Where to go in winter in Europe to relax? Europe in winter - where is it warm? Where in Europe is comfortable in winter.

In winter, many tourists go on vacation to warm countries. At the same time, Asia is often chosen, South America or warm islands. Of course, Europe cannot offer many places where beach holiday, however there are a few places where it is quite warm. It is worth considering the warmest countries in Europe in winter so that you can choose the most suitable option.

Spain in winter

The warmest country in Europe winter period- this is Spain., or rather its southern part. The average temperature there is +20. by the most warm in winter are the Canary Islands, but you can go to the Balearic Islands or Andalusia. You can also enjoy your vacation on the sandy beaches of the Costa de la Luz.

Winter time in Spain is well suited for visiting local attractions and walking through botanical gardens and parks. AT summer time it's not as comfortable due to the sweltering heat. Of course, the water will not be too warm for swimming (the temperature in it will vary + 14-16 degrees), you can enjoy the view of the cities.

Portugal in winter

In Portugal, it is preserved all year round warm weather. AT winter time here you can have a good rest on fresh air walking along the local streets. True, swimming here will not work, since the water will be cool enough for this.

It will be possible to go to the Portuguese island of Madeira. The temperature at this time will stay above +18 degrees. Here you can swim in natural pools, which are formed by lava. The water is warm even in winter.

Italy in winter

Considering the warm countries of Europe, it is worth mentioning Italy. In the south of the country the temperature is around +13-16 degrees. At the same time, the weather here is often sunny. Tourists can view numerous attractions in comfort. In February in Italy, you can get to the carnival or festival and have fun.

It will be warmer in Sicily. The air here warms up to +20 degrees. This allows you to lie on the beach and even sunbathe. Prices at this time of the year will also be pleasant for tourists, because they are much lower than in summer.

Malta and Cyprus in winter

In search of a warm country to relax in the winter season, you can go to Malta or Cyprus. The temperature in both cases is about +15 - 16 degrees. At this time, you can go on interesting excursions, which is difficult to do in a hotter time. The water temperature in Malta is kept within +14 - 17 degrees, which is not suitable for swimming.

In winter, Malta is visited by real connoisseurs who want to get acquainted with local traditions and wonderful cuisine. Given that, with the onset of winter, it is not as crowded here as in summer, you can spend your vacation in seclusion and peace. The locals are always friendly to guests.

Greece in winter

Winter in Greece is usually sunny and warm. The air temperature can be kept within +17 - 20 degrees. This is quite comfortable for leisurely walks in parks and archaeological sites. There is practically no snow in cities. It falls only in mountainous areas.

You can have a good rest in Crete. Here you can not only enjoy excursion programs, but even have fun in clubs. Holidays can be active and fun. There are many interesting places worth seeing.

Of course, winter holidays in Europe are not the same as in other hot countries, but it has its own charms. Warm but not too warm hot weather- this is exactly what many tourists want. Rest at this time will be comfortable and convenient. In addition, it will be more economical, because prices in many countries are falling. Shoppers will be especially pleased.

Olga Agureeva

The Russians, who prefer to spend the winter in the warmth and by the sea-ocean, mainly choose the countries of Asia and South America, the Caribbean or the Seychelles. But flying there is long and quite expensive, plus it can be too hot there. In addition, these countries are not at all famous for cleanliness, safety and order, there are not so many familiar products there, and the customs are completely different. Whether the case in the good old Europe, where everything is orderly, sedate and noble, and there is no particular need to change their way of life.

Of course, you can’t shop here in winter (at least on the mainland), but for those who just want warm, sunny weather, southern European countries are best suited. And "Real Estate Magazine MetrInfo.Ru" decided to find out where in Europe the most warm winters and where should heat-loving Russians fly.

