Portuguese espresso).

8. Berlin, Germany

If Berlin’s fascinating history and buzzing nightlife aren’t enough to tempt you to visit Germany’s capital, its value for money might just change your mind.

The cost of food and drinks rivals Barcelona for the best value in western Europe.

Autumn is a fantastic seasons to visit the city, too. If the weather plays ball, you can take a sightseeing tour of some of Berlin’s most famous landmarks, such as the Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag Parliament building; explore the trails and lakes of the sprawling Tiergarten; and check out the street art of East Side Gallery – part of the Berlin Wall.

If not, the city’s incredible museums have indoor activities covered.

Top winter city break destinations

In Europe, the best winter city break destinations come alive with local life once the summer crowds fade, revealing their authentic charm through steaming food markets, cosy wine bars and cultural events. Further afield, the best winter holidays stretch from Istanbul's bazaars to New York's Broadway shows.

Whether you're planning a December city break to soak up the festive atmosphere, a January city break to beat the post-Christmas blues, or a city break in February for a cultural fix, read on for the best winter cities.

1. New York, USA

As the old cliché goes, New York really is a city that never sleeps. So no matter when you go, you can expect a packed calendar of cultural events, as well as iconic attractions galore (the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and Metropolitan Museum of Art).

A few things to keep your eye out for include the cut-price deals for Hotel Week, the month-long Winter Restaurant Week, when some of NYC’s finest foodie hotspots offer special prix-fixe menus, and Winter Jazzfest (mid-January), an incredible display of jazz music in the city often called the ‘Jazz Capital of the World’.

Ice skating rinks also pop up across the city throughout November and stay open until as late as April, so be ready to get your skates on!

2. Krakow, Poland

You'll need to rug up for a winter break in Krakow but that's all part of the charm.

Frosty wanders through the city's picturesque streets will be rewarded with warm and hearty Polish fare in many restaurants – think slow-cooked meats and stews – or, if you visit around Christmastime, you can warm up on the go with mulled wine.

Every December, several ice rinks spring up around Krakow's Old Town, the largest being the popular Ice Park, located in the northwest end of Jordan Park.

You'll also be able to visit the city's main sights with relatively few tourists: the Wieliczka Salt Mine, the Auschwitz memorial and museum and Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory are all open as usual.

3. Munich, Germany

Bavaria's capital Munich delivers winter charm in spades. The city's famous beer halls provide the perfect respite from the cold, with hearty German cuisine and warming glühwein to keep spirits high.

Visit in January or February to catch Fasching (carnival season) celebrations, when the city erupts in colourful parades and masked balls. For more culture, the Deutsches Museum and Alte Pinakothek art museum are world-class attractions ideal for a few hours indoors.

The nearby Alps also make Munich a great base for day trips to winter sports destinations.

4. Amsterdam, Netherlands

When winter falls on Amsterdam, the locals take the most sensible route possible for dealing with the cold – they head to the pub.

In fact, staying cosy even has its own word – gezellig – which is best done in a traditional bruin café. All wooden interiors and traditional Dutch charm, these quaint little boozers are the perfect place to keep out of the cold and embrace winter like a true Amsterdammer.

Of course, you probably won’t want to spend your whole trip in the pub. Get some fresh air and explore the Amsterdam Light Festival, which transforms the city into a twinkling art exhibition as quirky light installations are set up all over the centre of town.

Alternatively, get your skates on at one of the city’s outdoor ice rinks. The Rembrandtplein is a top choice for locals and tourists alike.

5. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague goes into full fairytale mode in winter. Its resplendent castle looks like something from a Grimm brothers’ story when it’s dusted in snow, while the cobbled streets of its historic Old Town exude romance and charm.

Visit in December to embrace the festive spirit at the Christmas markets of the Old Town and Wenceslas squares, or on one of the city's pop-up ice rinks.

