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Have you been dreaming of a sunny getaway this winter, but another nondescript Caribbean island where all you can do is laze on the beach doesn’t exactly float your boat?
You might think that Europe is off limits this season, with all the heavy rains and freezing temperatures, but believe it or not, there are a handful of places across the pond where the sun is still shining brightly, and as far as the weather goes, it’s not all that bad.
If the thought of an all-inclusive trip to Cancun doesn’t make your heart beat faster and you’re a culture lover at heart, these are 4 unusual European destinations offer pleasant temperatures, no crowds in low season, and most importantly: it is incredible cheap to visit now:
Limassol, Cyprus
Located in Europe’s most south-eastern country, a Mediterranean island where winters are very mild, Limassol is both an ancient port dating back thousands of years and a fast-growing coastal hub whose innovative strength and skyscraper-lined waterfront have earned it the title of ‘Dubai’ promised. of Cyprus’.
Are they traces from the Middle Ages that you are looking for?
You can use the charming old townwhere narrow alleys are flanked by Greek-style cafes, and a monumental medieval fortress, Limassol Castle, is home to an impressive number of ancient artefacts.
Are you attracted to the Dubai-like cityscape?
As you stroll along the palm-lined boulevard, you’ll see rows upon rows of high-rise buildings stretching out over the blue-green seas, and chances are you won’t even need to put on a coat, because it’s still a lovely 62.6°F in the coldest months of the year.
Besides all the delicious gyros you can get in local bars for less than $10, accommodation in Limassol is also not expensive at all: this winter La Hacienda Cyprus has rooms listed from $81, the 4-star hotel Ajax hotel from $110, including breakfast, and the Atlantica Miramare Beach from $134.
Marbella, Spain
Winter is certainly coming to (most of) Europe, but Marbella on Spain’s aptly named Costa del Sol definitely didn’t get the memo: with daytime highs of 68°F and very little rain––5 rainy days in JanuaryTo be precise, it’s the closest thing to subtropical in the pond.
It’s a bustling seaside resort, wedged between the Sierra Blanca mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, and lays claim to more than 25 kilometers of golden sandy beaches, interspersed with luxury villas and hotels, except they cost a small fraction of what they cost in high season would cost.
For example, an overnight stay in the Hard rock hotel Marbella in the trendy Port Banús district will cost you $149 per nightand you can find beachfront stays even cheaper at the Barcelonawith a large pool and lush gardens ($80), and with a spa Senator Marbella ($74).
It may be too cold to swim at this time of year, but the great thing about Europe is that there is never a shortage of cultural sights to admire. In the case of Marbella, it’s a charming Renaissance old town, dotted with whitewashed buildings and bougainvillea. draped streets.
Lagos, Portugal
What about Southwestern Europe and its mild winter climate?
Just a five-hour drive west of Marbella you reach Lagos in Portugal, the cultural capital of the Algarve where the most beautiful beaches are locatedincluding Praia dos Estudantes:
It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, if not in all of Europe. It is easily distinguished by the ancient Roman-style bridge that spans two rock formations. It is perfect for sunbathing in the low season as it rarely rains here. , and it’s usually a pleasant 64.4°F.
You should also not miss the walled historic center of Lagos: dating back to the Middle Ages well-preserved fortresses and baroque churchesand more than just a few traditional eateries where you can sample bacalhau and other fresh seafood for under $15 (view Buteo Kitchen & Bar).
Overall, Lagos is one of the cheapest sunny destinations in Europe regardless of the season, with private rooms at the Good atmosphere boarding house, just steps from the beach, costs $35, and the average cost for food is $37 per day, according to Budget your trip.
Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
We’re back to Spain for this, except it’s miles away from mainland Europe, just off the coast of West… Africa?
Yes, although it is a Spanish island in its own right, Gran Canaria is officially part of the neighboring continent, and it is where millions of Europeans flock for their winter sun.
More specifically: lively Maspalomas, a relaxed town known for its endless miles soft, honey-colored sandvast dune reserve and the family-friendly Holidayworld Maspalomas Center, the largest, most exciting theme park on the island.
Gran Canaria is known as the Land of Eternal Spring for a reason: it is never too cold nor too hot here, regardless of the season, and if you come to Maspalomas in January, you should definitely do so. expect daily temperatures to hover around 72°F.
When it comes to affordability, this is what we like to call a ‘luxury on a budget’ destination, with a standard apartment costing $152 per night at the Cub Vista Serenaand seafood dishes at inexpensive local restaurants for an average of $14.58.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