Warm Europe

The further south, the warmer, so in Europe for wintering or a comfortable long vacation, you can choose Cyprus, Malta, southern Italy, including Sicily, southern Portugal (Lisbon Riviera), southern mainland Spain. “Winters in these regions are usually warm. Daytime temperature stays around +12-18 degrees, rarely drops to +5, while sunny days more than clouds. Compared to the Moscow weather, one gets the impression of a holiday, and even a rare rain cannot spoil the impressions of the nature and architecture of these places. And besides, the infrastructure here is developing with a focus on tourists, so there are many supermarkets, cafes, restaurants and boutiques,” says Vlad Kozlov, an expert at the CENTURY 21 Effect Real Estate agency. Moreover, it is not necessary to settle in coastal towns, you can rent a house or buy property in major cities(located further south) and enjoy museums, excursions, local festivals, gastronomy and wines. In Italy, for example, you can settle in Rome, Florence and Naples, and in Spain - in Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona. In winter, it is often rainy there, but there is a lot of greenery and sunny days when the air warms up to +12 degrees, and, of course, there is no snow.

You can also spend the winter in the Madeira archipelago and the Azores, belonging to Portugal, and on canary islands under the flag of Spain. In terms of territory Atlantic lands already far from Europe, but still there are fewer flights than to Asia or South America, and the customs there are completely European, as is the infrastructure.

Most budget holiday it can turn out in the south of mainland Spain and in Cyprus - there are moderate prices for food, transport and entertainment, and rental rates are not high, especially in winter. And if you buy real estate, then from the point of view of savings, it is better to choose the south of Spain, the Canary Islands and Portugal (but, however, based on apartments, the cost of houses there is quite high):

(Average prices for renting and buying real estate in warm European countries, see the tables at the end of the article).

Although, according to Maxim Klyagin, an analyst at Finam Management, despite the fact that in general the cost of apartments and houses and rental rates vary widely depending on the location and characteristics of objects, the lowest price level is typical for countries experiencing a period of deep economic recession, and this is from the countries under consideration - Cyprus and Spain. “However, the entire south of Europe is covered by crisis phenomena that affect the real estate market. Since the beginning of the crisis in different places with varying intensity, on average, real estate fell in price by 20-30% and, in general, prices in the Mediterranean have reached their bottom. Moreover, island real estate turned out to be more stable (provided good performance), and the most severe effects of the recession are observed in continental Greece and Spain,” says Olga Yasko, Director of Analytics at Knight Frank Russia & CIS. Thus, it is profitable to buy housing (of course, for yourself, and not for investment) in almost any European country today, you can find quality properties at competitive prices.

If you use real estate for your own vacation, then, of course, you can buy anywhere - wherever your heart desires: “The main thing is that the country likes and has enough money to maintain its foreign housing,” says Stanislav Zingel, president of the international real estate agency Gordon Rock . And if at the same time you want more warmth and even sea bathing, then it is best to choose the Canary Islands, where the minimum water temperature is + 18-19 degrees, this is in February-March, and for example, on New Year, it fluctuates around 20-21 degrees (the water is not very warm, but you can take a dip, especially if the sun is shining). About the same temperature regime and in Madeira: according to Elena Krylova, head of the “Real Estate in Spain and Portugal” direction of the “Strana Plus” company, you can swim here from May to mid-January. But it is colder in the Azores, as well as on the mainland: even in the south of continental Europe it is comfortable to swim only from May to mid-November.

Also, before buying and renting real estate, it is necessary to assess the infrastructure of the region, the environment, transport accessibility. For example, it is easier to get to Valencia than to a small village in Italian Calabria, where no planes fly or trains go, and only a car can help. “In general, of all the regions under consideration, the Canary Islands and the south of Spain have the best infrastructure. Also Malta, but there is a shortage of sandy beaches, and Cyprus is characterized by a shortage drinking water", - says Stanislav Zingel (Gordon Rock). Naturally, all such factors must be taken into account, just like the peculiarities of the culture of each of the countries (someone is close to the culture of Italy, and someone is more comfortable in Spain).

