On the lookout for the finest European cities to go to in winter or the very best Europe winter vacation spot concepts? This publish tells you the very best locations to go for winter sunshine, winter snow, northern lights or simply plain winter enjoyable!
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Europe Winter Vacation spot Concepts
I LOVE travelling throughout winter. And probably the greatest issues about travelling in Europe throughout winter is you may select between sunshine, metropolis breaks or mountains.
You possibly can even select to go to one of many finest locations in Europe to see the Northern lights!
Europe is the right place for a winter street journey as a way to have a bit style of the whole lot (and we don’t simply imply the native meals!)
To assist, we’ve compiled a choice of our favorite European cities to go to in winter – we hope one among these Europe winter locations are excellent for you!
What are the very best European Metropolis breaks in Winter?
Reality be advised, there are various choices for winter metropolis breaks in Europe– and the right thought for you’ll depend upon what kind of metropolis break you need to expertise.
If you’d like a European weekend metropolis break, the most suitable choice goes to be a metropolis with an airport which provides direct connection close to you- in any other case, you’ll lose half of your weekend travelling!
We particularly love winter breaks to European Christmas Markets (though the UK Christmas markets are superb too!)
In case you have longer than a weekend for a winter break, resolve for those who’d like winter sunshine (suppose international locations close to the Equator or within the Southern Hemisphere), or would you prefer to see the Northern Lights (go nearer to the North pole) or head to the snow; Europe has LOTS of mountains (when you have a motorhome, motorhome snowboarding/ ski tenting is an incredible thought!)
We’ve been fortunate sufficient to go to many European cities in winter- listed here are a few of our favourites.
Europe in Winter- 7 Finest European cities to go to for sunshine & tradition
I hate to be the bearer of dangerous information, however not many locations in Europe are heat throughout Winter, particularly January- March. Positive, you may get sunny days, however there are a LOT of chilly winds which brings the common temperature down considerably.
HOWEVER, travelling Europe in winter will be the right time to see a number of the busiest and extra congested cities in Europe.
Locations the place you usually can’t transfer for our bodies or get near the magnificent points of interest are PERFECT locations to go to in winter.
You might wander round sporting a heat coat as a substitute of shorts, however don’t let that put you off- these are a number of the finest winter metropolis breaks in Europe.
Even higher, flights and lodging are sometimes half the price- so you may see extra for much less! If you happen to’re winter motorhoming, some campsites areup to 70% cheaper!
On the lookout for sunshine in Europe in Winter? Listed below are a number of the warmest locations in Europe in February
Athens, Greece
Beneficial by Jen from Jen on a Jetplane
Whereas the Greek Islands are quiet within the winter, Athens is buzzing year-round. Town is a vacationer hotspot because of the year-round Mediterranean cruise ships which dock close by.
Winter is the right time to plan a visit to Greece. Athens often has sunny days and delicate temperatures. It’s tied with Madrid for sunniest metropolis in Europe, boasting a stunning 350 days of sunshine yearly.
That is the right time to go to the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum the place centuries of historical past and priceless artefacts are displayed.
There’s additionally a free strolling tour on the Rick Steves app that can assist you get acquainted with monuments you’ll see all through the neighbourhoods — historical past is all over the place.
If you wish to expertise a style of island life within the metropolis then go to Anafiotika, a residential neighbourhood with whitewashed partitions and scenic alleyways that may be a hidden oasis.
Athens makes the right base for day journeys or winter weekend escapes. You can take a prepare to the Oracle of Delphi or wander north to Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Sore and Sport of Thrones location. See all of them on this 2-day Athens itinerary.
Winter could also be dreary somewhere else, however in Athens it’s eventful and vigorous. Make the most of the low season costs and decreased crowds to come back and discover this historic metropolis.
Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: The typical highs are 14-15 celsius (57f) however it could actually typically be even hotter.
TOP TIP for Winter metropolis breaks: Lastly, no go to to Athens is full with out making an attempt a number of the scrumptious food- and all the time say sure when supplied baklava.
Rome, Italy
We’ve campervanned in Italy and visited Rome a few times- as soon as in June when it was loopy busy and we as soon as once more visited Rome in February– which was magical.
The distinction within the quantity of individuals was amazing- there have been no queues for the Vatican or the Colosseum and you could possibly get unbelievable images of the main websites with out crowds in the way in which.
