Canadian Snowbirds: 4 Places in Europe to Spend Winter Under the Sun

When you think of a "snowbird destination", you probably imagine Florida with its beaches and palm trees. More and more Canadians are swapping the southern United States for a more European-style winter. These alternative destinations will charm you with their pleasant climate, rich culture, exceptional cuisine, and affordable cost of living.

Discover these destinations across the Atlantic that prove you can experience winter in the sun differently, with practical advice from experienced snowbirds.

1. Thessaloniki, Greece

For Mary G., a Montrealer of Greek origin, returning to Greece in the winter means reconnecting with her roots while enjoying an ideal climate. 

With temperatures ranging from 15 to 20°C, there’s no need for a heavy winter jacket while strolling around Thessaloniki, a lively city that Mary happily compares to Montréal for its vibrant and cultural side. Let yourself be charmed by its relaxed atmosphere, far from the hectic pace of North America. 

Thanks to the weekly markets, you can indulge in fresh, local food at low prices, knowing that a full meal for two at a restaurant will cost no more than €50 ($80 CAD).

Mary G.'s favourites

The Halkidiki region and its lesser-known beaches, as well as the spectacular views around Mount Athos.

When it comes to food, discover different flavours: crispy koulouri bought on the street corner, sweet bougatsa sprinkled with cinnamon, and the famous freddo cappuccino to start your mornings. 

Mary G.'s tips

Stay in the city centre to limit your taxi trips and use the "hop-on hop-off" tourist buses to explore more distant sites.

2. Montpellier, France

For several years now, 71-year-old Michel M. has been visiting Montpellier, charmed by its vibe and quality of life. Expect winter temperatures around 11°C during the day, so no extreme heat, but an ideal climate for discovering local markets, strolling through gardens, or exploring historic streets.

Let yourself be won over by the city's warm atmosphere with its welcoming inhabitants, its rich heritage on every street corner, and the spirit of conviviality found in every little restaurant. 

Taste the local products, from fish caught just a few kilometres away to exceptional French meats. You will be delighted by the freshness and quality in every dish. 

As everything is close by and easily accessible in Montpellier, your days will be easy to organize and even more enjoyable.

Michel M.'s favourites

The old walled town of Aigues-Mortes and the spectacular Millau Viaduct.

Michel M.'s tips

If you want to rent a car at a good price, ask a local contact to make the reservation for you. Opt for manual transmission models, which will cost much less.

3. Fuengirola, Spain

Linda G., 61, traded Florida for Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol and has never regretted her choice. Get ready for a mild Andalusian winter and immerse yourself in the Spanish way of life, where everything happens by the sea. 

Along the Paseo, the seaside promenade, mingle with families taking in the Sunday sunshine. In winter, the temperature often climbs to 20°C during the day with almost guaranteed blue skies.

Sip coffee on a terrace, wander through the local markets, or enjoy a typical meal of fresh seafood or paella. You will discover a city that has managed to keep its authenticity, with an atmosphere that is both lively and peaceful.

Linda G.'s favourites

The white village of Mijas, the Caminito del Rey hike, and the spectacular view from the “Balcony of Europe” in Nerja.

Tips from Linda G.

Once you're there, walk or use public transportation: it's economical and allows you to better soak up local life.

4. Italy

For Tony P., 65, the best time of year to enjoy Italy is during the off-season, in the fall or spring. If, like Tony P., you divide your time between Rome, Florence, the Amalfi Coast, and small coastal towns such as Formia, you'll enjoy days with temperatures between 18 and 24° C, more affordable prices, and less crowded places.

Settle down in a quiet piazza, explore the morning markets, and discover cuisine that’s almost perfection: pasta cacio e pepe made like nowhere else or a legendary Florentine steak that is impossible to find outside this region. 

Travelling in Italy during the off-season means living la dolce vita, often with the feeling that you have the place all to yourself.

Tony P.'s favourites

The island of Capri by ferry from the Amalfi Coast and skip-the-line tours of the Vatican.

Tony P.'s tips

Book your accommodation in advance, especially off-season, to get the best rates, and choose accommodation outside the tourist centres.

Embracing the Good Life in Europe

From sipping freddo coffee by the sea in Thessaloniki to strolling through the historic streets of Montpellier, watching the sunset in Fuengirola or dining in an Italian piazza, these European destinations promise Canadian snowbirds an extraordinary winter. Fewer crowds, more authenticity and a quality of life that will make you want to come back again and again.

Before you leave for Europe, make sure you're well protected with travel insurance. Get a quote in minutes with soNomad for coverage tailored to your long stays.