“In addition, in choosing a place of rest, and even more so in life, the opportunity to communicate is important,” notes Lyubov Erofeeva, CEO real estate agency Century 21 Rent & Sale, so if you have knowledge of the language, you first need to consider the corresponding country, although in the resort areas, of course, English is also spoken.

“It is worth paying attention to real estate in Spain and Cyprus, because apart from other aspects, home buyers worth more than 500 thousand euros in Spain and 300 thousand euros in Cyprus can obtain a residence permit in these countries,” says Olga Yasko (Knight Frank Russia & CIS) .

In general, there are quite a lot of criteria for selection, and in order not to be mistaken, it is necessary to consider each of the countries in more detail.

Cyprus

The Republic of Cyprus, which is part of the European Union, is located on the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and occupies 64% of its territory (part of the republic passed to Turkey in the last century). Greek Cypriots mainly live here, and the official language here is Greek, but the majority of the population, especially young people, speaks excellent English, and Russian speech in Cyprus is honored: “The state became attractive to Russians back in the post-Soviet years. Initial interest was stimulated by the presence of a free economic zone on the island and a visa-free regime, and then the mild climate of autumn and winter and the rapid pace of construction (with relatively affordable prices. – Ed.),” says Lyubov Erofeeva (Century 21 Rent&Sale). Therefore, there are a lot of Russians in Cyprus, a lot of mixed marriages between Cypriots and Russian girls, as a result, for six months or more, about 5 thousand of our fellow citizens live here, and many also come here from time to time for a week or two - on business or to visit own apartments. And this, of course, formed the appropriate infrastructure: there are Russian restaurants on the island, and shops with products familiar to us, and doctors who speak Russian fluently. In Limassol, where the Russian diaspora has even formed, there are two Russian kindergartens and two Russian schools, as well as all kinds of circles and studios with Russian-speaking coaches and teachers. And besides this, Cyprus has excellent roads, modern medicine, international schools, sports centers, spas, etc.

And with all this, it is quite warm here, the average temperature in winter is + 10-15, and the temperature on the coast does not fall below 7 - 8 degrees - this is in January, which is considered the coldest month of the year. "AND bathing season in Cyprus, according to my own feelings, it is open almost all year round. In winter, Russians do not swim only because there are no bathers on the beaches, so as not to embarrass the local population. There are few people on the beach at this time, but many take sunbathing, sitting in coastal cafes with a cup of coffee,” says Vlad Kozlov (CENTURY 21 Effect Real Estate).

The only thing that can poison life in the winter is rain and piercing wind, which even make you wrap yourself in warm jackets. But the cold season is not long, already in February there are very warm, almost spring days, almond blossoms begin (especially beautiful in the Yioulou valley near Paphos) and green grass appears, and in March in the afternoon you can already walk summer clothes. And in addition to this in Cyprus in winter season not boring at all: you can walk along the sea or go to the Troodos mountains to ride skiing(there is snow in the mountains in winter), and in February - to become a member of the carnival with parades and balls.

Well, as for real estate - developers and realtors offer big choice: apartments, houses, villas and cottages in Paphos, Larnaca and Limassol, both for rent and for sale. "Of course it's heavy. economic crisis somewhat cooled the ardor of the placement of Russian capital, but the interest in acquiring Cypriot real estate or in long-term leases did not suffer so much, ”says Lyubov Erofeeva (Century 21 Rent & Sale). In general, the real estate market is alive, and the demand for housing is stable, especially since, according to Olga Yasko (Knight Frank Russia & CIS), average prices decreased by 15-20% compared to the peaks of 2008 and in 2013 they fell by 15-20%. there has also been some price reduction - a good incentive for those who buy for themselves or for the long term. (Read more about the prices of Cypriot meters in the article "Foreign property: Cyprus. Landscape after the battle. The crisis opens up new opportunities: prices have dropped by a third. It's time to buy a house" for life ".)

