Winter usually isn’t a popular time of the year to book holidays, unless it’s to somewhere warm and tropical, like the Caribbean or South East Asia. Europe, for example, tends to be a tourist hot spot in the spring and summer months, but less so in the winter. Despite the low temperatures, there are several European cities that are more beautiful in the winter and definitely worth a visit. Not to mention, these colder months also mean fewer crowds, and less expensive flights and accommodation. If I am starting to convince you that visiting Europe in winter is indeed a good idea then keep reading for my list of top 10 European winter destinations.
EUROPE IN WINTER: TOP 10 DESTINATIONS
The Canary Islands, Spain
If you wish to head south for the winter and escape the freezing temperatures then there is no better place than the Canary Islands. Located off the coast of Morocco, the Canary Islands maintain an average temperature of about 20° C (67° F) throughout the winter months. The eight main islands are Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Graciosa. The most popular for tourists are Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
These volcanic isles are famous for their black and white sand beaches and many outdoor attractions. In Tenerife you can climb Mount Teide, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the third largest volcano in the world. If on Gran Canaria make sure to check out the sand dunes in Maspalomas and some of the charming villages along the coast. Wether you dream of laying by the pool all day sipping cocktails or heading out for some trekking and surfing adventures the islands are definitely a great choice for a winter getaway in Europe!
Lisbon, Portugal
For some eye catching architecture, delicious food, and captivating culture without leaving the European mainland head to Lisbon. This cosmopolitan capital is undeniably beautiful, with breathtaking viewpoints, bright colorful buildings and an endless number of things to see and do! The city benefits from mild temperatures in the winter months (15° C / 59° F) and less tourists. Fill up your mornings visiting the many cultural and historical attractions and make sure to try all of the delicious local cuisine. Plan a day trip to nearby Sintra for some fairytale palaces and unique castles. You can even head to Cabo da Roca from Lisbon which is the most western point on the European continent.
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Switzerland
For adventure seekers and lovers of the snow there is no better place than Switzerland! The small country has many gems to discover especially during the winter months. Head to Interlaken, a quaint Swiss village in the middle of the Swiss Alps. Here you can spend the day skiing, try some adrenaline-filled activities, or simply relax in a hot tub and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. If you’re looking for a more luxurious escape, then St. Moritz is the perfect place. The luxury alpine resort town is known for having hosted the Winter Olympics. Regardless of where you decide to go, Switzerland is definitely a winter lover’s paradise! A word of caution however, that if you are on a budget I would avoid traveling to Switzerland as it is without a doubt on the more expensive side.
Budapest, Hungary
My first trip to Budapest was during the winter. Despite the freezing temperatures the city definitely had charm. On average the temperatures stay at around 5° C (40° F) which means that you will definitely have to pack plenty of warm clothes. There are less tourists during the winter months so you can enjoy more of the city with smaller crowds and reduced waiting times. In December, the Hungarian capital comes alive with Christmas markets, ice skating rinks and lots of mulled wine!
If you decide to visit in the winter, then a trip to the Thermal Baths is a must! Imagine wading in a hot steaming pool with snow covered trees and buildings around. There are several thermal baths but the most popular ones are the Szchenyi Baths. Tickets in the morning are usually cheaper, and you can decide to go for a full day or just a few hours. I suggest going in the morning as it tends to be less crowded.
