Winter Destinations Europe: 27 Amazing Wintry Places

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Best European winter destinations for cold weather

Europe in winter is a season of contrasts and charm. Whether you’re dreaming of a snow-covered Alpine village, the elegance of Paris in December, or a magical winter snow city lit by twinkling lights, you’ll find the best places in Europe in winter right here. From festive markets to hushed historic towns, these are the winter travel destinations that make a European winter truly unforgettable.

If you’re building a Europe trip itinerary or backpacking Europe in the colder months, this guide is for you. Maybe you’re chasing the ultimate winter aesthetic, planning to wander cobbled streets in style, or simply looking for the best European cities to visit in winter for mulled wine and romantic strolls. Love skiing, snowshoeing, or soaking in hot springs surrounded by snow? You’ll find those too.

You won’t find beaches or winter sun holidays in Europe here. This is all about crisp air, festive lights, and the kind of Europe in winter trip that leaves you breathless in the best way. Whether it’s a cozy Christmas in Europe or an active winter vacation Europe style, we’ve rounded up the very best winter destinations Europe has to offer to help you plan your most magical Europe winter holidays yet.

Just want to know the best winter destinations in Europe?

Six Reasons to Visit Europe in the Winter

Is winter a good time to visit Europe? We think it’s the perfect time, and here’s why:

Europe Winter Destinations Map

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Abisko, Sweden

The most northerly train stop in Sweden, the small town of Abisko in the Abisko National Park in Lapland, is for serious winter travel lovers and those taking European winter breaks at the nearby famous Icehotel in Kiruna.

The tiny village of Abisko has one of the highest Northern Lights sight ratings in Scandinavia due to its low levels of light pollution and Arctic Circle location. Head here during the few weeks of December and January when the sun stays below the horizon during the Polar night, for the best chance to see the breathtaking aurora borealis. 

This highly rated small group guided Northern Lights tour will help you discover the Abisko National Park in Swedish Lapland. You’ll get to spend an evening under the stars and explore the wilderness on foot, in a van, and by sleigh.

Whilst you’re waiting for the show to start, try your hand at husky mushing or cross-country skiing – just make sure you include thermals on your packing list!

Stay at the Icehotel in Kiruna for its iconic icy architecture, fabulous food, and well, just because…

RELATED POST: Beautiful Places in Sweden: Discover the Best Spots to Visit

Amsterdam, Netherlands

One of the best winter city breaks in Europe, Amsterdam shines in winter and is a magical city in the lead-up to the Christmas season, with celebrations that go on for the whole month of December. The Netherlands’ capital city is also an awesome place to ring in the New Year, lively with parties and club nights.

The crowds are thinner in the winter months, leaving you to enjoy frosty canals, cozy cafes, deserted museums, and cool bars, without the hordes – and prices – of summer.

Make sure to check out the Amsterdam Light Festival, which runs through December and January, and Museumplein, which transforms into a winter wonderland complete with a picture-perfect traditional Christmas market.

Stay at Hotel Estheréa for its superb city center location, incredibly stylish decor, and canal views.

Bergen, Norway

Bergen is a wonderful city all year round, but in winter it is elevated to a magical place, just as you might imagine it to be. Norway‘s second-largest city is surrounded by seven fjords and seven hills, a landscape that creates a dramatic backdrop for your winter visit and served as the inspiration for the Disney movie Frozen.

There is a lot to do in the city, including visiting the lively Vagen harbor in Bergen’s old quarter, Bryggen, which is one of Norway’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For fabulous views, head up to Mount Fløyen on the Fløibanen funicular and pick up some of the hiking trails at the top, or try your hand at sledding.

For an incredible day trip, travel from Bergen to Flåm by rail. The first part of the journey is on the main Bergen to Oslo line, which skims picture-perfect fjords dotted with iconic red fishing huts, before climbing to Myrdal in Norway’s dramatic uplands. From here, you’ll change onto the Flåmsbana and make the precipitous and breathtaking descent to Flåm itself.

