January’s long, dark days are the perfect time to start planning for warmer climes. While this month often feels interminable, February half-term is less than four weeks away – and there are deals to be found, if you’re prepared to deviate from the obvious winter-sun destinations.
Elsewhere, one-way fares to the Albanian capital of Tirana are as low as £13. Opting for a package deal – particularly in popular summer holiday destinations – can also prove economical.
Albania
Many visitors to Albania in winter migrate to the mountains for winter sports, but lower-lying areas have a much milder climate. Architecture fans will love the eclectic mix of Ottoman and Soviet-era buildings in Tirana, the country’s capital, where you can also visit the derelict Piramida (a former museum and Nato base), the elegant Et’hem Bey Mosque and Bunk’Art, a gallery in an underground bunker.
Malta
Malta’s historic capital of Valletta is prone to overcrowding in the busy summer months, making February an ideal time to explore this pretty city.
Valletta is one of Europe’s smallest capital cities, making it the perfect size to explore with little legs in tow. Its history and culture are brought to life at Malta 5D, a cinematic experience that incorporates moving seats, air blasts and water sprays that kids will love, while the explosive sound of the daily cannon fire on the 16th-century Saluting Battery will delight youngsters. In the south of the island, a dedicated Playmobil Fun Park will also keep little ones entertained.
Winter in Malta is mild, with February temperatures in this popular archipelago averaging around 15°C, although it’s worth packing a jumper for the evenings. And according to the Met Office, Malta enjoys higher sea temperatures than in any other part of Europe.
Cyprus
February enjoys an average daily maximum temperature of 17°C, making it the perfect time to embark on one of this ancient island’s 52 designated walking trails. From lizard-spotting and birdwatching on short trails through forests and national parks, to picturesque coastal hikes that take in ancient temples and sea caves, there are routes for all ages and abilities.
Morocco
Money-saving website Savoo named Marrakech the best value all-inclusive destination in the world in 2023, but if you’re keen to sample the local cuisine, Morocco is an economical choice. According to Numbeo’s Cost of Living database, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs just £2.76, meaning gastronomes can look forward to gorging on tagine and sfenj for a song.
Expect a feast for the senses in the labyrinths of souk Semmarine and Djemaa El Fna, where snake charmers and street performers will make young eyes pop. And with an average temperature of about 20°C, freezing mornings waiting for your delayed commuter train will feel light years away.
Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is beautiful year-round and visiting in February means fewer crowds and shorter queues outside top museums such as Florence’s Uffizi and Galleria dell’Accademia.
It’s also carnival time. Every weekend in February, the seaside town of Viareggio plays host to one of Italy’s most famous festivals, with colourful floats, music and fancy dress.
Costa Blanca, Spain
Consider an active winter sun holiday with a difference on the Costa Blanca. Dodge the skyscrapers of Benidorm and go hiking, horseback-riding and cycling in the national parks and mountains of Alicante.
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