Unveiling The Best European Escapes To Bask In Winter Sun

Mar 7, 2024

Last Updated on: Oct 11, 2025

Europe

Escape the chill and embrace the warmth in our latest blog post, as we uncover the most enchanting European destinations for a sun-soaked winter getaway.

From the sun-drenched beaches of the Mediterranean to the hidden gems along the southern coasts, we’ll guide you through a curated list of winter sun havens. Discover the cultural delights, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities that make these destinations perfect for a rejuvenating break.

Whether you’re a snowbird seeking mild temperatures or an adventurer craving a unique winter experience, our guide will help you plan the ideal European escape to keep those winter blues at bay. Pack your bags and get ready to bask in the European winter sun like never before!

As winter casts its frosty veil over much of Europe, the allure of warmer climates becomes irresistible. Fortunately, Europe offers a myriad of destinations where the sun shines bright, and the temperatures remain pleasantly mild during the winter months.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach retreat, a cultural excursion, or an adventure-filled getaway, there’s a perfect destination waiting to be discovered. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the best European escapes for basking in the warmth during the winter season.

The Mediterranean Bliss

When it comes to winter sun destinations, the Mediterranean region reigns supreme. With its idyllic beaches, charming coastal towns, and rich cultural heritage, this sun-drenched paradise offers an unbeatable combination of relaxation and exploration. From the pristine shores of Greece to the glamorous resorts of the French Riviera, there’s no shortage of options for a memorable winter escape.

One of the must-visit destinations in the Mediterranean is the island of Cyprus. Blessed with year-round sunshine and stunning natural beauty, Cyprus boasts an array of attractions for visitors of all interests.

Explore ancient ruins, stroll through picturesque villages, or simply unwind on the golden sands of its beautiful beaches. With so many cheap EasyJet Holidays flights discount codes available, getting to Cyprus has never been easier, making it an ideal choice for a budget-friendly winter getaway.

Sunny Spain

Spain, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, is another top contender for winter sun seekers. From the sun-kissed shores of the Costa del Sol to the historic streets of Barcelona, Spain offers something for everyone.

Barcelona has a lot to offer also for entrepreneurs who can find numerous possibilities to open different types of businesses here.

For those in search of warmth and relaxation, the Canary Islands are a perfect choice. Located off the coast of Africa, these volcanic islands enjoy mild temperatures year-round, making them an ideal escape from the winter chill.

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is particularly popular with holidaymakers seeking sunshine during the winter months. With its balmy climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Tenerife has long been a favorite destination for sun-seekers from around the world. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or exploring the island’s natural wonders, Tenerife promises an unforgettable winter getaway.

Portuguese Paradise

Portugal may be known for its stunning coastline and delicious cuisine, but it’s also a fantastic destination for winter sun seekers. With its mild climate and laid-back atmosphere, Portugal offers the perfect escape from the winter blues. The Algarve, in particular, is renowned for its beautiful beaches and picturesque villages, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing winter break.

In addition to its coastal charms, Portugal also boasts a wealth of cultural attractions and outdoor activities to enjoy during the winter months. Explore historic cities such as Lisbon and Porto, hike through lush national parks, or sample the local delicacies at a traditional taverna. With cheap EasyJet Holidays flights available to Portugal, there’s no excuse not to book your winter escape to this enchanting destination.

Greek Getaway

Greece, with its ancient ruins, sun-drenched islands, and warm hospitality, is another top destination for winter sun seekers. From the iconic whitewashed buildings of Santorini to the crystal-clear waters of Crete, Greece offers a wealth of attractions for visitors to enjoy. With its mild climate and fewer crowds, winter is the perfect time to explore this Mediterranean gem.

For a truly unforgettable winter sun getaway, head to the island of Crete. With its stunning beaches, rich history, and delicious cuisine, Crete has something for everyone. Explore ancient Minoan ruins, hike through rugged gorges, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. With cheap EasyJet Holidays flights available to Greece, there’s no reason not to pack your bags and escape to this beautiful island paradise.

Italian Charm

Italy, with its iconic landmarks, delicious cuisine, and scenic landscapes, is a perennial favorite among travelers. While summer may be the peak tourist season, winter offers a quieter and more authentic experience, making it the perfect time to explore this beautiful country. From the romantic canals of Venice to the historic streets of Rome, Italy is brimming with charm and beauty year-round.