Why not try this excellent private tour from Bergen, which includes a Sognefjord fjord cruise to Flåm before journeying back on the spectacular Flåmsbana, or take a trip on a Norwegian Fjord cruise; it’s the perfect way to see more of beautiful Norway in less time!

Stay at Det Hanseatiske Hotel for its harbourside location, dining options, and cozy decor.

RELATED POST: Norway Road Trip: Four Unmissable Routes

Berlin, Germany

Berlin, the capital of Germany, is a multi-cultural hub for travelers. A fascinating and dark recent history, legendary nightlife scene, and an eclectic vibe mean there are plenty of options for foodies, hipsters, and historians alike.

Most of Berlin is walkable, and Germany is very good at managing snow, so public transport, taxis, and sightseeing buses will all still be in operation. From the Brandenburg Gate, make sure to see the Reichstag Building, Tiergarten, and Potsdamer Platz.

There are also museums and memorials dedicated to WWII and the Holocaust, which are also a must-see before you head to Museum Island, Berlin’s cultural quarter.

There are more than 100 large and small Christmas markets in Berlin, offering traditional German food, mulled wine, hand-crafted Christmas gifts, and fun fair rides. Head for Alexanderplatz for the biggest and most traditional market, and make sure to stop and admire the Christmas trees and fairy lights that adorn the city.

Stay at Hotel Zoo Berlin for its perfect location, contemporary design, and great service.

Bled, Slovenia

Bled’s stunning landscape not only makes it one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, but also one of the most gorgeous Alpine areas in Europe. Visit in February to enjoy the last of the wintry weather with literally no one else around!

Known for its healing climate, thermal waters, and off-the-beaten-track ambiance, this small city is perfect if you want a quieter escape, and really is one of the must-see places in Europe in winter.

Bled is also perfect if you’re looking for a bit of adventure. The surrounding Triglav National Park is ideal for outdoor activities such as winter hiking, snowshoeing, snowboarding, and skiing. Triglav is ideal for winter hiking with meeting points starting in Bled and offering different routes depending on individual fitness level.

In between all this, don’t forget to check out Bled Castle, a medieval fortress believed to be the oldest castle in Slovenia, and the famous Lake Bled, which you can skate on if it freezes over in the winter weather.

Stay at the Maple and Pine Bled apartments for their fantastic views, simple decor and excellent host.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a delightful city, perfect for a day trip from Brussels, and one of the best European cities in winter if you’re traveling from the UK. Full of historic architecture, pretty squares, and interesting, independent shops, it’s easy to lose yourself in the old town of Bruges for a day.

There will be Christmas markets, gluhwein, and perhaps a horse-drawn carriage ride along the cobbled streets to enjoy, making this a perfect winter destination for romantics.

Bruges is also a foodie destination, famous for Belgian frites, fine chocolate, and fluffy waffles served with a vast array of toppings. You’ll have a great time eating your way through Bruges’s culinary scene as you walk and try local Bruges and Belgian foods, or take a fun waffle-making workshop!

Trying out all of Belgium‘s delicious food is even better in winter when the twinkling lights and clear frosty days give you the license to eat as many waffles as you want!

Stay at the Hotel De Orangerie for its authentic 15th-century building, cozy lounges with open fires, and sumptuous bedrooms.

Budapest, Hungary

This is a winter city if ever there was one. Rich in history and culture, spending a day in Budapest in winter has a fairy tale quality, making it a top European winter destination.

An added bonus is that Budapest is also a fantastic budget destination, easy on the pocket at any time of year. There are beautiful Christmas markets, with Vörösmarty Square being one of the most popular in Central Europe, as well as one of the oldest in Hungary.

Over in City Park, with Vajdahunyad Castle as the backdrop, is a huge ice skating rink that runs from late November to mid-January before it is turned back into a summer pond complete with ducks!

There’s also the stunning State Opera House, Imperial Palace, and St Stephen’s Basilica to see, as well as wine tasting in the country known for its delicious and sweet Tokaj wine. But the main winter attractions are the fabulous natural thermal springs that deliver 70 million liters of warm and therapeutic water every day to more than a dozen thermal baths and spas. 

