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Best Places to Visit in Europe in Winter 2022

The European continent is heaven for tourists with its unmatched natural beauty, historical wonders, and architectural marvels. Especially in winters, when the region is covered with sparkling snow, European towns (and castles) are prime locations for spending your holiday season. 

With Christmas around the corner and the holiday season kicking in, let us introduce you to some of the best places in Europe that you can visit to enjoy your vacations.

• Magical Christmas Market in Europe
• Lonely Planet Travel Guide

1. Hallstatt, Austria

There is no competition to the pretty alpine town of Hallstatt, Austria, when it comes to enjoying the natural scenic beauty of winter.

Surrounded by Alps peaks covered with layers of cottony snow, this Austrian town is the best place to relax your mind, away from the city noise. 

You can enjoy your evenings in the cozy traditional wooden houses with the crackling of wood burning in the majestic fireplaces. For curious explorers, the narrow alleys, lakefronts, and Hallstatt Skywalk are some compelling attractions to explore.

How to get to Hallstatt? Discover the small town Hallstatt, one of the most enchanting locations in Austria, with this full-day trip from Vienna. The views will take your breath away!

2. Prague, Czech Republic 

If you prefer enjoying your winter vacations while taking a stroll down city streets, enjoying holiday decorations and bustling crowds, then Prague is a city that you must not miss out on. 

As it is the cultural center of the Czech Republic, you will find several activities to enjoy around town. Prague is the hub of holiday festivities, from the architectural grandeur to the countless beer parlors harboring numerous flavors. 

While you are in the city in winter, do not miss out on the Christmas market in Prague, which is famous across Europe. 

3. Tallinn, Estonia 

There are hundreds of distinguished European cities to visit, but the small and more unknown European capitals are by no means behind in terms of their beauty and natural attractions.  

The Estonian capital of Tallinn, which includes an old walled town and stone-paved alleyways from medieval times, is a major tourist attraction. 

Especially in winters when the city is covered in a white blanket, Tallinn is a wonder with its old-town Christmas markets decorated with heartwarming lights and lanterns that offer the visitors a magical experience, straight out of a fairy-tale. 

The city is also famous for its spas and saunas to combat the cold weather, where you can bask in the warmth while enjoying the snowfall from the vintage-styled windows.

4. Reykjavik, Iceland

If you wish to enjoy the true essence of nature’s winter, the icy land of Reykjavik is the best option for you. Standing at the far edge of the world and in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, the country of Iceland is a deep glacier with its icy cold winters famous across the globe. 

The whole country gets covered in blue ice, passing off alien vibes. In this dark corner of the world, you will find exciting, adventurous activities that no other place offers with matching intensity–from the Winter Light Festivals to geothermal pools and glacier hikes.  

At Reykjavik, you will get the chance to witness the 10,000 years old Great Geyser in action as well. 

5. Abisko, Sweden 

Who does not wish to witness the wonder of the Northern Lights, brightening up the night sky at the far end of the European lands? The city of Abisko in Sweden allows you to realize this dream with a minimum budget to spend. 

Abisko is one of the best spots to witness the northern aurora dancing across the vastness of the sky. 

You can also enjoy cross-country skiing to Scandinavian land during the daylight hours and other adventures such as sledding, snowmobiling, winter hiking, etc. 

One interesting attraction in Abisko, Sweden, is the world’s first ice hotel, where you can enjoy your stay or learn more about its history and architecture.

6. Schwerin, Germany 

The holiday season is famous for its Christmas markets and décor, and Europe has no competition when it comes to that.

Schwerin, Germany, offers one of the world’s best Christmas markets where the city’s medieval architecture sparkles with fairy lights and dreamy décor, looking straight out of Disneyland.  

Schwerin is worth visiting during the winter, from Christmas decorations to souvenirs to enjoying some of the traditional delicacies. 

The city also has a tradition of setting up stalls of local gingerbread and hot mulled wine to make you forget all the coldness of the weather outside. 

In addition, you can also pay a visit to some of the historical monuments in the city, including Schwerin Castle, that are worth a visit while strolling through the streets of Germany. 

7. Rovaniemi, Finland

Famous as the official home of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi, Finland, is one of the prime spots in Europe that attract thousands of tourists in winter. 

Standing just 4 km (2.5 miles) from the south of the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is often labeled as the Arctic Wonderland. 

One of the city’s specialties is its polar twilight, where the sun only peeks over the horizon for a few hours, and a dim twilight covers the sky for most of the day.  

The glittering blue snow covering the buildings and nature offers a magical feeling to the tourists. 

8. County Kerry, Ireland

The small country of Ireland is often under the limelight among European nations for its distinguished architecture and historical glamor but what makes it even more special for the tourist is its winter style. 

Especially for individuals who enjoy absorbing the beauty of winter away from the bustling crowds, County Kerry, Ireland, is an excellent option to consider. 

You can enjoy the crispy cold snowfalls in the region along with the opportunity to participate in the outdoor and indoor events of your choice. 

If you are a history fanatic, you can also visit Ross Castle, an Irish ancestral heritage located within the same region.

Travel Insurance

Do not forget to buy travel insurance to travel to Europe. Hopefully, you don’t need to use it, but it is better to be prepared for any eventuality or emergency.

In my case, I have Chapka’s annual insurance, with worldwide medical assistance with good coverage. Also, you can use our link to get a 7% discount on Chapka Insurance.

Choosing travel insurance will depend mainly on the duration and coverage of the insurance. Therefore, it is best to inform yourself well to choose the best insurance available.

If you want you can review our guide on how to choose travel insurance, where you will find comparisons, opinions, and discounts.

We hope you enjoyed this visit to European winter highlights. Let us know in the comments what place attracted you the most, or maybe there is a European winter adventure that you would like us to recommend?

Guest Post by: Elora Holt – revisitinghistory.com

Full-time architecture geek, especially Gothic & Art Nouveau varieties – the quickest way to convince me to travel is to describe the local architecture (not that it will take much effort, I have a bucket list of locations that will take a lifetime). I’m a design geek as well, so my long-term focus is to work in 3D architectural rendering. But in the meantime, I’m enjoying grabbing a cup of coffee and writing about castles around Europe!

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Last Updated on 8 January, 2022 by Veronica

25 Wonderful Destinations for Winter in Europe (Sun, Snow, or Christmas!)

Whether you’re looking to warm up under the winter sun, make the most of peak season in the snowy Alps, marvel at a whimsical Christmas market, or simply escape the crowds and appreciate one of Europe’s iconic cities during the offseason, there are so many incredible winter destinations in Europe.

Sure, you’ll need to be prepared for lots of darkness (hello 4:30 PM sunsets!) and to make sure you really love whatever coat you pack (because it will feature in basically all of your photos), but visiting Europe in winter offers incredible charm and just as much variety as the more popular summer months!

We love traveling during winter in Europe, whether it’s to appreciate Rome in January without the crowds or to get a little February sunshine in Andalucia.

While December, January, and February are the heart of European winter travel, depending on what you’re looking for, you might be able to count parts of November and March in this guide, too.

Here are some of the best places to visit during winter in Europe, no matter what kind of trip you’re after.

Table of Contents

• Festive Destinations for Winter in Europe
• Warmest Places in Europe for Winter Sun
• Epic Snow + Northern Lights Winter Destinations in Europe
• Iconic Destinations in Europe to Visit in Winter
• Essential Tips for Visiting Europe in Winter

Festive Destinations for Winter in Europe

Rounding up all of the excellent places for festive cheer during December in Europe is an enormous task!

For that reason, we have a full roundup of 31 Incredible Christmas Markets in Europe to check out in addition to this more general winter travel guide.

There’s no doubt that some destinations stand out above the rest, though, which is where this overview comes in.

Here are some of the absolute best Christmas destinations to visit in Europe!

Germany

While I’ve tried to keep this guide limited to specific regions or cities, rather than countries, it would be an enormous oversight to not include Germany as a whole.

The most classic destination for Christmas markets in Europe, Germany is one of the absolute best places to visit in Europe in December (and in some cases, November and January, too–not all Christmas markets close right after the holiday).

Some of the best cities for markets include Cologne, Nuremberg, and Dresden (home to the oldest Christmas market in the world!), though virtually all cities and towns have something to offer.

Looking for something smaller?

Check out Rothenberg ob de Tauber or Heidelberg!

Alsace, France

Known for its delicious cuisine, wine, half-timbered houses, canal cities, and unique culture that blends many aspects of both French and German culture, Alsace is located in northeast France.

It also happens to be one of the most festive holiday destinations in Europe!

From popular cities like Strasbourg and Colmar to idyllic villages like Riquewihr, Obernai, Ribeauvillé, Eguisheim, and Kaysersberg, Alsace is an absolute dream of a destination.

While summer tourism centers around its wine trail, in winter, it’s the legendary Christmas markets that take center stage–and they more than live up to the hype.

Austria

Like Germany, Austria is simply too festive in the winter to categorize anything but the country as a whole as one of the best winter destinations in Europe!

Luckily, thanks to its small size and excellent train system, you can cover quite a bit of ground on a winter trip to Austria.

The standout cities of Vienna (home to a whopping 12 distinct Christmas markets) and Salzburg (home to some of our favorite Christmas markets on the planet) are both must-sees.

Lesser-known but beautiful Linz, gorgeous Graz, and charming Innsbruck (known for its phenomenal winter sports as well as its markets) are also well worth a look.

And, of course, you can’t forget idyllic Hallstatt, one of the most beautiful small villages in Europe!

Budapest, Hungary

Featuring gorgeous Christmas markets, an excellent setting on the Danube, and delicious traditional food that lends itself to being enjoyed during cold weather, Budapest is a standout destination in Europe in December.

From Budapest’s biggest (and oldest) market in Vorosmarty Square to other standouts like the Advent Feast of the Basilica, you’ll have plenty of festivities to choose from in Budapest.

Plus, the city itself is a delight in winter, from the magical views from Fisherman’s Bastion to the charm of Budapest’s regal cafe culture (order an Esterhazy Cake at Central Cafe for us!).

As a bonus, Budapest is an easy 2.5-hour direct train ride away from Vienna, making Budapest a fun addition to a winter getaway to Austria.

Basel, Switzerland

Switzerland may be most famous for its mountains, but its cities are incredibly delightful too–and in the winter, none shines quite as bright as Basel!

Nestled in northwest Switzerland, the small city of Basel is situated on the Rhine River, not far from the Swiss border with Germany and France–giving it plenty of inspiration for its holiday festivities.

In addition to its gorgeous Christmas markets and overall beauty, you’ll find plenty of winter-friendly attractions in town, too.

Be sure to visit the Munster Cathedral (and climb to the top), meander through the fine arts museum, and check out the incredible City Hall.

And, if you’re feeling like a bit of a completionist, be sure to head to Dreiländereck, where you can walk through Switzerland, France, and Germany all in a matter of minutes!

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague has long been one of those particularly gorgeous European cities that captures the imagination when admiring it from its many angles–and that’s just as true in winter!

Strolling over the Vltava River along the Charles Bridge, admiring the famous Astronomical Clock, and exploring Prague Castle are all absolutely wonderful activities in winter.

Add in the city’s incredible Christmas markets in December (featuring plenty of Czech beer, of course), and Prague becomes one of the top winter travel destinations in Europe.

Be sure to climb up to the top of the Old Town Hall Tower to admire one of the best views of Prague and to enjoy a jaw-dropping view of the Christmas market held in the Old Town Square!

Warmest Places in Europe for Winter Sun

While I wouldn’t necessarily categorize any of these places as “warm” in the summer sense of the word, if you’re looking for a bit of sunshine and fresh air, these (relatively) hot winter destinations in Europe are excellent options!

Sure, you’ll be photographing beaches instead of donning a bathing suit and jumping into the water–but with a little luck, you may even get to leave your coat behind when exploring.

… And, as a bonus, most of these sunny European destinations are much less crowded and much less expensive during the winter months (the Canary Islands, as the warmest place in Europe in winter, are an exception).

Sicily, Italy

With its stunning architecture, complicated history, delicious food, and dramatic landscapes (hello, Mount Etna!), Sicily makes a fantastic getaway for travelers looking for winter sun in Europe.

Since visiting Sicily in, say, January or February rules out beach time, a winter trip is a perfect opportunity to take advantage of even more affordable prices than usual to appreciate the island’s incredible cultural sights.

Marvel at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, get lost in Ortigia, taste the chocolate of Modica, admire the views from Taormina’s Greek Theater, and tour Palermo’s impressive cathedral.

We also loved this food and history tour in Palermo, and highly recommend it!

Hoping to visit Mount Etna?

You absolutely can–and in winter, you may even get to see it covered in snow.

Malta

During the summer, popular parts of Malta are often overwhelmed with cruise ship passengers–but by visiting Malta in winter, you can skip the crowds and keep the sunshine!

The country’s capital, Valletta, is the sunniest city on the continent, making it the perfect place to seek out the winter sun in Europe.

Other fun things to do include exploring the Silent City of Mdina, the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk, and exploring the rocky and beautiful coastline of the island of Gozo (you’ll just need to skip the swimming).

With its arid landscape and intense heat, Malta can be quite brutal during the summer.

But, on the flipside, it can be equally as mild in the winter, with Valletta reaching an average high of 60°F/15°C in January and February.

Madeira

Sometimes called the “Hawaii of Europe” (though a few other winter sun destinations compete for that title!), Madeira is located off the northwest coast of Africa.

As an autonomous region of Portugal, Madeira is easy to access from mainland Europe but often feels worlds apart, with incredible landscapes and a food and wine scene all its own (if you’re familiar with Madeira wine–this is where it comes from!).

Some of the best things to do in Madeira include visiting the Valley of the Nuns, admiring Cabo Girao, and tasting the famous Madeira wine.

Be sure to also make time to hike the levadas–unique channels that were built into the side of Madeira’s mountains.

And, for travelers planning a trip over the New Year, Madeira’s capital city of Funchal puts on a fantastic firework display each December 31!

The Canary Islands, Spain

Arguably the most classic winter sun destination in Europe, the Canary Islands are–like Madeira–located off the northwest coast of Africa (though even further south than Madeira).

Without a doubt, the Canary Islands are among the warmest places in Europe in winter!

With average high temperatures hovering around 68°F/20°C, there is no better place to enjoy a bit of heat and sunshine in Europe over the winter.

The archipelago that makes up the Canary Islands boasts something for everyone, with some of the most popular islands being Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Tenerife.

Tenerife is the busiest island, with adorable villages, sandy beaches, and plenty of activities to keep you busy from day to night.

Meanwhile, Lanzarote is known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes.

The Algarve, Portugal

With its sunny weather, mild temperatures, and excellent hiking, Portugal’s Algarve is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Europe in winter!

From exploring charming towns like Lagos, Carvoeiro, Sagres, and Tavira to hiking gorgeous trails like the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, you’ll find plenty to do during winter in the Algarve.

And, quite honestly–the water in the Algarve stays so cold during the summer that if you come from a hot climate like us, you may not want to swim during the summer anyway (making winter the perfect time to visit).

Not swimming seems like a small price to pay for having iconic beaches all to yourself!

We loved our January trip to the Algarve and would love to visit in the winter again.

Andalucia, Spain

Whitewashed villages, sandy beaches, vibrant cities, and some of the most stunning architecture in the world (hello, Alhambra!), Andalucia is one of the absolute best places to visit during winter in Europe if you’re looking for warm weather and a bit of sunshine.

Sure, you won’t want to swim when visiting the beaches of the famous Costa del Sol, but they’re still worth strolling along.

And, cities along the coast, like Malaga, are much more pleasant to explore in winter than during notoriously the hot and humid summer.

While visiting Andalucia, be sure to tour the Alhambra in Granada, check out the Plaza de Espana in Seville, admire the stunning views from Ronda, and tour the incredible Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba.

And, if you can’t decide what kind of winter vacation in Europe you’re looking for, don’t worry: in Andalucia, you can truly do it all.

The mountains surrounding Granada are home to the only ski resort in Europe where you can enjoy downhill skiing with a view of the Mediterranean Sea in the distance!

We loved road tripping Andalucia in February!

Crete, Greece

As Greece’s largest and almost southernmost island (Gavdos has it beat there), visiting Crete in winter may not be the typical Greek vacation, but it can be a delightful one!

From restaurant-hopping in Heraklion to enjoying the charming Venetian harbors of popular towns like Chania and Rethymnon without the crowds you’ll experience during the summer, visiting Crete in winter has plenty to offer!

While it will be too cold to swim (expect temperatures around 60°F/15°C), the beaches are still beautiful and well worth admiring from the shore.

And, let’s be real: a centerpiece of any well-planned trip to Greece is its food!

The Greek coffee, local food, and local wine are all ready and waiting to be enjoyed during a winter trip to Crete.

Cyprus

As one of the warmest places in Europe during winter and boasting around 340 days a year of sunshine, it’s safe to say that Cyprus is a fantastic winter sun destination!

If your dream trip to Cyprus includes getting away from the beaches to hike in the Troodos or Kyrenia Mountains, soaking up deeply interesting history in Nicosia, and enjoying a bit of European winter sun, you’ll have a great time.

While sunsets are still fairly early and the closest you’ll get to the sea is looking at it, Cyprus in winter is a special–and uncrowded–experience.

And, while Cyprus is known to foreigners primarily as a winter sun destination, head high enough into the mountains and you can ski there, as well!

Epic Snow + Northern Lights Winter Destinations in Europe

If your idea of the perfect European winter vacation includes lots of snow and/or plenty of opportunities to chase the northern lights, these epic adventure destinations have you covered!

Rovaniemi, Finland

Located in Finnish Lapland and home to the famous Santa Clause Village each holiday season, Rovaniemi is the perfect winter destination in Europe for travelers looking to combine outdoor adventure with festive cheer!

With its child-centered Santa Claus Village, it also ranks among the absolute best places to visit in winter for families.

Reindeer sleigh rides, snowmobiles, dog sledding, and–of course–night-time expeditions to try to spot the magnificent northern lights–are all among the top things to do in Rovaniemi in winter.

Back in the Santa Claus Village, you’ll find kid-centered versions of many of these classic Lapland activities, too.

Don’t forget to send a letter home from Santa Claus’ Main Post Office while you’re there, either!

Tromso, Norway

As one of the world’s most cherished destinations for chasing the northern lights, Tromso, Norway is absolutely one of the best places to visit in Europe in winter!

While–and I cannot repeat this enough in this article–viewing the lights is never guaranteed, professional night tours like this give you the best odds of spotting them in Tromso.

And, beyond the lights, a full array of winter adventures await in Tromso.

Consider signing up for a dog-sledding experience, visiting a Sámi reindeer farm, and even going whale-watching!

Taking the cable car up for sweeping views of a very snowy, beautiful Tromso in winter is another must!

Chamonix, France

Nestled in the French Alps, not far from the border between France, Switzerland, and Germany, you’ll find the (rightfully) famous European winter travel destination of Chamonix situated in the shadow of Mont Blanc.

Most famous for skiing, Chamonix rose to prominence a century ago when it hosted the first-ever Winter Olympic Games in 1924.

Today, it is known for its incredible skiing and winter sports, and its access to some of the absolute best views of Mont Blanc.

You can also step inside the Mer de Glace–the largest glacier in France–during a winter trip here.

While Chamonix’s comparatively high prices mean that it will mostly appeal to skiers, you don’t need to be a skier to appreciate the beauty of this Alpine town in winter!

Abisko, Sweden

Located north of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland, Abisko is known for its sheer amount of darkness over the winter, including periods of “polar night” where the sun never rises!

This is an enormous asset, however, for its biggest tourism draw: spotting the northern lights.

After all, there’s nothing like 24/7 darkness to give you the biggest odds possible to admiring the Aurora Borealis.