Today, the alignment is as follows: “For example, one-bedroom apartments with an area of ​​​​60 square meters. m on the second line from the sea (up to 500 m) in the Paphos area cost from 90,000 euros, this is with decoration, built-in kitchen, connected air conditioning, but without furniture, ”says Vlad Kozlov (CENTURY 21 Effect Real Estate). In Limassol (near the hotel "Appolonia") a similar apartment in a complex with a swimming pool can be bought for 84 thousand euros.

House area 120-150 sq. m in Limassol will cost 280-350 thousand euros, a two-story mansion in the Prastio area with 4 bedrooms (area 230 sq. m), with a swimming pool, garden and panoramic views of the sea and mountains is available with a budget of 430 thousand euros. A two-storey villa with an area of ​​300 sq. m with a garage, a garden and a swimming pool in the Amarosa area (Paphos) are offered for 1.2 million euros.

You can rent a similar villa in winter for 2-3 thousand euros per month. “A week of living in a two-bed apartment will be about 150-200 euros,” says Vlad Kozlov (CENTURY 21 Effect Real Estate). And with a long-term lease it is even cheaper - from 350-400 euros per month, but there are not many offers, however - houses are much more often rented in Cyprus.

It is also worth noting that Paphos is more suitable for a relaxing holiday (although the beaches there are rocky, but in winter this is not so important), while Larnaca and Limassol are more businesslike and noisy.

Malta

In Malta, which occupies the territory of the Maltese archipelago (the islands of Malta, Gozo Comino, Cominotto and Filfoletta, as well as the uninhabited islands of St. Paul and Filfla), the weather is almost the same as in Cyprus - in winter months daytime temperature +15-16°С, and at night +9-11°С. At the same time, it is also windy and rainy here, but already in February, the arrival of spring is felt, and from May to October you can comfortably swim in the sea. The beaches, however, are rocky, but in general it does not matter, especially in winter.

Malta is famous primarily for its schools of English language, so winter holidays can be combined with education, and at this time of the year courses can be cheaper. Besides, very interesting excursions can be organized here, because Malta remembers the ancient Romans, the Arab conquerors and, of course, the knights of the famous Order of Malta. The capital of the state - the city of Valletta - is included in the list of cities of the World cultural heritage. There is the Cathedral of St. John, in which the Grand Masters and the famous knights of the Order of Malta and the Palace of the Grand Master found their rest. And on the streets of Mdina, which once together with Rabat was part of an ancient Roman settlement, and then an Arab fortress in the Moorish style, you can find beautiful buildings, churches and baroque palaces, cozy cafes and boutiques. With other infrastructure, it’s also not bad here, and there are enough Russians, because most of the marriages with foreigners that Maltese citizens entered into are marriages with Russian girls.

But real estate in Malta is not so simple. “On the one hand, there is an oversupply in the country, and on the other hand, there are many restrictions for foreign buyers. For example, in most areas, foreign buyers can only own one property,” says Olga Yasko (Knight Frank Russia & CIS). “And besides, in Malta, the minimum cost of housing allowed for purchase by foreigners is limited, it is 275 thousand euros,” adds Stanislav Singel (Gordon Rock), a lower threshold of 220 thousand euros is only in southern Malta and on the island of Gozo . This is to ensure that real estate prices remain more stable, and locals could buy cheaper housing. But on the other hand, by purchasing real estate for such an amount, you can count on a residence permit according to Global Program residency.

For 275 thousand euros in Malta, for example, a fully furnished apartment in the city of Sliema with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a kitchen and a dining room is offered with total area 120 sq. m. And if you pay about 2 times more, you can buy a villa with an area of ​​180-200 square meters. m.

In order to protect the local population, the government has introduced restrictions on rental housing: the minimum cost of rent for foreign citizens arriving in Malta for a long period cannot be less than 9,600 euros per year (8,750 euros for the island of Gozo and southern Malta), or 800 euros per month. But for those who come to Malta for a few months, this rule does not apply. And for the winter period, you can, for example, rent a two-bed apartment in the city of Sliema with a balcony, a large kitchen combined with a dining room and a hall, for 550 euros per month. A similar apartment with a sea view will cost 700 euros per month.

