Published 18th Jan. 2024
Reading time
The appeal of visiting hot countries during the summer season is a no-brainer. Whether you want to explore sunny cities in California or cruise down a Venetian canal, sunny destinations are highly sought-after during the summer. But take away the sun, and you’ll discover these places have plenty to offer during the colder months too. Visiting during the off-season means seeing the same sights – just with smaller crowds – and experiencing your favourite destinations in a completely different light. It’s also the ultimate form of Undertourism, a concept we’re keen champions of. Eager to uncover the icy side of summer-holiday hotspots? Read on for a roundup of our favourite winter in summer destinations…
Venice has long been a destination for the romantics. And when you pair the canals and cobblestones with winter’s lingering mist, you’re gifted with storybook scenery that even the most reluctant romantics won’t be able to resist swooning at. With winter temperatures sitting snugly below ten degrees Celsius, Venice’s historic hotspots are often dusted with snow during the colder months. Saint Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace and Ca’ d’Oro are all transformed into wintery wonderlands and – bonus – they’re free from the summer crowds. If you fancy really pushing the romantic boat out (literally), plan a trip around Valentine’s Day, and include a gondola ride in your itinerary. As you pass beneath the Bridge of Sighs, kiss your special someone; legend has it that you’ll be promised eternal love. And we promise that you’ll never see the Grand Canal so peaceful.
California has been dubbed the ‘Golden State’ for good reason – the sunny climate lends itself to golden sunsets, sands and surfers (nothing beats the Californian tan). But in the winter months, head to the mountains and you’ll find the state sporting a different colour: a bright and brilliant white. California is home to over 30 ski resorts that welcome powder-lovers from mid-November to mid-May, ranging from the aptly named Mammoth Mountain to the picturesque pistes of Lake Tahoe. And for a spot of sun, combine your mountain adventure with a trip to the Pacific Coast; the temperatures won’t soar to their summer heights, but the craggy cliffs and silky sands still shine in all their golden glory.
Come snow or shine, a self-drive adventure around Croatia is one of the best ways to discover the country’s charms. The cool coastal cities and waterfall-filled wildernesses continue to thrive as the temperature drops, filling car windows with snowy views. Think the likes of Plitvice Lakes National Park, a frozen force of nature complete with snowy trails that wind around icy waters. And while the Dalmatia Coast may not see the same snow-capped scenes, the terracotta towns benefit from the cool winter sun and diminished crowds.
Seville doesn’t really do winter. Yes, the temperatures halve (to a respectable 15-20°C) and you might need a cardigan at night, but the signature orange trees still line the streets and plates of tapas are still devoured al fresco. Without the scorching summer temperatures, hotspots like the Plaza Nueva and the 800-year-old cathedral can be enjoyed without breaking a sweat. Come nighttime, catch an indoor flamenco show to avoid the evening chill and witness one of the region’s best-loved art forms. With sangria in hand and toes tapping away, you’ll forget all about the winter blues back home.
Written by Evie Buller
Practical advice and inspiration for your next trip
Introducing travel heroes: individuals who inspire us with their innovation, dedication and creativity within the travel industry. These are people who embody the Original Travel mission and values in their work and who deserve a moment in the spotlight. Developed from our Original Traveller feature, read on as we celebrate our favourite global champions of sustainability, cultural heritage and conservation.
20th April 2026 - Travel Inspiration
Seeing great art remains one of travel’s most rewarding pursuits. Sure, the classics – Paris, New York, Madrid, Amsterdam – will always dazzle, but for true connoisseurs, the real thrill is discovering something a little more off the beaten track. Luckily, we’ve mapped out an atlas of alternative destinations that deserve a place on every culture-curious traveller’s itinerary: from art-dotted islands in Japan’s Inland Sea and a minimalist mecca hidden in the Texan desert all the way to Cape Town, where contemporary African art blooms between galleries and vineyards.
13th April 2026 - Travel Inspiration
With a rich blend of ancient traditions, pop culture and ultra-modern cities, a getaway to Japan or South Korea often becomes something more. Suddenly, you’re not just a visitor, you’re part of the fan club. These are destinations people fall for quickly and return to often, finding new favourites with every trip. From the neon lights of Tokyo to the sizzling barbecues of Seoul, the real question isn’t which is better, but which do you visit first?
6th April 2026 - Travel Inspiration
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