Like other Arctic destinations in Europe, you’ll also be able to enjoy activities like reindeer camps, dog-sledding, snowmobiling, and more during your winter getaway.

That being said, in Abisko, there’s no doubt that catching sight of the northern lights is the star of the show!

The South Coast, Iceland

The South Coast of Iceland is downright magical during any time of the year, but to experience a side that most visitors don’t see, head there in winter!

Many of Iceland’s top attractions, including the famous Skogafoss Waterfall, Jokusarlon Glacier Lagoon, and the town of Vik, can be found here.

This is also where you’ll find Vatnajokull Glacier, the largest glacier in Europe and one of the most popular ones to hike on.

One of the biggest draws of Iceland’s South Coast in winter, though, is something you can only do during the cold months: hiking inside the ice caves!

You can also spot the northern lights here–fingers crossed–but of course, it’s never a guarantee.

Iconic Destinations in Europe to Visit in Winter

Visiting Europe in winter is incredible for once-in-a-lifetime epic experiences like the northern lights and festive events like Christmas markets, sure… but there’s another (less crowded) side to visiting Europe between November and March, too.

During these dark and admittedly sometimes dreary months, many of Europe’s most iconic cities–places known to be described with adjectives like “overtouristed” during the summer–receive a mere fraction of the tourists that they do during the high season.

The result is pleasant, beautiful cities, views of stunning architecture that you have enough elbow room to enjoy, and museums that can be sampled at a leisurely pace.

If you’re looking to take advantage of the offseason lack of crowds and lower prices, here are some of the best cities to add to your list!

Venice, Italy

Ethereal, beautiful Venice, with its gondolas, canals, opulent architecture, and downright implausible existence, is one of those places that people seem to either love or hate.

… and if you want to love it, you’ll be much more likely to do so by visiting in winter!

Sure, you’ll need to bundle up and expect gray weather–but honestly, Venice looks gorgeous under clouds.

It’s an excellent trade in order to experience St. Mark’s Square when it’s not literally covered by tourists (the exception: during Carnival).

Winter is when Venice is most prone to its “acqua alta“, or high water–in other words, flooding–but the vast majority of the time, this won’t disrupt your trip at all.

Paris, France

Years ago, when planning our first-ever trip to Europe, we decided to spend a week in Paris during winter!

We loved it enough that we’ve happily returned to Paris in the winter several times since (and in all the other seasons as well–after all, “Paris is always a good idea.”).

Yes, the skies will typically stay gray, and you should absolutely pack a travel umbrella, but the moody weather suits Paris just fine!

Enjoy the Louvre with a fraction of the crowds, ice skate in view of the Eiffel Tower, and enjoy a daily bowl of delicious French onion soup, and you’ll quickly forget the weather.

If you happen to visit in December or early January, be sure not to miss the Christmas markets and decor, either–the Galeries Lafayette Christmas tree alone is worth going out of your way for.

Rome, Italy

Without a doubt, the biggest reason to visit Rome in winter is the lack of crowds.

We’ve spent time in Rome during almost every month of the year, and the difference in crowd levels during December, January, and February are downright astonishing compared even to the shoulder seasons!

And, while the days are shorter, Rome’s attractions are arguably better appreciated during winter.

This is not only due to the lack of crowds, but to the lack of heat (did you know that most of the Vatican Museums aren’t air-conditioned? Just saying.).

Rome is quite possibly our favorite city in the world, and from touring the Colosseum to marveling at the Pantheon to devouring delicious pasta daily, a winter trip to Rome is an excellent experience.

One reason not to visit Rome during the winter though? Christmas markets.

They exist–technically–but if that’s what you’re after, head to Central Europe instead.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

There’s no doubt that many of the best things to do in Dubrovnik, from swimming in the Adriatic Sea to kayaking around Lopud Island, are only available in the summer.

If you’re in the mood for something a bit unorthodox, though, let me say: winter in Dubrovnik has its charms!

We spent 2 weeks enjoying Dubrovnik in February, and the experiences of walking the city walls almost completely alone, strolling through the city without fighting the crowds, and enjoying winter sunsets was an absolute delight.

And, even better: no cruise ship crowds.

Dubrovnik doesn’t get particularly cold (average highs in February reach
56°F/10°C), making it a mild way to experience some winter sun, too.

We snapped this photo on the city walls in in February, where we only passed about 5 other people during the entire experience!

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona may be on the Mediterranean, and it may feature beaches… but really, at its heart, Barcelona is not a beach town.

And, as a result, it makes for a fantastic winter trip in Europe!

Skip the overwhelming heat and intense crowds of the summer, and instead opt to marvel at masterpieces like La Sagrada Familia and Casa Batllo in the winter (and, as a bonus, the facade of Casa Batllo is more visible in the winter, too).

From browsing Mercado La Boqueria to strolling around Las Ramblas to soaking up the views at Park Guell, virtually all of the best things to do in Barcelona are improved but visiting in the offseason.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

During the summer months, Amsterdam is known as one of the most crowded and touristic cities in Europe… but in the winter, that all melts away!

Yes, you will be cold (the humid, damp cold of Amsterdam is not to be underestimated), and the days are short, but in exchange, you can explore the canals, peruse the cheese shops, and marvel at the museums with far fewer crowds!

Hearty, cozy Dutch snack foods, such as oliebollen, pancakes, stroopwafel, and even Chocomel, are also a delicious addition to your time in Amsterdam in winter.

And, while you probably won’t experience snow or frozen canals (sadly not a common experience), the charms of Amsterdam’s architecture, history, and culture are more than enough to make a winter visit worth the effort.

Essential Tips for Visiting Europe in Winter

Plan your days based on the available daylight.

While gray clouds, rain, and possible snow are all pretty much expected by travelers visiting Europe in winter, the incredibly short days can be harder to adjust to (at least, they were for us).

For example, in mid-December, the sun sets around 4:55 PM in Paris, around 4:00 PM in Vienna, around 3:30 in Reykjavik, and 1:30 PM in Rovaniemi.

Depending on where you go and what you plan to do, the amount of daylight available can greatly impact your plans!

Book epic excursions toward the beginning of your trip (and be flexible).

This is especially important for extremely weather-dependent activities, like spotting the northern lights in Iceland or dog-sledding in Tromso.

As magical as these experiences are, a snowstorm or poor lighting conditions can derail them.

By booking your most sought-after activities at the beginning of your trip, you can leave yourself room to reschedule and try again later.

Don’t assume winter is offseason everywhere.

When it comes to popular European winter destinations like Lapland for the Northern Lights or Vienna for Christmas markets, the sooner you can book your hotels and tours, the better.

Hotels and tours both fill up, and we have had to stay further out of the center than we would like more than once due to procrastinating on deciding where to stay!

We book our hotels and rental apartments through Booking.com, and our tours primarily through Get Your Guide or (in certain destinations) Take Walks.

Make sure you love your coat, hat, and gloves!

… because they will be in just about every picture you take!

Unlike during the summer, visiting winter destinations in Europe often means ending up with photos where you look like you wear the same thing every day.

That’s not a bad thing, but make sure you love what you bring!

Bringing a second coat can be a heavy inconvenience, but mixing things up with different hats and scarves is much easier.

Bring a travel umbrella with you!

This is especially important for cities–Lisbon may be known for its sun, for example, but it gets plenty of rain in December and January!

You can purchase an umbrella when you arrive, too, but as someone who has had to throw away one too many cheap umbrellas while traveling, it’s better to be prepared and bring your own.

Warm, comfortable boots are an absolute must.

Bonus points if they’re waterproof!

Cold feet make everything less pleasant when sightseeing.

I love my Ugg Kesey Motorcycle Boots and have been wearing them when exploring Europe in winter for years now.

Which month you travel will influence your winter trip to Europe.

January through March, for example, are most popular for hunting for the northern lights (though of course, there’s never any guarantee of seeing them and you can see them outside these months!).

January and February are popular for winter sun getaways in southern Europe, and the days will (slowly) be getting longer as winter wears on.

And, it should go without saying, December is the most popular month for Christmas market trips, but with careful planning, you can visit some markets during a November or January Europe trip, too.

Best places to visit in Europe in winter

Winter in Europe is approaching. 

Here we share the best places to visit in Europe in winter. 

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Best winter destinations in Europe

Alta ( Norway )

Contributed by Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

Alta, dubbed “the town of the Northern Lights”, lies well above the Arctic Circle at 70 degrees north latitude.

With a population of 20,000, it is the largest city in the vast wilderness of the Finnmark County.

From late November to mid-January, Alta experiences the Polar night, when the sun never rises above the horizon. This means that for a few hours a day, there is a twilight blue glow that washes over the landscape, before turning pitch black for the remaining 20-22 hours a day.

The darkness does, however, make it perfect for chasing down Mother Nature’s elusive light show.

It is best to join a Northern Lights tour so you have the highest chance of witnessing the eerie beauty of the Aurora Borealis. We booked our tour,  got our tripods ready and headed out.

On our tour, we waited patiently inside a picture-perfect cherry-red Norwegian cabin, keeping warm with hot chocolate and homemade ginger cake. Two hours passed and just as we were giving up, the clouds parted and vivid blasts of green started to leap from one side of the sky to the other.

The shimmering Aurora lasted for 45 minutes, allowing us plenty of time for photo opportunities and to take in the beauty of the lights.

We spent two nights in Alta trying to fit in as many winter activities as we could, including visiting the unique Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, snowmobiling, snowshoe hiking, dog sledding, cross country skiing, ice fishing, and reindeer sledding.

It was an unforgettable experience and Alta absolutely deserves a spot on your winter bucket list. 

London ( UK )

Contributed by Eniko from Travel Hacker Girl.

London is a great place to visit in the winter months. 

You can often find flights and accommodation much cheaper, than during peak season.

Read also: How to find cheap flights to anywhere. 

The city is also not as busy, so you can enjoy London’s famous attractions without the crowd. That is of course if you visit outside the Christmas period.

London starts to get ready for Christmas from the middle of November.

That is when most Christmas lights are put up, the shops are decorated and Christmas markets open.

Christmas in London is my favorite time of the year. I don’t even mind the crowd, as the whole city is just so magical.

There are many different pop-up events.

Christmas at Kew is a big favorite for families. Couples like to visit the Backyard Cinema, which has a cool Christmas Labyrinth theme before the movie.

Of course, no visit to London is complete during the festive season without admiring the beautiful Christmas Lights.

Oxford Street and Regent Street normally have some more traditional lights. Carnaby Street looks very unique and different every year, which normally divides people.

Go and see for yourself if you like it!

Of course, London can be cold in the winter. The best way to warm up is by drinking mulled wine at Winter Wonderland or going ice skating in front of the Natural History Museum. 

If you are traveling to London, these London travel tips will help you to enjoy the British capital even more. 

Sarajevo ( Bosnia )

Contributed by  Ellis from Backpack Adventures.

Sarajevo is one of my favorite places to visit in Europe during the winter.

The capital of Bosnia Herzegovina is not so well known as a winter destination, but it has lots of things to offer during the coldest months of the year and makes for a perfect city trip.

What makes Sarajevo such a great winter destination is its spectacular setting surrounded by the mountains.

The Dinaric Alps are a great place for winter sports. It is not for nothing that the 1984 Winter Olympics were held in Sarajevo.

Some of the best places to go skiing and snowboarding in Bosnia can be reached within one hour from the city.  

One of the largest ski resorts near Sarajevo is Bjelasnica that is still known as Olympic mountain since it hosted the Winter Olympics in 1984. It is famous for its steep slopes that are sure to be a joy for the experienced winter sporter.

However, for beginners, there are also easier options to take.

You can also go snowboarding or snowshoeing. The latter is a form of hiking through the snow. There are 8 snowshoe trails in Bosnia and a few are near Bjelasnica. 

Another favorite ski resort among locals in Sarajevo is Jahorina. This is the second tallest mountain peak in the Dinaric Alps and was home to the Women’s Alpine competitions in the 1984 Winter Olympics.

Again this is a great place for skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. Both resorts have ample of great mountain resorts with cozy log cabins to stay the night so that you can wake up in your own winter wonderland surrounded by snow-covered pine forests. 

If you have enough of all the snow in the mountains, Sarajevo itself is a great place to relax.

It will be cold in winter, but there are plenty of indoor activities.

There are some interesting museums about the civil war in the nineties and there is a vibrant cafe culture in the city. A cafe where a warm cup of tea or coffee is waiting for you is never far away. 

Prague ( Czech Republic )

Contributed by Randi from Just a pack.

Prague, one of the prettiest cities in Europe,  may not be the first place you think of when it comes to ideal winter destinations.

However, there are plenty of reasons to visit the City of a Hundred Spires in the winter.

First of all, visiting Prague in the winter means fewer crowds.

While Prague is a popular destination year-round, and especially in the summer and December, tourism drops considerably in the later winter months and popular sites like the Old Town and Mala Strana can be enjoyed with more elbow room.

The second and probably most appealing reason to visit Prague in the winter is the glorious Christmas Markets that pop up around the city in late November and early December.

No less than ten Christmas Markets spread holiday cheer across the city with stalls selling traditional Czech food and drinks, handmade wooden toys, Christmas ornaments, trinkets and more.

The more popular markets include the ones at Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, and at Prague Castle, but to get a slice of local life head to the Christmas Markets at Náměstí Míru or Jiřího z Poděbrad.

If you’re lucky, and the winter gods oblige, you may even get to see the markets with a dusting of snow – one of the most magical experiences the city can offer!

Innsbruck ( Austria )

Contributed by Alex from The Wayward Walrus. 

Walking off the train in Innsbruck, Austria is like walking into a winter wonderland. Innsbruck in wintertime means arriving to a quaint city center full of traditional Gothic, medieval architecture surrounded by snow-capped mountains that give the entire city a crisp blue hue.

As Austria’s fifth-largest city, it has its own airport and international train station that makes getting here effortless, even during the winter months.

One of the best tourist attractions is walking around the Old Town or Altstadt von Innsbruck.

Here you’ll witness a city center stuck in time with cobblestone roads that date back 500 years ago.

Cafes, bars, and shops line the streets and provide visitors a way to get warm while they explore the city.

If you fancy exploring the surrounding areas you can easily take day trips to Swarovski Crystal Worlds, the Imperial Palace, Alpine Zoo, and Ambras Castle just to name a few. 

And if you’re visiting around the holidays, don’t forget to check out Innsbruck’s traditional Christmas markets!

But it wouldn’t be a visit to Austria during the wintertime if we didn’t mention the loads of outdoor activities for all to enjoy in the surrounding mountains.

World-class ski slopes such as Stubai Glacier, Patscherkofel Vital Park, Bergisel Ski Jump, and Axamer Lizum Olympia Park are just a short drive or bus ride from Innsbruck.

If skiing isn’t your thing, take a trip to the Luge and Skeleton Track in Igls that was home to the 1964 Olympic Bobsledding competition and still functions today. 

Athens ( Greece )

Contributed by Chris from Trip & Trail.

When it comes to winter destinations I lean towards either the snowy and winterish ones, or—on the other side of the spectrum—places with warmer milder climates.

Leaving the in-betweens—usually wet and miserable places like London for another time of the year.

In this sense, Athens makes an ideal winter destination.

The Greek capital is beautiful all-year-round but during summer it can get too hot and crowded; something you can avoid by visiting in the winter.

Yes, it may not have the fairytale Christmas markets of central Europe and the snow-covered squares, but it has a strong—rough around the edges—character and of course its inhabitants, the bohemian Athenians who by then have long forgotten the islands and the beach clubs of south Attica, have returned to the cozy bars and restaurants of the ancient city.

Plaka, Gazi, and Petralona are just a few of the city’s hip neighborhoods where you can find hundreds of small joints to drink your coffee in the day and have a delicious dinner followed by a drink in the night.

Needless to say, all the usual attractions of the city like archaeological sites and museums are open with the added bonus of smaller crowds and the absence of queues.

There is also a winter side to the usually sunny Athens though.

Events, concerts, and modern exhibitions take place throughout the city.

The Christmas theatre hosts some impressive happenings every winter and it’s always worth it to check its schedule.

The Christmas decorations are beautiful and you can admire them by taking a long walk on Ermou street (the city’s most famous commercial road) even during the coldest winter night.

Lose yourself in the narrow alleys of Anafiotika on the foot of Acropolis and don’t miss a visit to the Monastiraki flea market on Sunday mornings.

Cornwall ( UK )

Contributed by Nabiha from Verse by a Voyager.

Cornwall in the south-west of the UK is one of the most incredible places in the country to visit.

Generally visited during the summer, Cornwall is even prettier during the winter season, mainly because of the fact that the south-west of the UK is warmer as compared to the rest of the country and gets very less snowfall, making it more pleasant to visit the outdoor locations.

Cornwall has plenty of outdoor locations to be explored during winters.

There’s also the Eden Project, which is the largest indoor rainforest in the world. As the temperature inside the domes of the Eden Project tends to get very humid due to a large number of plants there, winter is the best time to visit to avoid the humidity during summer.

There are a variety of adventurous activities to be done at the Eden Project and winter is the best time to explore them.

Another magical gem of this county is the open-air Minack Theatre.

Overlooking the Celtic Sea, this Greek piece of architecture is incredibly beautiful. During the winter season, when it’s pleasant during the afternoons, watching a show at the Minack Theatre is a must-do activity in Cornwall.

Cornwall has some of the best beaches in the country which can be easily enjoyed during the Cornish winter as its pretty moderate.

During the winter season, the number of people visiting Cornwall is much lesser than the summer season and therefore all the locations can be better enjoyed with less crowd around.

Barcelona ( Spain )

Contributed by Vicki from Vicki Viaja.

Barcelona is a stunning city, no matter what time of year you visit. Most tourists come to Barcelona during the summer months to enjoy the beach and the warm weather.

However, there are a lot of advantages to visiting the Catalan capital during the winter months.

Christmas time in Barcelona doesn’t finish on 26 December as in most European cities but goes on until the 6th of January. 

This day is called Epiphany, or also three kings day, and on this day Barcelonians organize a huge parade that goes through the entire city center.

Everywhere you can buy some fresh churros, which are best to be enjoyed together with a cup of hot chocolate.

Next to the Sagrada Família and the Cathedral of Barcelona, there is a small Christmas market selling small fir trees, Catalan handicrafts, and souvenirs.

However, during the winter, there are far fewer tourists in the city than in other seasons.

This gives you much more tranquility and freedom while exploring the city. Even the queues in front of the famous Barcelona attractions are significantly shorter in winter.

For your accommodation, you usually save a few euros if you visit Barcelona during the winter season.

Even though it’s not warm enough to go swimming in winter, you can still enjoy the beach on a sunny day.

Read also: Why you must visit the Algarve in winter. 

The beaches are relatively empty during the winter, which gives you a much more beautiful view of the sea.

The weather is usually very sunny even in winter so you can sit outside during the daytime and enjoy a coffee or a delicious sangria without being cold.

Edinburgh ( Scotland )

Contributed by Yvette from Wayfaring Kiwi.

Edinburgh makes a great winter holiday spot for a weekend break or even longer!

The Christmas Markets are one of the highlights during December; sip on mulled wine at one of the many pop-up bars, shop the stalls and appease your inner child on the fairground rides.

The Christmas lights at the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens are also a magical experience.

The city comes alive during Hogmanay, which is the name for New Year celebrations in Scotland.

Join in on the Torchlight Procession on December 30 that sees some 20,000 torchbearers march through the streets of Edinburgh to pipe, drum and dance bands.

On New Year’s Eve, there is a massive street party in the city center with live music, a ceilidh, and fireworks to mark the start of the New Year- with the magnificent backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

Attending Hogmanay is a unique experience but those who want to avoid the crowds may want to plan their winter getaway to Edinburgh outside this festive period.

