Frost, ice, and snow sometimes create real wonders and can make a fabulous landscape around you in just a moment. Frosty patterns on the windows and crisp snow under your feet, aromas of mulled wine and gingerbread, Christmas fairs, and ice rinks in the open-air – winter has something to compete with other seasons.
And it is not without reason that residents of tropical countries dream about seeing a beautiful winter, throw snowballs, make a snowman or at least an angel in the snow.
But summer doesn’t lose either – it’s the perfect time for a vacation. It is in summer that you can sunbathe on sandy beaches and catch waves somewhere by the sea or ocean.
Each time of year is beautiful in its way, so we have prepared the list of the best cities for both winter and summer holidays
Top Places for Winter Holidays
Abisko, Sweden
The most remote place in northern Europe, which can be reached by train, is Abisko in Lapland. During summer, it looks like a breathtaking place from Wuthering Heights book. But it is a real discovery for lovers of harsh winters.
The sun doesn’t rise for weeks in December and January, so it is one of the best places in the world to watch the grandiose northern lights. You can also go skiing in the national park and enjoy a ride on dogs.
Useful tip: Make a stop near Kiruna and visit the famous ice hotel.
Athens, Greece
It is useless to try to remove 500 people from the best picture you’ve taken of the Parthenon using Photoshop. But if you come here in winter, there may not be such a problem.
All the disadvantages of rest in summer – crowds, high prices for tourists, heat, queues – are absent in winter.
This is the most suitable time to visit the ancient sights of the city and get acquainted with the local culture.
Useful tip: try to travel around the islands, but don’t forget that most of the accommodation is not for rent during winter.
Copenhagen, Denmark
During the fabulous winter in Europe, you should definitely visit the house of Hans Christian Andersen.
In the heart of the city, one can find the 19th-century Tivoli Park. It looks romantic and sentimental at Christmas time, keeping visitors warm with festive illuminations and locally produced wines.
Useful tip: Spend some time eating at Restaurant Noma, which is considered one of the best in the world. Make reservation way in advance, probably a few months before the trip.
Jasna, Slovakia
In Slovakia, you can go skiing at affordable prices. Rentals and meals are also not that expensive, and the local friendliness is well-known among travelers.
Jasna Spa is the best resort in Slovakia, located in the beautiful Tatra Mountains.
Useful tips: direct flights to Slovakia can be expensive, so get there with connections.
Top Places for Summer Holidays
Crete, Greece
The island of Crete is worth visiting for those who want to explore the architecture of the ancient Greeks. You will learn a little more about mythology and have a nice rest on the Mediterranean beaches.
In 2017, Heraklion, the capital of Crete, became the most popular city among new tourist destinations in Europe. Travellers are attracted by the island’s mountains and valleys. Those occupy a large part of the island, as well as the picturesque landscapes of the seafront.
History lovers come to see the archaeological treasures left by Minoan civilization – one of the oldest in Europe.
The Archaeological Museum of Heraklion has many statues, jewellery, drawings and miniatures of ancient buildings. Visiting it will be interesting for those who are fond of mythology and are curious about Ancient Greece. Another iconic place is the Palace of Knossos with the legendary Minotaur labyrinth.
The best period for a trip to Crete is from April to October. During this time, you will not only be able to see the nature and sights of the island but also swim in the sea and dive.
Nagano, Japan
Nagano is a recovery and skiing resort in Japan. It is popular due to its hot springs of Onsen, around which the whole city infrastructure is based. In the suburbs of Nagano, there are several downhills and board skiing, as well as hotels with different levels of service.
Some of them were built last year and are being prepared for the 2020 Summer Olympic Games to be held in Tokyo.
For all akin sports lovers, Japan is a must-visit place for the summer of 2020!
Essaouira, Morocco
Essaouira is an ancient port city with numerous beaches near the Atlantic Ocean. Also, it has preserved the development of old quarters and a huge fort of the 18th century. At the same time, there one can find the best hotels in Morocco.
Despite all the delights, Essaouira is less popular among Moroccan resorts than Marrakech, Agadir, and Casablanca. This is why the ocean coast and popular architecture are not very crowded.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, there are many beautiful places in the world with breathtaking views, delicious cuisine, and interesting traditions. It’s only up to you which season to choose and what ticket to buy!
