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Europe

Winter Forecast: Less sunshine and every kind of precipitation have northern Europeans hibernating. Gondola lines snake their way across much of Switzerland, Austria, and northern Italy, where snow is usually plentiful and the Alps have room for everyone. Much of Europe’s charm sits in climate-controlled museums, gastropubs, and guesthouses, so the combination of sharply discounted transatlantic airfare and low-season rates holds promise.

9. ATHENS
Greece's capital city serves as much more than just a pre-party island pit stop – this ancient birthplace of democracy manages to effortlessly mix history with modernity, owing much of its present-day polish to its hosting of the 2004 Summer Olympics. Sights like the iconic Acropolis and the theater of Dionysus come together with inventive Mediterranean cuisine and some of Europe’s best nightlife – it's easy to see why Athena and Poseidon once competed for power over this exciting metropolis.

Why Go In Winter: Lock in deals galore by visiting Athens in the winter. Cooler temperatures and sunny skies allow for comfortable exploration of outdoor antiquities, while tourist-trap restaurants close, leaving the authentic local eateries open.

Winter 2009/2010 Events: International Comics Festival (Jan. 22–25); Athens Carnival (Feb. 14–Mar. 2); Dionysia Wine Tasting Festival (March 12–15)

10. CANARY ISLANDS
This Spanish archipelago off the coast of North Africa lures visitors primarily to Tenerife, the largest of its islands and a major port of call in the Atlantic Ocean, where visitors flock to Puerto de la Cruz, a charming colonial town of curving streets and plazas that attracts shoppers with its tax-free status. Its other less-traveled isles likewise beckon with national parks and Biosphere Reserves, beautiful beaches, and activities like big-game fishing and camel riding.

Why Go In Winter: A good-value destination year-round, the Canary Islands see dependable springlike temperatures and a relatively peaceful lull in December and January before rowdy Carnival visitors take over in February.

Winter 2009/2010 Events: Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival (Jan. 12–Feb. 21); Las Palmas International Film Festival (Mar. 12–20)

11. FINLAND
Although long influenced by both Sweden and Russia, Finland maintains a distinct culture, language, and mindset. While Helsinki couldn’t be hipper and hotter these days, with booming architecture, film, fashion, and music scenes, the Finnish soul resides within the cool and timeless countryside beyond.

Why Go In Winter: In late winter, before spring springs, the days get longer, temperatures get warmer, and the collective Finnish spirit lifts. Hotels are mostly cheaper than in summer – except in skiing areas, as this is peak ski season for tourists and locals alike.

Winter 2009/2010 Events: Season of Light (Helsinki; Jan. 1–8); Oulu International Children’s Theatre Festival (Oulu; Feb. 22–28); Yukigassen Snowball Fighting Competition (Yukigassen; Mar. 26–28)

12. SLOVENIA
Chockfull of the same medieval towns and quaint villages that made the Czech Republic – namely Prague – a household name, Slovenia’s charms can be enjoyed for a fraction of the price of its trail-blazing predecessor. Activities like winemaking are popular in Slovenian shore towns, while further north in the Alps, Lake Bled is a popular winter sports destination. A trip to the capital, Ljubljana, reveals ornate row houses, picturesque rivers, and iconic castles and bridges.

Why Go In Winter: Nestled between popular ski regions in Italy and Austria, Slovenia’s Julian Alps offer a similar experience for much less cost. Before heading to the modern ski towns of Kranjska Gora and Cerkno – which have remarkable winter deals – you'll fly into the charming capital city of Ljubljana, just a short distance from the ski resorts. 

Winter 2009/2010 Events:  “Zoran Mušič in public and private collections in Slovenia” at the Museum of Modern Art (Ljubljana; through Feb. 28); Kurentovanje Carnival (Ptuj; Feb. 6–15)

See Costa Rica Travel Guide | See Finland Travel Guide | See Hong Kong Travel Guide | See Jordan Travel Guide | See Mozambique Travel Guide | See Venezuela Travel Guide | See Zanzibar Travel Guide | See Austin Travel Guide | See Los Angeles Travel Guide | See New Orleans Travel Guide | See Santa Fe Travel Guide | See Vancouver Travel Guide | See Jerusalem Travel Guide | See Maine Travel GuideSee Oaxaca Travel Guide