The city is relatively quiet in winter which means you won’t be waiting in line for the many attractions.

Edinburgh also has many free museums and art galleries.

The National Museum of Scotland is a fantastic museum filled with Scottish artifacts and you can spend hours admiring the exhibits.

And if the weather is dreich, as the Scots like to say, you can always cozy up in one of the many pubs and warm your insides with a glass of whiskey or mulled wine.

Scotland is also known for its hearty cuisine, so leave your guilt at home and indulge in a delicious steak pie, haggis, neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes), Cullen skink (fish soup) or sticky toffee pudding!

Kiruna ( Sweden )

Contributed by Kat from Wandering Bird.

If you’re looking for fantastic winter destinations to visit in Europe, look no further than Kiruna in Sweden.

This picturesque town has everything you need for a perfect winter holiday: snow, great views and it’s officially one of the best places in the world to see the Northern lights.

Despite the high likelihood of snow, Kiruna has a unique location surrounded by mountains and lakes, and those make for a surprisingly high number of clear nights. This means you have a great chance of seeing the Northern lights in Kiruna should they appear during your stay.

While you’re waiting for the Aurora, there are plenty of other things to do in Kiruna in winter.

Every year a world-famous Ice Hotel is built in this area, it’s definitely worth a visit and maybe even a stay if you’re brave enough!

Here is an overview of more great places to see the Northern lights in Europe. 

You can also go dog-sledding with a team of huskies, snowmobiling across frozen lakes and incredible snow-covered landscapes, cross-country skiing (not for the faint-hearted), hiking (yep, in the snow), wildlife viewing, join one of the photography tours or just relax and enjoy the incredible views.

If you’ve picked a good hotel, you could even relax in your very own hot tub!

One of my favorite activities is a trip to the nearby Sky Station, where a cable car will take you up a mountain to a restaurant at the top.

This is great evening out and perfect for stargazing while you enjoy a delicious meal. (This is also another fantastic opportunity for Northern Lights viewing if that’s your goal!)

Kiruna can be visited all year, but in the winter it really comes alive- making it the perfect winter destination.

Seville ( Spain )

Contributed by Dhara from Not about the Miles.

Seville is a fabulous European winter destination. The Andalusian capital stays vibrant all through the winter because winters are mild in the southern province of Spain.

There are many things to do in Seville throughout the year, and you can do almost all of them in the winter as well.

Even between December and February, daytime temperatures in Seville rarely fall below a balmy 60 degrees Fahrenheit. And with plenty of blue skies and sunshine on most days, sightseeing is a joy. Nights are a little colder, but all you need are a cozy jacket and long pants, to still be out and about.

Read also: Charming towns in Portugal you absolutely must visit. 

All of Seville’s major sights are a joy to visit in the winter, with fewer crowds.

You can still stroll around the gigantic Plaza of Spain, or through the green Maria Luisa Park. The gardens of the Alcazar still look beautiful, because of the lovely palm trees and the architectural elements.

And you’ll have an overall more pleasant experience at the major monuments, with much shorter lines!

As Christmas approaches, gear up for celebrating!

There are lots of Christmas markets set up through the city.

Browse the markets for beautiful local arts and crafts, or just walk around, enjoying the ambiance.

Visit the plazas of the city at night to view the lights and to hear the magical sound of Christmas carols floating through the air.

Of special interest are the elaborate Nativity scenes set up in shops and squares throughout Seville.

If you are in Seville on New Year’s Eve, make your way to Plaza Nueva, to see the fireworks and to ring in the new year. Make sure you take 12 grapes with you…it’s a tradition to eat one grape for each stroke at midnight, to ensure good luck through the coming year!

Paris ( France ) 

Contributed by Elisa from World in Paris.

Paris in France is a great destination to visit in the Winter.

The weather is not as cold as in the north of Europe so you can enjoy the streets of Paris, perhaps with a break for a coffee in a cute Parisian café, as long as you wear warm clothes.

Winter in Paris starts with the first Christmas Markets, the opening of the ice skate rinks, and several other holidays activities.

During this period there are also various good food and wine festivals, most of them related to the holidays.

Other interesting events in Paris in the winter are the Festival of Lights – a magical stroll lit by monumental lanterns set in the alleys and pitches of Jardin des Plantes and Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes – or Christmas at Disneyland Paris.

It is not uncommon to see snow in Paris even if usually, it melts down really fast.

But last years we had some heavy snowfall in January and February with great photo opportunities by the most iconic sights in Paris.

Read also: The perfect Lisbon itinerary. 

If the weather is too cold to stay outside, Paris has some of the best museums in the world like the Louvre Museum, or Orsay Museum, just to name a few.

But there are other lesser-known museums which are also worth the visit.

This list includes small museums like the Orangerie, Cluny Museum, or the digital museum l’ Atelier des Lumières, one of the newest additions to the city.

If you have more than 3 days to spend in Paris don’t hesitate to leave the city for a day trip. Places like Château de Versailles or Château de Chantilly are wonderful in wintertime.

Krakow ( Poland) 

Contributed by Dagney from Cultura Obscura.

Krakow is a fantastic winter destination.

The city, often quite crowded in the summer is much quieter throughout the winter. Popular day-trips like the Wieliczka Salt Mine and Auschwitz require less advance booking notice.

Plus, as an added bonus flights and accommodation are typically cheaper in winter as it is offseason.

However, the real reason to visit Krakow in the winter is the atmosphere.

In December there is a lovely Christmas Market that fills up the city’s main square, Rynek Glowny.

The lights and festive drinks make the chilly weather feel almost warm and make a stroll around the old town extra cheerful.   

Make sure to try a Chimney Cake together with your mulled wine.

In addition to the Christmas market, lights also go up around the rest of the city. Anyone arriving by bus or train via Krakow Glowny will be greeted by elaborate holiday decorations and sometimes music.

Krakow is a beautiful city to walk around as almost none of it was destroyed during WWII.

As a result, it still has plenty of traditional gothic and renaissance architecture, among others.

Although it is visually stunning any time of year, the winter ambiance and lack of crowds can make it extra magical.

If the cold weather feels daunting, make sure to pop into one of the city’s themed cafes, which are some of the top unusual things to do in Krakow. These include a board game cafe and cat cafes. Krakow is also a foodie destination and you can get anything from delicious pierogis to top-notch vegan food.

Malta

Contributed by Liza from Tripsget.

One of the best places to visit in Europe in winter is Malta.

Malta is a relatively small island country located in the Mediterranean Sea very close to the Italian island of Sicily.

Due to the location, it never gets very cold in Malta and moreover, on average, there are about 300 sunny days in Malta.  This means that even winters are usually very sunny.

Hence, if you want to enjoy relatively warm weather (about 13-17C) and sun, it makes sense to visit Malta in winter. 

Read also: 13 wonderful things to do in the Azores. 

Malta consists of 3 main islands – Malta, Gozo, and Comino and all the three are worth visiting.

My favorite is probably Gozo just because it is a bit less visited and less busy but nevertheless has some incredible places. 

It’s very easy to explore Malta by car – you can rent a car for 4-5 days and drive around the main island and Gozo (if you take a car ferry which takes about 30 min to traverse the distance), however, you will need to take a small speedboat to go to Comino.

Some of the main highlights to visit in Malta are the capital Valetta, the silent city of Mdina, a very photogenic amusement park Popeye village, Victoria fort in Gozo, and, of course, the famous blue lagoon in Comino.

Malta has a very long and interesting history, so it also makes sense to buy a tour or even two to learn more about the island country.

Malta was also one of the filming locations of the Game of Thrones, so if you’re a fan of the series, it’s just another reason to visit Malta. It is also one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe. 

Bruges ( Belgium) 

Contributed by Marie from A Life Without Borders. 

With its lack of tourist crowds and a relatively mild winter climate, Bruges is one of the best cities to visit in Europe for winter. 

Located in the West Flanders region of Belgium, the medieval city of Bruges is stunning all year round but Bruges in winter is just magical.  

With pretty canals and cobblestone streets, ornate, gothic architecture, delectable chocolates, and charming Christmas markets, Bruges makes the perfect winter getaway.

From late November until early January, visit the charming Bruges Christmas markets. 

Set in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage town, the Christmas markets boast old-time wooden chalets offering traditional hot mulled wine, homemade handicrafts, Christmas decorations and more. 

And of course, the food stalls will have you drooling with a range of local food and drinks.

Enjoy strolling along the pretty cobblestone streets to get your fill of mouth-watering chocolates or take a cozy horse and carriage ride through Bruges charming old-town streets. 

Take a scenic boat trip through the winding maze of charming canals before warming up with one of Bruge’s specialty hot chocolates. 

Gaze at the pure white swans on the Lake of Love before climbing the Belfry of Bruges for panoramic 360-degree views over the city square. 

Wander the Markt (Market Square) to discover gorgeous gild houses looking like a scene straight out of a chocolate box. 

Cycle out to one of the four remaining windmills on the edge of town, before finishing your visit to Bruges with a superb Belgian beer in front of a roaring open fire.

Ljubljana ( Slovenia )

Contributed by Emily from Wander-lush. 

Lovely Ljubljana, one of Europe’s smallest capital cities, is a joy to visit any time of year.

Winter takes Slovenia to a whole new level: the entire country transforms into a fairy tale landscape of white peaks and crystal lakes.

Ljubljana’s colorful Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture is enough to brighten even the dreariest of winter days.

Slovenia is a predominantly Catholic country, so there are plenty of seasonal festivities to enjoy in winter.

From November to January 2, Ljubljana hosts no fewer than four Christmas markets in the city centre.

As the holidays approach, the city is illuminated by one of Europe’s most ornate and imaginative light displays.

This is the work of local artist Zmago Modic and the annual display is always themed around ‘the universe’. Constellations, planets, and galaxies take shape in complex lighting arrangements, with a huge Christmas tree in Prešeren Square as the Centrepoint.

A great way to take it all in is on a special winter-themed boat cruise along the Ljubljanica river.

Another good reason to visit Ljubljana in winter is the food.

Slovenian cuisine is basically made for winter – decadent and heart-warming meals such as Štruklji, dough filled with a range of sweet or savory flavors (I like cinnamon or chocolate for winter), is the perfect treat to curl up with at the end of the day.

Ljubljana is crowded with boutique bars where you can sample Slovenian wines, including mulled varieties.

If you’re serious about vino, time your visit for early winter – the Slovenian Wine Festival is held in mid-November as part of November Gourmet Ljubljana, an entire month of culinary celebrations.

Ljubljana’s location in the center of the country makes it a perfect departure point for an amazing nature trip, including Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj.

You can find skiing and winter sports in Kranjska Gora, Maribor and Rogla – all under 2 hours drive from the capital.

These are a great budget-friendly alternative and usually much quieter than other places in Europe.

Brussels ( Belgium )

Contributed by Sophie from Bitten By The Bug.

Thanks to a nice balance between indoor and outdoor activities, Brussels is a great place to visit in Winter.

When the weather allows, it’s nice to take a stroll through the city center and marvel at its many beautiful sights.

Spot the differences in both wings of the asymmetrical, gothic town hall. Spin around on Grand Place to marvel at the stunning guild houses that surround the square.

Take in the magnificent view from Mont des Arts. Look for Manneken Pis and the other two peeing statues…

If you’re visiting during the festive season, make sure to check out the Brussels Christmas market and take a spin on the Ferris Wheel.

If you’re looking for shelter in case of rain, head to the Galeries Royales, which are covered shopping arcades with lots of fancy boutiques and some of Belgium’s finest chocolatiers.

It would also be the opportunity to try the famous waffles from Maison Dandoy.

Compose your own waffle by selecting your favorite toppings, and order a hot chocolate to go with it.

Another highlight in the Galeries Royales is Librairie Tropismes, one of the most beautiful bookstores in Europe.

History enthusiasts will enjoy the Coudenberg museum where you can explore the underground ruins of the former palace.

There are of course much more museums to choose from, so you’ll definitely find something that appeals to you.

Finally, there are many cozy bars and restaurants to warm up after spending the day outside. Order a local beer and the cold will soon be forgotten!

Zermatt ( Switzerland )

Contributed by Michael from MSCgerber.

Zermatt is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places to visit in Switzerland.

No matter in which time of the year you visit Zermatt, it is always somehow magical. However, Zermatt during Winter is, in my eyes, the best time to visit.

Zermatt is a car-free city, which makes it super lovely during wintertime. You can stroll around the tiny roads with your family, partner – or alone – and enjoy an incredible mood while seeing the Matterhorn in its full beauty covered with a massive amount of snow.

Arguably the best thing to do in Zermatt during Winter is skiing – as Zermatt is one of the best ski areas of Switzerland, if not the whole world.

And the best thing about it: The majestic Matterhorn is always in sight – which makes for an incredible panorama.

Furthermore, Zermatt is a starting point for various adventure and family activities.

No matter if you are looking for a crazy helicopter skiing adventure or a delicious cheese fondue with your family – Zermatt has something to offer for every traveler.

One of the best experiences is probably staying in an Igloo village, which is only available during Wintertime.

The only downside (in my opinion) are the extremely high costs of Zermatt, especially during Winter.

Everybody wants to enjoy the wonderful sceneries of Zermatt, so it can become really pricey.

I’d personally recommend staying one or two train stations away from Zermatt to save money and take the train every morning.

Finnish Lapland ( Finland )

Contributed by Chelsea from Pack more into life. 

If you are looking for the perfect place to enjoy winter in Europe, then look no further than Lapland in Finland.

Located around the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is a delight for visitors. Not only does it feature a huge Santa Claus Village with an arctic post office to mail fun postcards home with a special stamp. 

There is also plenty of snow to play in, you can make reindeer sleigh rides through the Finnish forest and of course, your visit isn’t complete without a visit to St. Nicholas himself. 

If that’s not enough, explore the various family-friendly activities such as mushing your own dog sled team, taking a snowmobile ride through the woods, going ice fishing on the lake and chasing the elusive Northern Lights.

The town of Rovaniemi also delights visitors with high-class museums, restaurants serving up international cuisine and a train station that has two overnight train departures to and from Helsinki, making train travel a fun way to reach Lapland. 

You can either choose to rent a car and brave the winter roads or rely on a public bus system and tour operator buses.

Either way, be sure to venture an hour outside Rovaniemi to visit Ranua Wildlife Park. It’s the only arctic zoo and a great place to take the family to see animals that call this area their home. 

Want to read more about dog sledding, visiting the Santa Claus Village, the best places to catch the Northern lights and the overnight Santa Train? Head over to my family travel blog!

Lake Bled ( Slovenia )

Contributed by Joanne from The world in my pocket. 

Lake Bled in winter becomes a magical place, with streets covered with a blanket of snow, the castle overlooking the frozen lake and the stillness that reminds of a scene from the movie Frozen.

Not many tourists dare to adventure themselves to Bled during wintertime, but if you do, you won’t regret it.

There are many cozy places where you can hide from the cold weather, over a cup of mulled wine or a hot chocolate, looking at the snowflakes falling from the sky through the window of a café or restaurants.

If you are a fan of winter sports, Bled is a perfect base for going skiing in the Triglav National Park.

In less than half an hour drive away you will find the cable car that goes up to the Vogel ski center, one of the most popular in Slovenia.

There are slopes for every type of skier at Vogel: beginners, intermediate or advanced. If you are there check out lake Bohinj as well, which looks stunning in winter.

When lake Bled is frozen, you can even skate on it.

When the water is still navigable, the traditional pletna boats still carry passengers to the little island in the middle of the lake. It is said that if you ring the bell of the church from the island and make a wish, it will come true.

There are a few hotels in the area which have spas with natural thermal water coming from deep inside the mountains, where you can relax after a long day spent in the snow.

Geneva ( Switzerland) 

Contributed by Wendy from The nomadic vegan. 

Switzerland really comes into its own in wintertime, and Geneva is the perfect base from which to experience it.

The city itself only occasionally gets heavy snowstorms, but it’s surrounded by snowy mountains on both sides.

On the Swiss side, you have the majestic Alps, with endless possibilities for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and other winter sports.

And if you’re a beginner skier, the Jura mountains on the border between France and Switzerland are the perfect place to learn.

The slopes are much gentler here, with plenty of easy green runs. If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great place to take them skiing or sledding.

Around the 12th of December, Geneva puts on quite a show in the form of an annual festival called the Escalade.

Locals dress up in period costumes from the turn of the 17th century, when Geneva’s citizens brazenly fended off an attack by the Savoy army in 1602.

Festivities are punctuated by battle reenactments, a torch-lit parade, and lots of mulled wine and local delicacies.

The following weekend, there’s a series of running races through the Old Town, including a fun run where people dress up in funny costumes.

Christmas and New Year, on the other hand, are pretty quiet, as the city’s many expats return to their homes to celebrate with their families.

Ice hockey is popular in these parts, and cheering on the local team, the Genève-Servette, at one of their matches is always a lot of fun.

And if you’re lucky, you might catch one of Geneva’s spectacular ice storms, when the notorious wind known as “La Bise” whips off Lake Geneva and covers everything in and around the lake in ice.

Borovets ( Bulgaria )

Contributed by Stephanie from Sofia adventures.  

If you’re looking for a great winter European escape, head to Borovets, Bulgaria.

This snow-covered winter wonderland is one of Bulgaria’s three ski resorts and is popular with international tourists looking to enjoy a gorgeous ski resort at Eastern European prices.

If you’re an expert skier, you’ll be excited to hit the slopes as soon as you get here. However, if you’re looking to take your first ski trip, make sure to sign up for ski lessons.

The ski school is a great way to get introduced to the slopes. 

There are more things to do in Borovets than just ski, however.

You can go tobogganing, ride on horseback through the snow, and enjoy the town’s delightful apres-ski scene. 

Beyond the winter activities, you can escape the cold with a day at the spa.

There are great ski resorts to stay in, many of which are equipped with luxury steam rooms and spa services.

However, if you want to enjoy a relaxing local tradition, head to Kotkava, a natural mountain hot spring located just outside of the city.  

You can also venture out with day trips to the beautiful mosque in Samokov and the nearby former royal palace. 

While in town, don’t miss out on enjoying some of the city’s excellent restaurants, like Cool Runnings, Bulgaria’s only Jamaican establishment.

Borovets is just a two hours drive to Sofia, so it’s an easy budget flight away from most major cities in Europe, making it an accessible winter holiday for most of the continent.  

Want to spend a day in Sofia during your winter vacation?  Have a look at this great 1 day Sofia itinerary.

Mallorca ( Spain ) 

Contributed by Nadine from Le long weekend.

The Balearic Island of Mallorca may not be the first place you think of when planning a winter getaway, but there are plenty of reasons why this Spanish destination should be visited in the cooler months!

Firstly, and most appealingly, the winter months are mild in Mallorca, so you’ll experience plenty of sunshine and highs of around 15 degrees Celsius in January.

And while these brisk temps don’t inspire swimming, you’ll still be able to make the most of the island’s beaches, which will be blissfully bare at that time of the year.

Walking, hiking and cycling are very popular pastimes on the island, and with the incredible landscapes, craggy mountains, lush forests, and sparkling coastlines, you won’t have to venture too far to experience the best of Mallorca’s natural playgrounds.

Away from the most touristic areas (resorts near the coast), you’ll find villages still full of local life, and of course, in Palma, the island’s trendy capital, you’ll find that it’s largely business as usual.

Browse the city’s historical monuments, shop in the vibrant boutiques and designer stores, and catch the famous Sóller train out to the seaside town of the same name.

Being the largest of the Balearics, Mallorca has plenty to appeal to all tastes, and while some of the accommodation options close down in winter, you’ll be able to find Airbnbs and traditional hotels that cater to tourists all year round.

