Sunny and picturesque: top 5 warmest cities in Europe in winter

No matter how fabulous the frosty season is, you often just want to bask in the warm rays. And we're not talking about a beach vacation, but rather about favorable weather for walks, breakfast on the terrace in the open air, or reading a book on the waterfront. If you don't like the cold but don't know where to go, read on.

Lisbon, Portugal

Located in the west of the country on the right bank of the Tagus River. One of the warmest European capitals, characterized by a Mediterranean climate. In winter, the average temperature ranges from +14°C to +17°C.

We recommend starting your trip from the Torre de Belém, the seventh wonder of Portugal. The tower was built in 1520 in the Manueline style. On July 8, 1497, an expedition led by the navigator Vasco da Gama began from here. Tourists can visit the Governor's Hall, the King's Hall and the Audience Hall. There is also a terrace on the fifth floor that serves as an observation deck.

Next, go to the Palace of Queluz. Its construction lasted from 1742 to 1767. Queen Maria I of Portugal once lived here. Traditionally, one of the pavilions of the cultural building is used during official visits by heads of foreign governments.

Be sure to visit Quinta da Regaleira in the Lisbon district. The estate consists of a chapel, a so-called castle, and a picturesque park. Its former owner is millionaire António Augusto. The building was made in the Gothic and Renaissance styles. Today, the location has become an ideal place for walking. The garden is equipped with benches, fountains, grottoes, etc.

Syracuse, Italy

It is located in the Sicily region. The city is characterized by a Mediterranean climate. From December to February, the average temperature ranges from +14°C to +16°C.

Visit Castello Maniace. The fortress was built between 1232 and 1240 by order of King Frederick II. At first it served as the residence of the Sicilian rulers, and in the XV century it was a prison. Here you can see Norman ceramics, handmade grenades, and admire the sea.

Also, be sure to visit the Ear of Dionysius. The artificial cave was built in an old stone quarry. Its height reaches 23 meters, and its shape creates phenomenal acoustics with 16 times sound amplification.

Málaga, Spain

It is located in the south of the country in Andalusia. The city is considered one of the oldest in Europe. Dry, sunny weather prevails here. In winter, the average temperature ranges from +16°C to +17°C.

Visit the Málaga Cathedral. The shrine was founded in 1500 on the site of a former mosque. It has a courtyard with orange trees.

Also, go to the Alcazaba de Málaga. The Arab fortress was built in the VIII century. The building is considered the best preserved alcazaba in Spain. Not far from it are the ruins of an ancient Roman theater.

In the evening, we recommend a walk along the Muelle Uno pedestrian promenade. There are palm trees, shops and restaurants along the promenade.

Valletta, Malta

It is located on the Mediterranean coast. The Mediterranean climate prevails here. From December to February, the air temperature ranges from +15°C to +16°C.

First, go to the Saint John's Co-Cathedral. It was built by the Knights Hospitaller in the period of 1573-1578. There are 8 pillars in the shrine, symbolizing the same number of regions from which the warriors came. We advise you to pay attention to the painting by Michelangelo da Caravaggio, which depicts the execution of John the Baptist.

We also recommend taking a walk to the Upper Barrakka Gardens. The attraction was created in the XVI century as a resting place for knights. Today you can admire the surroundings of Valletta.

Almería, Spain

It is located in the southeast of the country in Andalusia. It is dominated by the Mediterranean climate. The city is considered the driest in Europe. From December to February, the average temperature ranges from +16°C to +17°C.

Visit the Almería Fortress. In 955, the Caliph of Cordoba, Abd al-Rahman III, granted Almería the status of a city, and the construction of a defensive citadel began at the same time. It served not only to protect the neighborhood, but also as the center of local government.

Also, visit the Almería Cathedral, the main church of the Diocese of Almería. The shrine was built in the Gothic and Renaissance styles. Later it was supplemented with elements of Baroque and Neoclassicism.

Explore the warm cities of Europe! Leave behind the daily routine!