6 weekend getaways that could help to beat the winter blues

Now that Christmas and the new year are behind us, you could be truly feeling the “winter blues”. Although the days are becoming longer, you might find yourself wishing away the next few months and waiting in hope that spring will come quickly.

If so, you and your family could be exploring the idea of grabbing a weekend getaway somewhere exciting. Keep reading to discover six fabulous destinations.

1. Oslo, Norway

While it might seem counterintuitive to visit an even colder location when you’re feeling the winter blues, Norway’s capital city is the perfect location for a luxury holiday set against a wintery landscape.

With several high-end hotels to choose from, the Norwegians know how to do winter right. Think open log fires, warming meals, cosy cafes, and well-run transport that doesn’t let snow get in its way.

Plus, you could take a day trip from Oslo up to Norway’s stunning fjords, enjoying the remote frozen landscape and taking in glaciers from either a car, bus, train, or boat.

2. Rome, Italy

While most people visit Italy in the summer to enjoy the hot weather along with taking in the culture, you might find that Rome is better seen and experienced in the quieter winter months. Italy’s capital is steeped in history and boasts stunning food, hotels, and shopping opportunities to boot.

In February, Rome sees temperatures of around 14 degrees Celsius in the daytime – hardly freezing conditions! Stroll around the Colosseum and drink coffee on the Piazza Navona, without the bustling summer crowds that can dull the experience for many visitors.

3. Iceland

Just a few hours away by plane is a remote, historic, and surprisingly accessible country nestled between the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans: Iceland.

Its capital city, Reykjavik, is known for its luxurious hospitality, high-end restaurants and sleek, modern architecture.

Stray further afield by car or on a bus tour, you could find yourself relaxing in a natural hot spring or perhaps riding an Icelandic pony around the country’s vast volcanic landscape. If you’re lucky, you could even catch a glimpse of Aurora Borealis, also known as the northern lights – a bucket list experience for so many people around the world.

What’s more, Lonely Planet says that 2025 is one of the best years in a long time to view the northern lights, and names Iceland as the number one location for spotting them.

4. Rabat, Morocco

If you’re craving warmth but don’t fancy a long-haul flight, Rabat could be on the top of your travel list this winter.

Just over five hours’ flight from London, this accessible capital city of Morocco boasts average highs of 20 degrees Celsius between December and February. Rabat is known for its stunning riad accommodation, bustling markets, and historic religious buildings.

Plus, you might find that holidays to Rabat are more cost-effective in the winter months, giving you the perfect excuse to hop on a plane and explore a new part of the world while escaping the cold and gloom!

5. Brussels, Belgium

If you’re a homebody who doesn’t wish to travel too far afield, Brussels might be the getaway for you. Under an hour by plane or accessible on the Eurostar, this eclectic city has it all: beer, culture, shopping, and some of Europe’s best restaurants.

Whether you want to nestle into a pub and try a handful of local beers and ales, take a day trip to the historic cities of Ghent and Bruges, or do a spot of designer shopping in the high-end district of La Sablon, Brussels could provide you with exactly the getaway you need at this time of year.

6. Krakow, Poland

Fast becoming one of the trendiest getaway spots in Europe, Krakow effortlessly combines the modern way of life with a fascinating, important historical background.

One of the cities most affected by the Nazi regime in the second world war, Krakow is a must-visit location for those fascinated by history. You can tour the factory of Oskar Schindler and even take an educational day trip to the sombre location of Auschwitz, located just an hour outside of the city.

In the evenings, Krakow’s beautiful city centre is home to a selection of bars, clubs, and restaurants that enable you to kick back and relax with your friends, family, or partner. With easy transport links to and from the airport and a friendly atmosphere, Krakow might be just the ticket to beat your winter blues and pique your historic interests.