Discover 10 European destinations perfect for a winter sun escape. From the Canary Islands and Cyprus to Crete, Andalusia, and the Algarve, explore warm, sun-soaked getaways where blue skies and mild breezes replace winter’s chill.

Winter doesn’t always have to mean numb fingers, grey mornings and a kettle working overtime. Somewhere in Europe—right now—waves are brushing warm shores, oranges are ripening in sun-drenched groves, and fishing villages are basking under a soft glow that feels more like late spring than December. While the rest of the continent bundles up, these pockets stay defiantly golden. They’re the places travellers whisper about, return to, and guard like secrets—perfect for anyone chasing a little warmth without crossing oceans. If you’re ready to trade frost for sunlight, here are 10 winter sun destinations in Europe where blue skies and mild breezes still rule the season.

1. Canary Islands, Spain

The Canaries are where Europe goes to thaw. In winter, the islands settle into a deliciously slow rhythm—think warm sands, gentle Atlantic breezes, and volcanic landscapes that glow under the softest sunlight. Tenerife and Gran Canaria stay comfortably above 20°C, making them a rare mix of winter warmth and wild, natural beauty.

2. Madeira, Portugal

Madeira feels like a place the seasons forgot. Its subtropical cliffs stay green, its levada trails run clear, and its seas shimmer even in January. Winter brings a quieter, more soulful version of the island—perfect for long oceanfront breakfasts and unrushed hikes.

3. Cyprus

In Cyprus, winter tastes like honey, olives, and salty sea air. The island’s ancient theatres and seaside ruins look even more magical under soft sunlight, and with temperatures often touching 20°C, you can swim, explore, and dine outdoors without a jacket.

4. Malta & Gozo

Malta’s honey-stone cities and deep-blue harbours feel tailor-made for winter wanderers. The crowds disappear, the sun lingers, and nearby Gozo transforms into an island of quiet coastal walks and long lunches. It’s Europe’s smallest but sunniest winter escape.

5. Crete, Greece

The big Greek islands sleep in winter—but Crete doesn’t. Olive harvests, mountain villages, and rugged gorges keep the island alive with a warm, earthy charm. Mornings are bright, the beaches are empty, and local tavernas welcome you like a long-lost friend.

6. Andalusia, Spain

Winter in Andalusia feels like a stolen holiday. Seville’s orange trees glow against blue skies, Málaga’s waterfront hums gently with life, and Cádiz sparkles like a coastal gem untouched by cold. It’s the kind of place where you can explore all day in a light sweater—and still feel the sun.

7. Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve’s beaches don’t need summer to impress. Rugged cliffs, golden coves, and sleepy fishing towns make this region a warm winter refuge. Expect long, sunlit walks, quiet coastal drives, and just the right amount of social buzz.

8. Sicily, Italy

Sicily in winter is a delicious secret. Mild days, citrus-scented air, quiet archaeological sites, and coastal towns that look like postcards left out under a gentle sun. Add a glass of local wine at golden hour, and you might start questioning why people only visit in summer.

9. Azores, Portugal

Not exactly tropical—but wonderfully mild and magical. The Azores offer steaming hot springs, emerald volcano lakes, and a constant veil of soft Atlantic sun that makes winter feel like a restorative retreat. Perfect for travellers who crave nature more than beaches.

10. Southern Turkey (Antalya & Alanya)

Blessed with warm seas, ancient ruins, and golden-light coastlines, southern Turkey is one of Europe’s most underrated winter-sun getaways. Temperatures flirt with the low 20s, cafés spill out onto the promenades, and the Mediterranean looks impossibly blue.

If you’ve been thinking, “I need a break”, then there’s no occasion better than Thanksgiving to plan a solo trip for. Your boss tells you to complete the work quickly, and social media tells you to slowly enjoy your day. In this push and pull of work-life balance, you end up with a box full of mail and a sink full of dishes while scrolling reels. But why wait for the year-end for a reset? If you want to make a change and create an ideal routine for yourself then begin it by taking a refreshing trip to a breathtaking location right in the US. Here are 5 spots you can plan a solo trip to for Thanksgiving 2025.

Park City, Utah

If Hollywood romances have taught us something, it’s that snow is a must on holidays. Thus, if you have been hoping to put those skiing skills to the test or make angels in the snow, then Park City must be your destination. It is a world-class ski town with three different resorts. Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, fat biking or even a hot air balloon ride, you can have it all there.