And the added bonus is that you’ll pay much lower rates than in the peak season, making it the ideal time to indulge in an extended stay.

Gran Canaria ( Spain )

Contributed by Michelle from Greedy Gourmet.

Gran Canaria is the number one destination for a winter sun holiday or a winter getaway.

Just think of the fact that while it is going to be snowy and cold at home, you will be walking barefoot on Gran Canaria’s beaches under a bright sun.

Sounds like the perfect winter vacation, doesn’t it?

Gran Canaria is one of the Spanish Canary Islands, located off the northwestern coast of Africa.

The best part is that this sunny paradise is actually just a short flight away.

In addition, the flights are not horrendously expensive as compared to some other tropical destinations like the Caribbean or South-Eastern Asia. 

On top of the beautiful sandy beaches such as for instance Playa del Ingles, Gran Canaria is home to the famous Dunes of Maspalomas. In this natural reserve, you can enjoy a lovely romantic walk by the sunset,  a camel ride, or a buggy tour through the scenic dunes.

You can also go sailing, fishing, dolphin and whale watching, surfing and even go on a jet-ski ride.

If you love nature and love to stay active during your vacations, you can explore Gran Canarias many hiking trails and for example hike up all the way to the Bandama Caldera, which is a volcanic crater.

As you can see, there are many things to do in Gran Canaria.

The island offers something to all types of vacationers, whether you are looking to relax or whether you are looking for an adventure.

For more information on the 36 best things to do in Gran Canaria, check out my food and travel blog where you’ll find all sort of recommendations (including on dining options). Click right here. 

Venice ( Italy )

Contributed by Chris from More life in your days. 

Venice is a stunning city that is known throughout the world for its unique beauty.

For good reason, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. 

But most people visit in the summer, which makes Venice a great choice for a winter getaway giving you the chance to explore this incredible city without quite so many crowds. And without the smell. The canals of Venice give off their own distinctive odor in the heat of summer but the cooler winter months do not suffer from this.

The low light of winter makes Venice even more atmospheric than it is in the summertime and you’ll get to enjoy Venice in the dark when it arguably looks its best.

You may need to wrap up warm in the depths of winter but on a cool, crisp winter’s day, Venice is hard to beat. 

We love Venice because everything is just that bit different, there are canals instead of roads and boats instead of cars and this is what makes it one of the world’s great travel destinations. 

One of the best ways to explore Venice is to cruise down the Grand Canal whether that is by Vaporetto (water bus) or on a private boat.

It is a fantastic experience and gives you the chance to have a close-up view of the incredible palaces that line the largest waterway in the city. 

For the ultimate Venice in the winter experience, time your visit to coincide with the famous Carnival week in February, but be sure to book well in advance.

Tallinn ( Estonia)

Contributed by Oksana & Max from Drink Tea & Travel. 

Tallinn, Estonia is one of the most beautiful cities we have visited in Eastern Europe in the winter.

With a medieval, fairytale-like charm, Tallinn looks like it’s straight out of a holiday snowglobe.

The weather does get cold and daylight hours may be brief, but the cheerful atmosphere and the warmth and holiday spirit of the local people more than makeup for the gloomy winter blues. 

Winter in Tallinn brings its own charms.

If you’re in Tallinn for Christmas, you’ll have the pleasure of seeing it decked out for the holidays.

Between the holiday lights strung up along the streets and in the restaurants and taverns, the good cheer and festivities, and the Christmas market in the Old Town Square, Tallinn in winter will leave you feeling like you’ve stepped onto a holiday movie set.

Tallinn is neatly organized and easy to get around, so even in the snow and with only brief daylight, you’ll always know where you are and how to get where you want to go. And there is quite a bit to be explored.

Whether you’re hoping to see the modern creativity of the Telliskivi Creative City, the steadfast charm of the medieval Tallinn Town Wall, or the natural wonders in the area, such as Kadriorg Park or the Jagala Waterfall, there is lots to enjoy in Tallinn in the winter. 

Zakopane (Poland)

Contributed by Maria & Rui from Two Find a Way. 

Have you ever heard of Zakopane?

Many people haven’t, but if you’re a lover of the spirit of Winter you’ll surely want to visit Zakopane after you’ve seen some photos of this charming town.

It’s located in the southern region of Poland, at the foot of the stunning Tatra Mountains, the highest mountain range in the country.

So what makes Zakopane such a perfect winter destination? To start, this town seems straight out of a seasonal postcard, with its snow-covered mountain peaks, quaint wooden houses, and Christmas decorations.

Zakopane is unique not only for its nature but also for its unique architecture. Zakopane style is actually an art style in itself, synonym with a unique approach to folk architecture, and there’s a museum in town where you can learn more about it.

The beautiful buildings hold not merely museums but also great accommodation options, restaurants, and cozy cafes perfect for warm tea and sweet pastries during the Winter.

Even though this area stands out for the architecture, the jewel of the crown really is the nature you find all around Zakopane.

Because the region is well prepared to receive tourists, there are plenty of ways to see these natural sights: from hiking trails, to easily accessible funiculars and cable cars that will take you directly to the views.

There are also nearby ski destinations for lovers of winter sports.

One thing that sets Zakopane apart from other famous European winter destinations is how affordable it is. Even though the town receives quite a few local and foreign tourists every year (it is, after all, the Winter capital of Poland) the prices are still incredibly affordable compared to other similar locations and taking into account the quality you receive in return.

Conclusion

Some people like to fully indulge themselves in the best the winter has to offer, others are snowbirds who just want to escape the cold. 

We included some top Europe destinations that appeal to everyone. 

Winter lovers will enjoy the cheerful Christmas markets, the amazing ski destinations and the adventurous destinations in Nothern Europe where they can chase the Northern Lights. 

Snowbirds can recharge their batteries at the sunny beaches of Southern Europe.

Happy Winter Holidays everybody!

If you like this post, pin it. 

15 Best Places to Visit in Europe this Fall and Winter

Cold mornings, check. Historic architecture, check. French pastries and Italian pasta, check.

What’s missing? The crowds…

The offseason is the best time to visit Europe and pretend it is your own private playground. Whilst the famous cities of London and Paris never really lose the crowds, here are a few trade-offs I am sure you will fall in love that are (nearly) free from selfie stick attacks and queues long enough to be a flight time during the offseason.

Exploring Europe is super easy thanks to both how close countries are, and also the Schengen zone making bus travel between cities sometimes the best routes at the most affordable prices. To hunt for timetables make use of the Omio app and website (formerly GoEuro) which allows you to search and book trains, buses and flights in Europe and is a great tool to help you plan, especially given there can be many different bus operators on each route.

Dresden and Saxony, Germany

The capital city of the Saxony region, Dresden was a pleasant surprise. The city is compact enough to aimlessly explore on foot, and the grand Baroque architecture, which was restored (and in some case, is still being repaired) following the extensive damage of the war makes this a worthy European city break to rival some of the other grand cities in central Europe. Although it might not be as large as some of these other cities, the depth of arts, culinary creativity and the emerging street-art scene here make it a great long weekend destination.

While the height of summer and the month bring in the crowds, Dresden doesn’t yet seem as discovered as Munich, Cologne and Berlin which means you can marvel at the architecture, enjoy your winter Gluhwein and get lost in countless galleries and museums without having to face an army of fellow tourists.

READ: A LONG WEEKEND IN DRESDEN

• Chemnitz Christmas Market

Christmas in Saxony is on a whole other level, as you can watch on my video, with traditions, markets and festivities galore.

Nowhere is that truer than in the Ore Mountains and Seiffen, an old mining town which is full of Christmas shops and has a long tradition of producing wooden toys. Whether you visit the Christmas markets, take part in old miners festive traditions such as feasts, parades or underground concerts in mines, a visit to Saxony in December will give you all the Christmas feels but without the crowds of say, Prague.

READ: CHRISTMAS IN DRESDEN AND SAXONY

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is a drop-dead gorgeous city to visit all year round, and with a seemingly never-ending annual calendar of events and concerts to attend, it’s hard to find a wrong time to visit.

That said, thanks to the stunning UNESCO old-town centre, in the summer months it can become jam-packed with day-trippers from river cruises, so head here in the colder months to see beautiful colours with fewer crowds. With amazing Christmas markets too, it makes for a fantastic festive getaway.

While Salzburg is rightly known as the city of music (think Mozart and Sound of Music), there is plenty to enjoy here for those who don’t like classical performances. Walking the little cobbled streets is a joy, the restaurants are both cosy and historical, and the bar scene is kept pumping with gigs and concerts. Away from the iconic sights of the old town, a quick bus ride will bring you to beautiful alpine lakes and the views that Austria is most famous for, all within the Salzburg region that extends beyond the city.

READ: A LONG WEEKEND IN SALZBURG

Bansko, Bulgaria

Bansko in winter is an ideal place for Skiers of all abilities, those wanting to learn, or groups of mates where some want to hit the slopes, and others just fancy hanging around the resort.

With half-board chalet rooms coming in at around the £300 mark, and great value lessons and lift passes that can be arranged by the day for those not wanting to commit to a  full week, it really is one of the cheapest places to Ski in Europe during winter.

Beyond the Skiing though, which is at the top of the mountains some 30-minutes Gondola ride from the resort town, you’ll find all you need with restaurants, bars, rental shops and other activities like ice-skating. There is also a beautiful old town with lots of traditional buildings, house museums, and a small but stunning Orthodox church.

READ: BANSKO BULGARIA, AN AFFORDABLE EUROPE SKI RESORT

The Algarve, Portugal

If your budget won’t stretch to tropical beaches (where with monsoons to battle with in the likes of Bali you’ll still end up wet) then Portugal’s Algarve Coast is your best bet.

While there is no denying that winter sea swimming is reserved for the fearless, there is still some good surf and sun-kissed days to be had. With over 300 sunny days a year and heavily discounted prices outside summer, the off-season in the Algarve is a good gamble to get your winter Vitamin C.

READ: ALGARVE HIDDEN GEMS

Milan, Italy

Milan is a magical city and in the winter, when the crowds die down around the Duomo and the crisp winter air brings snow to the mountain peaks surrounding the city, it becomes even more special. Ignoring the truly special Christmas markets and lights that bring the city to light, the various regions of Milan with their outside heated tables or the old charms and warmth of the Osteria restaurants, tick all the right boxes.

In a city where fashion rules supreme, shopping till you drop isn’t a bad idea in the colder months but thanks to a plethora of museums and galleries, you can easily escape the cold with a dose of culture.

As the city is continually evolving and newer, modern districts such as CityLife pop up to complement the classics of Milan like its famed Gallerie, there are plenty of places to while away a long weekend. Catch an opera at the incredible Teatro Alla Scala, wrap up warm to explore the Castle, dip into the beautiful Brera public library or enjoy the modern art exhibitions at La Triennale. With plenty to keep you entertained inside, and the Milanese food being more heartwarming with its focuses on risottos and beef, it becomes an ideal winter destination.

READ: A LONG WEEKEND IN MILAN AND LAKE COMO

South-West England

London is always hectic, it doesn’t really matter what time of year, but if you want a slice of historic architecture, red phone boxes and (chilly) fish and chips on the beach, you can’t go wrong with the South-West of England.

Take in the 150-million years of prehistoric history along the fossil infused Jurassic Coast, explore Exeter Cathedral in all its glory and check out the impressive architecture of the Roman Baths in Bath. Without the crowds to battle with and spending most of the time in cosy, fire-lit pubs and intricate architectural buildings will keep you warm and snug.

I took a three-day Rabbies tour through England from London to discover the best sights without any hassle.

READ: THE BEST OF ENGLAND’S SOUTH-WEST

Iceland

A lot of people warned me against travelling to Icleand in winter and although it didn’t go perfectly, the money saved and snowy covered experiences were worth it.

The northern lights hid the whole time sadly for me but seeing the country covered in snow, the incredible New Year celebrations, trekking glaciers, hunting waterfalls and snorkelling between two continents even in the cold are some of the best travel moments you can have. Iceland is the kind of place that looks different each season, so even between Autumn and Winter there is a considerable difference.

READ + WATCH: ICELAND IN WINTER

Cinque Terre, Italy

When I headed to Cinque Terre in November I was in luck with clear blue skies and sunny days, although the temperature wasn’t exactly t-shirt weather.

The huge bonus of visiting Cinque Terre in the off-season is the lack of crowds, jumping on the train between the five villages is never crowded and you can get the front row seats at cafes for the best colourful views of the villages. While some of the hiking paths may be closed and the busses far fewer, for me, it’s a no-brainer price to pay to enjoy the Liguria coastline without the crowds.

READ: CINQUE TERRE IN PHOTOS

Edinburgh, Scotland

A lot of people think the capital city of the UK is where it is at for New Year Eve… Wrong!

The Scottish capital of Edinburgh is pretty magical over the festive season, with its markets and old world charm over Christmas right through to its very unique festival celebration. Hogmanay, the unique New Years celebration stats on the 30th December and runs through to the 1st January. It’s three days of events, Vikings, fireworks and celebration – found out more information here.

(Ok, this one might not escape the crowds but trust me, the Scottish countryside in winter will be tourist free to explore after the festivities.)

READ: CELEBRATING NYE IN EDINBURGH

Ljubljana, Slovenia

If you have a thing for Canals, coffee and quirky capital cities then skip out on Amsterdam this year and head to Ljubljana. Since I visited four years ago Slovenia has garnered a heap of online attention but trust me, Europe’s cutest capital city is the ideal winter escape.

With a growing wine scene, plenty of canal-side dining options, great winter markets and a really eco-conscious vibe throughout the country, it’s the perfect jumping off point to see Lake Bled which looks simply magical against the snowy mountain backdrop.

READ: LJUBLJANA, EUROPES CUTEST CAPITAL CITY?

Stockholm, Sweeden

By far my favourite capital-city in Scandinavia, Stockholm is a dream in summer when kayaking or cycling through the city is a great way to explore. But thanks to its characterful old-town, year-round events calendar and slightly lower prices in the off-season, its a great city escape all year round.

The Christmas Markets here are ace but there are also lots of things to discover inside, the Vasa Museum, complete with the famed ship that sunk minutes after setting sail. The subway system in Stockholm is also one of the most decorated in the world, with numerous stations being complete artworks you barely need to venture outside into the cold.

READ: STOCKHOLM WEEKEND ITINERARY

Kotor, Montenegro

During summer the old town of Kotor is over-run with tourist, as cruise day-trippers explore this magical city which is set against the spectacular backdrop of the Bay of Kotor, with its towering mountains.

Venture here in the down season though and you can not only bag a great deal at an AirBnB but you can also enjoy the sights with fewer people in your beautiful photos. The hike to the view-point above the old town provides the best views but with the summer sun, it’s a strain, another bonus reason for visiting in late autumn or winter.

READ: MONTENEGRO ROAD TRIP PLAN + VIDEO

Warsaw, Poland

One of my favourite winter trips was when I carted my parents off to Warsaw one freezing-cold January day. There are a few reasons I loved visiting Warsaw in winter; it’s cheap, it’s festive and it feels like a fairytale.

As most of the old city was rebuilt in its original style after the war, the colourful buildings look postcard perfect against the Christmas decoration and winter projections on the facades. The snow also makes some of the quite harsh Soviet architecture look a little more inviting. Big mugs of beer, hearty Polish cuisine, great value flights and accommodation all make it an awesome winter city break in Europe.

Mont Saint Michel, France

The city of Romance is never known for being quiet no matter what time of year it is, but this Abbey Island enjoys its most peaceful time to visit during the winter months. The former converted Prison in Normandy receives over three million visitors a year so hitting it up outside of the summer means the small narrow streets and little creperies are much easier explored without having to shove your way to the perfect vantage point.

READ: DAY TRIPPING MONT ST MICHEL 

Luxembourg

I swear Luxembourg does not get the attention it deserves. I used to think of it as a sterile, business, financial haven but the ramparts, vistas and a multi-level split of the old town had me heading back for two February visits.

If they ever need a new location for a Harry Potter shoot then this needs to make the cut. It isn’t the cheapest place to visit in Europe for sure, but heading here before summer kicks in should save you a fair bit of dollar. It’s also a pretty romantic spot to spend Valentines day thanks to the old architecture and chateau-converted restaurants.

READ: LUXEMBOURG, MAJORLY UNDERRATED? 

25 Utterly Charming Must See Places in Europe in Winter

Psst! This blog post might have affiliate links in it, which earn us a small amount of commission if you buy or book something through them – at no extra cost to you.

TRIED & TESTED: 25 CHARMING MUST SEE PLACES IN EUROPE IN WINTER!

Europe is an incredible continent to visit at any time of the year but there’s something utterly charming about it when visiting in winter.

If you’ve got dreams of walking cobbled streets while snow falls from the sky, or sipping on mulled wine in the warm glow of Christmas markets, or even escaping the cold for some winter sun, then we’ve got you covered.

Here are 25 recommendations from ourselves and other travel bloggers for the best winter European vacations – whether you want to shop at the biggest and best Christmas markets, visit the snowiest places in Europe or choose from a bunch of warm winter destinations!

9 Must See Places in Europe in Winter for Christmas Markets

Nowhere does Christmas markets like Europe! 

The most famous ones can often be found in Germany but there are huge numbers of towns and cities across Europe that have jumped on the Christmas market train.

Here are our pick of the best European Christmas markets to add to your winter Europe itinerary… some may even be closer to home than you think!

Bath, England

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Why visit Bath in winter: Bath is a magical city to visit at any time of the year, especially as the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But at Christmas-time, Bath becomes that bit more magical thanks to its award-winning Christmas market. Seen as one of the top European Christmas markets and one of the largest in the UK, the Bath Christmas Market sees over 150 chalets pop up around Bath Abbey and the historical centre. This year, you can make your visit even more special with a Bath Christmas Market Experience, which offers you the chance to make a Christmas wreath, enjoy a Champagne lunch at The Ivy Bath Brasserie and take a rejuvenating trip to the Thermae Bath Spa.

Best time to visit Bath in winter: The Bath Christmas market runs from November 28th to December 15th this year [2019]. Weekday evenings and mornings are best if you want to avoid the crowds.

Don’t miss: Glow in the Dark Mini Golf at Royal Victoria Park. During winter, the 18-hole mini golf course is magically lit up from 4 – 9.30pm every day, while you play with golf balls that glow in the dark. Lots of fun and something different to try this winter!

Where to stay in Bath: Staying central is best as you’ll want to be close to all the Christmas action. Recommended hotels include No.15 Great Pulteney Hotel and Spa, The Gainsborough Bath Spa and Abbey Hotel.

How to get to Bath: Train is – by far – the easiest way to get to Bath. Bath Spa railway station is just across the road from the high street shops – and is just five minutes walk from Bath Abbey, which is where the bulk of the Christmas market stalls can be found. 

Top travel tip: Don’t bother driving; parking in the city centre is a nightmare! But if you absolutely must drive, use one of three Park & Ride services.

Read more: How to Spend the Perfect Day in Bath

Brussels, Belgium

Why visit Brussels in winter: With well over 200 chalets dotted across the city, the ‘Winter Wonders’ Christmas market in Brussels is huge, making Brussels (in our opinion) one of the best winter city breaks in Europe. Wander along the Bourse, or head to Place de la Monnaie, Place Sainte-Catherine and Marché aux Poissons and you’ll find all the traditional festive wares you’d expect including Christmas decorations, handmade gifts, artisan chocolate, colourful toys and delicious street food. You’ll also find a magical ferris wheel, vintage-inspired carousel and ice rink that only appear during the winter period. Perhaps what’s most interesting about Christmas in Brussels is that the city honours a different country every year. Last year, Finland took centre-stage and took over a small section of the Christmas market to sell traditional Finnish food and handcrafted products. You could even see the colours of their flag adorning the Christmas tree at Grand-Place; how sweet is that? Who will be honoured by Brussels this year? Only time will tell.