The cost of renting and buying real estate in European countries

RENT (by the sea in winter) PURCHASE (by the sea)
apartments villas apartments villas

CYPRUS From 500 euros, few offers From 720 euros, many offers 55 sq. m. 150,000 euros 165 sq. m. 240,000 euros

PORTUGAL From 650 euros, few offers From 650 euros, many offers 72 sq.m. 130,000 euros, many offers 190 sq. m. 550,000 euros, mostly large areas

SPAIN (mainland) From 500 euros, many offers From 480 euros 30 sq.m. 70,000 euros 135 sq. m. 160,000 euros

ITALY From 500 euros From 500 euros 30 sq.m. 170,000 euros 155 sq. m. 260,000 euros

Snow-covered cities, epidemic flu, short daylight hours, slush, frost and blues - that's back side medals called "Russian winter". The soul yearns for the exotic, and the body, tired of beriberi, for a powerful influx of vitamin D, which, as you know, is produced from sunlight.

I just want to take a vacation - even an extraordinary one - and wave somewhere in warm countries. packages "to the south" are scattered like hot cakes on a market day. But where should a Russian vacationer go to warm his frozen bones?

Those who are not attracted by the long flight, direct a searching look at Europe. Obtaining a visa to the Schengen zone is a difficult and troublesome business, but if successful, a rich excursion and cultural program awaits you. But the question is: "Where is it warm in Europe in winter?" Even in Greece and the Balearic Islands it rains. Not cold, of course, but not hot either: + 15-20. The sea also does not inspire long swims. In the south of Italy and Spain it is a little warmer: + 20-25, but the water temperature leaves much to be desired.

Only two archipelagos remain, where summer does not leave, but only dims its sultry light a little. These are Madeira, belonging to Portugal, and the Spanish Canary Islands. They belong to Europe, but lie in tropical latitudes. If you are planning a holiday in February and ask which countries are warm in winter, any travel agency will advise you to visit the Canary Islands. After all, they are famous throughout the world for the carnival, which begins at the end of January and lasts until the very beginning of Lent. The fun takes place in a very comfortable atmosphere. The air temperature is suitable for sunbathing and the water for swimming.

If we look at northern, Arab, Africa, then in which countries is it warm in winter there? In fact, you can go to Egypt, Oman, UAE, Morocco. It will not be too hot in any of these powers, but hardened Russians are quite comfortable. Of the two, choose Sharm El Sheikh. Although it is located north of Hurghada, the wind rose there is such that the resorts near the Israeli border are warmer in winter. Real summer reigns in the UAE (as we used to perceive it). However, daytime +30 in the evening are replaced by a noticeable coolness. A thick sweater and a warm windbreaker will come in handy.

Well, if you are not afraid to travel by plane for a long time and with transfers, then the answer to the question “in which countries is it warm in winter” expands significantly. First, even in temperate latitudes summer comes in December-February. It's time to go to Australia Republic of South Africa, countries Latin America. What resorts can be advised in these regions? The Fernando do Noronha archipelago in Brazil, in Uruguay, the Chilean Lake District (in the extreme south of the country), the Easten Cape in South Africa- this is a far from complete list of wonderful places.

Well, now let's remember school lessons geography and think about which countries are warm in winter, spring, summer ... In a word, all year round? That's right, lying near the equator. "Land of Smiles" Thailand, Seychelles, Fiji, Mauritius, India. And also "black" Africa - Kenya, Zambia (there is the equatorial sun and real European service waiting for you there.

The article contains the answer to the question of where to fly to Europe in February 2019: the baths of Hungary, the beaches of Mallorca, the Alps, carnivals and much more.

In Europe, there is a large selection of countries where you can go abroad in February, since almost everywhere the winter is mild and does not interfere with sightseeing at all. On the contrary, many cities are magically transformed in winter and show their usual postcard views from the other side. In addition, February is usually the most unpopular month for tourists to visit. European countries, so nothing will stop you from feeling the atmosphere of cities.