Anchorage, Alaska

The Alaskan wilderness is a thing of beauty and is worth a trip for sure. Guess what, you can even tick off viewing the Northern Lights with this trip! Thanksgiving in Anchorage begins in a unique way with the Türkey Trot race, where participants dress up as turkeys and race through the streets of the city. Add in some snowy fun through skiing and ice skating, and end the trip with some seasonal delicacies.

Big Island, Hawaii

For those who would trade the mountains for the beaches, the Big Island in Hawaii is the ideal place. You will be able to escape the crowd without missing out on Hawaii’s specialities. Walk around volcanoes, try out diving, go snorkelling, walk on the beach or just hike along the trails. It is the perfect place to get lost in and find yourself.

Page, Arizona

For those who would love to explore nature’s creativity, Page is just the beginning. Visit the Horseshoe Bend, go water-sporting on Lake Powell, tour the famous Slot Canyon, and don’t forget to visit the Antelope Canyon for some great photos.

New York City

For those who thrive in the hustle and bustle of the city, there’s no place like New York. Attend the globally famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, watch a Broadway show, hit up some bars, binge on some New York-style pizza and hey don’t forget to greet the Statue of Liberty!

Solo travel on Thanksgiving

While Thanksgiving is all about love and relationships, sometimes you might feel like you need some time to yourself. Where you want to sit by the beach or at the top of a snowy hill and take a deep breath? All to let go of yesterday and take in today, because the present while travelling is like no other. Happy Thanksgiving!

Discover the 10 best Thanksgiving travel destinations in the U.S. From historic towns to snowy escapes and festive city celebrations, plan a memorable holiday getaway this season.

Thanksgiving isn’t just a holiday—it’s an invitation to slow down, savor life, and explore. From bustling city streets decked out in festive lights to quiet towns where autumn leaves crunch underfoot, the U.S. transforms into a playground of culture, flavor, and seasonal magic. For travelers, it’s the perfect time to escape, celebrate, and create memories that linger long after the last bite of pumpkin pie. Whether you crave history, natural beauty, or big-city energy, these 10 destinations combine charm, tradition, and experiences that will make your Thanksgiving truly unforgettable. Here’s where to go for feasts, festivities, and fall adventures this year.

1. New York City, New York – Parade, Magic, and Midtown Glow

There’s nothing like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in Manhattan. Giant balloons float past skyscrapers, marching bands fill the streets with music, and crowds cheer with excitement. Pair it with a stroll through Central Park to catch the fiery hues of fall foliage, and you have a Thanksgiving that feels larger than life.

2. Plymouth, Massachusetts – A Taste of History

Step back to where it all began. Plymouth lets travelers walk in the footsteps of the first Thanksgiving, with historic reenactments, harvest festivals, and traditional feasts. Cobblestone streets and charming harbor views make it a quintessential autumn escape steeped in tradition.

3. Chicago, Illinois – City Lights & Holiday Cheer

Chicago combines urban energy with festive charm. From the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival to cozy riverfront restaurants, the city sparkles in November. Layer in lakefront views and the rich architecture of downtown, and Thanksgiving in Chicago feels like a cinematic holiday scene come to life.

4. Williamsburg, Virginia – Colonial Charm with Modern Comforts

Williamsburg captures the spirit of Thanksgiving like no other. Colonial-era celebrations, period costumes, and harvest markets make it a living history experience. Pair it with nearby Jamestown and Yorktown for a full immersion into early American life—a feast for the senses, history buffs, and families alike.

5. San Antonio, Texas – Southwest Flavor Meets Festivity

San Antonio’s Thanksgiving is a vibrant celebration of culture, food, and community. Wander along the River Walk, enjoy festive parades, and savor Tex-Mex Thanksgiving dishes that add a spicy twist to tradition. Mild November weather makes it perfect for families and food lovers alike.

6. Asheville, North Carolina – Mountains, Foliage, and Cozy Vibes

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a dream for leaf-peepers and outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through national forests or explore the Biltmore Estate, decked in seasonal decor. With crisp mountain air and a welcoming small-town energy, Asheville offers a Thanksgiving escape that’s equal parts adventure and relaxation.

