Winter city breaks

This month’s Wanderlist is an ode to low-season travel, as we bring you 30 places perfect for winter city breaks. Bustling festive markets, warmly-lit streets and hearty cuisine lend many destinations a unique magic at this time of year, and the chill in the air gives you an extra excuse to curl up in a cosy wine bar.

Soak up York’s historic charm at a three-storey Georgian retreat, explore Madrid’s mercados de Navidad from a trendy apartment in Chueca or indulge in the delights of France’s gastronomic capital at a bohemian studio in Lyon.

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For weekends away:

Villa Garbo, Cannes, France

A luxury hotel and serviced apartment in one, with a private beach that provides a welcome oasis after a day of exploring busy Cannes. Staff are friendly and always happy to answer your questions over a free aperitif.

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Casa Howard Guest House, Florence, Italy

An elegant palazzo with an honesty bar and friendly housekeepers who bring breakfasts to your room. You’re minutes from the Duomo, and perfectly placed for exploring Florence’s traditional Christmas markets.

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Casa das Merceeiras, Estremadura, Portugal

Two cosy hideaways tucked behind Lisbon Cathedral, a short stroll from brilliant shops and restaurants. Host Teresa is the perfect tour guide, and will let you in on the city’s best secrets and hidden gems.

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Somewhere closer to home:

2 Precentor’s Court, York

A three-storey Georgian terraced house in the heart of charming York. The city’s array of boutiques, cafés and award-winning Christmas market are a short walk away, or head for the wilds of the North York Moors National Park.

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Southernhay House, Exeter

A beautiful hotel on a quiet square, just a stone’s throw from the cathedral and shopping areas. The chic cocktail bar is the perfect place to spend an evening, or head to one of the city’s many buzzing pubs.

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94DR, Edinburgh, Scotland

Few cities are as magical in winter as Edinburgh, and this stylish B&B near Holyrood makes the perfect base. There’s a sitting room with iPads for booking restaurants, plus an honesty bar and the most delicious breakfasts.

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