Why not read more about the best winter sun destinations in Italy, especially the Amalfi Coast. With its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and sparkling seas, the Amalfi Coast is a true paradise for sun-seekers.

Explore picturesque towns such as Positano and Ravello, sample fresh seafood at a seaside trattoria, or simply relax on the beach and watch the world go by. With cheap EasyJet Holidays flights available to Italy, there’s no better time to experience the magic of the Amalfi Coast.

Croatian Delights

Croatia, with its stunning coastline, historic cities, and breathtaking natural beauty, is quickly emerging as a top winter sun destination. From the medieval streets of Dubrovnik to the pristine beaches of the Dalmatian Coast, Croatia offers a wealth of attractions for visitors to enjoy. With its mild climate and fewer crowds, winter is the perfect time to explore this hidden gem.

One of the must-visit destinations in Croatia is the city of Split. With its ancient Roman ruins, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife, Split has something for everyone. Explore the historic Diocletian’s Palace, hike through the nearby mountains, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. With cheap EasyJet Holidays flights available to Croatia, there’s no excuse not to book your winter escape to this enchanting destination.

Maltese Magic

Malta, with its ancient history, stunning architecture, and crystal-clear waters, is a true hidden gem in the heart of the Mediterranean. From the historic streets of Valletta to the sandy beaches of Gozo, Malta offers a wealth of attractions for visitors to enjoy. With its mild climate and rich cultural heritage, winter is the perfect time to explore this fascinating island nation.

One of the highlights of a winter sun getaway to Malta is exploring its UNESCO World Heritage sites. From the ancient temples of Ħaġar Qim to the medieval city of Mdina, Malta is home to some of the oldest and most well-preserved historical sites in the world. Explore the narrow streets, sample the local cuisine, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. With cheap EasyJet Holidays flights available to Malta, there’s no better time to experience the magic of this unique destination.

Choose Europe!

So, as you can see Europe is home to a wealth of destinations where you can escape the winter chill and bask in the warmth of the sun. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Mediterranean to the historic cities of Italy, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

With cheap EasyJet Holidays flights available to many of these destinations, there’s no excuse not to pack your bags and embark on a winter sun getaway like never before. So why wait? Start planning your European escape today and make this winter one to remember!

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Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.

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READ MORE where is hot in October in Europe

