With many borders reopened to tourists, it has been a bustling summer season for travelers – but don’t stop your sights short and cut yourself off to the possibilities that await beyond the summer months! Avanti is bringing back our successful year-long Go365 program – an annual collection of destinations that we highlight to help you miss the crowds and benefit from competitive prices, while finding the world’s best hidden gems in the off-peak months between October and March! This year, we are featuring five select European destinations to keep on your bucket list this winter season.
Italy Has It All
While Italy is one of the most popular summer escapes, you will be missing out if you hibernate away from this perfect getaway in the winter. From glimmering ski slopes and ritzy alpine resorts in the north, to temperate beaches and luxurious wine tasting in the south, Italy guarantees an idyllic winter scene all across the region. Winter sport hobbyists will discover thrilling slopes at the ski resort town of Cortina d'Ampezzo, or just sit back and luxuriate in the thermal baths of Tuscany, and spend the evenings filling up on Italy’s beloved comfort foods of fresh pastas, breads with olive oils and cheeses, and fine wines. For travelers looking to escape the cold, the southern region of Sicily offers a subtropical climate which comfortably sits at around 50 degrees and above throughout the winter – still warm enough to sit on a terrace drinking vino or wandering the sunny beaches with a light jacket.
France, Where Romance is Always in the Air
From the dazzling backdrop of the Eiffel Tower to the sprawling vineyards and quaint château along the Riviera, it’s no wonder that France is a top getaway for romance – so why not treat your loved one to an enchanting holiday season ice skating in the heart of Paris, or a dreamy Valentine’s Day weekend in the birthplace of Champagne, sipping on the best bubbly? The quiet hum of the winter season provides a more intimate setting, allowing guests to soak in the tranquility of streetside cafes, acclaimed museums, and the most popular landmarks. France’s gentle winter snows are the icing on the cake when it comes to creating the most romantic scenery – imagine the region’s Gothic architecture dusted in a layer of fluffy white snowflakes. Escape to France’s alpine region and luxuriate at a ski resort, or visit Nice for their annual Carnival celebration in February. Romance awaits all year in France!
The Evergreen Charm of the UK
From the Highlands of Scotland to the castles of Wales, the United Kingdom is beloved for its classic sites and endless wonders. Because of its popularity, visiting the UK is often a crowded affair. Not only do the off-peak months offer a quieter scene, but the charm of the land is evergreen, boasting quintessential landmarks, stunning winter gardens, and a plethora of cozy distilleries serving spirits that will warm your body and soul. Comfortably meander through less crowded museums, and visit the region’s stunning opera, ballet, and theatre houses for their magical winter showcases. The enveloping picturesque landscapes are often used in popular film and TV series such as the Game of Thrones – the charm of winter scenery is frequently utilized because the crisp surroundings offer the most awe-striking backdrop.
Germany Sparks Magic in Every Season
Germany is one of those places that leaves a lasting impression, and there’s something even more unique about it during the holiday season – the rest of the world will just never quite measure up to a German winter. In Germany, life does not quiet down during the cold months, but rather comes alive at regional Lokals, where Germans gather to indulge in hearty foods and sip on schnapps. The landscapes, full of beguiling castles gently dusted in snow, glisten with magic and beauty. Whether you’re visiting historic cities like Berlin and Munich, or traversing the landscapes for the most charming villages, every region boasts its own version of bustling winter markets. The Nuremberg Christmas Market – one of the oldest holiday markets in the world – takes place in the city’s famous walled Old Town, and is known for its incredible gingerbread. As winter winds down, hike through the Black Forest to observe early spring flowers, a scene from a real-life fairytale.
Spain Offers Perfection All Year
Spain is the sunniest destination of Europe, and the perfect getaway all year long for soaking up the rays. While the sweltering heat of summer is great for enjoying a day of swimming, the milder climates of Spanish winter provide perfectly enjoyable weather for walking along the beach or sitting outside on a terrace in the city. Even the mountainous snowy regions of Spain experience 80 percent sunny days throughout the year, so it’s possible to get the best of both worlds – magically snowy mountain ranges matched with sunshiny surroundings. Spain also boasts exciting festivals all year long such as Barcelona’s beautiful Christmas season with vibrant holiday markets, glimmering light festivals, and seasonal carolers, followed by Valencia’s sensational Fallas Festival taking place in the early spring.
Set your sights on wintertime travel, and take the opportunity to explore these destinations and beyond, all year long! Check out our Go365 e-Brochure for a collection of select hotels and experiences that are perfect for visiting this autumn, winter, and spring. Avanti believes that it’s always a good day to travel!