The Best Winter Destinations in Europe
Winter in Europe is something special. As the continent prepares for a long spell of shorter days, grey skies, and the perpetual drizzle, we also find ourselves looking forward to the magic… snow-clad streets, twinkling lights, and ubiquitous Christmas markets.
When the season blankets everything in snow and lights, cities and towns come alive in a way that’s both dramatic and cozy. Regardless of whether you crave an Alpine adventure or a mulled wine in a picturesque square whilst taking in the scenery, Europe is the ultimate winter destination.
So, if you’re looking for that quintessential winter wonderland experience, be sure to add these 15 cities in Europe to your winter bucket list.
P.S. I may have overused the word “cozy” in this list – apologies in advance. But then, how can you talk about winter in Europe and not mention cozy?! It’s what we’re looking for, right? 😉
1. TALLINN, ESTONIA
Tallinn is one of Europe’s most beautiful winter destinations. The city’s medieval Old Town, with its narrow, cobbled streets and medieval spires, is dusted in snow, giving it that classic winter paradise vibe.
The Christmas market in Town Hall Square is where all the action is. Handcrafted gifts, warm spiced glögi (mulled wine), and honeyed gingerbread… you get the whole festive experience.
The bone-numbing cold is just an excuse to duck into one of the Old Town’s myriad candlelit cafes for a hot drink, as you watch the snow wrapping up the city.
Beyond the market, Tallinn’s charm lies in its quieter corners – hidden courtyards, ancient stone walls, and lookout points offering sweeping views of the city.
Make sure to take a short walk to the nearby sea, which offers a chance to catch a glimpse of icy waters – it really amps up the whole winter aesthetic.
And that’s also the best part about how wonderfully small the city is. You can walk anywhere and everywhere (probably the only place I’ve seen where you can walk to the airport)!
2. BERGEN, NORWAY
There’s something undeniably magical about Bergen in winter.
Maybe it’s the way the snow settles gently on the rooftops of the city’s colorful wooden houses, or how the surrounding fjords take on a deep, moody blue under the short Nordic daylight.
Whatever it is, this Norwegian gem is one of the best winter destinations in Europe. You’ll instantly fall for the unique blend of awe-striking scenery and the cozy small town feel.
The historic Bryggen district houses centuries-old buildings, now home to cafes, shops, and bakeries where you can warm up with a cinnamon bun and a steaming cup of coffee. For the best views, take the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen, where the city stretches out below, framed by snow-covered peaks and icy waters.
If you’re craving adventure, Bergen is the perfect base for exploring Norway’s famous fjords. A winter cruise through these imposing, frozen landscapes is akin to stepping into a Viking saga.
3. KRAKOW, POLAND
Krakow in winter carries a quiet magic that needs no grand announcement. It is simply a living postcard of Europe in winter.
And yet, you can’t ignore just how insanely beautiful the city is, once you visit in the cold months. Every corner of Krakow exudes an irreplaceable charm.
The Main Square, one of the largest in Europe, houses a quaint market selling steaming cups of Polish grzaniec, and generous servings of Pierogi. In the distance, the towering St. Mary’s Basilica and Wawel Castle look even more striking when draped in snow.
For a change of scenery, take a short trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO-listed wonder. It’s like a labyrinth of salt-carved chapels and eerie, softly illuminated caverns inside.
And if you’re up for some nature, the Tatra Mountains are just a couple of hours away, offering excellent skiing and mind blowing winter landscapes.
4. INNSBRUCK, AUSTRIA
Innsbruck sits in the middle of the Austrian Alps, making it one of Europe’s best winter destinations for both adventure and culture.
The city is a hub for skiing and snowboarding, with easy access to resorts like Nordkette, Patscherkofel, and Axamer Lizum. But even if you’re not hitting the slopes, there’s plenty to see and do.
The Old Town is full of character, with colorful Baroque and Gothic buildings lining the streets. The Golden Roof, a landmark covered in over 2,600 copper tiles, shines in the winter sun, while the Hofburg Palace and Court Church showcase Innsbruck’s imperial history.
For an unbeatable view, the Nordkette cable car takes you from the city center to the mountaintop in just 20 minutes, where you can see the entire Innsbruck city covered in snow.
After a day of exploring, warm up with a hearty Tyrolean meal, try a classic apple strudel, and sample brilliant Austrian beer (tastes better when it’s biting cold outside!)
