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:

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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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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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:

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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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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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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