Lonely PlanetAug 21, 2026
The 13 best places to visit in Europe in winter
Put off the January blues by booking an off-season experience in Europe.
20 things in this story
- Keşlik MonasterySightExplore its rock-hewn structures.
- KaymaklıHotelLabyrinthine underground city.
- Göreme Open-Air MuseumMuseumFresco-covered cave churches.
- Ihlara ValleyTrailWintry walks.
- Elsewhere
- Guggenheim MuseumMuseumBilbao, SpainGroundbreaking architecture.
- Plaza NuevaNeighborhoodBilbao, SpainBiggest pick of pintxos bars.
- Mercado de la RiberaMarketBilbao, SpainArt-deco market with cafes and produce stalls.
- Playa del MatorralSightFuerteventura, SpainLengthy beach.
- CofeteSightFuerteventura, SpainOffbeat and isolated beach.
- Parque Natural de CorralejoSightFuerteventura, SpainEndless dunes.
- Eryri (Snowdonia)TrailSnowdonia, United KingdomMountains, coastline, lakes, waterfalls.
- National White Water CentrePlaceSnowdonia, United KingdomOpen to rafters year-round.
- Azkuna ZentroaArts centreBilbao, SpainExhibition space with rooftop pool.
- Casco ViejoNeighborhoodBilbao, SpainAmble through cafes and produce stalls.
- Siete CallesNeighborhoodBilbao, SpainMedieval streets.
- Sé (cathedral)SightFunchal, PortugalOrnate cathedral.
- Mercado dos LavradoresMarketFunchal, PortugalArt deco market.
- Monte Palace Tropical GardensGardenMonte, PortugalBloom year-round.
- Reid's PalaceCaféFunchal, PortugalElegant afternoon tea service.
- Museo de Bellas ArtesMuseumBilbao, Spain