Top European Locations to Visit in December and January
Traveling in a camper, especially in Europe, offers a host of great destinations even during the winter months. Here's our list of top winter spots for an unforgettable camper van adventure!
Spain - Andalusia
Andalusia, situated in southern Spain, enchants visitors with its lovely white villages like Zuheros, Setenil de las Bodegas, Frigiliana, and Grazalema. Cities such as Malaga, Seville, and Granada are worth a visit too. In Andalusia, you can park freely at the beaches or stay at campsites. The enjoyable temperatures range between 15-20 degrees in December and January, making it less crowded yet comfortable. Don't forget to pack a heater, as it can get chilly at night (between 4-6 degrees).
Spain - Canary Islands
If you're already in southern Spain, consider a detour to the Canary Islands. Accessible via ferries departing from Huelva or Cadiz, the Canary Islands are a must-visit with a camper. The islands offer diverse landscapes, from picturesque beaches on the eastern islands to the stunning mountain landscapes and nature reserves in the west. Temperatures on the Canary Islands rarely drop below 20 degrees, so you'll stay cozy even at night, with an average temperature of around 15 degrees.
Algarve, Portugal
Located in southern Portugal, the Algarve region still enjoys mild temperatures during the winter. We've traveled through Portugal extensively and highly recommend the Algarve, especially in the winter months, as it's less crowded and less dry. The region features beautiful sandy beaches, majestic cliffs, and the enchanting city of Lagos with its historic old town, charming alleyways, and white houses. Daytime temperatures range between 16-20 degrees, while it cools down to 8-10 degrees at night, so warm clothing and a heater are advised.
Traveling further east, head to the southern part of Turkey, where temperatures remain warm even in winter, while the north can experience freezing temperatures. Discover the flatlands, lush mountains, bustling cities like Antalya, or relax on pristine beaches – Turkey has something for everyone with daytime temperatures between 16-20°C and nighttime temperatures between 8-10°C.
Another close destination is Morocco, easily accessible from mainland Spain in just 1.5 to 2 hours. With temperatures of 20-25°C during the winter, you can explore the rich culture – from medinas, Turkish baths (hamams), and desert stargazing. The roads are generally camper-friendly, and nighttime temperatures drop to around 12-15°C, providing a comfortable sleeping environment.
For more inspiration and tips, follow our camper van adventures and don't forget to pin us to your Pinterest board!
Your BOXIO Team
Enrichment Data:
If you're planning a camper van adventure in Europe during winter, these locations offer appealing climates, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural experiences:
Southern Europe
Spain
- Costa blanca: This region in eastern Spain, with cities like Alicante and Valencia, offers mild winters with temperatures ranging from 13-18°C.
- Farther south, in Andalusia, visit cities like Seville, Cordoba, and Granada to explore historic sites such as the Alhambra and the Mezquita.[1][5]
Portugal
- Alentejo: Situated in central Portugal, Alentejo boasts Castles, beautiful towns like Évora, and opportunities for stargazing.[5]**
- Douro Valley: Known for its port wine production, Douro Valley offers a picturesque landscape, historic towns, and port wine tastings.[5]**
Other Destinations
Italy
- Southern Italy, with regions like Puglia and Calabria, offer milder winter climates with temperatures ranging from 12-17°C, providing a nice escape from the colder North.[5]
Tips
- Weather: Always be prepared for rain and occasional frost, especially in the mornings.
- Camping: Research and plan ahead to find campsites that remain open during the winter, as some may have limited facilities.
- Cultural Experiences: Take advantage of off-season discounts at attractions and restaurants in tourist destinations.
These destinations cater to a mix of camper van travelers seeking cultural immersion, scenic landscapes, and pleasant winter temperatures, making them ideal options for a unique and comfortable winter adventure.
- Other lifestyle pursuits that complement a winter camper van tour in Europe might involve exploring the diverse culinary offerings of each destination, such as sampling local wines in the Douro Valley in Portugal or tasting authentic pepperoni pizza in the sunny South of Italy.
- For a different travel experience, consider venturing into the mountainous region of the Italian region of Puglia, where cozy winter lodges offer a charming alternative to traditional campsites, providing a warm retreat after a day of exploration in the cold winter landscape.