Taking a dip in the famous Széchenyi Baths is an absolute must during a winter visit. With its fifteen indoor baths, three outdoor pools, saunas, Turkish baths, and massages, you’ll be in thermal heaven!

Stay at the wonderful Callas House for its location right next to the Hungarian State Opera House, and luxury boutique style.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Air that’s thick with hygge, canals crisp with ice, and a dusting of snow on the cobbled streets make Copenhagen in Denmark one of the top winter city breaks in Europe. 

Copenhagen will be cold, but that’s okay because there’s glogg (mulled wine with raisins and almonds), pancake puffs, and real fires in hotels, cafes, and bars across the city, perfect for keeping warm and snuggling!

Venture out to the brilliantly kitsch Tivoli Gardens for the Christmas market and winter wonderland that even the most responsible of adults will enjoy.

After the fun fair, find a sauna to warm up the traditional way (perhaps skip jumping in the canal afterward) and then head for beautiful Nyhavn, where the colorful houses stand out in stark contrast to the grey skies and icy water. 

Stay at the 71 Nyhavn Hotel for its canalside location, Scandi decor, and amazing breakfast.

Edinburgh, Scotland

The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is a beautiful city where medieval and neoclassical history and architecture exist in harmony. Full of quirky corners and hidden squares, and even a castle just waiting to be discovered, you’ll be enchanted by the city’s wonderful hospitality and unique vibe.

As well as visiting the dramatic landscapes of Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill, in the city itself, the Edinburgh Christmas Market at Princes Street Gardens is one of the highlights of visiting Edinburgh in December. Enjoy sipping warming mulled wine, shopping for traditional Scottish Christmas gifts, and sampling tasty local foods from the pop-up wooden stalls.

But the main reason many come to Edinburgh is for New Year’s Eve and Hogmanay, one of the world’s best-known celebrations. With city centre street parties, fireworks, and first footing – the first person to enter the home of a household on New Year’s Day is seen as a bringer of good fortune for the coming year – aplenty, this is a wonderful time to explore Edinburgh.

Stay at the Market Street Hotel for its ideal location, sleek and sexy design, and superb service.

Granada, Spain

In the spectacular Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is one of Spain’s most beautiful cities and a surprisingly great winter destination. The spectacular Moorish palace of Alhambra sits high on a hill with views of the snow-capped mountain range and is the jewel in Andalucia’s crown, especially with a light dusting of snow or frost.

In Granada itself, visit the medieval Albaicin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander the tangle of streets and alleys, enjoying the gift shops and boutiques. Head for the Plaza de San Miguel Bajo, a charming tree-lined square, before climbing uphill beyond the city walls to the church of San Cristobal for a fantastic view of the Alhambra. 

Snowy, even in a mild winter, and less than an hour from beautiful Granada, the Sierra Nevada ski resort sits at an altitude of 2,100 meters with lifts going up to 3,282 meters. The ski resort is divided into six ski areas with 30 lifts and over 100 pistes, and combined with a stop in Granada, this is the perfect destination for a winter getaway in Spain.

Stay at Hotel Santa Isabel La Real in Granada for its central city location, authentic Andalucian building, and delicious homemade breakfast.

RELATED POST: The Perfect Andalucia Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Hallstatt, Austria

One of the best winter villages in Europe, Austria‘s poster child town of Hallstatt, is so perfectly pretty, it could be a film set. Colorful Alpine-style houses overlook the Hallstätter See, a shimmering lake framed by soaring mountains, only more spectacular with a dusting of snow in winter.

Nestled in the Salzkammergut region east of Salzburg, a UNESCO-listed area surrounded by lakes and Alpine mountains, Hallstatt makes a perfect base for adventurous winter sports, like winter hiking and local skiing, and is a great base for an Austrian road trip.

Don’t miss visiting the Hallstatt Skywalk, at the top of the Salzbergbahn funicular, for panoramic, Instagram-worthy images.

Hallstatt at Christmas is one of the most magical places in Europe, and becomes a wonderland of twinkling fairy lights adorning the cute wooden houses in the small square where the traditional Austrian Christmas market takes place. You can even take a magical Christmas tour in Hallstatt to learn all about the local festive traditions and customs.