True, you couldn’t sit by the Trevi fountain having fun with an ice cream, however you COULD sit there and luxuriate in a pleasant sizzling chocolate whereas watching the world go by. Get extra Italian street journey ideas right here
Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: The typical highs are 13 celsius (55f)
Why is it probably the greatest European cities to go to in Winter? The historical past! You can stroll round this metropolis for days and nonetheless not see the whole lot!
TOP TIP for Winter Metropolis Break: The Horse-drawn carriage might look cute, however AGREE a value earlier than you begin the experience… or it may be an costly mistake!
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Beneficial by Kate from Our Escape Clause
That includes vibrant sunshine, terracotta rooftops, epic Adriatic views, and all of the Sport of Thrones filming places you could possibly hope for, it’s arduous to argue that there’s a greater place to hunt out winter sunshine in Europe than Dubrovnik.
It’s no secret that Dubrovnik has issues with overtourism–the small, walled metropolis merely isn’t sufficiently big to carry all of the individuals who need to go to it, however a simple answer to this drawback is to go to in winter!
Positive, you’ll want to go away your swimsuit at house, however with winter temperatures averaging a minimum of 48 levels Fahrenheit/9 levels Celsius within the coldest months of the 12 months, it’s not such as you’ll freeze throughout a winter journey, both.
Whereas some companies do shut in the course of the low season, you’ll discover Dubrovnik removed from abandoned even within the depths of winter. Fashionable tour choices like Sport of Thrones excursions and day journeys to close by areas run all 12 months, and also you gained’t have any issues discovering a cup of espresso or a tasty meal.
Winter Metropolis Break- Low-cost lodging & excursions!
The advantages of visiting Dubrovnik in winter are overwhelming. The costs alone are a marvel, with lodging typically listed at round 75% LESS than their going fee in excessive summer time! In fact, for those who’re going motorhoming in Croatia, you’ll nonetheless be capable of discover some campsites open too.
Most of the finest issues to do in Dubrovnik, together with visiting Lovrijenac Fortress, admiring the view from Minčeta Fortress, watching the sundown at a cliff bar, and strolling its well-known metropolis partitions, are all out there in winter.
However as a substitute of battling crowds to get a view on town partitions at sundown, you could simply end up standing fully alone whereas overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: The typical highs are 12 celsius (54f)
Why is it probably the greatest European cities to go to in Winter? The Sport of Thrones places! You’ll really be capable of see them presently of 12 months!!
TOP TIP for Winter Metropolis Break: Take the wind chill into account- these winds will be chilly.
Lisbon, Portugal
Beneficial by Kristen from Our Ardour for Journey
When searching for European sunshine within the winter, Lisbon is a simple choice. A go to right here in the course of the depths of winter in December and January will see common highs of 15 levels and lows of 8 levels.
Pair this with 9-10 hours of daylight every day, and also you’ve obtained a real winter sunshine vacation spot (which might be why so many individuals transfer to Portugal– even when only for the winter months!)
If you happen to’re campervanning in Portugal, head to the hills. In some ways, mountaineering Lisbon’s hills could also be higher in winter than summer time. You’ll nonetheless really feel the lactic acid burning in your calves, however the extra nice temperatures will definitely make it simpler.
At sundown, head as much as St George’s Fort for some unforgettable views over town. Of all of the issues to do in Lisbon, this isn’t to be missed.
You’re effectively perched right here to absorb the colorful structure, the bustling hum of town and the cool sea breeze.
Europe in Winter- Travelling round Lisbon
If you happen to’re on the lookout for the quickest tour of Lisbon out there, there isn’t a higher choice than the #28 tram. And with much less vacationers than the crowded summer time months, the wait time for this tram is prone to be rather a lot lower than these poor souls ready within the scorching solar.
The #28 tram takes you on a surreal, winding journey of Lisbon’s streets. Watch as the driving force winds the extremely handbook tram round 90-degree bends and the tram feels prefer it’s going to scrape the partitions. Seize it wherever alongside its route and luxuriate in this nostalgic ride- it’s the right method to profit from your someday in Lisbon.
Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: The typical highs are 15 celsius (59f)
Why is it probably the greatest European cities to go to in Winter? It’s one of many few places in western Europe with respectable climate throughout Winter.
