6 Unexpected Places to Find the Winter Sun

Winter travel doesn’t have to mean chasing heat at all costs. Sometimes what helps most is steady light, walkable days, open cafés, and places that still function normally once the summer crowds leave.

These destinations aren’t sold as classic winter escapes, but they do offer color and warmth when much of the world feels stalled.

Each of these places works in the winter for clear, practical reasons: the weather cooperates; the cities stay open; the food scenes don’t shut down; and the days unfold easily without the pressure to rush around.

Seville, Spain

Winter is one of the best times to be in Seville. The daytime temperatures usually sit comfortably in the mid-60s, which makes walking the city genuinely enjoyable. The streets remain alive, but sightseeing feels calmer without the heat and summer tour groups.

You can spend your mornings at the Alcázar and Cathedral without the long lines, then cross the river into Triana for lunch and neighborhood wandering. The plazas stay active throughout the day, as well, and the evenings still belong to outdoor dining.

For food, El Rinconcillo serves classic Andalusian dishes in a space that’s unchanged by the seasons. Casa Morales works well for wine and shared plates, while La Brunilda delivers more contemporary dishes without losing its local footing.

Staying central here will make your days easier. Hotel Casa 1800 will place you close to all the major sights while still remaining quiet at night. Then, if you want warmth and space with a bit of grandeur, Hotel Alfonso XIII is particularly comfortable in the cooler months.

Athens, Greece

Athens often surprises winter travelers. The city is mild; the skies are frequently clear; and major sites stay open. Without the summer heat, walking between neighborhoods feels manageable, rather than draining.

Winter days also work well for the Acropolis and Ancient Agora, followed by long lunches in Plaka or Koukaki. The museums become a bigger part of the rhythm, as well, and the cafés stay busy well into the evening.

Reliable places to eat include Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani for hearty meals, and Avli for relaxed dinners away from the busiest streets.

For your accommodations, Herodion Hotel is full of warmth, walkability, and easy access to the major sites. COCO‑MAT Athens BC is another great option if you enjoy light-filled rooms and modern comforts throughout those shorter winter days.

Palermo, Italy

Palermo doesn’t slow down in the winter. The markets and cafés are still busy, and the temperatures are mild enough for long walks, especially along the waterfront and through the historic districts.

Mornings will feel made for the Ballarò or Capo markets, followed by visits to the Norman churches and neighborhood streets that are less crowded than the summer. You could say the pace is steady, not sleepy.

Food remains one of Palermo’s strongest draws. Antica Focacceria San Francesco is your best bet for local staples. Osteria Ballarò focuses on seasonal cooking, and Bisso Bistrot works well for simple lunches near the major sights.

For places to stay, Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa focuses on space and calm in the city center, and Hotel Porta Felice provides great value and easy access to the historic core.

Lagos, Portugal

Like these other cities, Lagos works well in the winter because it never fully shuts down. The days remain bright and the coastal paths accessible. The restaurants continue operating year-round, too. The emphasis shifts from beaches to walking and time outside without the heat.

Cliff walks around Ponta da Piedade are so much fun in the cooler weather, and the old town feels calmer without the seasonal crowds. Afternoons stretch out comfortably by the water.

For meals, Quay Lagos is great for casual lunches, and Portofino’s has some nice vegan options.

Staying slightly outside the center can make your winter visit feel more restful. Cascade Wellness Resort is all about the views, while Casa Mãe balances design with a relaxed, all-season feel.