“Winter Is Coming!” Where Is Hot In October? Explore Places To Visit  In Europe

BY  Sibashree Jul 22, 2025

Winter is coming, and a transition always brings cold and uncertainty, whether it is in life or the weather. Are you not a winter person as well? What if I tell you that you can enjoy the genial warmth of summer for a few more days? While the rest of the world shivers in the cold of October, you and your family can enjoy traveling to the top six destinations in Europe, where you will find warmth in October. So, let’s find out where is hot in October in Europe. Where Is Hot In October In Europe? Top 6 Places In Europe To Visit From Rome to Madeira, the places to visit in Europe in October are as diverse as it can get! Here are our top six favorites. 1. Rome, Italy You may feel confused about the relevance of starting the list with a city when they were expecting beaches. October provides the most suitable time for tourists to visit the city of Rome. The crowds of people are lower down as it is the off-season. On the other hand, people do not have to face the scorching heat of summer. The 14- to 26-degree temperature during that time of year, throughout the day, provides the perfect climate for traveling around. The tourists should enjoy sightseeing during this time, as the conditions provide the ideal conditions for traveling. The ambience offers the most suitable conditions for walking through the ancient streets of Rome. This time of the year in Rome provides the perfect conditions to enjoy vino and carbonara while dining in the open air in a rooftop cafe. Tourists should visit the museums of Rome on the first Sunday of the month, as it provides free entry to the museums. 2. Where Is Hot In October In Europe? Dalmatian Coasts In Croatia The Dalmatian Islands of Croatia remain warm and comfortable during the times of the month that are considered some of the most beautiful places to visit. The area offers pebble beaches and charming port towns. Therefore, the ocean lovers enjoy the place during this time of the year. The town also offers a variety of seafood options. Therefore, seafood lovers should try the available seafood in the ocean. The place offers beautiful, rugged mountains alongside the coasts, which make it even more attractive. The place is full of islands that tourists can explore. Tourists get to see islands like Hvar, Korcula, and Brac. The tourists should explore the charming towns and beaches, which are the best suited for visiting in October. The temperature in the area ranges from 15 to 26 degrees, making the weather neither too hot nor too cold. Therefore, this makes it ideal for exploration.  The tourists can indulge in a plethora of activities, which include hiking, snorkeling, and swimming along the most beautiful Mediterranean coastline. Moreover, the coastline is lined with lush green forests, which are ideal for enjoying during the evening. 3. Madeira, Portugal Madeira is an Island located off the coast of Africa, but it is part of Portugal. The place is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Therefore, the Island stands remote from the mainland of Portugal. Travelers should take a short ferry ride from Spain's Canary Islands. The Island features coastlines lined with palm trees and offers ideal waters for water sports and activities, including surfing. The volcanic islands stand tall on the ocean, which, therefore, provides some of the unique climatic conditions for grape harvesting.  October marks the grape harvesting season on Madeira; therefore, it is an ideal time to visit the islands. The Island also provides diverse eateries. Food lovers can visit various dining establishments on the island. The small Island offers two Michelin-star restaurants, as well, Il Gallo d'Oro and William Restaurant. Thus, the Island serves as a paradise for all food lovers. October brings various festivities to the Islands. The Island hosts the famous Madira Wine Festival. The locals trade wine during this festival.  You should visit the place during October and taste some of the most famous wines of the year. 4. Ibiza, Spain This October, travel to Ibiza in Spain. Ibiza offers the finest luxury accommodations for its visitors. Ibiza has established itself as a prominent luxury tourism destination.  The luxury accommodations on the Island constitute a whopping 84% of the Island’s entire GDP. The Island avoids over-tourism despite the sector’s immense contributions to the Island’s GDP. Therefore, this makes it ideal if you are willing to avoid crowds. Travelers who prefer to avoid crowds should visit Ibiza in October. The temperature of Ibiza ranges between 16 and 23 degrees. The temperature is ideal for exploring Ibiza, and you can take in the turquoise blue waters of the Island. People should spend time on the beaches. Staying at the luxury villas provides tourists with an incredible experience they can never have. For example, the luxury villas Ibiza Le Collectionist offer the guests the opportunity to spend time in a beautiful orchard with olive and almond trees. 5. Where Is Hot In October In Europe? Costa Del Sol, Spain The name Costa del Sol suggests “Coast of the sun”; therefore, the place receives sunlight throughout the year. Many tourists prefer the place, and it is incredibly loved by the people who are willing to make sure that they are in the place. The tourists find some of the best-quality restaurants, which helps people get the best food in the region. The lack of tourists after October allows people to enjoy peace more, as they can stay far away from the crowds. The temperature of the place ranges between 19 and 24 degrees during October. Therefore, the place serves as the perfect winter destination for you. You should visit Marbella. The town offers golden beaches, making it an ideal winter retreat. The Sierra Blanca mountains make the place even more beautiful. You should also visit Puerto banus, offering several coastal boutique resorts. The resorts give you an incredible experience of staying there. Adventure lovers should go hiking and participate in other activities. Cultural activities such as visiting the pueblos or the villages and meeting the locals allow the people to ensure cultural exploration. Moreover, walk through the pine forests, which will provide them with the most peaceful experience of their lives. 6. Kalkan, Türkiye Kalkan is not a recognized country; however, Türkiye is a transitional country between Europe and Asia. While 97% of Türkiye falls within Asia, the rest of it can be found in Europe. Kalken falls on the European side of Türkiye. Kalkan is located on the Mediterranean coast of Türkiye and is one of the most beautiful places to visit right before winter. The beaches of Kalkan offer stunning coastlines and turquoise waters. The tourists should experience a massage in the Hammams. Every travel enthusiast knows that Türkiye is a food heaven. Travelers should try the most incredible food the region has to offer. The street food especially provides a very exotic experience to the travellers. People who love adventure should visit the Kalkan beaches. The beaches of Kalken offer wonderful opportunities for adventure sports. The temperature of Kalkan ranges from 17 to 28 degrees Celsius. Where Is Hot In October In Europe, And Things To Keep In Mind While Travelling Most of the places on the mentioned list offer sunny and mild weather in October. However, people often experience odd thunderstorms in certain regions. Kalkan in Türkiye, for instance, has sudden thunderstorms at certain times of the year. The chances of receiving rain in Kalkan increase in the later part of October. Spain typically receives relatively little rain in October. However, tourists often face occasional sporadic rain. Therefore, while visiting the Costa del Sol, you should check for the rain in the region. Ibiza has little chance of rain in October.

