Europe truly has something for everyone, and winter time is no exception. I have broken down our top European winter destinations into four categories: Best Winter Nature Escapes, Best Winter City Breaks, Best Christmas Vibes, and Best Skiing Destinations. Whatever you fancy for a trip this holiday season, we hope you can find some inspiration here. Without further ado, our 11 Top Winter Destinations in Europe!
Best Winter Nature Escapes in Europe
1. Slovenia
Slovenia, by far one of our favorite winter destinations in Europe. We were positively blown away by our visit to Slovenia. From the unforgettable scenery of Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, to the funky and colorful streets of Ljubljana, Slovenia is a one stop shop. The best part? The country still feels somewhat undiscovered by tourists, especially during the winter months. Hurry in booking your trip. We have to imagine word will spread sooner rather than later. We’ve put together a complete guide to Lake Bled, Slovenia that’s definitely worth a read before you visit.
2. Finland
Famously home to Santa Claus himself, you’ll be hard pressed to find a winter destinations list not suggesting a visit to Finland for the holidays. While we’re dying to experience the winter scenery and a reindeer ride through the forrest, at the top of our bucket list is catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Combine this with overnight stays in your own personal igloo? K, enough said.
Best Winter City Breaks in Europe
3. Copenhagen, Denmark
Maybe not the first destination that comes to mind, but 100% worth noting in best winter destinations in Europe. There is a Danish concept of ‘hygge‘, which represents a mood of coziness and comfortable conviviality with feelings of wellness and contentment. One, the fact that the Danes have a specific word for this explains how important it is. Two, arguably no city does hygge better than Copenhagen. It’s the perfect place for a weekend winter getaway. Read our post on Things to See & Do in Copenhagen when you go, as well as Where to Eat & Drink.
4. Italy
Perhaps another curve ball! Stay with me though. We visited Northern Italy during January last year, and it was a dream. Is Venice on your bucket list? We highly suggest going during the colder months. This time of year is off-peak, meaning less crowds and more picturesque canal views to yourself. Check out my post on 20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Venice in Winter. I have a feeling you’ll be easily convinced. After Venice, carry on to Verona where hill-top views, castles, and unbelievable food will all blow your mind. I’ve put together a post on What to See & Do in Verona when you go. Have time to spare? Nearby Lago di Garda is a famous Italian summer destination, but the winter months also offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, eating, or just relaxing by the lake.
5. Belgium
The whimsical architecture featured across the cities of Belgium has me convinced they were designed for winter strolls. Add in warm Belgian chocolate, fluffy waffles, and a few creamy Belgian ales? We’re sold. Brussels is incredibly easy to reach via train from cities such as London and Amsterdam. Perfect for a weekend getaway. Ever seen the movie ‘In Bruges’? Not only is it a phenomenal film, but it showcases the charm and beauty of Bruges. A bit harder to reach, but for sure worth the effort!
Best Christmas Markets in Europe
6. Germany
Germany arguably does Christmas markets better than any country in the world. In our opinion, the top destination include Nuremberg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, both equally famous for their Christmas markets. Check out our post detailing a full guide to 24 Hours in Nuremberg and Discovering Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The great news? Both are fairly easy to see in the same trip. If you have three or more days to dedicate to your holiday, we highly suggest a road trip through southern Germany, taking a route called the Romantic Road. It’s easy to navigate with pit stops to wander in medieval towns, explore ancient castles, enjoy alpine scenery, and of course, get lost in the Christmas markets. Be sure to read our post on the Romantic Road in Germany for the ultimate guide and itinerary.
7. Austria
Austria is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. Vienna boasts an incredible Christmas market, full of charm and holiday cheer with the backdrop of the ornate city center. Vienna is also very accessible, so reasonably-priced flights and trains should be easy to find. Hallstatt, while not as easy to get to, is straight out of a postcard. Imagine a serene lake, reflecting colorful cottages and towering snow capped mountains. Yeah, we can’t wait to visit either.
8. England
As self-proclaimed Londoners, we would be remissed to not include the country we call home on this list. Yes, we may be a bit biased, but the English bloody love the holidays and show it in many ways. London is the most obvious of destinations. Head to Oxford Street to marvel at the lights and shop the high street, then tuck into the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland for a tipple and some nibbles. Looking for a classic English cottage to hide away for the weekend? We’re dying to escape to the Cotswolds to do just that.
Best Skiing Destinations in Europe
9. Slovakia
Perhaps not top of your list or even on your list at all, but we would argue it should be! Home to the Tatra Mountains, Slovakia is the place to visit for great skiing without the hefty price tag. Fun fact, Dave’s dad is from Slovakia and his family still lives there. This always gives us an excuse to visit, and we wish we did more often. Jasna is the main skiing region. Before planning a trip, check out a great post here by the Guardian.
10. France
Next to Austria and Switzerland, France offers some of the best skiing in Europe. We’re hoping to visit Chamonix this season, home to one of the oldest resorts in the region. Read Culture Trip’s guide for inspiration on other regions and destinations that are worth a visit.
11. Switzerland
Notoriously expensive, but worth every penny. Skiing on the Swiss Alps? That’s a bucket list item to cross off. Read this guide by the Telegraph for insight into the best ski regions in Switzerland, depending on what you’re looking for out of the trip.
Conclusion
One of my favorite parts about Europe is how vastly different each country is, yet how easy it is to move between them. I hope you get an opportunity to make it to one of our top winter destinations in Europe, or maybe even a couple. Be sure to let me know when you do!
Appreciating the time and effort you put into your website and in depth information you offer. All beautiful places across the Europe to plan and visit in winter, especially the most useful information for someone who plans the vacation and the travelers to add these places into the checklist. A stupendous photography. My top picks? It’s a tough choice…Copenhagen and Vienna!! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Joseph! Glad you enjoyed the guide. I completely agree, it’s hard to just choose one destination. Hoping we will be able to travel again to these beautiful places very soon. Happy holidays to you and yours!