One of the city's biggest winter cultural events is Masopust (the Czech version of Mardi Gras, which usually takes place in February a week before Ash Wednesday).

6. Reykjavik, Iceland

Winter is prime northern lights time in Iceland, which is why so many make the short hop north to Reykjavik. Although these ethereal, elusive lights are best seen from the more remote parts of the island, away from all traces of light pollution, specialist tours can be arranged from the city – ideal if you’re short on time.

The Golden Triangle, which takes in Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall and the Thingvellir National Park, is another popular excursion from the city. Meanwhile, the famous Blue Lagoon is just under an hour away and is easily reached by bus.

For cultural events in the city itself, the Winter Lights Festival, the Dark Days Music Festival and the Reykjavík International Games all take place over the winter months.

7. Rome, Italy

Fancy a city break to Rome this winter? You’ll be in for a real treat – crowds are long gone, queues are almost non-existent and the costs of flights and hotels drop considerably. If you can handle a bit of cold, it’s a fantastic time to see this enchanting city without the masses.

You’ve got the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Sistine Chapel to visit, all of which are open as usual. Meanwhile the Vatican, almost as famous for its long lines as the chap that lives there, is remarkably quiet and easy to get into.

Of course, as you’re in Rome, you might want to do as the Romans do. Get acquainted with locals in a bar, fill up on winter fare at a family-run trattoria – Roman artichokes, anyone? – or soak up some culture in the Teatro dell’Opera.

8. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul's famous hammams come into their own during the cooler months. The Hagia Sophia Hurrem Sultan Bathhouse, a 16th-century Turkish bath, is one of the best, offering warm sanctuary and traditional treatments from €100.

Winter is also the best time to sample Turkish comfort food – think steaming bowls of mercimek çorbası (lentil soup) and freshly baked simit sesame bread.

The UNESCO-listed Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are particularly striking against winter skies, while the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market are far less crowded than in summer, allowing for more authentic browsing experiences.

9. Las Vegas, USA

Sin City’s temperature might drop during winter, but the tempo never dips. Las Vegas’ neon glow and infamous party spirit buzz year-round and all of the big casinos are still open for business.

Top picks include The Bellagio, with its typically over-the-top mega fountain show and Caesars Palace, a mainstay on the Strip since the 60s. There’s even a fully-functioning canal at the Venetian Casino, should you feel the urge to take a gondola ride in between games at the blackjack table.

Nearby, you’ve got the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon, open all year and excellent day trip material. Meanwhile, the Mob Museum is a fascinating look into the world of organised crime once synonymous with Vegas.

Short-haul cities that are still warm in winter

hile we’re all for seasonal comforts, 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 some exciting short-haul cities perfect for a warm winter break.

1. Marrakech, Morocco

Average winter highs: 21°C

The three-and-a-half hour flight to Marrakech is a no-brainer when you know there’s 21°C 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 cafés.

2. Palma, Majorca

Average winter highs: 16°C

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.

3. Valletta, Malta

Average winter highs: 17°C

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. Paphos, Cyprus

Average winter highs: 18°C

Cyprus is one of Europe’s best destinations for winter sun thanks to 18°C 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.

5. Faro, Portugal

Average winter highs: 16°C

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.

6. Athens, Greece

Average winter highs: 15°C

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 15°C 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.

7. Seville, Spain

Average winter highs: 17°C

Like the sound of discovering Spain’s quieter side, without compromising on sunshine? A winter city break in Seville is your answer.

November through February is a great time to experience all of Seville’s best bits without the queues – or stifling summer humidity. Spend warm, sunny days ticking off highlights including the Plaza de España, Seville Cathedral, flamenco shows and some of Spain’s tastiest tapas.

Winter is also when Seville’s oranges come into season, so you’ll get to see the city’s iconic trees blossom with baby oranges that fill the air with their sweet scent.

8. Funchal, Madeira

Average winter highs: 19°C

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 in February, don’t miss Funchal’s Carnival celebrations. Its samba parades are spectacular.