Planning a day trip to Innsbruck? Check out this 1-day Innsbruck itinerary with things to do, tips and tricks, and more.
5. BRUGES, BELGIUM
Bruges in winter feels like being transported into a fairytale setting.
The canals, lined with medieval buildings and light shining off the water, or the streets almost meticulously embellished with snow – doesn’t get dreamier than this!
The Markt Square, with its iconic Belfry Tower, becomes so much more snug and vibey during the colder months, especially with the Christmas market in full swing. Warm up with a cup of thick Belgian hot chocolate or try a traditional Belgian waffle. ‘Tis the season, you know ☺️
Beyond the city center, explore historic sites, such as the Church of Our Lady and its Michelangelo sculpture, or visit the serene Beguinage, which offers a peaceful winter retreat.
6. ROVANIEMI, FINLAND
No list of winter destinations in Europe is complete without the official hometown of Santa Claus.
Rovaniemi, located in Finnish Lapland, is the place to chase the northern lights, ride a husky sled through snow-covered forests, or see reindeer in wintery wilderness. It’s one of the top places to visit in Europe in winter.
In addition to its natural wonders, Rovaniemi is home to Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from Santa’s official post office. This fact alone makes it a wholesome winter getaway. The village is a major attraction during the winter months, reeling in families and travelers from around the world.
Rovaniemi also offers a range of other winter activities, including snowmobile safaris, ice fishing, and visits to ice hotels. Also worth checking out is the Arktikum, a museum and science center that takes you through the history of Finnish Lapland.
Not to mention, the city’s cozy appeal manifests itself in warm, welcoming cabins, delicious food, and the understated Nordic minimalism.
7. COLMAR, FRANCE
Colmar’s wood-framed houses and canals are impossibly charming year-round, but in winter, the city reaches peak storybook status.
Famous for its well-preserved half-timbered houses and winding canals, Colmar is a mandatory pitstop on a trip to Europe in winter.
The city is pure Alsace elegance – Christmas markets, warm mulled wine, and staggeringly good food (tarte flambee, cheese-covered everything… I’m sold!)
The Old Town’s narrow streets become even lovelier, with Little Venice, a district of canals and colorful houses, begging you to saunter about and gape at the beauty.
Christmas markets are held in several locations throughout the town. The region is known for its excellent Alsatian wine, which pairs perfectly with the hearty local cuisine.
If you plan a longer visit, Colmar is also a great base for visiting the splendid vineyards of Alsace or taking a day trip to nearby mountain villages.
8. HALLSTATT, AUSTRIA
Winter transforms Hallstatt into a quiet haven. While there are still tourists, the snow-laden rooftops and frozen lake views replace the usual large crowds of warmer months.
Located along the Hallstätter See Lake and surrounded by the Dachstein Alps, this Austrian village is one of the most scenic places to experience Europe in winter.
Wander through the village’s narrow streets, admire the pastel-colored houses, and take in the tranquil atmosphere along the frozen lakefront.
The Salzwelten, a historic salt mine in operation for over 7000 years, remains open in winter, offering guided tours and an underground slide used by miners for centuries.
A ride on the funicular leads to the Hallstatt Skywalk, a viewing platform 350 meters above the town with wide views of the valley and lake below.
The Dachstein Krippenstein next door has tall ski slopes, snowshoe trails, and the dramatic Five Fingers viewing platform (for an alternative perspective of the Alps).
Finish a long day of sightseeing by taking shelter in one of the many lakefront restaurants whipping up delectable goulash soup and Kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy caramelized pancake.
9. PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
Prague is one of the best winter destinations in Europe, combining magnificent architecture, festive markets, and cozy cafes that make cold days feel almost inviting.
The city’s Gothic skyline takes on a different character in winter, with snow covering the spires of Prague Castle and mist rising from the Vltava River. A walk on Charles Bridge in the winter sun feels therapeutic, guided by the centuries-old statues flanking it.
The Old Town Square hosts one of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets. Wooden stalls sell handmade crafts, roasted chestnuts, and hearty Czech dishes like klobása (grilled sausage) and bramboráky (potato pancakes). The Astronomical Clock, which has been keeping time since 1410, draws a crowd every hour as its moving figures appear.
Enjoy the chill in the air with a trdelnik, a sweet, cinnamon-sugar pastry that pairs well with a cup of svařák (Czech mulled wine). For a unique experience, head to Municipal Library. Only a short walk from the Old Town, the library houses the famous Infinity Book Tower (free entry!)
