For those who aren’t looking to trek through the Central American jungle or stay at an all-inclusive Caribbean resort, Europe in winter is the perfect alternative. Here’s you saying goodbye to the Canadian cold this year! With its rich cultural discoveries, gastronomy, and breathtaking landscapes, Europe offers an exceptional backdrop in any season. Why not wander through the picturesque streets of Algarve, discover the historic treasures of Istanbul, or scale a mountain peak in the Canary Islands?
With Air Transat, reaching these incredible destinations is effortless thanks to our direct flights operating from Toronto all winter long.
Is it worth visiting Europe in winter?
Traveling to Europe during the off-season colder months comes with a host of benefits:
- Avoid the peak-season tourist crowds.
- Take advantage of significantly lower prices on everything from accommodations, flights, car rentals and attractions.
- Enjoy more freedom, as fewer visitors and reduced wait times mean you can explore iconic landmarks and world-famous museums without the usual hustle and bustle.
- Bask in the sun with mild daytime temperatures that hit the perfect sweet spot.
Stroll through charming side streets, soak up the festive atmosphere at Christmas markets, or catch some sun in the countryside or the city. Either way, you’ll get to experience these destinations from a brand-new perspective!
Manchester
Sure, winter in England gets a bad rap—it’s damp, grey, and cold enough to make you think twice. But honestly, that’s half the fun. Lean into it. Let the gloomy weather be your excuse to hide out in Manchester’s top-tier museums, like Science and Industry, where you can trace the city’s industrial roots before dodging the drizzle into a local pub.
Skip the heavy coat and just throw on a light down jacket for the damp air—you’ll be plenty warm enough to soak up Manchester’s famous Christmas spirit and ring in the New Year like a local.
Do what the Mancunians do: snag a table by a roaring fire, tuck into a proper Sunday roast, and end up chatting with strangers over a pint of real ale. Add in the holiday markets serving up hot mulled wine and street food, or the raw energy of a freezing matchday at Old Trafford, and you’ve got a city that actually shines when the temperature drops.
Glasgow
Winter in Glasgow is brisk, dark, and undeniably atmospheric—and that’s precisely why it works. What the city lacks in daylight hours, it more than makes up for in raw warmth, character, and sharp wit.
Start your day in the West End wandering past moody Victorian sandstone before ducking out of the cold into the soaring halls of Kelvingrove Museum. As dusk settles early, Glasgow’s streets light up with holiday markets, hot spiced drinks, and the irresistible hum of a city that knows how to handle the cold.
When night falls, the energy moves indoors. Glasgow’s legendary music scene takes over—from sweaty indie basements to traditional fiddle sessions in old-school pubs. After a crisp day trip to the nearby snow-dusted Highlands, there’s nothing better than thawing out by a pub fire with a plate of comfort food and a dram of single malt. Cold outside? Sure. Boring? Not a chance.
Which part of Europe has the best weather and what is the the warmest place? Faro, Portugal!
Winter destination in Europe? We got you. If you’re looking to trade freezing winds for reliable coastal sunshine, Algarve is an absolute cheat code to Toronto winters. While the rest of Europe hunkers down under grey skies, Portugal’s southern coast gets bathed in brilliant, golden light. Expect comfortable, mild daytime temperatures that hit that perfect sweet spot—warm enough to shed the heavy layers, crisp enough for outdoor adventures, and sun-soaked enough to make you forget winter even exists.
Algarve is definitely one of the best places for a winter holiday in the warm sun, away from the crowds. And not a hint of snowy landscapes in sight!
Without the stifling heat or summer crowds, the region’s landscape is yours to explore. Wander through the cobbled alleyways of Faro’s old town, scale the Moorish ramparts of Silves Castle for sweeping views of the countryside, or hike the dramatic sea cliffs of Ponta da Piedade above turquoise waters. Even famous spots like Benagil Cave and the golden sands of the coast feel like private sanctuaries. Between sightseeing, drop by a historic vineyard like Morgado do Quintão for a quiet afternoon of wine tasting in the sun.
An absolute dream, or what?
- Check seasonal hours: While major attractions and main city restaurants stay open year-round, smaller beach shacks and seasonal spots in tourist-heavy towns may close or keep shorter hours during winter.
- Pack in layers: A t-shirt or light shirt is usually plenty for sun-drenched afternoons, but you’ll want a light jacket once the sun sets and the sea breeze cools down.
- Rent a car: Public transit slows down in the off-season, and having your own wheels makes hopping between coastal trails, hidden beaches, and small villages effortless.
Fly to and from Europe with the World’s Best
It’s no wonder Air Transat has been named the World’s Best Leisure Airline by Skytrax seven times. We’ve perfected the “little things” so you can focus on the journey ahead… And it’s always about the little things, isn’t it?
- Your carry-on is always included.
- Enjoy two complimentary meal services paired with your choice of fine red or white wine.
- Experience the warmth of our signature attentive and efficient service.
- Relax in the spacious, state-of-the-art cabins of our modern Airbus fleet.
- Our specialized ambient mood lighting syncs with your body clock to help beat jet lag before you even land.
