8 Great European Cities to Visit in the Off-Season

Austria’s capital is full of grand Baroque, Gothic, and Rococo architecture. In winter, cobbled streets are strung with lights, markets set up their artisanal wares, and you can channel your inner aristocrat at a Viennese Ball, extravagant ticketed affairs. The rich cultural scene carries on year-round with classical music concerts and exhibits at the Museumsquartier. 

Where to Stay

Rosewood Vienna nestles in the city's Old Town, a contemporary sanctuary bridging Vienna's rich heritage and modern spirit. Suites artfully blend local craftsmanship with elegant design, featuring carefully curated furniture and intimate sitting areas. Guests can begin their day with coffee at Salon Aurelie, then easily explore the historic Hofburg palace complex. As evening unfolds, they can savour authentic Austrian cuisine at Neue Hoheit Restaurant before ascending to THE1835 Rooftop bar for sophisticated cocktails and sweeping city views.

Must try: Wiener schnitzel, a simple but filling traditional dish.

How’s the weather?  Temperatures sometimes drop to around -6°C in January and February. Snow, however, is rarer – Vienna gets less winter precipitation than other Austrian cities closer to the Alps.

The late winter and spring are an ideal time to explore this Mediterranean archipelago’s scenic harbours bobbing with colourful boats. The capital city of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last inhabited walled cities in the world.

Where to Stay

Iniala Harbour House & Residences, centrally located at the top of the St. Barbara Bastion overlooking Valletta’s Grand Harbour Area. The boutique hotel comprises four restored 17th-century townhouses and retains its original stone vaults, painted staircases, and cupola. Inquire at check-in about arranging a private tour of the National Library of Malta.

Must try: Hobza, a traditional Maltese bread akin to sourdough, drizzled with olive oil and simply topped with olives or tomatoes.

How’s the weather? Sunny and temperate compared to other European destinations. Still, pack layers as it can get chilly and damp at times.

The enchanting canals, squares, and narrow winding streets of Venice are so flooded with tourists that the city introduced an entry fee for day trippers during peak periods. A more serene experience awaits in the off-season. The exception is the Venice Carnival, a festival with roots in the Middle Ages that runs from mid-February through early March, when Venetians and visitors alike fill the streets clad in colourful masks and elaborate costumes.

Where to Stay

Moor yourself on the Grand Canal at the Aman Venice, Italy, a stunning 16th-century palazzo with two lush gardens. Among the hotel’s private tours, you have the appealing option to join a sunset tour of the canal while sipping an aperitivo and nibbling Venetian cicchetti, Venice’s version of tapas (or small plates).

For a quieter base, opt for the Hyatt Centric Murano Venice. It occupies a former glass factory on the island of Murano, famed for its glassmaking and easily reachable by ferry. After a day out and about, it’s a treat to bask in the hotel’s sauna.

Must try: Baccalà Mantecato (salted cod served on crostini) and small meatballs paired with a warming glass of wine.

How’s the weather?  Pack an umbrella – winter in Venice can bring frequent rain showers.

In the off-season, you’ll have more space to stroll the Old Town holiday markets, enjoy classical concerts that pop up around the city in winter, and visit the variety of museums (many of which offer free-admission times). The weather can get cold – often seeing snowfall – but you can pop into one of the city’s many cozy pubs for a restorative quaff and a fortifying meal.

Where to Stay

Mandarin Oriental, Prague, an upscale, urban hideaway in a former 14th-century monastery in the Lesser Quarter, near the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. It offers an hour-long river cruise during which you can soak up the sights with a glass of Champagne in hand.

To stay closer to Prague’s historic Old Town, book a suite with local art and heated bathroom floors at Almanac X Alcron Prague, an art deco property also in walking distance of Wenceslas Square. Inquire at check-in about a bespoke city tour and fuel up beforehand with the additional property benefit of complimentary daily breakfast for two.

Must try: Kulajda, a traditional Czech soup of potatoes, dill, and sour cream, topped with a poached egg.

How’s the weather? Winters get cold in Prague. January is the coldest, with annual temperatures ranging between -2°C and 2°C.