Stay at the Fenix Hall Boutique Hotel for its central village location, quirky country decor, and very comfy beds.

Innsbruck, Austria

If you want a perfect destination with winter sports and an Alpine backdrop, look no further than Innsbruck. Surrounded by the mighty Austrian Alps, with its imperial architecture and charming Altstadt, Innsbruck is a welcoming city that offers immediate and easy access to a vast winter sports playground.

One of the best places to visit in Europe in winter for skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, or hiking, the accessible mountains and glaciers surrounding Innsbruck are waiting for you to experience all they have to offer. 

If you’re visiting in December, Innsbruck’s Christmas Markets are set against the dramatic backdrop of the Nordkette mountains, with six distinct markets spread across the city. The most iconic is in Old Town, beneath the famous Golden Roof, where medieval buildings and cobbled lanes are illuminated with glittering lights.

If you love the look of this gorgeous city but don’t want to visit in the winter, then a trip to Innsbruck in summer will reward you with wildflowers, warm days, and lots of extreme sports options.

Stay at Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz for its fantastic central location, uber-modern decor, and awesome facilities.

Lake District, England

The Lake District in winter is pure poetry, literally. This is Wordsworth country, and you’ll soon see why. Think misty fells dusted with snow, ancient stone walls glistening with frost, and still, black lakes that mirror the sky. There’s nothing quite like a bracing hike followed by a local ale beside a roaring pub fire.

While the higher peaks may be inaccessible due to snow and ice, lower-level trails like those around Derwentwater, Buttermere, or Rydal Water offer stunning scenery with fewer crowds than summer. Add in charming villages, historic tearooms, and an air of peace that only winter can bring, and you’ve got a perfect cold-weather escape.

Stay at The Inn on the Lake in Ullswater for its unbeatable lakeside views, classic country charm, and crackling lounge fireplaces.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

The polar opposite of the Balearic Islands, one of Europe’s popular warm winter destinations, the Lofoten Islands in winter are pretty hardcore, with average temperatures hovering around freezing. Lofoten is undoubtedly the best place to visit in winter in Europe if you’re looking for adventure.

It rains a lot in November. From December 9th to January 4th, you will experience the incredible Polar night. In January, the days will be short, with the sun sitting low on the horizon, which is amazing for capturing the moody skies and changing light during the short time between sunrise and sunset. 

This Norwegian winter destination is not for everyone, but for some, the lure of spending time in the Arctic Circle during the colder months cannot be denied.

There is not a great deal to do here in winter. Take long coastal walks, hike (as long as you’re prepared and have the right gear), enjoy the solitude, chase the Northern Lights, and capture amazing winter images. If you’re new to winter photography, a Lofoten Archipelago photography tour with a professional photographer and guide will help you find all the best spots.

Stay at Olstind in Sakrisøy for its incredible location, comfy and warm decor, and fantastic host. For Norther Lights, stay in Gimsøya or for a bit more life pick from Hamnøy, Sakrisøya, Reine or Nusfjord, all of them picture-perfect Lofoten locations.

Madonna di Campiglio, Italy

Madonna di Campiglio is the perfect place for a magical white Christmas in Italy. With its beautiful scenery, high-end boutiques, and lively bars, this elegant and charming mountain town is one of Europe’s best winter snow holidays.

Surrounded by the snow-topped peaks of the Brenta Dolomites National Park and sitting at an altitude of 1,522 meters, this small town is also one of Italy‘s best ski resorts and offers nine miles of cross-country skiing trails and 35 pistes served by modern facilities.

During the holiday season, Madonna di Campiglio comes into its own with thousands of sparkling fairy lights and vibrant festivities, including the traditional Christmas slalom on the Canalone Miramonti run.

Enjoy the atmospheric Christmas market, which sells everything from beautiful decorations and handcrafted items to honey and mulled wine. Wrap up warm, there will definitely be snow!

Stay at Hotel Garnì Caminetto for its great location close to town and ski lifts, delicious homemade breakfasts, and cozy decor.