Best time to visit Brussels in winter: The Christmas markets usually run from the end of November through to early January. We’d recommend heading there at the beginning of this period, so you can buy a Belgian chocolate advent calendar from Neuhaus; they’re truly delicious and a total Christmas must-have!

Don’t miss: The fifty comic strip murals adorning buildings throughout the city; they’re cool to see at any time of the year.

Where to stay in Brussels: Where you choose to stay in Brussels depends on what you plan on doing during your winter trip. If you’re keen to do some day trips to other towns and cities, then we’d recommend staying somewhere close to either the Gare Centrale or Gare du Midi train stations (the latter also being where the Eurostar terminal is) like Pullman Brussels Centre Midi or Motel One Brussels. If you plan to only visit the main sights in Brussels, then staying close to Grand-Place would make it easier for sightseeing on foot or via the Metro. You’ll pay a little more in order to be central, but it’ll be worth it in order to be closer to everything you want to see during your visit; recommended hotels in the centre include Hotel Agora Bruxelles Grand Place and Hotel Hubert Grand Place. And if you’d prefer to stick close to the “action” when it comes to the Christmas markets, then staying around the Bourse, St. Catherine or De Brouckère areas is recommended. A couple of good hotel options near these areas are Hotel Saint Nicolas and NH Collection Brussels Centre.

How to get to Brussels: Brussels is a well connected city. There’s an international airport roughly 7.5 miles north of the city, which covers over 200 destinations worldwide. Brussels is also well connected across Belgium and internationally via its extensive rail network. In fact, Brussels is a stop on the Eurostar, which is a much more relaxed way to visit the city… and comes highly recommended by us!

Top travel tip: Don’t forget that Brussels is a great base for day trips to places like Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp for more festive feels. Bruges takes less than an hour to get to via the train, as does a trip to the diamond district of Antwerp, while historic Ghent is just over 30 minutes away.

Read more: Christmas in Brussels: What To Do, Where To Go & More! | Visiting Belgium in Winter: What You Need to Know

Kraków, Poland

– Recommended by Bridget from The Flashpacker

Why visit Kraków in winter: Visit Kraków in winter for its traditional Christmas market and the chance of seeing the city transformed by a dusting of snow.

Best time to visit Kraków in winter: To visit the Christmas market, make sure that you are in Kraków between the last week in November and Boxing Day (the confirmed dates for 2019 are 29th November – 26th December).

Don’t miss: 

• Visiting Kraków’s Christmas market in Rynek Glowny, the city’s geographical and spiritual beating heart. Pick up traditional souvenirs and keep the winter chill at bay with a glass of mulled wine.
• Exploring Kazimierz, the old Jewish Quarter and Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory.
• Taking the opportunity to visit the former concentration camp of Auschwitz. Although sobering, this is an unforgettable experience.
• Feasting on pierogi, sublime Polish dumplings.

Where to stay in Kraków: I stayed at the Mercure Stare Misto. This is a modern 4-star chain hotel, conveniently located opposite the train station and a ten minute walk from the Market Square.

How to get to Kraków: Kraków’s airport is well served by international flights and the city is connected to other European cities by train. Getting from the airport to the centre of the city is super simple, with a frequent train service to Kraków’s central station (Kraków Główny). A one-way ticket costs the equivalent of £2 and the journey time is around 15 minutes.

Top travel tip: To make the most of your visit to Kraków, take one of the excellent walking tours, led by a local guide offered by Free Walkative! As the name suggests, this is free but tips are appreciated.

Read more: 4 Days in Kraków: The Best Itinerary

London, England

– Recommended by Liza from Tripsget

Why visit London in winter: Surprisingly (for some), London is a great winter destination to visit in Europe. London is one of the biggest cities in Europe and it takes Christmas celebrations to the next level. Having one Christmas market is not enough for London, so there are at least five of them (I only know of five, there might be even more). My favourite Christmas market is Leicester Square Christmas market – a compact, cosy German-style Christmas market in the heart of London. Most tourists visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park (but it’s a bit too crowded for my liking). It doesn’t normally snow in London, so don’t expect a white Christmas, however, the atmosphere is charming even without snow. 

Best time to visit London in winter: The best time to visit London in winter would be early December and just after Christmas when the Christmas decorations are still on. If you’re coming just for Christmas decorations and the best Christmas spots in London, you can come as early as November when the decorations are already on and the ice skating rinks are open. 

Don’t miss: A trip to Carnaby street for the best Christmas decorations!

Where to stay in London: I would recommend staying in an apartment in London; that way, you will experience the real life in London. Anywhere near a tube station (even in zones 3-5) would be convenient to explore the city, however, you will save a lot of money, as hotels in London are very expensive.  

Top travel tip: Most of the museums in London are free, so you can take advantage of sightseeing in London, especially when it rains! 

Read more: Best Christmas Spots to Visit in London: Christmas Markets, Lights & Shops

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

– Recommended by Paulina from Paulina on the Road

Why visit Luxembourg City in winter: One of the top winter destinations in Europe you cannot miss this year is Luxembourg! You may have never thought of this small country as a great winter destination, however there are plenty of things to do during the holiday season in one of the tiniest countries in Europe. First, there is the legendary Christmas Market in Luxembourg City, which is becoming one of the most famous ones in the entire region. Indeed, people from all over travel to Luxembourg City in order to enjoy tasty mulled wine, typical Luxembourgish food and brass band music. 

Best time to visit Luxembourg City in winter: The Christmas market usually starts the last weekend in November.

Don’t miss: If you are a nature lover and you are wondering where to stay in Luxembourg in order to make the most of your trip, I recommend visiting the gorgeous countryside of the Grand-Duchy. Indeed there are plenty of hiking trails awaiting you in the northern and eastern part of the country. The Ardennes and Mullerthal Trail are probably the most famous ones. As it hardly snows in Luxembourg, you can go hiking in Luxembourg even in winter. Just remember to bring enough warm clothes.

Where to stay in Luxembourg City: Park Inn by Radisson Luxembourg City, Légère Hotel Luxembourg, Melia Luxembourg

Read more: Where to stay in Luxembourg: The Best Hotels in Luxembourg According to a Local

Paris, France

Why visit Paris in winter: Paris truly sparkles in winter. The Eiffel Tower dazzles with free light shows every evening, Christmas markets glisten with all of the festive cheer and surprises you can think of, designer boutiques and their inventive window displays will make your head twist and turn with every step and giant Christmas trees across the city glimmer with reams of tinsel and huge baubles. Paris in winter; even just saying it sounds magical… have we convinced you enough yet?

Best time to visit Paris in winter: If you can time your winter trip to Paris with the first Sunday of the month or on a Friday night, then you can gain free entry to some of the city’s top museums and attractions like the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay and Pompidou Centre.

Don’t miss: The Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette. The theme changes every year and it’s truly spectacular as the tree sits beneath the famous glass dome roof and drops down for the full five floors! 

Where to stay: Nothing screams “chic” more than renting an apartment in Paris in winter like one of these: Louvre Elegant ChicSuites (where old Parisian grandeur meets luxury) or Sweet Inn Les Halles – Etienne Marcel (where quirky meets colour and style).

How to get to Paris: Although you can fly to Paris from multiple cities across Europe and beyond, one of our favourite ways to get to Paris remains to be the Eurostar as it’s comfortable, reliable and inexpensive.

Read more: Paris in Winter: Cosy Things To Do & Where To Stay | Fabulous 4 Days in Paris Itinerary For First Time Visitors

Prague, Czech Republic

– Recommended by Veronika from Travel Geekery

Why visit Prague in winter: Prague is one of the most romantic winter destinations – and even more so at Christmas! Christmas markets are pretty much everywhere, so you can choose whether you prefer the larger ones in the city centre or rather the more intimate ones in Prague’s neighbourhoods. Winter in Prague often means snowfall and there’s nothing more amazing than seeing Prague’s spires and rooftops all covered in white. If you visit when it snows, take walks late at night and early in the morning to experience the real magic of wintery Prague.

Best time to visit Prague in winter: Most Christmas markets open on December 1st. The smaller ones finish by December 24th, the most festive day for Czechs. However, Prague’s largest Christmas market – at the Old Town Square – has the Christmas cheer going until January 6th.

Don’t miss: Enjoy ice skating right in the historical city center at Ovocný trh. 

Where to stay in Prague: Great accommodation options in or near the city centre include Mosaic House (mid-range option) or Design Hotel Neruda (luxury).

How to get to Prague: Prague can be reached easily by plane, train and bus. It’s only four hours away from Berlin by car, train or bus and 2.5 hours from London by plane.

Read more: Winter in Prague: The Most Magical Season

Nuremberg, Germany

– Recommended by Margherita from The Crowded Planet

Why visit Nuremberg in winter: Christmas times and the fairytale atmosphere!

Best time to visit Nuremberg in winter: Nuremberg is worth a visit any time of the year, but in winter it’s truly special. The main reason to visit are the Christmas Markets, open from the Friday before the first Sunday in Advent to the day before Christmas Eve (November 28th to December 23rd this year). The main Christmas market is in Hauptmarkt, the main square in the Old City, but the cute little wooden huts and the scent of gluhwein spills all over the neighbouring streets, so you can expect to be surrounded by Christmas vibes everywhere you go. Christmas markets are amazing but they can be busy – if you don’t like crowds, we recommend visiting at another time. There is plenty to see and do in Nuremberg in winter, including lots of museums to escape to when the weather gets too cold. The Nazi Documentation Centre is a must if you are into history, and for something more light-hearted, we recommend the Toy Museum!

Don’t miss: Besides the main Christmas Market, we also recommend visiting the Sister Cities Market, displaying crafts and Christmas wares from Nuremberg’s sister cities (from Antalya in Turkey to Verona in Italy – there are too many to list here!) This market sits on a square just north of the main market and it’s worth a visit if you’re looking for unique souvenirs.

Where to stay in Nuremberg: Hotel Victoria or Nuremberg Youth Hostel (this one is located in the stables of the castle; it’s really cool).

How to get to Nuremberg: By train or bus from elsewhere in Germany, otherwise by plane. Low cost airlines like Ryanair and KLM also fly there.

Top travel tip: If you’re planning to visit multiple museums, get the Nuremberg Card, which also includes transport for 48 hours.

Read more: 36 Amazing Things to do in Nuremberg 

Vienna, Austria

– Recommended by Kris from Nomad by Trade

Why visit Vienna in winter: Vienna is always beautiful, but the city really comes to life around the holidays. Lights twinkle all over and the decorations are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit – especially in the evenings when the décor is at its prettiest. Best of all, several wonderful Christmas markets perfect for shopping and dining can be found in popular locations.

Best time to visit Vienna in winter: Most of the markets begin in late November and run until just after Christmas, but each one sets its own dates and opening times. You’ll definitely want to time your winter visit to hit at least one of these for a truly special experience.

Don’t miss: The Viennese Christmas Market, located right in front of the gorgeous Rathaus building. This market features the classic booths selling souvenirs and gifts, food stands, gingerbread hearts and gluhwein, but has the added bonus of the spectacular backdrop. If you’re looking for more than just shopping, hit the fantastic skating rink next to the market that features twisting, turning ice-covered pathways for you to explore.

Where to stay in Vienna: If you’re planning on visiting the Viennese Christmas Market mentioned above, check out Hotel Regina. Located just a couple of streets away from the market, it has a beautiful façade and interior. As a bonus, the breakfast served there was one of the best we’ve had at a hotel in Europe.

How to get to Vienna: Vienna is easily accessible via all forms of transportation. It has an international airport that handles flights from a variety of foreign and domestic destinations if you’re travelling from further away. If you’re travelling from elsewhere in Europe, there are plenty of train routes that will lead you there, as well as some bus routes. If you’re driving, you may find it easier to leave your car at a commuter lot and take public transportation into the city centre rather than deal with trying to find parking. 

Top travel tip: Vienna definitely gets cold in winter, so be sure to pack enough warm clothing and layers for walking around outside. This includes boots as you may well encounter snow.

Read more: Your Guide To The Best Vienna Christmas Market 

10 Must See Places in Europe in Winter for Snowy Adventures

From skiing in the alps to husky sledding in Nordic countries like Finland, there are a huge number of European destinations that are simply perfect for adventures in the snow.

Here are our pick of the top ten – are you ready to dust off your snow boots and thermals?

Alta, Norway

– Recommended by Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

Why visit Alta in winter: Dubbed “the town of the Northern Lights”, it’s easy to see why Alta is the perfect place for a snowy adventure. The city is located 70 degrees north latitude and well above the Arctic Circle. However, as the Norwegian coast gets a taste of the Gulf Stream, Alta doesn’t get as cold during the winter months as say Canada, Sweden or Finland. 

Best time to visit Alta in winter: Alta is the largest city (population of 20,000) in the vast wilderness of the Finnmark County, and from late November to mid-January, it experiences the Polar night. This is when the sun never rises above the horizon, meaning it’s pitch dark for almost 22 hours a day. However, the darkness does make it perfect for chasing down the Northern Lights. 

Don’t miss: Alta has some wonderful sightseeing and it’s well worth spending at least two nights here to visit the modern Northern Lights cathedral and the unique Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, as well as take part in outdoor activities. Snowmobiling, snow shoe hiking, dog sledding, cross country skiing, ice fishing and reindeer sledding are all on offer here.

Where to stay in Alta: I recommend staying at Trasti & Trine based on the River Alta. It’s popular for dog sledding tours but also has a range of lodges and cabins available, as well as a restaurant. 

How to get to Alta: Alta can be reached by plane or cruise.

Livigno, Italy

– Recommended by Joanna from Overhere

Why visit Livigno in winter: Livigno is a beautiful mountain resort located in the Italian Alps between Swiss Engadin Valley and Italian Alta Valtellina Valley. It is a perfect travel destination for winter sports enthusiasts because Livigno is a world-class ski resort. There are about 115 kilometres of ski runs, which are accessible by a total of 32 lifts. Livigno is famous not only for its excellent ski infrastructure – the weather in this part of Italian Alps is also exceptionally good. Snowfalls start in November and end usually in April. This makes ski season in Livigno very long; skiers can enjoy perfect conditions on the slopes from the end of November until the beginning of May. Another advantage of the weather in Livigno is the number of sunny days – it really is rare to see clouds in the sky above this mountain resort.

Best time to visit Livigno in winter: The best time to go skiing in Livigno is April. The day is long, prices are lower and snow conditions are still fantastic. Also, there are fewer people on the ski piste.

Where to stay in Livigno: The best place to stay in Livigno is Camana Veglia. It is a lovely Alpine-style hotel situated right next to the ski lift. Rooms are comfy and warm, beautifully decorated in a typical mountain style. Breakfast served at the hotel’s restaurant is ample and delicious with vegan and gluten-free options.

How to get to Livigno: The closest airport to Livigno is in Bergamo. Travelling to Livigno by car takes about three hours. There is also an airport bus shuttle called Livigno Express, which goes to the mountain resort every day.

Read more: The Essential Guide to Livigno Ski Resort

Lofoten, Norway

– Recommended by Jodie from Alajode

Why visit Lofoten in winter: With 24 hours of sunlight in the summer and not a single second in December, timing is crucial when planning a trip to Lofoten. Most visitors choose to visit in June for the “midnight sun” but winter is one of the best times to visit the Lofoten Islands. Not only will you have most things to yourself, but some of the best things to do in Lofoten can only be experienced at this time of year.

Best time to visit Lofoten in winter: The beginning and end of winter is by far the best time to visit Lofoten. With a good balance of sunlight and darkness, you can enjoy activities such as snow hiking and cold water surfing during the day, and can still enjoy a dip in the hot tub and a good night’s sleep in a cosy cabin at the end of it. It’s also the best time of year to see the Northern Lights because the skies are generally clear.

Don’t miss: One of the best parts of Lofoten in winter is driving around and seeing all the beautiful scenes around you. With snow coming on and off, the same scene can look different from day to day – or even hour to hour! Don’t be afraid to revisit places during your trip.

Where to stay in Lofoten: Hattvika Lodge is a family-run hotel in Ballstad. The cabin-style rooms are traditional on the outside but tastefully decorated on the inside – and a wonderful place to come back to at the end of the day. The owners are always happy to share their local knowledge too. 

How to get to Lofoten: The easiest way to get to Lofoten is to fly in to Leknes airport. Flights depart from Oslo, Tromso and Bodo.

Top travel tip: Make sure you pack for the weather! You’ll want to spend as much time outdoors as possible, so make sure you pack warm clothing and waterproof layers.

Read more: The Best Time To Visit The Lofoten Islands

Ruka, Finland

Why visit Ruka in winter: Ruka is in the north east of Finland, close to the Russian border, so snow is guaranteed in winter. Ruka is also home to an award-winning and totally charming ski resort, which is ideal for beginners, and is open for a whopping 200 days per year! So if you have your heart set on snowboarding and skiing this winter then Ruka is definitely worth a look. Plus, you’ll get the chance to try the ultimate bucket list activity – husky sledding! This can even be combined with a snowmobiling excursion; just imagine rocking up to your husky sled straight off the back of a snowmobile, pretty cool huh?

Best time to visit Ruka in winter: Head to Ruka between November and mid-March and you’re guaranteed to see a heavy blanket of snow throughout your trip. We visited in January, and still to this day, we say it’s the best place to come for snow in Europe in January.

Don’t miss: Husky sledding! It’s a must when in this part of Finland and can easily be done as a day tour from Ruka Village and the ski resort.

Where to stay in Ruka: Scandic Rukahovi (a charming ski-in/ski-out hotel with ski storage area) or Kelokoto Chalets (4-star wooden chalets with kitchens; just a one minute walk to the Ruka ski slopes).

How to get to Ruka: The closest airport to Ruka is Kuusamo, which is about 25 minutes away by car. You can take the airport bus to Ruka, or if you’ve booked a ski/snowboard holiday, then you’ll likely be offered a door-to-door coach service.

Top travel tip: Winter temperatures in Ruka frequently dip below -20 Celsius, and can even go as low as -30 on some days. This is quite a shock to the system but is loads of fun when you’re wearing all the right gear and taking breaks in front of the fire while drinking delicious Glögi… so remember to take it easy during your Finland snow adventure.

Read more: Winter in Finland: Tips, Truths & Christmas Tidings | Bucket List Priority #1: Husky Dog Sledding in Finland

Sighisoara, Romania

– Recommended by Anita from Travelling Balkans

Why visit Sighisoara in winter: Sighisoara is a beautiful UNESCO city nestled in the heart of Transylvania and is a superb winter destination for travellers coming to Europe. This little city can get packed in the summer, so not only can you enjoy the snow-topped rooftops of Sighisoara, but you also get to enjoy it in peace as fewer people visit during winter.

Don’t miss: One of the many great things to do in Sighisoara is to walk up to the top of the old Clock tower to get a 360-degree view over Sighisoara. The stairs leading to the top also pass through a museum so you can learn a little more about the history too. A ticket to the top costs only €3. You may have heard about Sighisoara before as Vlad Dracula was born here. Nowadays, you can visit the residence where he grew up and even have a bite to eat at the kitsch Dracula restaurant, which has been setup within the house.

Where to stay in Sighisoara: When staying in Sighisoara, I highly recommend staying at Fronius Residence, which is set in an old restored home that dates back to hundreds of years ago! 

How to get to Sighisoara: Getting to Sighisoara is easy as it has great train and bus links from the likes of Brasov and Cluj Napoca, two other major cities to visit in Romania. From Brasov, it’s about a two hour drive away, so if you have a car, this can be a great day trip destination.

Top travel tip: My top travel tip is to bring great shoes as the streets are lined with old cobblestones, which can be slippery in the snow!