We also have another interesting selection directions - it deals with 9 bright and colorful countries of Africa, Asia and America. Take note!

Spain

When deciding where to go to Europe in February 2019, choose Spain without hesitation. This multifaceted country in February can offer travelers both a cultural program and ski resorts, as well as a simple beach holiday.

In the north of the country, you can visit ski resorts: the temperature in February is pleasant and stays around +15°C. In Madrid and Barcelona, ​​it is worth taking the time to see the sights (fortunately, there will be few tourists). Well, in Mallorca and the Canary Islands, of course, you need to sunbathe properly - the air and water temperature in February is about + 20 ° С. Swimming at this time is not too comfortable, as the water is not so warm, but tourists from northern countries it doesn't stop.

photo © Nathan Congleton / flickr.com

Italy

Mountains in Italy attract not only skiers. Those who want to enjoy winter landscapes and beautiful architecture and visit spas.

The famous Venice Carnival is another reason to go abroad in February 2019. And in the city of Ivria, you can watch the “Battle of the Oranges”. If you are inclined towards sightseeing and acquaintance with the rich history of Italy, then it is better to go to Rome, Florence and Venice.

photo © Stefano Montagner - The life around me / flickr.com

France

The French Alps hospitably welcome everyone who wants to go skiing abroad: service on highest level, great trails and amazing nature! February is a great time to visit ski resorts, after all, after the past, the flow of tourists this month decreases significantly. average temperature in the range from −1°С to +5°С.

For those who are not interested in skiing, I advise you to visit Cote d'Azur and romantic Normandy. Spring comes to Nice in mid-February - it's time to indulge in dreams and explore the sights.

If you decide to fly to the capital of France, then read about how delicious and at the same time not too expensive.

Switzerland

Rest in Switzerland in the winter is first of all downhill skiing. Mild winters and amazing alpine landscapes, bright sun and excellent slopes - all this guarantees you great vacation. Air temperature up to +9°С. It is worth paying attention to the towns - for example, Lucerne, powdered with snow, is simply magical!

photo © Sørn / flickr.com

Austria

Are you going to go on vacation in February to Europe? I advise you to fly to Austria - here you have mountains, majestic Vienna and Salzburg, and miniature villages. It is worth visiting Hallstatt in February - in winter it looks completely different, a little mysterious and gloomy. The average temperature in February is +12°C.

Hungary

Winter in Hungary is mild and comfortable, with little rainfall. The temperature in February is around +5°С. Days can be devoted to sightseeing, and evenings to baths (for example, the Széchenyi or Arpad baths). The Széchenyi baths have a temperature of +77°C - this is the hottest thermal spring in Europe.

photo © Vlastula / flickr.com

Germany

Which European country can you still visit in February 2019? Germany, in my opinion, is good at any time of the year - choose any city and get to know it! It is best, of course, to go to the Alps and Bavaria - to ski and admire the snow-covered landscapes, since in general the weather in February is slightly milder than in January, but still quite windy and damp. You can visit the Berlin Film Festival, and at the end of February - colorful carnivals (Fastnacht, Fasching) in Cologne, Mainz, Dussel and Munich.

Intro image source: Michael Dawes / flickr.com.

Winter in Europe is different: in the north - heavy snowfalls and sunless weeks, the Mediterranean beckons sunny weather, and the central part - with cozy cafes and a Christmas atmosphere. This is the best time to visit megacities and villages: at this time there is no influx of tourists, so you can visit more interesting places, and you will also appreciate the price reduction due to the off season.

1. Rovaniemi, Finland

Well-established Christmas clichés apply to Rovaniemi like no other place. This is the earthly residence of Santa Claus. Everyone's favorite bearded man lives in a cave, and the presence of snow and reindeer makes the atmosphere even more festive. The Arktikum Museum gives an idea of ​​the life of these latitudes.