READ MORE south of france

What Is South Of France? What Will Be The Perfect South Of France Itinerary? 

BY  Sibashree Aug 13, 2025

Key Highlights: What Is The South Of France? Why Is The South Of France So Popular? Where To Go In South Of France? How Does A Perfect South Of France Itinerary For 7 Days Look Like? Where To Stay In The South Of France? Where To Visit In The South Of France On A Budget? What Are The South Of France Cities Near The Beach? What Are The Most Beautiful Places In Southern France For Young Adults? What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France? Home to the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix and blessed with 300 days of Sunshine in a year, the South of France is the ultimate luxury tourism destination.  The region also appeals to global travelers with the best wines, such as Bordeaux, Languedoc, Cahors, and Armagnac brandy. So, it is no wonder that the South of France is a crown jewel in the French luxury tourism landscape, about to reach $53.6 billion by 2030. Moreover, the South of France is home to many luxurious hotels, chateaux, and villas, such as Le Collectionist luxury villas in Provence. These high-end accommodations cater to ultra-high-net-worth travelers and ensure a premium experience.  However, there is more to visiting the South of France. Natural abundance, cultural heritage, and great food make it a destination for wholesome travel delights.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will explore the various aspects of the South of France and why it is a dream destination. We will also share a 7-day itinerary so that you can plan the trip well.  What Is South Of France?  The South of France is a district region, comprising Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA), itself, is a combination of six district departments. Those are: Alpes-Maritimes Bouches-du-Rhône Alpes-de-Haute-Provence Hautes-Alpes Vaucluse Var This region caters to every type of traveler and is almost an epitome of the natural wonders we love to visit.  The French Riviera beaches complement the rugged beauty of the Alps here. On the other hand, Provence promises the most quaint experience with vineyards, small villages, and hills smelling like lavender.  You can add to that the cultural and artistic heritage of Aix-en-Provence and the cosmopolitan vibe of cities such as Avignon and Marseille. Marseille especially indulges you with the charm of the French good life, and it’s for wanderers who just want to travel slow and connect.  Bordeaux with its best wines and vineyards, Verdon Gorge with its serene green landscape, and Camargue with its wetlands and wildlife are other prominent destinations in the South of France. Why Is South Of France So Popular?  Gorgeous seaside towns The majestic Alps Roman ruins Medieval villages Long stretches of vineyards The Best wines The tranquility that makes you connect to nature! These are reasons why everyone loves the South of France. Now, nobody will take away the best from the South of France. However, some new developments make the South of France more popular among modern travelers.  1. Better Accessibility And Travel Connectivity: How To Reach The South Of France? The South of France is well connected to Paris. You can take a flight from Paris, and it takes around 90 minutes to cover the distance.  Furthermore, you can take the SNCF Connect sleeper train, running from Paris to Cannes or Nice. For a more luxurious journey, board Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Paris to Cannes.  It is an 18-hour journey with breakfast and gourmet meals.  Irrespective of the train you choose, you can buy the unlimited rail pass for the commute between Paris and the South of France.  2. Urban Improvements To Enhance The Experience Of Global Travelers  Nice has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021. It now has the Promenade des Anglais, which is ideal for strolls and tourists who love to explore the city on foot.  Furthermore, today, the sidewalk looks beautiful with many trees and cafe terraces.  Moreover, the new Convention Center here just hosted the U.N. Ocean Conference 2025 in July. Also, it is likely to have a tram line directly connected to the airport and a pleasure port for excursions on boats. 