Winter trips

If you’re looking for sunshine in winter without having to plan a very long trip, consider southern Europe, the Canary Islands, Morocco or Tunisia. The Canary Islands generally offer a mild climate, ideal for hiking, sightseeing and days by the sea. Marrakech charms visitors with its heritage, gardens and proximity to the Atlas Mountains, whilst Djerba is ideal for travellers seeking a peaceful atmosphere.

For warmer weather, Cape Verde, Egypt, the Caribbean or certain destinations in West Africa are attractive options. Before making your choice, compare daytime and night-time temperatures, as well as water temperature, daylight hours and rainfall. A destination advertised as sunny may still be windy or cool in the evening. The length of your stay should also be consistent with the journey time: for a short break, a nearby destination allows you to make the most of your trip.
 

The best European destinations depend on the atmosphere you’re looking for. For a cultural getaway, Rome, Lisbon, Madrid, Prague or Budapest offer the chance to visit museums, monuments and historic districts in an atmosphere quite different from that of summer. Vienna, Copenhagen and Stockholm charm visitors with their cafés, winter traditions and cultural programmes.

Travellers drawn to the snow might head for Finnish Lapland, Norway, Iceland or the Alpine regions. For milder weather, Málaga, Seville, Faro, Malta and the Canary Islands are worth considering. Winter also has several advantages: some attractions are less crowded, accommodation can be more affordable outside school holidays, and seasonal events lend a special character to your stay. Do, however, check opening times, hours of daylight and weather conditions, especially in northern regions where days can be very short.
 

To keep your winter holiday budget under control, start by looking for destinations that are accessible, with reasonable travel times and an affordable cost of living. Porto, Budapest, Kraków, Prague, Marrakesh or Tunis can offer a good balance between cultural attractions, dining and accommodation. However, the final cost depends heavily on the dates, demand and how far in advance you book.

If your schedule allows, avoid travelling around Christmas, New Year and school holidays. Compare the total cost rather than just the ticket price: luggage, airport transfers, accommodation, meals and activities can significantly affect your budget. A three- or four-night stay in a well-connected city may be more economical than a longer journey involving several connections. Travelling with suitable hand luggage, booking priority entry to attractions and choosing accommodation close to public transport can also help to minimise unexpected expenses.
 

For peak periods, particularly Christmas, New Year and the February school holidays, it’s best to plan ahead. Destinations popular for the festive season, winter sports, sun holidays or the Northern Lights have limited availability during these weeks. Booking early generally offers more choice in terms of travel times, accommodation and travel services.

If your dates are flexible, compare several different departure and return dates. A difference of twenty-four to forty-eight hours can sometimes open up more convenient options. Also check the terms and conditions for changes, included luggage allowances and arrival times before making a decision. For a trip outside school holidays, it is possible to check availability later on, but waiting for a hypothetical price drop remains a gamble. The best strategy is to set an acceptable budget, then book as soon as you find a suitable package that combines transport, accommodation, length of stay and suitable terms and conditions.
 

Start by identifying the experience you really want to have. A holiday in the sun is ideal for travellers who want to slow down, enjoy outdoor activities and soak up some sunshine. A trip to the snow is better suited to those seeking winter landscapes, sports, traditional festivities or Nordic experiences. Also take into account your tolerance to the cold, your preferred pace and the ages of those taking part.

Budget is a second factor to consider. A snowy destination may require technical clothing, specialised transport or equipment hire. Conversely, a warmer destination further afield sometimes involves a longer journey and a stay long enough to justify the cost. Finally, compare the actual weather conditions, not just the seasonal averages. Daylight hours, wind, rainfall and snow cover directly influence the experience. If the group is undecided, a town near the mountains or a Mediterranean destination offering culture and outdoor activities is an attractive compromise.
 

For a cold destination, follow the three-layer principle: a breathable base layer close to the skin, an insulating layer and an outer layer to protect against wind or damp. Add suitable footwear, warm socks, gloves, a hat and a scarf. Sunglasses and sun cream are still useful at high altitudes or in the snow. Also remember to pack a power bank, as the cold can sometimes reduce the battery life of your devices.

For a trip to a sunny destination, pack light clothing, but keep a warm layer for the evenings, air-conditioned areas and the return journey to France. Check the permitted dimensions and weight for each piece of luggage before you set off. Medicines, essential documents, valuables and essential clothing for the first day should be kept in your hand luggage. A list drawn up according to your planned activities will help you avoid packing too much whilst minimising the risk of forgetting anything.
 

Winter conditions can disrupt travel, but a few simple preparations can minimise the difficulties. Check the weather forecast for your departure point, destination and any connecting flights. Check your flight status regularly with the airline and enable any available notifications. On the day of departure, allow plenty of time to get to the airport, particularly in the event of snow, fog or heavy traffic.

Keep your travel documents, any medication, a charger and a few essential items in your hand luggage. Also make a note of the contact details for the airline, your accommodation and any insurance cover. If you have a connecting flight, avoid booking a transfer time that is too tight during periods when bad weather is likely.

Finally, find out about the conditions for making changes and the rights that apply to your journey. The aim is not to anticipate every unforeseen event, but to have the necessary information and belongings to hand quickly should your plans change.
 

Regions north of the Arctic Circle offer the best chances of seeing them. Tromsø and northern Norway, Finnish Lapland, Swedish Lapland and parts of Iceland are among the most popular destinations. To maximise your chances, plan to stay for several nights and get away from urban lights. A clear sky, a dark night and sufficient solar activity are essential.

The period from autumn to early spring is generally the best time, as the nights are long. However, the Northern Lights remain a natural phenomenon that cannot be guaranteed. You should therefore choose a destination that also offers other activities: snowshoeing, saunas, experiencing the local culture, wildlife watching or exploring snow-covered landscapes. Wear several layers of warm clothing and take particular care to protect your hands and feet. For photography, a tripod, a fully charged battery and a camera with manual settings are useful.