Florence, Italy
Florence, Italy is another city that has relatively mild winters making it a perfect destination for anyone wishing to visit Europe in winter. The tuscan capital is quite small and easy to get around on foot. I often refer to Florence as a walking museum because every corner of the city has fountains and statues on display. Visit the Cathedral and climb up the 463 steps to the top of the Duomo. Then head to Piazzale Michelangelo to watch the sunset from one of the city’s most famous viewpoints. Of course, you cannot be in Italy without eating your own weight in delicious pasta, pizza, paninis and gelato! Try some of the famous red wine from the region (my personal favorites are Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino), and go shopping for handmade leather products in the markets.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is charming all year round, but there is something truly magical about it during the winter. The city’s popularity has exploded over the years, and now thousands of visitors flock the streets during the spring and summer months. If you can bare the cold, I highly suggest visiting in the winter. There are less tourists and screaming children, and flight and accommodation prices tend to be cheaper as well. It does normally snow in January and February, but unlike other European capitals that shut down, Prague manages quite well. Plus the city looks even more stunning with snow covered rooftops and trees! The cold weather is also a great excuse to sit in a cozy cafe or bar enjoying some mulled wine, and starchy Czech food. Sounds like the perfect trip to me!
Iceland
Despite the freezing temperatures, Iceland is definitely one of the top destinations for those wishing to spend winter in Europe. In fact, Iceland may not be as cold as you think with average temperatures falling around -1° C (31° F) in December and January. As someone who grew up in the Northeast of the US I can confirm that New York and Boston have lower averages than that in the winter!
There are many things to do in Iceland. You can spend the day relaxing at the Blue Lagoon, explore the various glaciers and waterfalls, and visit the capital of Reykjavik. Of course, one of the main attractions in Iceland is the Northern Lights. The Northern Lights seasons is from late August to mid-April. However, September to late March is the best time to go as it gets dark after 6pm and increases your chance of seeing them.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
If you love castles and fairytales then a trip to Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany is a must! The 19th century castle is perched on a hill in Southwest Bavaria. In the winter months the grounds are a true winter wonderland. You can walk up the winding path to the entrance or take a horse drawn carriage. Once at the gate you’ll enter one of the most exotic and unique castles I’ve ever seen.
The outside is quite stunning and many believe it to have inspired Cinderella’s Castle in Walt Disney World! The inside is very fun with unique decorations and furniture. You’ll even see some fancy toilets, which is impressive considering the time period the castle was built. Once your tour inside is complete head to the nearby bridge and lookout point for the best views of Neuschwanstein. Getting to the castle isn’t difficult. You can chose to either rent a car and drive, or book a private tour from Munich. I highly recommend reserving tickets far in advanced as they sell out many months before.
Krakow, Poland
Krakow, Poland may not be the first location that comes to mind when you picture a European vacation. However, the city has quite a lot to offer even in the winter months! If you chose to go in December you will be greeted with twinkling fairy lights, Christmas decorations, and traditional markets selling food and treats. In January and February you’ll have the benefit of less crowds as it is low season. Krakow has a lot of history, and the culture is quite fascinating, making it a unique but worthwhile destination! Head up to the Castle, visit the underground museum, and climb up the Town Hall Tower for amazing views of the city. If you wish to warm up a bit head to the Chocholowskie thermal baths in Zakopane. Spend the day relaxing in heated pools while looking out to the snow covered mountains in the distance.
Venice, Italy
Venice is a one of a kind and beautiful city year round, but a trip during the winter months means that you may catch the famous Carnival! During Carnival the city is filled with visitors in fun costumes and locals in their typical Venetian attire. If you wish to go for these famous festivities, I would highly recommend planning ahead and getting to San Marco Square as early as possible. This time of the year isn’t exactly the best to get in some sightseeing, but it is definitely a once in a lifetime experience!
If you aren’t much for crowds then avoid Carnival! I would suggest going in January or late February as there are less people and you can explore the city at your own pace. Check out the many famous bridges, book a gondola ride, and hop on a water taxi to the nearby islands Murano and Burano.
If you’re like me and aren’t the biggest fan of the cold then visiting Europe in winter may not seem very compelling. However, there are several destinations for those who wish to avoid freezing temperatures, and those who thrive in them! Whether you decide to spend your holidays skiing in the Swiss Alps or lounging on the beaches of Tenerife, Europe has something for everyone, even in the winter!
Safe Travels,
Vip <3
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