3. Aix-en-Provence Is To Have New Cultural Sites And Updated Museums Atelier des Lauves, the studio of the famous French impressionist, Paul Cezanne, reopened in Aix-en-Provence on 28th June, 2025.  Also, Jas de Bouffan, his family’s home, was opened for the first time. Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul de Vence, the first independent art foundation of France, just had an expansion to celebrate its 60th anniversary last year. After the expansion, the foundation now has an exhibition space of 5,300+ square feet.  This space shows the works of Pablo Picasso, Alberto Giacometti, and Marc Chagall.  Furthermore, Nice’s Musée Matisse reopened in 2024 after a long period of renovation work, and La Malmaison, the contemporary art exhibition space of Cannes, reopened.  4. The Celebration Of Perfume Heritage In South Of France  The South of France is the Mecca for a perfume connoisseur. The Rose et Marius in Aix-en-Provence or the factory of L’Occitane en Provence in Manosque have enhanced the tourism experience for tourists having a keen interest in fashion and perfumes.  Moreover, at Rose et Marius, you can attend a workshop and design your own perfume. On the other hand, you can register online and visit L’Occitane en Provence for a face diagnostic and get a free hand cream.  5. For The Love Of Ceramics And Pottery  Marseille, the port city of the South of France, is now emerging as the new hotspot amidst all the glamor and glitz of the French Riviera.  Since the COVID-19 era, many Parisians have also moved to Marseille for the quality of life, and the high-speed train ride to this port city from Paris is an amazing experience.  Furthermore, Aubagne, just outside this city, is a popular destination in the European ceramic landscape. Ravel Poterie, Santon Di Landro, and Louis Sicard are some important potteries here. Where To Go In South Of France?  The South of France has many options if you want to experience the ultimate French beauty. However, here are our favorite destinations in the South of France. 1. Nice And Alpes-Maritimes Nice, the capital, and Cannes are two landmark destinations in Alpes-Maritimes.  Furthermore, Nice is a cultural hub with Matisse and Chagall museums and the Promenade des Anglais.  Cannes, with its glitz and glamor and, of course, the much-celebrated film festival, is a global name in cultural tourism.  Also, this region has the town of Grasse, “The Perfume Capital of the World,” and Antibes, housing the Picasso Museum and wonderful beaches.  2. Bouches-du-Rhône And Marseille Marseille, the capital of Bouches-du-Rhône, is a crown jewel in the tourism of the South of France. Some important cultural and historical landmarks here are: Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde MUCEM museum Arles here is a standout place, being home to the Roman amphitheater and its connection with Van Gogh.  Moreover, the Camargue wetlands, with flamingos and wild horses, and the Calanques National Park with limestone cliffs are prominent natural wonders in thai region.  3. Var And Its Capital, Toulon Mediterranean coastline A vibrant nightlife Rich maritime history A beautiful harbor Var and its capital, Toulon, are famous for all these things. Furthermore, you will love the quiet beaches of Îles d’Hyères and areas like Bandol with expansive vineyards and massive production of rosé wines.  4. Avignon And Vaucluse Along with the quintessential Provençal countryside charm, Vaucluse remains an important historical and cultural landmark in the South of France.  Vaucluse, its capital, has a performing arts festival every year in July. On the other hand, Orange has one of the best preserved Roman theaters, and it still hosts many performances. Pont d’Avignon and Palais des Papes are other important landmarks in Vaucluse.  In addition, Valucluse offers you the most peaceful retreat in the Luberon region, filled with beautiful rolling hills, quaint villages like Roussillon, and vineyards.  5. Alpes-de-Haute-Provence And Digne-les-Bains With Digne-les-Bains as the capital, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is famous for thermal baths and lavender fields. It is also home to Gorges du Verdon, the largest canyon in Europe, and a beautiful hilltop town with a citadel, Sisteron.  Also, don’t forget to visit the Lavender Museum and the Valensole lavender plains in summer.  Moreover, if it is Jean Giono who introduced you to the South of France, you must explore Manosque, the writer’s hometown. 