Read more: Incredible Things To Do In Sighisoara, Romania

The Golden Circle, Iceland

Why visit Iceland in winter: Although Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, is a charming city to visit, you simply must rent a car and head out in search of Iceland’s most dramatic scenery in order to see this country at its absolute best. Visiting Iceland’s Golden Circle in winter is hugely popular due to the increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights and the fact that this part of the country becomes a total winter wonderland. Alongside the Northern Lights, visiting the Golden Circle at this time of year also means winter hiking, slipping into relaxing hot springs while snow falls from the sky and seeing Gullfoss waterfall at its prettiest and most magical.  

Best time to visit Iceland in winter: Northern Lights tours run from September through to April, and although seeing the Northern Lights can never be guaranteed, most recommend visiting Iceland in November, December or January. This is when the days are shorter and darker and snow is expected.

Don’t miss: Iceland’s epic waterfalls, which are found throughout the country. Some of our favourites that are either within the Golden Circle or close by are Gullfoss, Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Öxarárfoss and Gljúfrabúi. 

Where to stay in Iceland: Staying in the Golden Circle means you have a greater chance of seeing the Northern Lights as you’ll be away from light pollution and you won’t have to drive too far on each day to see some of Iceland’s most popular sights. Some of our favourite places to stay in Iceland are Icelandair Hotel Fludir, Uthlid Cottages and Golden Circle Apartments.

How to get to Iceland: A mistake a lot of first time visitors to Iceland make is thinking they’re flying into Reykjavik. You’ll most likely be landing at Keflavik International Airport, which is actually a 40 minute drive from Iceland’s capital. This is just one of the reasons why we’d always recommend renting a car in Iceland.

Read more: The Complete Guide to Visiting Iceland in Winter | First Timer’s Iceland Travel Guide

Val di Sole, Italy

– Recommended by Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

Why visit Val di Sole in winter: Val di Sole in Trentino (northern Italy) is a fantastic place to visit in winter where you will find a great variety of things to do, whatever kind of traveller you are. The gorgeous Dolomites mountains are the backdrop of this breathtaking resort, which is perfect for skiing with over 100 km of slopes of all difficulty.

Best time to visit Val di Sole in winter: The best time to visit is around Christmas when the decorations are out and the markets are open.

Don’t miss: An afternoon at Ossana, a tiny village where hundreds of nativity scenes are set up, in different styles and in different sizes. It’s like an open air museum, surmounted by a beautiful medieval castle that can also be visited. If you happen to go when it snows, the atmosphere will be magic. Also, make sure to visit Ragaiolo Waterfall. It freezes in the winter, for a truly romantic atmosphere, and the suspended bridge provides perfect views and incredible photo opportunities. 

Where to stay in Val di Sole: Stay at Hotel Dimaro if you want a plain but comfortable room that is reasonably priced and from where you can easily explore the valley. Most hotels have a spa for those that want to relax. Some spas overlook the snowy peaks for top relaxing views. 

How to get to Val di Sole: Fly to either Venice or Verona in northern Italy. You are better off renting a car and driving yourself there. Alternatively, you can take a train to Trento and from there, a local bus. 

Top travel tip: People who enjoy good food will enjoy the earthy and nutritious meals. Make sure to try canederli, sort of dumplings made with old bread and local sausage and cheese and cooked in a thin broth, and the various apple pies made with local apples. Rifugi – scattered along the slopes – are excellent places to try local food. 

Read more: A Winter Guide To Val Di Sole

Val Lumnezia, Switzerland

– Recommended by Eniko from Travel Hacker Girl

Why visit Val Lumnezia in winter: Val Lumnezia means “Valley of Light”. This area gets a lot of sunshine throughout the year, which means even in winter, you can enjoy outdoor activities in sunny weather. Thanks to this, a lot of ski lifts operate with solar power. Val Lumnezia has a lot to offer in the winter months. Ski lovers can enjoy the abundance of slopes in the area. However, there are several activities for non-skiers as well. You can descend from the mountains and enjoy the views on the sledge run. There are also many well-kept and signposted hiking trails.

Best time to visit Val Lumnezia in winter: January is a good time to visit to avoid the crowds as it is after the busy Christmas period and before the local school holiday season.

Don’t miss:

• The mountain village of Cumbel, which is the start of several scenic hiking trails
• Eating a classic Swiss cheese fondue for dinner
• Skiing in the Obersaxen/Mundaun/Val Lumnezia ski resort

Where to stay in Val Lumnezia: We stayed at a local Airbnb with the most gorgeous views of Val Lumnezia.

How to get to Val Lumnezia: Switzerland is well-known for it’s reliable and convenient public transport. So if you don’t have a car, you can visit the region by train or bus. There is a railway station at Ilanz/Glion, which is also a stop for the famous Glacier Express. The local post bus also serves the Val Lumnezia region.

Top travel tip: Bring suncream to avoid getting sunburnt in this wonderfully sunny region. 

Read more: Winter Holiday in Switzerland’s Valley of Light “Val Lumnezia”

Val Thorens, France

Why visit Val Thorens in winter: Val Thorens in France is home to one of the world’s most popular ski resorts, which is also part of the famous ‘Three Valleys’ ski area. At an altitude of 2,300m, it’s also Europe’s highest ski resort with some absolutely spectacular views from the pistes. Given its altitude, a winter trip to Val Thorens guarantees snow even at a resort level, so you won’t have to go far for some of the most epic adventures in the snow. And if you’re after a top snowmobiling in Europe destination then Val Thorens is as good as any. Scott has skied at Val Thorens well in excess of three times now so the following tips come straight from him.

Best time to visit Val Thorens: Come early or late in the ski season for peak snow conditions and fewer crowds.

Don’t miss: The mountain zipline, which is the highest in the world, and perfect for the true adventure-seekers among you.

Where to stay in Val Thorens: One of the best things about Val Thorens is its huge range of ski-to-door accommodation to suit most budgets. I’d recommend staying at either Altapura or the Snow Lodge Boutique Hotel.

How to get to Val Thorens: Fly into Chambéry, which is the closest airport to Val Thorens at 1 hour 40 minutes away; you can drive from there. Or you can also get the Snow Express Ski Bus all the way to Val Thorens from London.

Zermatt, Switzerland

– Recommended by Allan from It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor

Why visit Zermatt in winter: When it comes to winter destinations, it is hard to look past Switzerland, a country that has snow on its peaks even during the hottest summer months. And when it comes to Switzerland, it is hard to look past Zermatt, a cute Swiss alpine resort located just beneath the backdrop of the rather magnificent Matterhorn. A mountain scene that is quite probably the most famous in Switzerland having influenced both the shape as well as the packaging of the iconic Toblerone Bar. It is also easy to travel around the peak from Zermatt itself with cable cars connecting all the surrounding mountain peaks. 

Don’t miss: There is much more to Zermatt than its rather special backdrop as it is also one of the most popular ski resorts in all of Europe with over 200km of pistes, which are host to not only skiing, but all sorts of winter sports.  

Where to stay in Zermatt: My main recommendation would be to spend at least one night in a hotel with balcony views of the Matterhorn. There’s a rather special 5-star experience at CERVO Mountain Boutique Resort, although we lumped for a stay at Hotel Capricorn at a fraction of the price, but it still has some unbeatable views of the Matterhorn.

How to get to Zermatt: Many people travel to Zermatt to join the famous Glacier Express, a railway that connects between Zermatt and St Moritz past some of the most magnificent winter scenery you will ever see. And this would be the best way to travel either to or from Zermatt by train.

Read more: Switzerland’s Glacier Express

5 Must See Places in Europe for Winter Sun 

While a huge part of Europe slips into a cold freeze, there are also lots of countries in Europe that are perfect for escaping the cold.

So if it’s beaches and cocktails in the sun that you’re after this winter, take note of these five must see places in Europe in winter for the sunseekers among you.

Funchal, Madeira

Why visit Funchal in winter: Nicknamed ‘The Island of Eternal Spring’, Madeira sees temperatures close to 20 Celsius and in the twenties year-round, making it one of the most perfect places to visit if you want nice weather guaranteed. My Mum owns a timeshare in Madeira, and although we now stay there during the early summer months, we used to always visit at the end of February for the perfect winter escape. Not only does a winter trip to Madeira guarantee nice weather, but it’s also an island perfect for nature-lovers and is absolutely brimming with culture!

Best time to visit Funchal in winter: Given the steady temperatures year-round, you can visit at pretty much any time of the year to have a good time. But November has slightly warmer air and sea temperatures than the rest of the winter months, making Madeira one of the best places to visit in November in Europe if you want a break from the cold.

Don’t miss: The volcanic rock pools in Porto Moniz on the north side of the island; they’re beautiful, historic and perfect for swimming in. You can easily reach them as a day trip from Funchal as either a day tour or moderately priced taxi ride.

Where to stay in Funchal: Given our timeshare, we always stay in the Pestana Group hotels. My favourites are Pestana Palms and Pestana Village Garden.

How to get to Funchal: Funchal has a short runway that juts out into the sea, so not every airline flies here, as it does take a certain amount of skill-level in order to do it safely. We usually fly with TUI to Funchal but easyjet and British Airways also fly there.

Read more: 4 Days in Madeira Itinerary For First Time Visitors | When Is The Best Time To Visit Madeira?

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

– Recommended by Jenny from TraveLynn Family

Why visit Lanzarote in winter: During the winter months, day time temperatures hover around 20 degrees in Lanzarote and the sea can (just about) be warm enough to swim in. But you may be thinking that the stereotypical package holiday resorts and Irish bars of Lanzarote aren’t quite for you? Well step away from the main resorts and you will find a wild and barren island, waiting to be explored. Indeed it is very possible to get off the beaten track in Lanzarote, although do note that Christmas holidays and the UK February half term holiday does get busy and prices go up.

Don’t miss: Base yourself in the north of the island, which offers the most panoramic views and unspoilt towns, as well as some beautiful secluded beaches. 

Where to stay: We recommend staying at family-run Finca de Arrieta. This is an enclave of luxury yurts, just outside the sleepy village of Arietta in the north of Lanzarote. This is an off-grid eco-resort running off wind and solar panel with water fed from an underground well onsite. There are yurts for all budgets and there’s a playground, small pool and farm animals onsite. 

Top travel tip: You will need to hire a car to get around ideally as public transport is limited. But it’s very easy to drive around the island and it only takes 40 minutes to get from the northern tip to the southern tip.

Read more: Lanzarote with kids: off the beaten track

Malaga, Spain

– Recommended by Amber from Food And Drink Destinations

Why visit Malaga in winter: Travellers have made their way to the Costa del Sol in Spain, especially in winter, for decades. They are drawn in by the warm sun and of course beautiful beaches. Malaga, located in the heart of the Costa del Sol, is one of the most popular cities to visit during the cold northern European winter. Known predominantly for its beautiful beaches, including beaches within the city centre, Malaga has all the conveniences of Madrid and Barcelona in a smaller, more manageable city. 

Best time to visit Malaga: After a summer with sweltering temperatures in the low 40s Celsius, Malaga cools off nicely from November to March with temperatures hovering around the low 20s. With the rest of Europe at or below freezing, Malaga is a big draw to warm up even for a week. 

Don’t miss: Malaga’s food scene. Often overshadowed by the likes of Seville and Granada, Malaga has its own vibrant tapas scene. To find the best tapas in Malaga, step away from the main squares and explore the small alleyways. A pro tip about eating tapas in Malaga: look for berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant drizzled in honey or molasses). It’s a light and delicious snack made with locally sourced ingredients; a real staple of southern Andalusian cooking. 

Where to stay: Malaga offers a wide range of accommodation choices including serviced apartments, hostels and hotels. A few hotels worth looking into are the Petit Palace Plaza, Barcelo Malaga and Gran Hotel Miramar. 

How to get here: Malaga has its own airport for flights within Europe and is only a three hour train ride from Madrid. 

Read more: Malaga Food Guide – How To Find The Best Tapas In Malaga Spain

Seville, Spain

– Recommended by Michael from The World Was Here First

Why visit Seville in winter: Seville is the perfect destination to visit in winter as temperatures stay in the mid-teens to low twenties Celsius. This makes it ideal for exploring, particularly when compared to the hot summer months where temperatures regularly exceed 35 degrees Celsius! 

Best time to visit Seville in winter: While any time in winter is fine to visit Seville, December is a particularly great period with a number of Christmas markets and festivities occurring throughout the city. The atmosphere in Seville for New Year’s Eve is also fantastic.

Don’t miss: Visiting the Real Alcázar is one of the highlights of a trip throughout southern Spain, with the impressive Mudéjar-style Royal Palace used as one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones.

Where to stay: Monte Triana is a lovely modern hotel located a short walk from all the major sites that’s perfect for couples looking for some comfort while visiting Seville.

How to get to Seville: Seville is incredibly well connected by train and bus routes from other parts of Spain. It’s also serviced by a number of different airlines making it easy to get to from other major European cities.

Top travel tip: While temperatures are fairly warm during the day, they do drop at night so make sure to still pack a jacket for those chilly evenings.

Read more: Southern Spain Itinerary: 10 Days in Andalucía (or More!)

The Algarve, Portugal

– Recommended by Portugalist

Why visit the Algarve in winter: Winter is a fantastic time to visit the Algarve. While the rest of Europe is a mix of rain, snow and grey skies, the Algarve typically has blue skies and temperatures in the high teens Celsius. That’s not going to be warm enough to go swimming in the sea or in a non-heated swimming pool, but it’s great weather for sightseeing, walking and topping up your vitamin D supplies. It’s also an incredibly affordable time of year to visit the Algarve. Hotel prices are typically a fraction of what they are during the summer months and it’s not unusual to find hotel rooms going for €20 in winter, which would be three or five times that in summer.

Best time to visit the Algarve in winter: While the weather in the Algarve can be good throughout the whole winter, it obviously does get some grey days and some rainy days. It is always going to be a bit of a gamble, but I’ve personally found January and February to be the riskiest months weather-wise. I personally like to visit in December because it means I get to see a little of the Christmas celebrations in the Algarve as well.  

Don’t miss: The Algarve is a unique place to spend Christmas as the warm weather means that it doesn’t feel as “Christmassy” as somewhere with a colder climate would. Dig deeper, though, and you’ll find some interesting Christmas traditions as well as a whole host of Christmas foods like fatias douradas, azevias and filhós – all worth going to a cafe to try.

Where to stay: There are some beautiful hotels on the Algarve from budget accommodation like Sunlight House in Faro to upmarket hotels like Bela Vista Hotel & Spa in Praia da Rocha.

How to get here: The easiest way to get to the Algarve is to fly to Faro, the Algarve’s regional airport. Failing that, you can also fly to Lisbon; the drive down only takes around 2.5 hours.

Top travel tip: If you’re visiting for Christmas, it might be best to do your Christmas shopping beforehand. Personally, I don’t think it’s the easiest place to find Christmas presents.

There you have it… 25 utterly charming must see places in Europe in winter, whether you’re after the biggest and best Christmas markets, adventures in the snow or the perfect winter sun break. Which destination tops YOUR list? And have we missed out any other must see places? Let us know in the comments…

Did you get oodles of inspiration from this list? Share the wanderlust now!

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Europe Tips & Inspiration Travel Blog

16 BEST European Winter Destinations 2022/ 2023 (plus Itinerary)

Do you know when the cheapest time to travel on budget in Europe is? Winter is a great time to explore Europe on a shoestring budget. Now, finally that Covid-19 Pandemic seems to be over, we all have the right to travel again. Here is our manifest and your permission to travel again.

Sure, during summer the gardens are open, the parks are green, and the beaches are crowded.

But during a European winter you have the unique chance to see a more „local“ Europe as less tourists are on their way. The prices are down and the hostels are cheaper than ever before. Even many of the 5 Star Hostels!

Combining this time of year with the 15 tips for booking hostels in Europe, and cheap flights searchers, you will save a fortune!

Take YOUR chance.

Find 25 more European Winter Destinations, including map, packing list and budget estimation.

Traveling in summer?

Find the 21 best places to visit in Europe in summer 

This list includes water sport, diving, van life and amazing beaches.

Colder weather, ok, BUT….

Sure, the weather is cold, it can be snowy, maybe even rainy. And still, there are many events happening during European winter you can enjoy.

• Christmas Markets
• New years Eve (obviously…)
• carnival
• music festivals
• Nightlife

We have created a list of 16 beautiful and cheap winter destinations we think you should check out. Plus you will find a list of activities and festivals during European Winter.

Where to stay? Have a look at the 21 best hostels in Europe you simply cannot miss.

Also, there are plenty of great hostel chains in Europe worth taking a look at. First, let’s check that you packed everything you need with the smartest travel packing list.

Update for Winter 2022: Identifying Cheap Flights and Bus connections

Please check travel restrictions for each country due to the Coiv-19 situation. We try to keep this article up to date, but things change to rapidly, it is almost impossible to do so. Please check with your embassy as well before booking any trip.

There is 4 websites you should keep an eye on:

• Skyscanner.com
• Omio.com
• Kiwi.com
• Flixbus.com

One of the best ways to find public transport in Europe is Omio.com. It shows all buses, trains and such to get around. Here’s a full review of Omio.

Looking for cheap flights to, well, anywhere in the world? Have a close look at Skyscanner.com and Kiwi.com.

We just discovered this incredibly awesome search engine for flights.

You can search with a date range and even with a radius search. This makes it incredible easy now to get an idea of cheap destinations to fly to.

And not just that. You can even insert a radius for departing cities. I just love this new toy!

Have a look yourself: Here is our full review of Kiwi as a flight booking engine.

I also wrote a massive, detailed guide on how to use Skyscanner to find cheap flights.

Full review of Kiwi.com (and how to find cheap flights)

About taking a bus in Europe, we recommend Flixbus. Flixbus connects almost any destination in Europe. We wrote a full flixbus review on how to use the page here.

Update 2022: In the meantime, I discovered more epic places for your winter stay in Europe. Therefore, I added a few more incredibly destinations to this article as well as a map.

Let us talk about the destinations we recommend…

1. Interlaken, Switzerland (Winter sports and 5% hostel discount!)

We LOVE Interlaken!

It is the European sports capital.

We enjoyed it 100%, and so will you. Whether you come here during Winter or Summer, you can join endless adrenaline-filled activities.

Things to do in Interlaken:

Action packed and beautiful nature to soak in.

We enjoyed hiking, paragliding, kayaking on the lake. That’s more something for the warmer months. We even went up the famous Schilthorn, known from a James Bond movie.

Here is a list on top things to do:

• Snowboarding
• Skiing
• Balancer slope glider
• Bungee Jumping (even in winter!)
• kayaking
• Schilthorn
• Jungfraujoch

Find a full list of things to do in Interlaken here.

How to get to Interlaken:

Book a flight to Zürich, Geneva, Bern or Milan.

Check the famous Skyscanner. With Kiwi.com you can draw a circle around Interlaken. It will show you the cheapest air fare in the area. From there you have to take the train or rent a car directly. You can also come easily to Interlaken by car.

If you are here for the sports activities, you may not need a car. Many of the tour providers offer pick-up service. Many tourists take the Flixbus around Europe. It is a network of buses across Europe. Make sure you read our flixbus review. We share the pros, cons and prices.

Accommodation in Interlaken:

There is plenty of hotels and apartments to choose from.

Read: our guide to the best hostels in Switzerland.

In Interlaken, we highlight Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof (here is our review). It is the only 5 Star Hostel in town.

We got you a 5% discount at the Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof. This discount comes in pretty handy, right?

How to apply the discount?

Check our full review of Backpackers Villa here. There you find the promo code and the page to apply it.

It is very simple!

Enjoy.

Get the 5% Discount Code here

2.