TOP TIP for Winter Metropolis Break: Give your style buds a deal with at Pasteis de Belem with a ‘pastels de nata’ or 3! The delectable Portuguese egg tarts are initially from this location, and this actually is a case of the unique being the very best.
Good, France
Beneficial by Heather from RaulersonGirlsTravel
The French Riviera is a superb place to go to if you end up on the lookout for sunshine to chase the doldrums of winter in Europe. If you happen to’re motorhoming in France, you may come to Good in January for a few days and find yourself staying an entire week due to the fantastic climate.
With its personal microclimate, Good tends to remain hotter than the remainder of the South of France resulting from its location surrounded by mountains. Good can also be a main spot to remain within the French Riviera as it’s handy to journey to many different cities alongside the Mediterranean- that’s why it’s one of many prime cities to go to in France.
Day journeys to Èze village, Saint-Paul de Vence, and Monaco are fast and straightforward on public transportation. If you wish to keep on the town there may be loads of issues to do corresponding to: stroll alongside the Promenade des Anglais, discover the outdated quarter, and even see a film on the cinema.
Finest issues to do in Good in Winter
The perfect factor to do is to eat and there are such a lot of selections so that you can choose from. You possibly can sit outdoors of a restaurant, munch on a croissant and drink espresso whereas watching the folks stroll by or you may dine on French delicacies in any of the superb eating places.
In January common temperatures vary within the mid-50s, however with the solar shining down it looks like it’s within the 60s. With so many issues to do and the fabulous local weather in the course of the winter, Good needs to be on the highest of your listing to go to when the remainder of Europe is roofed in snow.
Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: The typical highs are 13 celsius (54f) (feels hotter within the solar)
Why is it probably the greatest European cities to go to in Winter? The south of France can also be well-known for being the centre of Impressionism and homes many artwork museums so that you can discover together with the Marc Chagall Nationwide Museum in Good.
TOP TIP for Winter Metropolis Break: Keep right here in February, and you’ll go to the close by city of Menton for the annual Menton Lemon Pageant! (Severely- it’s important to see it to imagine it!!)
NOTE: There’s a new France winter tyre law- learn extra right here for those who’re travelling by street.
Madrid, Spain
Madrid is among the finest European cities to go to in winter. The climate stays heat (ish) and there are sometimes extra sunny days than not, even when the air can really feel cool.
How heat is Madrid in Winter?
Surprisingly, snow can fall in Madrid in December and January, however typically the common temperature is round 6’c. Not bikini climate, however not too chilly to cease you having fun with exploring this stunning metropolis.
The place to remain?
If you happen to’re not touring Spain in a motorhome, there are many lodging choices out there throughout winter. Madrid is a giant vacation spot for Christmas consumers, so inns, flats and airBnBs in Madrid all keep open all through winter.
Finest issues to do in Madrid in winter?
A number of the highlights of a winter metropolis break to Madrid embody:
- Driving the Navibus (Christmas bus- all via December)
- The Christmas markets (a number of the finest and greatest Christmas markets in Europe)
- Go to the Royal Palace
- Benefit from the many museums and galleries
- Stroll down Gran Through
- Marvel at Palacio de Cibeles
In fact, when you have time, there’s lots to do round Madrid as effectively. You can take a day journey to Toledo, or head north to Valladolid or the Spanish coast (though it may be very windswept in winter!
Naples, Italy
Beneficial by Kaisa from Glam Granola Travels
Most individuals think about Naples the gateway to Southern Italy—town the place Southern tradition, delicacies, and sure, climate, actually start!
My favorite winter months to go to Naples are February and March. There isn’t usually a lot rain, and the hours of sunshine per day are climbing shortly, significantly in March. Common temperatures are within the early teenagers (c) (50+F)
Naples is already a splendidly genuine vacation spot with a way more native really feel to it than cities like Rome or Florence, and within the winter that is all of the extra true. You’ll be surrounded by locals, reasonably than vacationers.
Europe in Winter- Out of doors actions in Naples
Whilst you gained’t need to go swimming, the climate is gorgeous for a hike. You possibly can spend at the very least a day exploring the ruins of Pompeii, which you might have all to your self!