6. Hautes-Alpes And Gap Hautes-Alpes is famous for the beauty of the French Alps. Gap is the capital city, and Haute-Alpes is also home to the Écrins National Park, a popular summer destination for hikers thanks to its dramatic cliffs and glaciers.  Also, Hautes-Alpes has Briançon, one of the highest mountainous cities, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the Vauban fortifications.  How Does A Perfect South Of France Itinerary For 7 Days Look Like?  Here, we have made a sample 7-day itinerary for you in the South of France. As I am yet to make it to the South of France, I have made this itinerary based on my online research and after consultation with a local travel expert. 7-Day Itinerary for the South of France Activities and Places to VisitDay 1• Exploring Marseille and traveling to Aix-en-Provence• Visiting the fountains and the Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-ProvenceDay 2• Visiting the Luberon Region and exploring beautiful villages such as Roussillon and GordesDay 3• A trip to the Calanques National Park, boating, and kayaking thereDay 4• Visit Nice and enjoy the vibe at the Promenade des AnglaisDay 5• Monaco day tripDay 6• Explore Antibes and its Picasso MuseumDay 7• Day trip to Cannes Where To Stay In South Of France?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Collectionist (@lecollectionist) I have already mentioned that the South of France, being a luxury tourist destination, has high-end villas such as Le Collectionist villas in Provence.  Furthermore, you will find many short-term and long-term holiday rentals for improved privacy at a more reasonable rate.  Also, Hotel Port Palace in Monte Carlo or Le Negresco in Nice are some luxurious hotels in this region.  Moreover, the Provence region, Côte d'Azur, and Languedoc-Roussillon have some amazing campsites if you want to spend your days in Southern France in the company of nature. What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France? April to May and September to October are the best months to visit the South of France. In April and May, you will see the lavender in full bloom, while the summer is yet to set, keeping the temperature within 20-25 degrees Celsius.  On the other hand, September to October is the ideal time to explore the beaches and other coastal getaways of the South of France.  South Of France: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions about the South of France.  1. Where To Visit In The South Of France On A Budget? If you are traveling on a budget, you can explore the following destinations in the South of France. • Antibes• Nice• Avignon• Cannes• Saint Paul de Vence• Monaco• RoussillonFurthermore, while traveling on a budget, you can choose Nice as your base. It has the most affordable holiday rentals. Also, you can easily take train trips from Nice and explore places like Monaco. Also, cook your own meals to avoid spending a fortune at expensive restaurants.  2. What Are The Most Beautiful Places In Southern France For Young Adults? From classic French Riviera destinations to a place with beautiful lemon groves, the South of France has plenty to offer to young adult tourists. Here are our favorites.• Nice with its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and of course, the Promenade des Anglais• Cannes with its boutiques and all the love for films• Saint-Tropez with its happening beach clubs and high-end shopping experience• Menton, with its vibrant buildings, lemon groves, and proximity to the Italian border 3. What Are The South Of France Cities Near Beach? Cannes, Nice, Saint-Tropez, Marseille, and Menton are the most beautiful cities near the beaches in the South of France.  4. What Is The Nicest Part Of The South Of France? Provence is the nicest part of the South of France. Artistic heritage, Roman ruins, beautiful lavender fields, great wines and food, and charming hilltop villages. Furthermore, blessed with the Mediterranean Coast and the Verdon Gorge, it is also a popular destination for watersports. 5. What Is The Safest Part Of the South Of France?  Bordeaux, Toulouse, Monaco, and Aix-en-Provence are some of the safest places to stay in the South of France. These places have low crime rates, and the chances of encountering violent crimes are pretty rare. However, the French Riviera has frequent cases of petty theft. 