Prague (romantic + nightlife)

Prague in summer, or Prague in winter?

Well, here is the thing: both

The city of Prague is obviously different depending on the time of year.

We had the chance to enjoy both seasonal times and in winter it was freezing cold, very romantic and less crowded. We visited the Prague Castle and only saw 8 more tourists around. It looked even more stunning.

Not into Castles? There is a lot more to it.

Things to do:

• Castle Tour
• Ghost Tours with Pub Crawl
• Dinner Cruise on the river
• Visit the Jewish Quarter
• Get lost in the old town
• wander the Charles Bridge
• Take a selfie with the John Lennon wall

When heading to Prague, make sure you check out first the 5 Things in Prague to avoid!

Another advantage of Prague in winter are the bars. When it is really, really cold, you can always jump into a bar or café, of which there are many cool ones to choose from!

For secrets to Prague, download our 5 Secret Tips to Prague for free (we included a few bars and cafés).

Last but not least: We have a fantastic winter activity in Prague for you! Czech out the Escape Room Nuclear Bunker in Prague. A storytelling real-life game to solve puzzles and riddles.

Big plus: It is indoor, so it will be warm!

How to get here:

Prague has its own airport. Many airlines offer this destination. It is also well connected by train. Hence, it is easy to get here! I would not come with a car to Prague, it’s not easy to park downtown and you don’t need a car here.

Have a look on the cheapest rates by comparing airlines at Omio.com, Skyscanner and Kiwi. Kiwi.com is especially amazing. You can select a date-range. Let’s say the full month of February. It will show you all best options.

Obviously, there is also many buses and train going to Prague. Check Omio.com to find prices.

Where to stay:

The prices for hostels and hotels in Prague are also lower than usual during the winter period.

• Solo-Traveler:

As there are less tourists we recommend to stay at a place offering cool social events such as the The Roadhouse Prague.

After a long day exploring the cold air of Prague, you will come back to the hostel for nightly dinners, catching up at a local bar, and more exciting social events.

Read: our guide to 3 best hostels in Prague here.

• Couples:

Have a romantic city break. Airbnb is great to get a full, stylish apartment. Here’s our guide on how to use Airbnb.

• Family + Friends:

An apartment is your best bet. We love Airbnb for this. Remember to get the airbnb discount above.

You can also book with Booking.com This is recommend since you can cancel for free. Here is a booking review – and how to use them.

• Luxury Option

The #1 luxury option is Alchymist Prague Castle Suites. It lets you travel back in time, just look at the photos!

“It is cozy and very affordable, making Prague a top European winter destination.”

Looks cold, right?! This winter photo of Prague was taken by us back in 2011.

3. Budapest (Romantic City Break)

Party and Fiesta! But also perfect for a romantic city break.

Budapest is known for its great nightlife, beautiful architecture, and the numerous spa’s across the city. The first time we visited Budapest was in February and we had the best time!

Things to do

We even went to Szechenyi Spa, the biggest outdoor spa in Budapest. Although there was snow everywhere, we had great fun jumping from one hot tub to another.

You can get a skip-the-line ticket for the spa.

We visited the Museum of Terror, had a drink at rural bars and got lost in the famous nightlife.

Make sure you join a pub crawl as well! It’s only 15€.

How to get to Budapest

The airport is very well-connected. You can come here fast and easy from all major cities like Berlin, Amsterdam, Paris.

Find cheapest rates by comparing airlines at Skyscanner and Kiwi.

The train connection is also very popular. The train takes you around the country. Especially a train ride from Vienna is quite scenic.

Where to stay

The prices are even lower than in Summer, and as the city remains popular throughout the year, you will easily meet people in hostels as well as in the bars.

• Solo-Traveler

Check out the Maverick City Lodge and Maverick Hostel. The prices plus design will knock off your socks! Read our reviews here.

Here’s our handwritten guide for the best hostels in Budapest – all compared + map!

The best hostel in Budapest: Maverick City Lodge in Luxury

• Couples

Budapest is great for couples. Relax in a spa, dine in fine restaurants and have a good time in one of the many bars out there.

As for accommodation, here you can find the top hotels to choose from.

• Family + Friends

An apartment is a great option for families and friends. There are plenty to choose from. Get one located around the parliament. This is the main area, and you can easily get around.

• Luxury Option

Get wow-ed at the Kempinski Hotel Corvinus, the 5 Star Hotel in the city center.

Budapest is always beautiful – winter and summer!

4. Porto in Portugal

Porto is more preferred as a summer destination, but still in winter you can come here and have a blast.

In general Porto is not an expensive destination, and you can have a great night out for a mere couple of dollars or Euros.

What about a Fado concert in a wine cellar? Or maybe you just wanna enjoy to the food.

We wrote up a big guide to the fun things to do in Porto.

Update: You won’t believe this hostel: The Passenger Hostel is one of the worlds most amazing hostels!

Full review of The Passenger Hostel Porto

Read our fresh and complete guide to best hostels in Porto.

5. Berlin (Christmas and Snow)

We love to think about Berlin in winter. It is a great winter destination, especially in December.

Sure, most of the people prefer the summer sitting in a beer garden surrounded by green parks, but a white Berlin is beautiful as well.

Snow and winter is without doubt a significant part of the German culture. And hey, have you ever heard about German Christmas Markets?

The Christmas Markets in Berlin are beautiful, so don’t miss out!

The Christmas Markets in Berlin are beautiful, so don’t miss out! – Anna

Things to do

In our travel guide to Berlin we show you the fun things to do in Berlin.

Also, there are many activities and tours around the city, like history walking tours, food tours and museums.

Also, there are free things you can do in Berlin.

Did you know that visiting the City Hall is free of charge? It only requires you to register in the Bundestag website.

How to get to Berlin

Find flights to Berlin with Omio. com, Skyscanner and Kiwi. (Bear in mind, Berlin has several airports.) As mentioned before, you can get here from Prague and Hamburg easily via train and flixbus.

Where to stay

The best hostel in Berlin: Wallyard Concept Hostel.

It is the only 5 Star Hostel in the German capital! The location is great with being close to the main train station, the design is a loft-styled hipster vibe, and the atmosphere is super relaxing. It simply feels like coming home!

Read our handwritten guide to the best hostels in Berlin – for all types of traveller.

We took this photo in a park in Berlin back in 2011.

Make sure you pack your winter clothing when traveling to Berlin during winter!

6. Venice (Romantic City Break)

It’s really unbelievable.

I never thought I’d fall in love with such a touristy city. But Venice, well, Venice is different.

Of course it is crowded all year long, don’t get me wrong.

“I never thought I’d fall in love with such a touristy city. ”

– Matt

At the same time, Venice is gorgeous all year long.

Things to do in Venice

I would recommend to stay at least 2 nights here and if you can better 3. This way you have really the time to get lost, taste Venice, take photos and “get bored”.

Get bored, meaning to just wander around, get lost, intent to find the way, get lost again and so on.

This is part of the charm of Venice! Get our guide to hidden Venice here.

Update: Our brand new article to where to eat in Venice? 22 restaurants recommended by actual locals

Where to stay:

You would enjoy a romantic hotel? Then go with the Gritti Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel.

There is many great hotels around Venice. But make sure you check the location! Here is a great guide on best boutique hotels in Venice, Italy.

Staying on a budget?

There is some AMAZING hostels in Venice, you won’t believe this.

Read: complete guide to best hostels in Venice.

I visited COMBO Hostel in Venice, the best hostel in the city. This 5 Star Hostel is a former monastery and the rooms even come with a canal view.

Here you can read our full review of COMBO Hostel in Venice.

Seriously, this hostel blows your mind!

How about I show you the hostel…

7. Amsterdam (nightlife)

Amsterdam is a classic destination. It is awesome, all year around.

If you are coming the first time over, make sure you add this one to the list.

Things to do

Rent a bike and visit museums. This is the absolute must do. Other than that, here is my detailed article on 29 fun things to do in Amsterdam.

Here we cover ALL the fun stuff this city has to offer. From Day trips to quirky events.

For instance, the epic Amsterdam Look Out platform and many fun escape room games.

Smart tip: You have to book your ticket to Amsterdam Lookout beforehand either with Tiqets. com.

Read more details on my full article best things to do in Amsterdam.

The BEST Things to do in Amsterdam – including Canal views!

Where to stay in Amsterdam

The two best hostels in town are Ecomama and Cocomama. Those are the 5 Star Hostels here in Amsterdam.

Both are recommended for solo-travelers and couples. Check our guide to best hostels in Amsterdam for more details.

Do you prefer a cosy yet luxury hotel? hen you will love this guide on luxury hotels in Amsterdam.

For a round.up guide, check out where to stay in Amsterdam for first-time visitors.

Cocomama Amsterdam – this is recommended for small groups and couples!Swing it at Ecomama Amsterdam – the perfect hostel in Amsterdam for SOLO-Travelers

How to get to Amsterdam

As a main tourist spot, it is very well connected with the world and rest of Europe.

Just check out Kiwi.com and Skyscanner to find your best flights. Here is our full review of Kiwi and my review of Skyscanner as a flight booking engine.

I do not recommend coming to Amsterdam with a car. Parking can be difficult and very expensive. If you are planning to come with a car, I recommend parking outside the center.

Yet again, there is no need for a car in Amsterdam. The locals do not use cars, they walk, take the metro and cycle. Join the locals!

8. Andorra (for winter sport and hiking)

This one is quite obvious? Okay, for Europeans maybe.

Andorra is one of the smallest countries in Europe, and the location is unique.

Hiding on top of the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain, this makes it THE top location in winter to go snowboarding and skiing.

How to get to Andorra

The easiest way might be to fly to Gerona or Barcelona City. From there I would recommend renting a car.

Find flights to Girona and Barcelona with Omio.com, Skyscanner and Kiwi.

Many tourists actually visit Barcelona and then decide to take a train or rent a car to Andorra for a few days. That’s a great option! Andorra is only 3 hours away from Barcelona.

Where to stay

The Mountain Hostel Tarter is located right there.

However, it may be surprising to hear that Andorra is as well a great summer destination. The surrounding mountains offer endless opportunities to go for a hike and mountain biking.

Find all hostels in Andorra here.

Here is our video from Mountain Hostel Tarter:

9. Bologna (Foodie-paradise and hidden gem)

We loooooove Bologna, and we cannot express this enough. It’s a serious hidden gem, and culinary capital of Italy.

The good thing: As Bologna is half-way to Venice and Florence, nobody really stops here.

We create a guide with secrets to Bologna.

What do you get?

• A gorgeous 5 Star Hostel, an oasis to slow down, called COMBO Bologna Hostel
• Food, endless food for a locals price
• Lots of history, and monuments/ sights to visit
• An alternative students city with great nightlife
• Food…and again: Food!

Besides Bologna, we also admire Strasbourg, another gorgeous city without the tourist crowds. Our friend Dan wrote up his favorite hidden gems in Europe as well, give it a read to get truly inspired.

Find flights to Bologna with Omio.com, Skyscanner and Kiwi.

Bologna is a hub for the cheap flights from Ryanair. We scored flights here for less than 10€!

This tip is especially great since you can travel to Florence, Venice and Verona for a day trip.

BTW: We paid 12€ for a train from Bologna to Venice.

Find all hostels in Bologna here.

10. Bergen in Norway (landscape and culture)

Same goes for Bergen! Bergen is known for its precious natural surroundings which can be enjoyed in particular during a long winter hike.

Good, reliable winter clothing is a must of course.

We wrote a big guide for cool and fun things to do in Bergen, Norway.

The Marken Gjestehus in Bergen loves to enjoy the nature of Norway as well, so make sure you check out their website and recommendations before heading to Bergen.

(And yes, also the Swedish capital Stockholm is an absolute highlight for visiting in colder times)

Read: best hostels in Stockholm, Sweden.

11. Zagreb in Croatia (landscape and cheap!)

Are you surprised to read Zagreb here? As Zagreb is located in the inner part of Croatia it is the perfect city break during winter.

The bars, cafés, and restaurants are still open, the city is less crowded from the tourist point of view, but the student life is still vibrant and the Christmas Markets in Zagreb is super popular and gorgeous to visit.

Here you can find details on Christmas time in Zagreb.

You can experience a more local Zagreb than you would during summer. These Local Tips for Zagreb will be helpful for you.

Find flights to Zagreb with Omio.com, Skyscanner and Kiwi. It is actually (usually) the cheapest airport to get your Croatia trip started.

For summer, I highly recommend visiting Hvar and Korcula Island. JUST LOVE THEM!

Where to stay?

No doubt, the Swanky Mint Hostel Zagreb is the best hostel in Zagreb, and also during Winter a cosy place to mingle with locals and traveler, having a drink at the in-house bar.

Here is our full review of Swanky Mint Hostel.

Read: full guide to best hostels in Zagreb with map

We wrote more specific guides on where to stay in Croatia:

• best hostels in Dubrovnik – any why you should stay in the old town
• best hostels in Split – all compared
• best hostels in Croatia – a full itinerary with map

12. Munich (Taverns and Castles)

Same goes for Munich! Sure, those beer gardens have their charm, but winter is part of the culture.

The prices for accommodation are lower than in summer and there is still a lot to see and to do during the winter period.

The prices for accommodation are lower than in summer and there is still a lot to see and to do during the winter period.

Beer tours and royal castles are some of the cool tours in Munich.

Also near Munich, you can visit the famous Neuschwanstein Castle (Disney’s Castle inspiration).

Where to stay?

Staying on a budget? Munich has some cool budget places to stay. Find the 3 best hostels in Munich in our guide.

Our hand-picked hostels include:

1. Wombat’s CITY Hostel Munich
2. Euro Youth Hostel

We put all hostels on a map with all major sights to visit.

13. Barcelona (warm during the day, Romantic)

Have you been to Barcelona during July or August?

If not: It is super crowded!

The old town is chock with tourists, the prices are high and the sun is scorching hot. Even our favorite super local hidden-gem winery is now packed with tourists.

If you have a chance to stop by during the colder months, do it. It also allows you to check out the 8 Local Tips for Barcelona even quieter!

The prices for Hostels are no comparison to the high season in Barcelona. You can save a lot of money, and it is surprisingly sunny for the time of year. You can even join one of the cool bike tours in Barcelona – but bring a jacket.

To give you an idea:

• Summer: A bed in a regular hostel is about 25€
• Winter: A bed in a good hostel is about 10€

Sure, during the night you will have to wear your jacket, but the welcome winter sun keeps you warm during the day.

Find flights to Barcelona with Omio.com, Skyscanner and Kiwi. You can consider as well low-budget airport in Gerona, Costa Brava. This is where many Ryanair flights fly to. It is 100km north of Barcelona, but easy to get to Barcelona by bus service.

Here you have a list of +77 Things To Do in Barcelona and 23 Fun Things to do in Barcelona.

Where to stay in Barcelona?

We collected the 3 best hostels in Barcelona here.

1. Rodamón Hostel
2. Casa Gracia
3. YEAH Barcelona

Here is a useful guide to One Week In Barcelona. It covers where to stay in Barcelona.

Pro Tip: The hostel prices drop in winter! You can stay at hostels in Barcelona for less than 10€!

As for hotels, read this detailed guide on great design hotels in Barcelona.

This photo shows Anna on a cold winter morning in Barcelona.

The Smartest Packing List 2022

Okay, after finding all these super cool places, it’s time to see what you should pack in your backpack or suitcase.

Here is our ultimate travel packing list. It features 23 items you need to pack.

The main things to pack are:

1. earplugs
2. eye mask
3. key chain flashlight
4. the right backpack, the Lowe Alpine Lightflite 40 Pack
5. packing cubes
6. generic padlock
7. quick-dry travel towel
8. universal power adapter
9. travel-sized toiletries
10. The accommodation address – written down

Read the full packing list here.

14. Ghent, Belgium (Hipster Capital)

The new hipster paradise Ghent is a travel destination for the smart traveler. Winter can be tough in Ghent, and it is part of the culture in Belgium.

It is the perfect excuse to visit Ghent and Belgium, and to warm up with delicious Belgium beers at the different bars within the city and across the country.

For some Secret Tips Ghent, check out our travel guides!

Ghent also has many design Cafés on offer that you should not miss.

Where to stay?

Find all hostels in Ghent here.

15. Rhodes, Greece (avoid 2 million tourists!)

Comparing to summer, where 2 million tourist arrive in Rhodes, the winter is a much more relaxed time of the year.

Rhodes is not a very known winter destination even though the weather is much better than in other destination known for winter tourism like Mallorca, Menorca, or the Canary islands.

With an average of 300 sunny days, even in winter it is sunny most of the time.

Temperatures vary between 10°C and 20°C.

The water is warm until middle of December. December is actually more of a swimming season than May, because the water is much warmer in December.

Besides the wonderful climate and the awesome STAY Hostel Rhodes, the 5 Star Hostel in Rhodes, you really get a chance to see Rhodian Life.

Find all hostels in Rhodes here.

Locals go out to traditional taverns and small live-music events in cafes and restaurants are spontaneously organized. Due to the fact that Rhodes has a big university nightlife is happening every evening summers as winters.

Read our huge guide to things to do in Rhodes.

21 BEST things to do in Rhodes

Same goes for Santorini. IT IS AWESOME – all year long!

Here are our 27 fun things to do in Santorini.

The old town, the ancient stadium and the acropolis of Lindos are examples of spectacular sites that can be enjoyed likewise summer and winter.

Going for a run by the sea, bicycling, climbing and hiking and any other outdoor activity is great in the winter time, as summers can get quite hot.

And here it gets really juicy: Getting to Rhodes is easy and cheap in the wintertime.

There are daily Ryanair flights from Athens to Rhodes and Aegean-Airlines flights from Athens.

We love to use Skyscanner, Omio.com and Kiwi to find flight deals. Here is our full review of Kiwi as a flight booking engine.

16. Marrakesh and Taghazout – is that Europe?!

Fair enough: Morocco is located in Africa…

but it is close to Spain and very easy and cheap to get to.

During the European winter, Marrakesh is still warm. The city is cheap and a paradise for the budget traveler.

Read: best hostels in Marrakech – with Boutique Hostels and Map

If you cannot stay in Marrakesh for longer than 1-2 days, well, there is always Taghazout and Essaouira. Essaouira is located right next to the beach. It is a tiny town, surrounded by thick walls. It is really beautiful to visit, very safe and great to wander and unwind. Other than Marrakesh which can be stressful.

How to get here?

Fly here! Compare all flights with Ryanair and Vueling and other airlines. They usually have the best rates.

How about surfing?

Talking about Taghazout, how about surfing in Winter? Here is a full review of Amayour Surf Hostel on what to expect.

Find all hostels in Taghazout here.

Morocco is a great choice for staying close to Europe, whilst still escaping the European winter.

And hey, here you can 5 Secret Things to do Marrakesh outside the tourist box!

17. Edinburgh (Nessy and Game of Thrones)

Winter is coming!

Edinburgh is still a popular tourist destination during the colder season.

The taverns will keep you warm, and when the sun comes out during winter you can take really stunning photos: Edinburgh under white snow is just beautiful!

Things to do

The stories about ghosts and castles seem to become real in winter time. Ghost tour anyone?

Or maybe you would prefer a day tour to Loch Ness to chase Nessy?

Where to stay:

You can still enjoy our 5 Secret Tips to Edinburgh and stay at a real castle, the Castle Rock Hostel.

And sorry, but we have to say it: With the castle covered in snow, it may remind you of Game of Thrones. Also, there is the yearly festival of Hogmanay taking place!

Read: guide to 3 best hostels in Edinburgh – all compared

18. Rotterdam in The Netherlands (hidden gem)

Architecture, Art, and cosy local vibes. Rotterdam is still a beautiful, less-known city to check out.