9. Las Palmas, Gran Canaria

Average winter highs: 22°C

Gran Canaria may not be your first thought for a Spanish city break, but with a jack-of-all-trades capital that delivers big on culture, cuisine and coastal charm – and tops 20°C even in January – it’s a winning choice for a warm winter city break.

Las Palmas’s old town, Vegueta, is the heart of the action where you can admire age-old churches and colonial buildings, people-watch in pretty plazas and stock up on anything from coffee to cheese at the morning food market.

Afternoons are dedicated to beach time. Las Canteras is the local go-to for sunbathing, swimming and socialising – and understandably so, with 2km (1.2 miles) of soft, buttery sand.

Come evening, rave-worthy seafood restaurants and hip rooftop bars will ensure you’re wined and dined to the max.

Please note: The research looked at all price searches via TravelSupermarket from 9 September to 7 October 2025 for 2, 3 and 4-night holidays departing between November 2025 and February 2026. The cheapest city breaks were based on the median price across the whole of that period and are indicative only. Average high temperatures sourced from holiday-weather.com.

Top tips for budget autumn and winter city breaks

Take off during the week

If you can be flexible with your departure dates, look for midweek departures. TravelSupermarket data shows you can save over £100pp by avoiding Friday or Saturday departures.

Choose accommodation out of the city centre

Staying right in the heart of the action may sound appealing, but city centre prices will reflect your prime position. If public transport isn’t too pricey or you’re happy to walk, it may be more affordable to find cheaper accommodation outside of the centre.

Pack light

If you’re travelling short haul, bringing carry-on luggage only can cut the cost of hefty hold fees.

Airports can be strict when it comes to hand luggage allowances, so make sure your carry-on bag fits size and weight regulations to avoid any fees.

Download maps in advance

Apps such as Navmii and Google Maps are a great way to navigate your way around a new city. Make sure to download your routes in advance of travel so you can use an offline version when out and about abroad without incurring data charges.

Plan how to get around

Every city’s layout is different so it pays to work out the best and cheapest way to get around.

If you’re using public transport (whether that’s Lisbon’s iconic trams or Paris’ Metro), look for multi-travel cards or discounted tickets. For example, you can buy a Hola Barcelona Card in the Catalan capital for unlimited public transport travel (including to and from the airport) for up to five days.

It’s also worth considering two wheels – cycling is part of everyday life in cities such as Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Berlin. Plus, many cities now have great electric scooter and bike schemes. There’s often discount codes for new customers and referring additional travel companions can mean extra discounts for you both.

Always choose the local currency when paying by card

If you're paying by card while abroad, pick the local currency instead of pounds. This means your bank will set the exchange rate, rather than the retailer, who almost always provides a worse rate.

Be travel savvy with food and drink costs

To keep your holiday budget in check when eating out, resist the temptation to stop at the first eatery you see. Instead, walk a few streets away from the main tourist strips to find more local-friendly prices.

Similarly, keep an eye out for special lunchtime deals such as the three-course menu del dia in Spain. You can look to apps like TheFork or Time Out for some cities to find restaurants with special offers.

Make use of local supermarkets too. You can avoid pricey hotel breakfasts by picking up a pastry and some fruit or stock up on cheap lunchtime snacks to see you through the day.

Take advantage of tourist deals

If you’re more of a hardcore sightseer, consider getting a city card to get access to more than one attraction at a lower cost. For any must-visit attractions, booking in advance online can be cheaper and guarantees you’ll get to go.

Keep an eye out for low-cost activities on offer too. Free walking tours are a great way to orient yourself in a city on a budget and you’ll get tons of expert insights and recommendations from your local guide – just remember that tips are usually expected.

Many museums, galleries and libraries are also free to visit, or offer discounted entry at specific times. Some of Paris’ biggest attractions such as The Louvre and Musée Picasso offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month.