Mt. Vesuvius needs to be open to hikers by February as effectively, until the winter ice went significantly late. It’s a extremely doable day hike with insane views of the whole metropolis, plus who doesn’t need to hike a well-known volcano?!
Inside the metropolis itself, be sure you eat some Neapolitan pizza. I can’t let you know what number of instances we’ve sat outdoors pizzerias, people-watching with a glass of wine or Peroni beer while motorhoming in Italy.
Naples has Southern Italy’s attribute slow-moving, stress-free, laid again vibe to it. I can consider no higher metropolis to get pleasure from some peaceable winter solar, outside adventures, and ridiculously tasty meals.
Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: The typical highs are 12 celsius (52f)
Why is it probably the greatest European cities to go to in Winter? True, genuine Italian pizza. The “finest pizza on the planet”, the one Liz Gilbert penned love sonnets to in Eat, Pray, Love, will be discovered at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele.
TOP TIP for Winter Metropolis Break: Make sure to go to Herculaneum in addition to Pompeii. We loved each, however Herculaneum is INCREDIBLY effectively preserved!
Alternatively, head over the border into Asia and luxuriate in a few of these unbelievable Winter Metropolis Breaks:
Baku, Azerbaijan
Beneficial by Ellis from Backpack Adventures
Baku is a excellent vacation spot to go to in winter. Despite the fact that it does get chilly, its location on the coast makes for a milder local weather than elsewhere in Azerbaijan.
Snow is uncommon and the common temperature is round 10 levels Celsius. More often than not the climate will likely be sunny. This makes winter a good time to discover town whereas escaping the summer time warmth.
Baku is a metropolis on the crossroads of Europe and Asia and it’s really a little bit of each. Whereas Baku’s trendy buying avenue seems typical European, its outdated city brings you straight to the Center East with historic caravanserais, mosques and palaces.
In truth, town has a protracted historical past of influences from totally different empires like The Persians, the Ottomans and the Russians.
Baku can also be a cosmopolitan metropolis with loads of new futuristic buildings just like the flame towers. They’re a logo for the nation’s huge reserves of oil and gasoline.
Most of its wealth is concentrated in Baku. That doesn’t imply Baku must be costly. For a Capital metropolis, it’s nonetheless very budget-friendly.
Among the many prime issues to do in Baku is wandering across the outdated city that’s fantastically renovated. Don’t miss the palace of the Shirvanshah.
Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: 13c/ 54F
TOP TIP for a winter metropolis break: To see Baku’s futuristic structure stroll alongside the ocean boulevard after which take the funicular as much as the flame towers for a phenomenal view over town.
Kusadasi, Turkey
Beneficial by Rebecca from Rayner En Route
Turkey is an unbelievable nation to go to for winter sunshine and probably the greatest areas to get pleasure from presently of 12 months is the port metropolis of Kusadasi.
Located on Turkey’s western coast, in the summertime months, Kusadasi is effectively and actually alive with guests coming to land from the numerous big cruise ships that dock right here.
Issues get quieter within the winter, however with temperatures averaging 16c throughout these months, there’s nonetheless loads of sunshine-filled enjoyable available. For the warmest temperatures, head to Kusadasi in October or November to benefit from the warmth within the early ’20s.
Winter Metropolis Break- issues to do in Kusadasi
Throughout your journey, begin by exploring town of Kusadasi itself, rambling via its many vibrant medinas. These markets delight the senses, with the waft of robust spices filling the air because the energetic sounds of bartering will be heard throughout.
Right here you may choose up a Turkish eye, a conventional image stated to push back dangerous spirits and preserve its proprietor protected.
READ MORE: Weird Customs and traditions in Europe that you simply’ve by no means heard of!
Subsequent stroll as much as the Güvercinada peninsular, which accurately interprets to imply Pigeon Island. The fortress on the Island was commissioned by an Ottoman admiral, however these days it’s a stress-free place to stroll and discover.
After seeing Kusadasi, a visit to the historic historic metropolis of Ephesus is a should! This metropolis was an vital metropolis in each Greek and Roman instances and provides guests a spectacular perception into historic life.
One of many highlights discovered at Ephesus is the unbelievable Celsus library, which was as soon as the third largest library of the traditional world, housing over 12,000 scrolls.
Taking a tour of Ephesus from Kusadasi is the easiest way to see these unbelievable ruins. Benefit from the perception supplied by a educated information, with transport that simply takes you to the sight in simply half-hour.
Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: 16c/ 61F
TOP TIP for a winter metropolis break: An expertise to not be missed is a go to to Pamukkale’s mineral-rich thermal waters. These attractive UNESCO standing baths are heat cascading swimming pools that supply guests the right place to loosen up, in a setting the simply teleports you to a different planet.
Entry to Pamukkale prices simply £6 and is among the most visited sights in Turkey.
Europe in Winter- 5 Finest European cities to go to in winter to see the Northern Lights
It’s one of the vital widespread questions- WHERE are you able to see the Northern Lights in Europe?
The brief reply is north of the Arctic Circle and ideally not close to the ocean (though I’ve seen them twice from a ship!)
In fact, doing that solely INCREASES your probabilities of seeing the Northern Lights- it doesn’t assure a sighting sadly.
Nonetheless, these 5 European cities are extensively thought to be the BEST European cities to go to in winter to see the Northern Lights. The Aurora can most frequently be seen between October- March
I’m going so as to add to this frustration and remind you that these are the finest European cities to go to … however you actually need to go away them at night-time and get away from the sunshine air pollution to get the very best likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights.
Many of those cities supply night/ in a single day excursions to make it simpler for you.
Abisko, Sweden
Abisko in Sweden is quick turning into probably the greatest locations on the planet to see the Northern Lights! The mountains and native local weather create excellent circumstances, with a surprisingly excessive variety of clear evening skies.
Temperatures in Sweden are sometimes milder than you anticipate, due to the Gulf stream. This appears to have a superb impact on the Aurora- Abisko has one of many highest ‘sighting ratios’ on the planet.
Getting there: Abisko is a Europe winter vacation spot which is hard to entry. Flights go to close by Kiruna, and you then want prepare or bus north to Abisko.
However this remoteness provides to the elevated likelihood of seeing the lights, so it’s definitely worth the trouble!
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik in Iceland could be very far north, sure, nevertheless it’s one of the vital fashionable cities in Europe for Aurora hunters- primarily as a result of there are such a lot of different issues to do close by.
You possibly can benefit from the metropolis of Reykjavik, with its stunning homes, heritage and cafes, however there are additionally many well-known points of interest close by, such because the Blue Lagoon heated springs, glaciers, waterfalls and extra!
We visited Reykjavik for a protracted weekend in March and we undoubtedly wanted heat winter clothes, nevertheless it wasn’t so chilly that you simply couldn’t get outdoors and benefit from the unbelievable landscapes.
In fact, to actually recognize the great thing about the Aurora, ensure you get away from town lights and head to one among these finest locations in Iceland to see the Northern Lights
Getting there: Direct flights from London and lots of main cities in Europe & USA.
Tromso, Norway
We stopped at Tromso for 2 nights earlier than catching a Hurtigruten cruise ship (which was unbelievable!) We sailed the coast all the way in which as much as the Russian border and again, seeing unbelievable wildlife.
There are such a lot of breathtaking locations in Norway– it’s unattainable to select a favorite!
We had been additionally fortunate sufficient to see the Northern Lights all 4 nights of our cruise!
Tromso itself has many bars, cafes and inns, in addition to a couple of winter actions to get pleasure from. Simply beware the prices- Northern Norway is even dearer than Southern Norway, particularly for meals & drink!
January is a superb time to visit- Tromso holds the Northern Lights Pageant each January, which is stuffed with music and leisure,
Getting there: Direct flights from many locations in UK, Europe & US.
Don’t neglect, if you wish to tour Norway in a motorhome, lots of the roads are tough to drive throughout winter, so that you may need to save your street journey till the roads have cleared.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Many individuals know of Rovaniemi, Finland as Santa’s home- and tons of of over-excited youngsters flip up every year on Santa flights (seriously- that’s what they’re referred to as), to allow them to eat an excessive amount of sugar and inform Santa all their secrets and techniques.
However Rovaniemi is rather more than that. There are inns for adults to get pleasure from stargazing and Northern lights watching, in addition to images and wildlife excursions.
Autumn and early Spring are finest in Finland- clear nights, however not freezing. There are loads of lakes round Rovaniemi which provide unbelievable reflections of the Aurora if it comes out to play!