With the biggest port across Europe, Rotterdam has a lot to offer, especially in Architecture.

The 5 Star Hostel Ani&Haakien runs its very own Architecture Tour in Rotterdam.

Find all hostels in Rotterdam here.

19. Lyon in France (Food and hidden gem)

The „new Paris“ is a great spot to enjoy during winter and summer equally. The stylish cafés, restaurants and bars are still open, and the city maintains its vibrant lifestyle.

Here you can find 5 best things to do in Lyon.

Sure, Paris is always a good destination as well. We collected +28 fun things to do in Paris. We had a look at rollerblading, picnic with pizza delivery, dancing on the seine, and ice skating.

How to get here?

Lyon has now as well a cheap airport, so that’s a good option. Other than that, a road trip around Lyon, South France and up to Paris is a wonderful experience.

20. London

Another great city we enjoy in the colder month is London. Since there is SO many things to do in-house, it is perfect to travel in winter.

You can enjoy the endless museums, visit the theatre, go up the skyscrappers, you name it. We summed up the 27 best things to do in London.

Did you know many of the museums here are actually free? The British Museum for instance. This is so great!!! We wrote up a piece about 62 free things to do in London for families and couples.

Read: itinerary for spending great 4 days in London

Where to stay in London?

Find our guide to the 3 best hostels in London here. We also cover many hostels in London with private rooms and neighborhoods.

Good to know: We also include family-friendly hostels in London! Here you can find great family-friendly hotels in London.

Check out this complete guide on where to stay in London with handpicked hotels for families, business and party traveler.

21. Copenhagen (cheaper +  fun)

The last stop for our European winter destinations in Scandinavia is the Danish capital. Copenhagen is known for its high prices, and for sure not a cheap destination to visit.

This is why winter here is a top choice. The prices are in general down, and you can get great deals from the Hostels.

Update: Read now our guide to the 3 BEST Hostels in Copenhagen.

1. Steel House
2. Woodah Hostel
3. Urban House

Things to do in Copenhagen:

You can do a canal cruise, visit the Tivoli gardens, walk around the city…

Psst… We have some really cool fun things to do in Copenhagen, you should not miss!

How to get to Copenhagen?

Find flights to Copenhagen with Skyscanner and Kiwi. This is by far the easiest option.

Trains can be tricky I found, and a car is not really recommended due to the lack of parking space in the city.

22. Hamburg (totally underrated!)

Everybody in the world knows this city by name. But it’s yet in the shadow of big, famous Berlin.

Let me tell, Hamburg is a true hidden gem!

We have been several times to Hamburg now.

The best time we have been there was during New Years Eve.

It was cold, snowing, and people were celebrating all night long! The colder months do not scare people to stay indoors, and you can still enjoy all the cool things to do in Hamburg.

Instead, they go out to the bars, cafés and don’t let the cold weather put them off. Plus during Christmas you can enjoy the festive markets as well.

Things to do

Hamburg is one of the coolest cities in Germany and is super popular amongst Germans. Here is what you can do:

• Visit the Christmas market
• Visit the Elbphilharmonie (majestic concert hall)
• Take a river cruise
• Take photos in beautiful Speicherstadt neighborhood
• Mingle in the nightlife of world-famous Sankt Pauli
• admire the Beatles monument
• have a fish-sandwich at the The Landungsbrücken Piers

Find all tours and activities here.

How to get here

Easy. Hamburg has a big airport, it is Germany’s door to the world. You can also come via train from Amsterdam or Berlin. It’s only a short ride away from Berlin, and the connections are frequent.

You can also rent a car and go on a trip from Amsterdam to Hamburg and Berlin. Later in this article I introduce you to renting a car in Europe the right way.

Find flights to Hamburg with Omio.com and Kiwi. You can also find cheap flights to Hamburg with Ryanair.com. I know, I have mentioned this already, but before booking flights, always check Skyscanner.

Where to stay?

A great option for hostels in Hamburg is the Backpackers St Pauli. The most popular hostel in Hamburg is the Pyjama Park Schanzenviertel.

Read: 3 best hostels in Hamburg compared (with map and a few nightlife tips)

If you are looking for more backpacker lifestyle and budget accommodation, find all hostels in Hamburg here.

23. Cyprus Island

Last but not least, maybe the warmest place in Europe in Winter: Cyprus!

Geographically located in the Middle East, Cyprus is still part of the European Union. It is not part of Schengen, so different visa rules apply here for non Europeans.

During winter times from December to march, you can expect 20 degrees during the day and 15 degrees at night. Since the island is obviously surrounded by the Mediterranean, you can go for a swim even in winter. The water itself is not so much colder than in summer. It only feels this way since the outside temperature is much colder than in August, as an example.

Cyprus is a quiet island to go for hikes, diving, enjoy restaurants, sunsets and bars. The cities of Limassol and Larnaca are the most active in terms of Nightlife. Aya Napa is the hotspot in the summer months with lots of clubs and parties.

For nature lovers, I recommend the Paphos area with Blue Lagoon, Akamas Area and lots of virgin beaches.

How to get here?

The two main airports are Larnaca in the East and Paphos in the West. They are only 130km apart from each other, so on that aspect I would not worry too much.

I would rather check our airport and what is the best and cheapest way to get either to Larnaca or to Paphos. Then you can adjust your itinerary accordingly.

With Omio.com you can find flights. I also recommend renting a car in Cyprus. It is so much better to get around on your own since public transport is slow and limited.

Where to stay?

You can find a few hostels in Cyprus. Airbnbs are also common. Here you can find a one week in Cyprus Itinerary with more details.

We took this photo in January in Paphos area, Cyprus. At night you need a jacket though!

Map with all Places for Winter in European

Yes, we love maps. And since we know Europe so well and want to make this your absolute best and most useful article to plan your trip, here is the map!

I incldued all destinations I recommend to enjoy a winter on the Old Continent.

Parties and Festivals in Europe during Winter 2022:

You can find many European Festivals during Winter here.

Also, there are many other public festivals across Europe such as the Light Festival in Amsterdam, the snow and ice sculpture festival in Bruges and more cool European Festivals you can find here.

• Las Fallas in Valencia, Spain (61 fun things to do in Valencia)
• St. Patrick’s Day – basically all Europe but the main festival of Saint Patrick’s Day takes place in Dublin (Guide to the 3 best hostels in Dublin)
• Strong Beer Festival in Munich (3 best hostels in Munich)
• Carnival – basically all Europe
• Christmas Markets – especially in Germany, Czech Republic, France, Poland, and Belgium

Do you know more? Awesome!

Please let us know, we would be keen to add more cool winter events in Europe.

Update: find 25 more European Winter Destinations, including map, packing list and budget estimation.

Booking Sights in Europe

Of course you want to enter the famous sights like Colosseum in Rome and Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.

There is two website use use for this:

• Get Your Guide.com
• Tiqets.com

Both websites are our favorite go-to places. Reliable, good prices, easy to use!

I wrote a big review on Tiqets.com here – and how to use it.

Here you find a step-by-step guide and review of Get Your Guide.

Taking Trains in Europe

Trains are a great way to get around. For me, it is the best way since I don’t like long bus rides.

Every country in Europe has its own train company. It is worth it to check out the official train websites of each country. Now, there is a more simple solution: Omio.com!

Omio.com connects all official websites and puts all trains and bus in one.

For instance, in Germany you can get big discounts when you book at least two weeks in advance.

Check Trains in Europe here

Taking a Bus around Europe (cheap option!)

Besides the train, which can be quite pricey, there is the bus.

Flixbus offers many routes across Europe like from Paris to Amsterdam, Madrid to Barcelona, Berlin to Prague. And even longer journey from Zagreb to Paris.

It is a really easy way to get around Europe for a cheap price.

The only downside is, it takes much longer. I would recommend this type of transport only when you bring enough time. Other than that, it is a great way to stay within a budget.

Check bus prices with Flixbus

How to rent a car in Europe

Renting a car in Europe ca be tricky. My favorite website is Discover Car Hire.

There is a few things you have to take into account and a few questions you have to ask yourself before renting.

1. Will you be crossing borders?
2. Do you have the correct license to drive a vehicle in Europe?
3. Do you have insurance cover?

There is many many different types of comparison websites for renting a car.

We used a few of them over the time. The truth is, those websites come and go faster than roadrunner escaping Coyote – if you know what I mean.

We have used several and there was always an issue. There was always an extra to pay, the price doubled easily, the car was not in good condition etc. Renting a car for us is still always a pain.

So, what can we recommend?

We want to be really upfront: Unfortunately, we are not an expert here. We have used many different sites; and always we disliked something. The most reliable car rental for us is Discover Car Hire.

Check out Rental Cars here

They are super easy to use and it is easy to compare different companies. They also offer full insurance when booking with them.

My best tip ever for renting a car: ALWAYS get full insurance!

Why?

If there is just the tiniest issue and someone hit your door for instance, you avoid big extra costs, known as penalties. If you get full insurance, you don’t have to care a thing about any scratch by third parties.

Personally, I think it is worth it the extra euros when renting.

Route Planning: this one is super helpful! Planning your trip and route throughout Europe is super easy with ViaMichelin.com

Just type in your route from A to B. The websites gives you 3 options how to get there. On top, it gives you the average prices and tolls.

This is especially useful since many countries in Europe charge tolls for their highways, like France, Spain, Italy.

Rent your Car here

Hostel and Accommodation Prices during winter:

As said before the prices for hostels during are usually lower.

Especially on Booking.com you can get lucky and score incredible deals.

• Hostelworld is a popular website for booking hostels.
• Hostelz.com is a hostel price comparison, super useful to save money.

Please keep in mind that this depends on the day and destination after all. In winter destinations like Andorra the prices can be higher than in summer, and during New Years Eve it goes without saying the prices in every hostel probably around the globe will be higher!

Questions?

Any questions? Please leave a comment below. We are thrilled to help!

Here you can find 15 bookings tips for hotels and hostels – super useful as well, especially during low season.

Our friends from A Pair of Passports also agree with us. They share romantic reasons why to travel off-season.

You can also consider AirBnb.

Cheap Flights during winter:

Make sure you subscribe as well to the newsletter of cheap airlines such as RyanAir, Vueling and EasyJet.

Usually every year around October and November you can score some really cheap flights across Europe. The easiest way to get special promotions are the mentioned newsletters.

A great way we found to compare flights is Skyscanner.

Also, for checking the cheapest destination we have a trick: www.kiwi.com. Kiwi has many searching options:

• use the search radius
• use the data range
• compare different airlines and get the cheapest offer

You can even compare different destinations with one single click.

Anyway, here is my full guide to Kiwi, including a booking guide and screenshots.

Need help with planning your trip?

Trouble with deciding where to go? What see too or how to get around?

I would love to help you.

I just started this small service to help you out planning your trip and put it down on paper. We will also have a look on the budget estimation.

You can find more details on my winter itinerary service here.

UPDATE: This service is no longer available.

More Winter Destinations

Find 25 more European winter destinations here.

What’s next:

• +99 Design Hostels to fall in love with
• 28 Fun Things to do in Amsterdam
• 28 Fun things to do in Paris
• 5 Things NOT to do in Prague

Do you have more recommendations for European Winter Destinations?

We’d love to hear from you!

– – –
Pin it now, read it later

Best Travel Websites we recommend ❤️

(Fresh Update 2022)

Booking Hostels and Discounts 👏👏👏

As a user of Hostelgeeks, you also have access to exclusive hostel discounts. For booking hostels, there are three sites you need to use:

• Hostelz.com – hostel price comparison
• Hostelworld
• Booking.com

We also recommend installing the Hostelworld App. It is very handy!

How to find cheaper Flights ✈️

The first websites you should check are Skyscanner, Kiwi.com, and Google Flights.

In our review about Skyscanner we walk you through the entire process how to find cheaper flights and how to reserve.

Travel Insurance made easy 🤒

We have used World Nomads on our travels around South East Asia and Europe.

We are currently using Safetywing and Iati Seguros. We wrote detailed guides about these insurances:

• Our review of Safetywing, compared with World Nomads.
• a detailed review of World Nomads Insurance

Smartest Travel Tools you need to know 🤓

• Onward Ticket – get a proof for onward travel
• iVisa – get your visa online fast
• Get Your Guide – for activities and sightseeing tickets
• Omio. com – for all types of transport

Find all our recommended travel tools and websites here.

Knowing what to pack and what not pack is essential. For instance, you need a one-fits-all padlock.

We created the ultimate list of smart items to bring.

Download Free PDF Packing List

Where to go in Europe in January? – Wiki Reviews

Where to go en Europe en Janvier 2022 depending on the weather?

• Tenerife to Janvier . No. 1 Tenerife. From 16 ° to 20 ° C. …
• Malta at Janvier . No. 2 Malta. …
• Spain in Janvier . #3 Spain. …
• Greece at Janvier . #4 Greece. …
• Mallorca to Janvier . #5 Mallorca. …
• Cyprus to Janvier . #6 Cyprus. …
• Lanzarote to Janvier . #7 Lanzarote. …
• Crete to Janvier . #8 Crit.

Or Where to go in January 2021 in France? Here are a few destinations worth discovering in France at Janvier .
…
Here are our inspirations in France and Europe for the month January 2021 :

• Paris.
• Riviera.
• Three valleys.
• Skiing in the Pyrenees.
• St. Moritz.
• Skiing in Italy.
• Amsterdam.
• Brussels.

Where is it hot in Europe in January?

Discover 8 places to spend the winter hot en Europe .

1. Italy. Renaissance cities, magnificent lakes and mountains ……
2. Bosnia and Herzegovina. Although Bosnia remains an unrecognized country, Elle is nevertheless very interesting. …
3. Albania. …
4. Croatia. …
5. Greece. …
6. Spain. …
7. Malta. …
8. Montenegro.

Where is the hottest January in Europe?

# 1 Nice. In France , Riviera is known for its exceptional levels of sunshine and mild temperatures most of the year. Indeed, Nice has 2,700 hours of sunshine per year. And we find average temperatures between 8 and 11 °C in the middle of the month. Janvier and in March up to 14 ° C.

Where to go in the January city tour?

City tour , animal encounters, distant destinations, dive sites …
…
10 directions where to go per month Janvier

1. Slovenia. …
2. Tasmania. …
3. South Serengeti, Tanzania. …
4. Trans-Siberian, in Russia. …
5. Colombia. …
6. Vienna, Austria. …
7. Andaman Coast, Thailand. …
8. Botswana.

Where to go in Europe in January 2021?

Top 10 winter sun spots in Europe

• Madeira, Portugal.
• Sicily, Italy.
• Crete, Greece.
• Cyprus.
• Lanzarote, Spain.
• Malta.
• Sardinia, Italy.
• Azores, Portugal.

Where is the hottest place in France in January?

#1 Nice. The France Côte d’Azur is known for its exceptional levels of sunshine and mild temperatures most of the year. Indeed, Nice has 2,700 hours of sunshine per year. And we find average temperatures between 8 and 11 °C in the middle of the month. Janvier and in March up to 14°C.

Where in France is it sunny in January?

Editor’s choice

• Alps. Unspoiled massifs of the Alps, covered with flawless snow, will be the place for your most beautiful adventures. …
• Avoriaz. The pedestrian village and optimal snow cover breathe new life into the hearts of winter sports enthusiasts and other ecologists. …
• Annecy. …
• Cannes. …
• Carcassonne. …
• Chamonix. …
• Isles of Hyeres. …
• Law.

Where is the hottest place in Europe?

The moment hotter than theoretically falls on mid-July, in the middle of this period, hence the difference with the calendar, which fact spend the summer from about June 21 to September 21. ️ The previous warmest years 2010 and 2018 are only 0.1°C colder, a small margin.

Where to go in January in the sun nearby?

If you want to leave au Soleil en January no Trop waist from France choose the Canary Islands. Located in the very south, Tenerife is the guarantee of a trip to Soleil in the middle of winter. There is something here for everyone, from playa lovers to backpackers who enjoy climbing the Teide.

Where in Europe is the weather good in January?

Top 10 places for winter sunshine in Europe

• Madeira, Portugal.
• Sicily, Italy.
• Crete, Greece.
• Cyprus.
• Lanzarote, Spain.
• Malta.
• Sardinia, Italy.
• Azores, Portugal.

Where is it hot all year round?

With an average annual normal average temperature of 16.5 ° C, this ‘ is Toulon, which tops the 20 hottest cities in France metropolitan. The city of Var is followed by Calvi and Bastia, all two are located in Upper Corsica.

How is the weather in Sicily in January?

Month Janvier en Sicily has the lowest sunshine. The air temperature on the island ranges from 14 to 17 degrees. Quite a lot of precipitation falls during this season. It reaches over 70 millimeters, which is almost twice as much as during the summer months.

Where is it hot in Europe in January?

Discover 8 places to spend the winter hot in Europe .

1. Italy. Renaissance cities, magnificent lakes and mountains ……
2. Bosnia and Herzegovina. Although Bosnia remains a little-known country, it is nevertheless very interesting. …
3. Albania. …
4. Croatia. …
5. Greece. …
6. Spain. …
7. Malta. …
8. Montenegro.

Where to go in Europe in 2022?

Where to go where to go en 2022 en Europe :

• 1: Cyclades: You must have heard of the Cyclades before. …
• 2 Slovenia: With only 2 million inhabitants, Slovenia is a small country located between Italy and Croatia. …
• 3 Iceland:…
• 4: Albania. …
• 5: Lofoten Islands in Norway:…
• 6: Azores:

Where to go in January to find the sun?

If you want to leave au Soleil en Janvier near France, stop in the Canary Islands. Located in the very south, Tenerife is the guarantee of a trip to Soleil in the middle of winter. There is something here for everyone, from playa lovers to backpackers who enjoy climbing the Teide.

Where in France is it hot all year round?

Toulon is a city with an average temperature of 16.5 ° C. hot de France metropolitan and then Calvi and Bastia, all two are located in Upper Corsica. That fact is a little cliché, but it’s better to go south to find the warmth of all year round .

Where is the hottest place in France in February?

With an average annual temperature of 16.5°C, Toulon tops the top 20 cities. plus hot from France metropolitan. The city of Var is followed by Calvi and Bastia, both of which are located in Upper Corsica.

Where is the hottest January in Europe?

Discover 8 places to spend the winter hot in Europe .

1. Italy. Renaissance cities, magnificent lakes and mountains ……
2. Bosnia and Herzegovina. Although Bosnia remains an unrecognized country, Elle is nevertheless very interesting. …
3. Albania. …
4. Croatia. …
5. Greece. …
6. Spain. …
7. Malta. …
8. Montenegro.

Where to go in France in January?

january can keep beautiful sunny days and moderate temperatures in some parts of the southern part France : Basque coast, Corsica, around Nice offer destinations to enjoy nature and the sea, and even the terraces of cafes or restaurants an hour…

Where to go in January?

• Cape Verde Janvier . #1 Cape Verde.
• Marrakech to Janvier . #2 Marrakech.
• Canaries in Janvier . No. 3 Canaries.
• Guadeloupe to Janvier . #4 Guadeloupe.
• Thailand at Janvier . #5 Thailand.
• Cuba in Janvier . #6 Cuba.
• Malta to Janvier . No. 7 Malta.
• Martinique to Janvier . No. 8 Martinique.

Where to spend a warm winter in France?

With an average annual temperature of 16.5 ° C, Toulon tops the 20 hottest cities in France metropolitan. The city of Var is followed by Calvi and Bastia, both of which are located in Upper Corsica.

Where is the hottest November in Europe?

Cyprus. When looking for a destination November en Europe , we often doubt between Cyprus and Malta. Indeed, these two countries are undoubtedly the place Europe where il fate le hot en November . In Cyprus, il Faith averages 21°C in Nov with skies almost always blue.