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Pripyat Visit Or The Soviet Union Through Our Eyes

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 3, 2020

Have you ever wondered what destruction happens to a city or region post a nuclear radiation accident? Are you aware of the Chernobyl Plant and Pripyat city, the site of the nuclear accident situated in the erstwhile USSR? Did you know that there are countless documentaries and movies been made about the Chernobyl disaster? There are countless stories and myths, which abound about Chernobyl. While some say that it was just an accident at a nuclear plant, others point to a warring country being responsible for executing the same. The nuclear accident at Chernobyl happened in the erstwhile USSR era. This was roughly around the same time when the Cold War was raging between Communist USSR and the Western Capitalist world. The stories, myths, controversies have made Chernobyl somewhat of an urban legend. Chernobyl has become so famous that it has been featured in a Netflix series. It has also started attracting audiences and tourists from all over the world, who want to see one of the most significant remnants of our modern history. An Introduction to Pripyat, the city surrounding Chernobyl Visiting Pripyat today we could only imagine that it was a city of opportunity, where almost every resident had a prestigious job and a promising future. This city is located on the Pripyat River, 3 kilometers from the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, has been prosperous and advanced since its foundation. Until April 26, 1986, when the explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant forced more than 300 thousand people to leave their homes due to the threat of radiation. This is how the exclusion zone appeared – an area of 2,600 square kilometers, free of people. Before the Chernobyl incident, Pripyat was one of the most economically developed and bustling cities of the USSR. The trade, commerce, and lifestyle of the people were as good as it could get under a Communist regime. Culturally, Pripyat embodied the best of the USSR. The Chernobyl accident was a major turning point in the fortunes of the city and its inhabitants. The Problems faced by Inhabitants of Pripyat after the Chernobyl Accident Many inhabitants were forced to shift to government camps and medical facilities. They were monitored for radiation and many also faced isolation and therapy. Even after the nuclear winter ended, traces of radiation were found in water, soil, etc. The government could not ever settle inhabitants in the city. Many were forced to migrate thousands of miles to different regions, often starting from scratch. The accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant changed hundreds of thousands of destinies, caused enormous economic damage, and a crushing blow to the nuclear industry. In the shortest possible time, the whole city was to be empty, people were not allowed to take anything except documents. Visiting Pripyat now, we can see how much pain it was for people to leave in a hurry all their property acquired over the years. As Pripyat was a bustling center of trade and commerce, you can still see so many markets, big complexes, theatres, and auditoriums. Many historians have stated that Pripyat was as rich and powerful as Moscow was. However, after the accident, there was just chaos and destruction as far as the eye could see. How Chernobyl looks like today? Here is what you can expect if you visit Chernobyl today Visiting Chernobyltoday is like returning to the distant Soviet Union. Here you can still see elements of communist propaganda, personal belongings scattered on the streets, and abandoned buildings. The hammer and sickle adorn the lanterns on the eve of the May holidays, which were not destined to take place. Toys are scattered across the schoolyard, abandoned by children in the confusion. The clock in the city shows 11:55 – the time of the power outage. Visiting Chernobyl safe is possible with the help of the professional guides, who know all the impressive but at the same time safe places of the abandoned city. Chernobyl visit is available in several options: One-day tour (Includes 27 top locations, lasts for 11 hours including comfortable bus. The price is from 35 euro per person) Two-day tour (Includes 57 top locations, lasts for 36 hours including top comfortable bus. The price is from 95 euro per person) Private tour (No restrictions on the number of locations, no limitation on hours – one, two, or even five days in Chernobyl) Present-day Chernobyl: What is happening? Whatever tour you choose Chernobyl visit will give you an opportunity to see how nature conquers human error. Pripyat turns into a forest. Houses begin to collapse, asphalt turns into moss, houses grow into trees, wide avenues disappear. Visiting Pripyat, it will be interesting to see: Shelter "Sarcophagus". It covers the destroyed Unit 4 to protect the environment from continued exposure to radiation. The Exclusion Zone. Excursions along this area are conducted with visits to local "attractions", museums, and communication with self-settlers. Amusement Park. The official opening of the amusement park was planned for May 1, 1986. Red Forest. It has absorbed a huge dose of radioactive dust. Most of the trees died, and the survivors took on a rusty hue. The Bridge of Death. The townspeople came here to see the burning reactor, not knowing that the radiation level here was one of the highest in the city. Over the past decade, hundreds of thousands of tourists made a visit to Chernobyl and Pripyat. But, believe me, the emotions that you feel when you find yourself in this city cannot be compared with anything. The Final Word If you are someone who is fascinated by Cold War history or seeing the height of Communist Power in the USSR, you will love Chernobyl. Even though the city and the region lie in ruins, there is a quaint romance about the place. Describing how you would feel after visiting Chernobyl is something that even the best travel writers cannot do. Part of the reason is that Chernobyl and Pripyat remain one of those rare places on Earth, which can still give you goosebumps. You have a city, without inhabitants, you have markets without shoppers, and you have buildings without owners. Read Also: 10 Best Places To Visit In Europe Top Places To Visit In Italy On Your Next Travel Escapade