Getting there: Will be tough, relying on airways, regardless of Rovaniemi airport being ‘Santa’s airport’. You’ll most likely have to fly to Helsinki first after which change.
Kiruna, Sweden
Kiruna is a spot many individuals cease at on the way in which to Abisko, nevertheless it has rather a lot to supply in its personal proper. For a begin, it’s rather a lot simpler to get to than Abisko, with common flights.
It additionally provides excursions corresponding to snowmobiling on electrical sleds- making them nearly silent- a magical method to benefit from the countryside and, hopefully, the Northern Lights twinkling overhead.
There are many inns out there within the space, in any respect value ranges.
Getting there: Many direct flights function throughout winter months.
The place are you able to see the Northern Lights in Europe? Discover out HERE
5 Finest winter metropolis breaks in Europe for assured snow
On the lookout for European winter vacation spot metropolis breaks with a excessive likelihood of snow? Whether or not you get pleasure from snowboarding, snowboarding or the drinks within the bar, these European metropolis breaks offers you a style of European winter mountain life.
There’s loads of discuss lately about local weather change, world warming and climate shifts, however these locations are virtually ‘assured’ to have snow.
(I’ll admit, a few of them aren’t ‘cities’- there aren’t many cities constructed up mountains!!)
Keep in mind- these locations are COLD in winter- ensure you pack applicable heat winter clothes!
Chamonix, Mont Blanc, France
We visited Mont Blanc in the summertime– and took the cable automobile up the mountain to benefit from the unbelievable views.
However Chamonix is a excellent winter metropolis break in Europe. It’s simple (ish) to succeed in from close by airports, there are PLENTY of bars, eating places and locations to remain and (apparently) the snowboarding/ snowboarding is nice.
(I don’t ski- I’m like a child giraffe on ice. I’m scared I’ll damage one thing. However I’m glad to benefit from the apres-ski. And the new tubs!)
Chamonix can also be referred to as the ‘mountaineering Capital of Europe‘- adventurers journey from all around the world in winter to expertise mountaineering and climbing these slopes within the snow!
If you happen to’re travelling the Alps in a motorhome, there’s a nice aire close to Chamonix to get pleasure from. For extra details about utilizing aires throughout winter, see our information to motorhome snowboarding.
READ MORE: Full information to motorhome touring in France
St Moritz, Switzerland
St Moritz is the OLDEST winter vacation resort on the planet! It’s well-known for having unbelievable snow, while having fun with round 320 days a 12 months sunshine.
No, I’m undecided how that’s attainable both!
That is the place to come back if you wish to get pleasure from your winter weekend break with royalty and celebrities. There are world-class inns, eating places, retailers and bars to get pleasure from for those who don’t fancy getting out on the slopes.
The apres-ski scene is relaxed however posh- there’s some huge cash on this resort. However the snowboarding is fantastic- there’s a motive it’s survived this lengthy as ‘the’ place in Europe to go to in winter.
Kitzbuhel, Austria
I grew up watching the males’s downhill ski racing with my mother and father each winter. It was SO thrilling!
If you happen to’re going to select the very best European metropolis for winter ski racing, that is the place. It’s solely two hours from Munich, so you may pop there for the Christmas Market or possibly even go see Neuschwanstein Castle within the snow!
(If you happen to don’t know- Neuschwanstein Fort is the one which impressed Disney’s Cinderella fortress. It’s critically stunning.)
Kitzbuhel is posh, however not obscenely so. Bars are vigorous and enjoyable, the village is BEAUTIFUL (cobbled streets and picket chalets) and the snowboarding is, as you’ll anticipate, fairly demanding.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Consider it or not, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy is 1000 years outdated! Simply two hours from Venice and surrounded by the awe-inspiring Dolomites, it’s an amazing alternative for a winter break in Europe.
The snowboarding is sweet, plus there are over 50 miles of cross-country trails, if that’s your factor. There are additionally unbelievable glaciers to get pleasure from close by, just like the one above.
The vibe at Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy is chilled- not as snobby as many ski resorts, though apparently it’s a favorite hang-out of George Clooney!
See extra concerning the Dolomites right here
Courchevel, France
I kinda didn’t need to embody this in the very best winter metropolis breaks Europe… nevertheless it’s so well-known it’s unattainable to not!