7. Santa Fe, New Mexico – Art, Culture, and Southwestern Feasts

Santa Fe is a feast for the eyes and the palate. From adobe architecture and bustling art galleries to Thanksgiving dinners spiced with local chile flavors, it’s a city that blends culture, cuisine, and history. Crisp skies and festive markets make it a captivating holiday destination.

8. Napa Valley, California – Wine Country Indulgence

Thanksgiving in Napa is all about indulgence and scenic luxury. Tour vineyards, sip world-class wines, and enjoy gourmet holiday meals amid rolling hills and golden vineyards. Perfect for couples or groups looking to pair seasonal flavors with breathtaking views.

9. Boston, Massachusetts – History, Charm, and Culinary Delights

Boston’s cobbled streets, historic sites, and Thanksgiving specials in local eateries create a holiday full of character. Walk the Freedom Trail, savor pumpkin-spiced treats, and enjoy the vibrant fall foliage along the Charles River. It’s a city that blends history with cozy seasonal charm.

10. Orlando, Florida – Family Fun & Festive Adventures

Orlando offers a Thanksgiving packed with energy and entertainment. Theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios go all out with seasonal parades, shows, and themed feasts. Mild weather and family-friendly attractions make it ideal for multi-generational Thanksgiving trips.

And if you find yourself lost about what to pack, the viral 5-4-3-2-1 method can come in handy.

Does packing before a holiday give you the creeps? And just the mere thought of organising multiple pairs of dresses, shirts, bottoms, shoes and accessories inside a suitcase paralyses you with fear? Worry not; the internet is full of quick hacks that can save you last-minute stress and anxiety, and we recently came across digital creator Shashank Arora’s post that takes us through not one, but 3 simple packing methods to make travel light and easy.

While people are divided over the best way to pack clothes, Arora decided to test the three options using one small bag and the same set of clothes.

1. The normal fold method: Managed to fit 5 shirts, 4 t-shirts, 3 pants (2 jeans + 1 formal), 2 towels, and 2 shorts, plus shoes, socks, slippers, and boxers. Everything looked neat and easy to access.

2. The viral vertical packing method: In this method, you stack clothes upright instead of flat. It’s supposed to save space – but it only fit one extra shirt. You also need a bigger suitcase since the method takes up more height. Not great for formal clothes either – wrinkles and crushed collars are guaranteed.

3. The rolling method: Here, you roll every item – shirts, pants, even towels. It saves a little space, but it’s time-consuming and doesn’t look as organised. Works best for casuals like t-shirts and jeans, but not for structured clothes.

So, is there really a best method?

While no single method fits all, costume designer Shilpa GNS said that the normal fold method tends to work best, helping keep the clothes clean and relatively wrinkle-free. However, she suggested customising and switching between the three and seeing what works best for you. “Rolling thinner clothes and folding the heavier ones offers the most space inside the suitcase overall,” she said.

Beyond the packing method, if you find yourself lost about what to pack, the viral 5-4-3-2-1 method can come in real handy.

What is the 5-4-3-2-1 method?

1. 5 pieces of clothing

Limit yourself to five essential clothing items. These should be versatile and suitable for different occasions, such as a combination of casual wear, one or two dressier outfits, and weather-appropriate layers. For example, you can pack a pair of jeans, two tops, a sweater, and a dress. By choosing pieces that can be mixed and matched, you create multiple outfits without overpacking.

2. 4 pairs of shoes

Shoes take up space, so choose wisely. Stick to four pairs that meet the needs of your activities. This could include a pair of comfortable walking shoes, dress shoes, sandals, and sneakers. Make sure to pack shoes that are durable and appropriate for the climate and activities you’ll be doing on your trip.

3. 3 accessories

Accessories can elevate your outfits and help you adapt to different situations, but they don’t need to take up much room. Choose three versatile accessories, like a scarf, a belt, or a hat. You can also include practical accessories like a crossbody bag or sunglasses to complete your packing.

4. 2 bathing suits or specialties

Depending on your destination, you might need to pack items like swimsuits, sports gear, or workout clothes. Keep these to a minimum, with just two specialty items. For a beach vacation, you might pack a swimsuit and a cover-up. For a hiking trip, it could be a workout set and a jacket.

5. 1 extra or wildcard item

This could be anything you think will be especially useful for your trip but doesn’t fit into the other categories. It might be a book for downtime, a special outfit for an event, or something specific to your destination. This wildcard item is your personal touch to your packing list.