When winter rolls around in the UK, it often means grey skies, short days, endless drizzle, and a constant craving for sunshine. But instead of battling the gloom, why not escape it? Winter travel comes with plenty of perks — cheaper flights, fewer crowds, festive lights, and destinations at their most authentic. From cultural city breaks to sunny getaways, there are plenty of affordable flights from London this December, January and February. Here are 12 of the cheapest countries you can fly to in Europe and North Africa this winter.

12. Slovenia from £61

Slovenia is a small country with big winter appeal. Ljubljana’s riverside streets glow with festive lights, while Lake Bled looks even more magical with snow-topped mountains reflected in the water. For skiers, the Julian Alps offer slopes without Alpine price tags, and for city lovers, Ljubljana is one of Europe’s most charming capitals in winter. With hearty food, cosy wine bars, and natural beauty everywhere you turn, Slovenia is an ideal winter escape. At £61, it’s a great value gateway to Alpine scenery.

11. Romania from £47

Romania in winter is full of charm. Bucharest sparkles with festive decorations, while the medieval towns of Brasov and Sibiu look enchanting in the snow. The Carpathian Mountains offer excellent skiing at a fraction of Alpine prices, and cosy inns serve hearty Romanian dishes to keep you warm. Winter also brings magical Christmas Markets across Transylvania and Bucharest, as well as the unique Hotel of Ice in the Făgăraș Mountains — a bucket-list stay built entirely from snow and ice. With flights from just £47, Romania is a magical, budget-friendly winter destination.

10. Iceland from £46

Iceland is tailor-made for winter adventures. From Reykjavik, you can chase the Northern Lights, relax in hot springs, and explore otherworldly landscapes of glaciers, geysers and frozen waterfalls. Winter also means fewer tourists, giving you a more intimate experience of Iceland’s natural wonders. The days may be short, but the light is magical, with long sunrises and sunsets painting the sky. Wrap up warm, and you’ll find Iceland unforgettable in winter — and flights from just £46 make it surprisingly affordable.

9. Turkey from £46

Turkey in winter is a different world. Istanbul’s skyline glitters under crisp, clear skies, and iconic sites like Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar feel calmer without the summer rush. Cappadocia is especially magical in the snow, where taking a hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Down south, Antalya and the Turquoise Coast enjoy milder temperatures, perfect for coastal walks and ancient ruins. Winter is also the season for rich Turkish stews and steaming glasses of çay. With flights from just £46, Turkey is a bargain winter escape.

8. Estonia from £36

Estonia is a winter wonderland. Tallinn’s medieval old town looks like a fairy-tale under a dusting of snow, with cobbled streets lit by twinkling lights and cosy cafés serving hot mulled wine. Winter is also the season for outdoor activities, from ice-skating on frozen lakes to exploring frosty forests. With fewer visitors, you can soak up the authentic atmosphere and discover why Estonia is one of Europe’s hidden gems. Affordable flights from London make it easy to swap gloomy drizzle for magical winter charm.

7. Malta from £35

Malta enjoys some of the sunniest winters in Europe. With mild temperatures and plenty of blue skies, it’s a great place for a dose of vitamin D without the long-haul flight. Valletta’s baroque streets are beautiful year-round, while coastal walks and boat trips to Gozo and Comino are peaceful in winter. Local festivals, warm Mediterranean food and fewer tourists add to the charm. At just £35 for a flight from London, Malta is perfect for anyone craving sunshine and culture this winter.

6. Italy from £30

Italy is irresistible in winter. Rome, Florence and Venice are blissfully free of summer crowds, letting you stroll historic streets at a relaxed pace. The cooler weather is perfect for sightseeing, while hearty pasta, hot chocolate and fine wines keep you warm. Food lovers should head to Bologna, famous for its rich cuisine, or explore Puglia, where winter brings hearty regional dishes and charming towns without the crowds. Up north, the Dolomites offer world-class skiing, while cities sparkle with festive lights. Affordable flights make Italy even sweeter.

5. Portugal from £29

Portugal enjoys mild, sunny winters, making it a great escape from the UK’s drizzle. Lisbon’s hills sparkle with festive lights, Porto’s riverside is atmospheric in cooler months, and the Algarve offers off-season tranquillity with peaceful beaches and dramatic cliffs. Winter is the time to enjoy authentic local life, great seafood and excellent wine without the crowds. Affordable flights from London starting at just £29 mean Portugal offers plenty of sunshine, charm and relaxation at a bargain price.

4. Morocco from £30

Morocco is the perfect antidote to the UK’s grey winter days. Marrakech is cooler than in the summer but still sunny, making it ideal for wandering colourful souks, exploring gardens and enjoying rooftop cafés. Winter is also the best time to venture into the Sahara Desert, with mild daytime temperatures and star-filled skies that are unforgettable. The Atlas Mountains add drama with snow-capped peaks, while Agadir offers beachside relaxation. At just £30 from London, Morocco is unbeatable for winter warmth, adventure, and exotic charm on a budget.

3. Poland from £27

Poland in winter is magical. Picture Kraków’s Christmas markets, Warsaw’s fairy-lit streets and Gdańsk’s colourful old town dusted in snow. The chill in the air only adds to the festive spirit, with warming pierogi, mulled wine and hearty soups to keep you cosy. Beyond the cities, Poland offers snowy landscapes and opportunities for skiing in the Tatra Mountains. With some of the cheapest flights from London, Poland is a brilliant winter choice for anyone who loves history, culture, and a touch of seasonal magic.

2. Spain from £27

Spain offers variety in every season, but winter brings its own charm. Cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville enjoy fewer visitors, meaning you can explore world-famous landmarks without queues. Southern Spain stays pleasantly mild, perfect for tapas hopping and wandering cobbled old towns. For something different, winter is also the best time to spot the elusive Iberian Lynx in Andalusia — a rare wildlife experience. Combine this with festive lights, great food and cheap flights, and Spain becomes one of the best-value getaways from London.

1. Albania from £26

Albania is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, and winter makes it even more appealing. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy Tirana’s colourful streets, lively cafés and fascinating mix of cultures without the crowds. The Adriatic coastline offers fresh sea air and peaceful walks, while inland, the snow-capped Albanian Alps provide dramatic scenery. Winter is also a great time to experience local hospitality, hearty stews and warming rakija. Plus, flights are unbelievably cheap, making Albania the ultimate off-beat winter escape that won’t break the bank.

So this winter, don’t let the UK’s gloom drag you down. From snowy city breaks in Estonia and Poland to winter sun in Malta, Morocco and Portugal, Europe and North Africa are packed with affordable escapes. With flights starting from just £26, there’s no excuse not to swap rain for adventure.

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Written by James Chisnall