That is THE place for celebs to come back to get pleasure from snowboarding, buying and stress-free. It’s additionally probably the greatest locations for snowboarding effectively into March and typically early April- the snow is that good!
Individuals make reservations in Courchevel a 12 months or extra upfront, so inns and chalets e book up shortly.
Having stated that, you will get some FANTASTIC last-minute offers for those who preserve your eyes and choices open- that’s one among our favorite methods to get a winter weekend break in Europe on a funds.
Europe in Winter- 5 finest European cities to go to in winter for Christmas Markets
Everybody desires to know the largest and finest Christmas Markets in Europe- and how one can go to them.
I’ve a whole publish on the Largest Christmas Markets in Europe, however right here’s a fast rundown on 4 of my favourites:
BIGGEST Christmas Market in Europe- Nuremberg Christkindlsmarkt, Germany
Nuremberg is the largest Christmas market in Europe. It has over 350 stalls- which is HUGE, however that’s what makes it enjoyable! (If you happen to’ve ever been to one of many London Christmas Markets, it’s like that… however larger)
I like the whole lot about this market. There’s a lot to see, do, eat and admire that you simply’ll need to spend for much longer than a weekend right here.
Winter Break in Europe- the OLDEST Christmas Market- Dresden, Germany
Dresden is the oldest Christmas Market in Europe. It’s stunning and an ideal place to spend a winter metropolis break. This market is now over 580 years outdated!!!!!
I’m additionally a fan of the carousel and the Ferris wheel- simply provides to the enjoyable, carnival vibe. As you may see above, Christmas markets in Europe are the ‘real-deal’; the locals take nice delight of their markets and the whole metropolis will get concerned within the festivities.
OLDEST & greatest Christmas Market in France- Strasbourg
Strasbourg is the oldest Christmas Market in France- and makes the excellent metropolis to go to in winter for a European metropolis break.
It’s one other stunning metropolis to discover, with quaint streets, stunning structure and scrumptious meals!
I like the variations between Germany Christmas Markets and French ones- each enjoyable and festive, however refined variations in tradition. In case you have time, I like to recommend a winter weekend break to each!
London- probably the greatest locations in Europe in winter
London is magical in winter. There are Christmas lights EVERYWHERE and all the massive shops make an actual effort to decorate their store home windows and entice folks inside.
Make sure to go to Harrods- its storefront alone is among the most Instagrammable locations in London at Christmas. You can spend a whole day fortunately wandering across the busy buying streets, simply absorbing the environment.
In fact, for those who solely have a weekend in London, you’ll have to spend it properly. A number of the finest locations to go to throughout winter embody:
- A visit on the London Eye
- Discovering at the very least one of many many museums in London
- Don’t miss a ship experience on the Thames- and a visit to Greenwich to see the Worldwide Date Line
- And naturally, the well-known Winter Wonderland, one of many finest UK Christmas markets.
Excellent Winter Metropolis Break- Munich, Germany
Munich was the primary Christmas Market in Europe we ever visited- and it was magical. Munich in winter doesn’t disappoint. The environment, the pleasant folks, the beer… I’ve by no means felt so Christmassy!!
All of the locals turned as much as the market after work to benefit from the music, beer and environment, the beer halls had been filled with males in lederhosen and it was a unbelievable weekend break for a really cheap value!
We additionally liked that there have been so many issues to do in Munich aside from the Christmas Market.
If you happen to’re planning to go to a Christmas Market in Europe, listed here are 9 ESSENTIAL issues it’s essential to know earlier than you go!
Europe Winter Locations- The place is the very best place in Europe to spend Christmas?
This can be a powerful one- and once more it most likely will depend on what you need out of your Christmas in Europe.
Would you like some winter solar and to spend Christmas Day on the seaside with a BBQ? In that case, Spain or one of many European Mediterranean Islands might be a good suggestion.
Alternatively, do you need to get pleasure from unbelievable mountain views, however nonetheless need some life and a celebration to hitch? Maybe one of many ski resorts would give you the results you want
However if you wish to get away from all of it, disguise in a log cabin and watch the Northern Lights shimmer overhead, head additional north, above the Arctic Circle and luxuriate in a Christmas Day you’ll always remember!
Have you ever travelled Europe in Winter? The place did you get pleasure from?
