Abroad Destinations for Semester Break 2027: Dubai, Egypt, the Balkans and Europe

Prepared by: Holitera Travel Team · TÜRSAB Group A Document No: 14707

The semester break is one of the most suitable periods of the year for families to travel together, as it coincides with the schools' mid-year holiday. During this short break held at the end of January – beginning of February, both weather conditions and budget planning are important. In this guide, we have compiled which international routes stand out for the semester break, which one suits you, and what you should pay attention to when making a reservation.

Short Answer: Where to Go During the Semester Break?

• If you want warm weather and sea: Sharm El Sheikh and the Red Sea coasts
• If you want fun and shopping with children: Dubai
• If you want history and culture: Cairo and the Pyramids
• If you want to see many countries visa-free in a short time: The Balkans
• If you want snow and a winter atmosphere: Balkan and Central European cities

1. Dubai: The Most Comfortable City Holiday in Winter

Dubai, with its mild daytime weather in the winter months, is the most preferred route during the semester period. The Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, desert safari, boat tour in Dubai Marina and theme parks offer a full program for families with children. Turkish citizens need to obtain a visa to enter the United Arab Emirates; visa procedures are usually planned together with the tour booking. Most Dubai tours last 3–5 nights.

2. Egypt: Pyramids and the Red Sea Together

Egypt offers two different options for those who want both history and sea during the semester break. On Cairo tours, the Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx and museums are visited; in the winter months the weather is very suitable for sightseeing. On the Sharm El Sheikh and Red Sea side, sunny days even in winter and activities such as diving and snorkeling stand out. Some tours combine Cairo and the Red Sea in the same program.

3. The Balkans: Many Countries in a Short Time Without a Visa

Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo are visa-free for Turkish citizens. For this reason, Balkan tours are a practical option for those who want to make use of the semester break without dealing with visa processes. With flight-included Balkan tours lasting 4–7 nights, multiple countries can be visited; in the winter months, the snow-covered streets of Sarajevo and Belgrade offer a distinct atmosphere.

4. Europe: Winter Discounts and Quieter Museums

For families with a Schengen visa, the semester period is a good opportunity to tour Europe more calmly. Since there is no summer crowd, waiting times at museums and historical sites are shorter. However, since daylight is short, it is important to spread the program well over the daytime hours.

What Should You Consider When Choosing a Semester Tour?

1. Check the school calendar: Make sure the departure and return dates of the tour fit within the mid-year holiday.
2. Look at the departure city: Besides the two airports of Istanbul, there are also options departing from Ankara, İzmir and Adana.
3. Read the included services: The tour page states whether flights, hotels, transfers, guiding, meals and extra tours are included in the price.
4. Arrange your visa and passport early: Pay attention that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the return date.
5. Ask about children's prices: Child discounts and room arrangements vary by tour.
6. Read the cancellation conditions: The cancellation and refund terms of each tour are specified separately on the tour page.

When Should You Make a Reservation?

Since semester week falls on the same dates across Turkey, flight seats and hotels fill up quickly. Making a reservation between October and December offers an advantage in terms of both price and date options. At Holitera, you can secure your place with a 25% down payment and complete the remaining amount before the tour date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a place where you can swim during the semester break?

Yes. The Sharm El Sheikh and Red Sea coasts are sunny even in the winter months, and a beach holiday can be enjoyed.

Which international route is visa-free for the semester?

Balkan tours covering Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo are visa-free for Turkish citizens.

How many days do semester tours last?

Most tours last between 3–7 nights and are planned to fit the mid-year holiday.

To compare all semester tours by date, departure city and price, you can take a look at our Semester Tours page.