Useful advice: The temperature drops below zero more often than rises above it. Therefore, you need to take warm winter clothes with you.

2 Christmas markets: Germany and Austria

In December, fairs are opened in Germany and other countries of central Europe, imbued with a romantic Christmas atmosphere. Here you can buy everything: from gingerbread to sledge bells and all sorts of goodies, which are served with a glass of warm mulled wine.

Useful advice: Fairs in Cologne, Vienna and Munich attract crowds of tourists, but fairs in small towns can be a pleasant surprise.



3. Abisko, Sweden

The most remote place in northern Europe that can be reached by train is Abisko in Lapland. This is a real find for lovers of harsh winters. The sun does not rise for several weeks in December and January, so this is one of the best places in the world to watch the grandiose polar lights. You can also go skiing here. national park and enjoy the dog ride.

Top Tip: Stop near Kiruna and visit the famous ice hotel.

4. Athens, Greece

It is useless to try to remove from Photoshop 500 people from the best photo Parthenon. But if you come here in winter, you won't have such a problem. All the disadvantages of summer holidays - crowds, high prices for tourists, extreme heat, queues, air pollution - are completely absent in winter. This is the most suitable time to visit the ancient sights of the country and get acquainted with the local culture.

Helpful Tip: Try to make a trip around the islands, but do not forget: most of the accommodation is not rented out in winter.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

During fairy winter in Europe, you should definitely visit the house of Hans Christian Andersen. Forget about the famous Little Mermaid and head towards cozy city bars and cafes to watch the snow fall from outside. In the center of the city is the 19th century Tivoli amusement park, which looks romantic and sentimental during Christmas time, warming visitors with festive illuminations and locally produced wine.

Top Tip: Splurge on a meal at Noma, considered the best restaurant in the world (seats fill up very quickly, so make sure you book months in advance).

6. Budapest, Hungary

Couples skating and holding hands, exhaling puffs of steam in the freezing air... No better places to join them than picturesque park Varosliget in the Hungarian capital with a huge outdoor skating rink. Frozen after skiing? Budapest is famous for its magnificent thermal baths.

Helpful Hint: At night, try to find the "ruin pub" category bars - these are drinking establishments created in abandoned buildings.

7. Jasna, Slovakia

In Slovakia you can go skiing at affordable prices. The cost of renting accommodation and food is also quite affordable, and the local friendliness cannot be compared with the arrogance of the alpine slopes. Jasna resort is the best in Slovakia, it is located among the impenetrable Tatra Mountains, with long slopes, on the sides of which snow-covered coniferous trees grow.

Helpful Hint: Direct flights to Slovakia can be expensive, so get there with connections.

8. Andalusia, Spain

Part of Andalusia is located south of the African coast, this explains the mild winter climate. Housing is inexpensive, there are no large crowds of tourists near such famous sights as the fortress-palace of the Alhambra near Grenada or Seville Cathedral. Lively night life and the local tapas dish make these places especially attractive for tourists.

Helpful Tip: If you love snow rides, be sure to visit the Sierra Nevada near Grenada.

9. Transylvania, Romania

Visiting Dracula's lair when the sun is shining and sheep are grazing in the fields is not possible, is it? It is worth looking at the lead-gray sky, bare trees and a thin layer of snow around. Brasov and Sighisoara are separated by two hours by train and are magnificent medieval towns that are largely associated with Vlad the Impaler, known as Dracula. Although there is no reliable evidence that he ever visited his (so-called) castle.

10. Venice, Italy

The extraordinarily beautiful and fantastic Venice Carnival is held in February. It is one of the brightest events in Europe. Extraordinarily realistic costumes and sinister colored masks tell the story of the city on the canal. Participation in costume dances is enough expensive pleasure despite this, there is always the opportunity to watch what is happening for free by buying a mask on the street. You just need to be prepared for a big pandemonium.

Helpful advice: Book your accommodation in advance, and it is better in the vicinity of Venice. Traveling by train back and forth on the same day will cost significantly less.