RELATED POST: The Ultimate Bucket List Italy Road Trip

Meteora, Greece

Winter in Greece might sound like sunshine and olives, but Meteora’s silent, misty cliffs tell a different story. In winter, this UNESCO World Heritage site becomes ethereal: towering rock pillars rise above frosty plains, and centuries-old monasteries cling to the edges like something from a fantasy novel. With fewer tourists and a chance of light snow, it’s a perfect time to take in the surreal landscape in peace.

You can hike up to the monasteries if the trails aren’t too icy, or drive the winding roads between the six still-functioning religious retreats. Even if snow is rare, the chill and fog give the place an otherworldly edge that’s quite unlike anywhere else in Europe.

Stay at Doupiani House Hotel in Kastraki for panoramic views of the cliffs, traditional styling, and one of the best breakfast spreads in the region.

Other Europe Low-Season Travel Ideas

Paris, France

Paris in winter feels like the city has slipped into something more elegant. The crowds thin, the lights glow brighter, and the entire city exudes a quiet, frosty charm. From mid-November through January, Paris dresses up for the season: Christmas markets pop up across the city, the Champs-Élysées sparkles with fairy lights, and department store windows become elaborate, whimsical displays.

This is the time to wander. Stroll along the Seine wrapped in a scarf, warm up with chocolat chaud in a corner café, and explore the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Palais Garnier with fewer tourists and more breathing room. Even the Eiffel Tower feels more romantic with a dusting of mist and a quieter Champ de Mars.

Paris might not be a snowy city, but when flakes do fall, it’s nothing short of magical. Add in winter sales (les soldes) in January and February, and you’ve got even more reason to visit in the off-season.

Stay at Hotel Le Six in the 6th arrondissement for its stylish Left Bank location, cozy modern interiors, and unbeatable access to Saint-Germain’s cafés and boutiques.

Prague, Czech Republic

An idyllic destination during the festive season, the Czech capital of Prague becomes a winter wonderland around Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, making it one of the best cities to visit in the winter.

The traditional Christmas Markets here are some of the most authentic in Europe, and alongside the two famous squares, there are a further three more; the cute huts on Republic Square and those at Havelska Market and in front of St George’s Basilica.

Wander the streets in between, and enjoy the café culture (especially the hot chocolate!) and street snacks whilst soaking up the historic sights of the castle and famous bridges sprinkled with snow and frost. Head back to one of the main squares for a traditional sing-along with carols, and yep, you’ve guessed it, Good King Wenceslas is always top of the list!

Stay at The Julius Prague for its fabulous central location, stylish decor, and excellent service.

Reykjavik, Iceland

The world’s most northerly capital combines brightly painted buildings and fascinating culture with lively nightlife and an excellent restaurant scene, perfect for city breaks at any time of the year, but particularly atmospheric in winter.

A small town by many countries’ standards, the tiny city of Reykjavik has plenty of things to do. Visit the unearthed Viking longhouse for a history lesson on Iceland’s rich heritage, head for some of the many galleries and art spaces in the city, or make your way out of town to experience the natural beauty, snow-capped mountains, wild seas, waterfalls, clear air, and lava fields of the stunning landscape.

This is a city that is good for the soul.

Once you’ve visited the Golden Circle road trip attractions, take a trip to the famous Blue Lagoon and warm up in the geothermal waters, which usually hover around 37-40° celsius, which is a gorgeously warm 98-104° fahrenheit.

If you love the look of this small country, but really don’t want to go in the winter, then a trip to Iceland in summer will reward you with fields of wildflowers, sunlit waterfalls, and warm days.

Stay at Sand Hotel for its location on the main street of Laugavegur, Icelandic character, and comfortably chic decor.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

One of the highlights of Germany’s Romantic Road and one of the most photogenic Christmas destinations in Europe, Rothenburg is Christmas, Germany, and medieval all rolled into one gorgeous parcel.

It has to be one of the most romantic towns in Germany and especially beautiful in the winter, with a light dusting of snow. It will be busy here at this time of year, though, so book well in advance.