Iceland is known for its staggering natural beauty. During the off-season (November through April), you have a good chance of witnessing the Northern Lights. Of course, you can visit scenic attractions like the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle year-round but in the off-season, you’ll have the luxury of fighting fewer visitors for photo ops.

Where to Stay

Wake up to breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains, harbour, and ocean from any of The Reykjavik EDITION 's 27 elegantly modern suites. After a day of adventure, rejuvenate at the serene spa with signature treatments featuring hot and cold lava stones. Indulge in an unforgettable dining experience at TIDES, the hotel‘s Michelin Guide–recommended signature restaurant, where the Chef’s Choice menu celebrates Iceland’s finest flavours.

A destination within a destination, The Reykjavik EDITION captures the city’s vibrant spirit with dynamic spaces to socialise and unwind, all under one roof. Perfectly positioned in the heart of historic downtown Reykjavik, steps away from the charming Old Harbor.

Must try: Treat yourself to a Kleinur, also known as a twisted donut, an indulgent fried pastry so popular in Iceland you’ll find them everywhere from cozy bakeries to gas stations.

How’s the weather?  Daylight hours dwindle significantly in the chilly off-season, with only around four to six hours of sunlight each day.

As the tourist crowds thin out, you can expect to rub shoulders and raise pints with locals at cozy pubs and cafes. Once properly warmed up, set out to see Edinburgh’s popular sites at your own pace, such as Edinburgh Castle and National Portrait Museum. Toast to your visit with a tasting through the Johnnie Walker Whisky Experience.

Where to Stay

The Caledonian Edinburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton, a stately railway hotel marked by a red sandstone façade and featuring an original station clock. Rooms feature enviable views of Edinburgh Castle and select suites have working fireplaces.

Another historic stay awaits at InterContinental Edinburgh The George, comprising five Georgian townhouses from the late 1700s. The boutique hotel nods to Edinburgh’s literary history throughout (be sure to grab a bite at Le Petit BeefBar) and suites feature historical maps of the city.

Must try: Meat eaters should drop by a local pub to sample the haggis, a minced meat pudding that’s become synonymous with Scotland.

How’s the weather? Winters are cold in Edinburgh and the sun sets early. Weather can be unpredictable, varying between being simply a bit gloomy to cold and wet.

January ushers in Budapest’s peak opera and theatre season. In February, meat eaters can feast at the Mangalica Festival, which serves up handmade sausages, salami, and more. Bundle up for a winter river cruise to tour the city by boat and make time for another type of aquatic adventure – immersing yourself in the local bathhouse culture.

Where to Stay

The opulent Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest offers a fairytale-like stay in Budapest’s gastronomic district, with views of the Royal Castle, Chain Bridge -UNESCO World Heritage sites. Select rooms overlook the Danube River, and suites include additional living areas, providing extra comfort during a stay.

Culture enthusiasts can opt for Kempinski Corvinus Budapest, a Cardmember favourite near the banks of the Danube that boasts spacious suites with king-sized beds – and its own art gallery. On Saturday afternoons, settle in for live music performances while sipping coffee or tea in the onsite café The Living Room.

Must try: A steaming bowl of goulash, a traditional Hungarian stew of well-seasoned meats and vegetables perfect for fortifying yourself for a bracing walk.

How’s the weather? Temperatures dip significantly (with lows as cold as below zero) and scattered snow and sleet, so bring waterproof gear.

Croatia has become an undeniably popular destination, with solo travellers and bachelorettes flocking to the Balkan nation. Beat the crowds while still enjoying all the walled city of Dubrovnik has to offer during the off-season, including the annual Dubrovnik Carnival, a historic extravaganza that takes over the city each February with ornately costumed revellers, parades, and music.

Where to Stay

A Cardmember favourite, the Rixos Premium Dubrovnik is a charming, seaside property with select suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows through which you’ll admire vistas of the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Amenities include plush robes and soaking tubs.

Must try: Peka, both a traditional dish and a method of cooking that involves slow cooking under a domed lid.  

How’s the weather? Winters in Croatia are generally mild, although periods of heavy rain aren’t uncommon, so bring an umbrella or a rain jacket.