The Christmas market is legendary, even in Germany, home to the Christmas Market! Rothenburg’s market has been taking place every year since the 15th century. We’ve been to a fair few Christmas markets in Europe, and this is one of our favorites, for the tradition and spectacle it provides, and its picture-perfect setting. 

A favorite thing to do is visit the world-famous Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas shop – love it or hate it, you can’t ignore this most distinctive of tourist attractions when you’re in Rothenburg, and it is an ideal place to stock up on all things Christmas!

Stay at Hotel Reichs-Küchenmeister for its location in the old town, traditional decor, and spa facilities.

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Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi has to be one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe and is known as the home of Santa Claus. It’s also the site of the official Santa Claus Village, where you can meet the man himself and hang out with his elves and reindeer. 

Once you’re over that, this is a great place to try dog sledding, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, Northern Lights watching, ice fishing, snowmobiling, ice-cart racing, and ice floating (whatever that is).  

For a bit of culture and to learn more about Finnish Lapland and the Arctic, head to the Arktikum Science Museum, where you can find out more about the history, nature, and landscape of the area.

Stay at the Arctic City Hotel for its central location, old world charm, and two saunas!

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, on the France-Germany border, is easily reachable by car in a day from Calais, making it perfect for a short trip or weekend away. This gorgeous medieval French city is made up of charming half-timbered houses, imposing churches, and pretty canals, and has an eclectic French-meets-German culture.

Think of a medieval town dusted with snow, and you will be imagining Strasbourg, one of the best places to visit in Europe in December for its beautiful Christmas market or Christkindelsmärik. The oldest and most historical Christmas market in Strasbourg, dating back to 1570, can be found at Place Broglie and around the Place de la Cathédrale.

Yes, Christmas markets do exist outside Germany, and Strasbourg’s has been going for centuries! This Christmas Market is becoming more popular by the year and offers all the usual hand-crafted gifts and lots of delicious French goodies to eat. 

Stay at the Citadines Eurometropole for its good location, stylish and modern decor, and fabulous spa facilities.

RELATED POST: France Road Trip: 13 Amazing Itineraries

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is a beautiful place and one of the best cities to visit in Europe at any time of the year. Go in winter, though, with cold crisp days and stunning medieval architecture, and Tallinn’s Vanalinn district (the old town) becomes simply magical. 

From mid-November until early January, you will find the sparkly Christmas market and tree in Raekoja Plats, the Town Hall Square. In December, you can skate next to the stunning and historic St. Nicholas Church in the center of the old town, before heading to Kehrwieder Chocolaterie for a warming and delicious hot chocolate.

It’s not all about markets and hot chocolate. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tallinn has plenty of other attractions, including superbly well-preserved medieval buildings, historic urban structures, and tradition by the bucket load. Take a walk along the city walls, visit Toompea Castle, and climb some of the twenty towers still surrounding the city today.

Stay at the Hotel Regent Tallinn for its fantastic old town location, historic 14th-century building, and beautiful rooms.

Tromsø, Norway

Tromsø, known as the gateway to the Arctic, is a magical destination for anyone dreaming of a snow-covered winter escape complete with reindeer, fjords, and the elusive Northern Lights. Sitting 350km north of the Arctic Circle, this lively little city combines Arctic wilderness with a cool cultural scene, including excellent restaurants, live music, and a thriving Sami heritage.

One of the most reliable spots in Europe to see the aurora borealis, Tromsø also offers winter activities galore: think husky sledding, snowmobiling across frozen landscapes, and even whale watching in January. Ride the Fjellheisen cable car for sweeping snowy views, or warm up in a floating Arctic sauna after a day in the cold.

Stay at Clarion Hotel The Edge for its central waterfront location, clean Scandi interiors, and superb breakfast—plus it’s a short stroll to many aurora tour pickup points.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is one of the most captivating European cities in winter when hot chocolate and Sachertorte are high on the menu and classical holiday concerts take place almost daily. 

Visit during ball season for an opportunity to re-enact the bygone era of high society and decadence. Experienced waltzers should make for the traditional Philharmonic Ball, while those wanting something a little more modern can check out the less formal Bonbon Ball. 

If that’s not your thing, try a spot of dancing on ice at one of the ice-skating rinks set up over the city in winter. Follow this up with seasonal roasted chestnuts and delicious potato wedges from the street stalls whilst warming up with a steaming mug of glühwein.

Stay at the HeyMi Apartments for their city center location, beautiful decor, and comfortable furnishings.

RELATED POST: Best Cities in Austria for an Amazing Visit!

Venice, Italy

Ok, so there probably won’t be snow. But what Venice has in common with many of these other winter destinations in Europe is that the crowds of summer will have long departed, leaving the evocative alleys, canals, and bridges deserted.

Although snow is not likely, you may well experience the Acqua Alta, or ‘high water’, when the sea level gets so high in October, November, and December that it spills over and floods the piazzas and streets of the city. Venetians are used to dealing with this, and the frequently hit Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square) has raised pedestrian walkways at the ready.

You can do everything in Venice in winter that you can do in summer: strolling the streets and piazzas, visiting the islands like Murano, Burano, and Torcello, and popping into palazzos, art galleries, churches, and museums as you wander.

If you visit in late winter from mid-February, you’ll find the Venice Carnival taking place, which is famous for its elaborate masks, and a huge event that attracts visitors from all over the world. This is not the time to visit if you’re on a budget!

Stay at the Hotel Moresco for its 19th-century Venetian styling, excellent breakfast, and fabulous service.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Although Zermatt is a great skiing destination, one of the best things about this winter fairy tale town in the Swiss Alps is that it’s just as good for non-skiers as skiers, and makes a great destination for winter walking holidays and a stop on a Swiss road trip.

You can pamper yourself in one of the town’s many spas, take the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car to the top of one of Europe’s highest mountains at 4,478 meters, go snowshoeing, eat the most delicious cooked Swiss cheese (probably top of our list) and cozy up in front of a blazing fire. Pretty much everything that says relaxation and a perfect winter holiday.

You can also explore the Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express, which takes an incredible route through powdery snow-capped mountains, gorgeous alpine villages, fairy tale castles, and iconic bridges as it travels between Zermatt and St Moritz, two of the most beautiful places in Switzerland.

Stay at the Alpen Resort Hotel for its great location, incredible mountain views, and awesome spa.

RELATED POST: Driving in the Alps: Top Tips & Best Routes

European Winter Destinations FAQs

When is winter in Europe?

Winter in the northern hemisphere, Europe included, starts on the 1st December and lasts until the last day of February. Europe experiences bitterly cold winter temperatures with varying degrees of snowfall in most regions of the continent.

Is it worth going to Europe in winter?

Absolutely. Europe is full of history and culture, and there are some places that really lend themselves to crisp wintry weather over the heat of the summer months. Think Christmas Markets, hot chocolate in front of a roaring log fire, snow-dusted cobbled streets, and medieval buildings festooned with twinkling fairy lights, and that’s Europe in winter!

What are the top Europe cities in winter?

If you’re looking for quintessential wintry scenes, then Copenhagen, Budapest, Tallinn, Bruges, Prague, and Bergen have iconic architecture and winter traditions that make them all great options for a European winter city break.

Will winter in Europe be cold?

In all the places in this European winter destination guide, it will definitely be cold, and there may be snow and ice. But there are also plenty of places in southern Europe where winter is mild and sometimes warm. You can find all those places in our guide to winter sun destinations in Europe.

Which European destination is warmest in winter?

The Canary Islands are the warmest places in winter in Europe. Spain’s archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa has an average temperature in winter of a whopping 20.8° celsius | 70° fahrenheit, and the best weather in Europe in winter.

A large archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, the Canaries are rugged volcanic islands. The best-known islands are Tenerife (the largest island), Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Graciosa.

Fringed with beautiful beaches, the Canary Islands’ seas are temperate enough to swim in all year round, the winter sunshine hours longer than most of Europe, and they have less rainfall than Spain and Portugal. The islands can be windy in the winter months, even on sunny days, but if you enjoy sailing, windsurfing, and kiting, then so much the better!

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