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10. MÜRREN, SWITZERLAND
Mürren is the epitome of Swiss natural abundance.
Situated in the Bernese Oberland, this car-free alpine village offers some of the most spectacular views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. Known for its traditional Swiss charm, Mürren is an ideal getaway especially in the winter months.
The village is part of the Jungfrau Ski Region, providing access to over 200 kilometers of epic ski slopes. The village also offers excellent snowboarding, tobogganing, and winter hiking trails. You can take a cable car directly from Mürren up to the Schilthorn peak for the best views ever.
Of course there’s something else that makes the summit iconic: The 360-degree-revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, located at the Schilthorn, was one of the locations in the James Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”.
In Mürren itself, you’ll find homey chalets, a range of Swiss restaurants serving fondue and other alpine dishes, and a relaxed atmosphere. The traditional wooden houses, framed by snowy landscapes, make it one of the most stunning places in Europe in winter.
11. INTERLAKEN, SWITZERLAND
Yes, there are two Swiss cities on this list. Because no one does winter in Europe better than Switzerland.
Interlaken lies between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains towering in the background. It’s one of the most striking places to experience Europe in winter, whether you’re here for skiing, snowboarding, or just taking in the alpine scenery.
What makes Interlaken ideal for a winter visit is its location. Some of the best areas and activities in the region are possible if you plan Interlaken as your base.
The town serves as a gateway to some of Switzerland’s top winter sports areas, including Jungfraujoch, home to Europe’s highest railway station, and Grindelwald, a popular ski resort with miles of pristine slopes. Both these are only a train ride away.
For non-skiers, there are plenty of winter hiking trails, scenic train rides, and even opportunities to try paragliding over snow-covered peaks.
A boat cruise on Lake Thun affords an alternative view of the surrounding mountains, while a 1300 meters ride up the Harder Kulm funicular gives you far-reaching views of the entire region.
12: BLED, SLOVENIA
In winter, time seems to slow down in Bled.
The Slovenian town sits on the edge of Lake Bled, where a small island with a 17th-century church stands in the middle of the water.
In colder months, mist often swells up from the surface of the lake, while snowy peaks of the Julian Alps rise in the distance.
The whole atmosphere is part mystical and part dramatic.
Bled Castle, perched on a cliff 130 meters above the lake, is worth the climb for its astounding views, and worth the visit for the interesting history. If temperatures drop low enough, the lake sometimes freezes, and you might see people skating across the ice.
Winter is also a great time to soak in the nearby thermal pools at Živa Wellness Center, which presents a comfy way to unwind after time spent outdoors.
From Bled, you can also take a quick day-trip to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital.
Not to mention, you can’t leave Bled without trying its famous cream cake (Blejska Kremšnita), a crispy, layered pastry filled with vanilla custard and whipped cream that will melt in your mouth and have you going for seconds.
13: NUREMBERG, GERMANY
Having lived in Nuremberg for four years, I can say there’s a special magic in the air when the city is covered in snow.
Nuremberg’s Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and timbered houses, is an anachronism – you’ll feel like you’re traveling back in time.
A hike up to the Nuremberg Castle is rewarded with far-flung city views, while the walls flanking the city center are reminiscent of a rich historical past. The Albrecht Dürer House, home to the famous painter, is also worth a visit if you’re interested in art and history.
The winter, though, is when the city really takes center stage with its Christkindlesmarkt held in the Main Market Square. It’s one of the oldest and best Christmas markets in Europe. A treat to visit, it offers everything from gingerbread cookies to handcrafted ornaments and Glühwein (mulled wine).
And a visit to one of the Bavarian city’s OG beer gardens is mandatory, where you can partake in a tall stein of malty goodness, with spaetzle or Nuremberger Bratwurst.
From Nuremberg, you can also take a day-trip to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a dreamy little town which hosts the most idyllic Christmas market.
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14. WROCLAW, POLAND
Wrocław is a city that has plenty of character, especially in winter.
The Old Town, a mix of colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and Gothic architecture, is even more exquisite under a dusting of snow. The Rynek, Wrocław’s main square, is dotted with cafes and restaurants which look bright and inviting on cold winter evenings.
When the Christmas market sets up in December, the air is filled with the smell of mulled wine and gingerbread.
Wrocław is known for its bridges and islands, with the Odra River winding through the city. In winter, it’s quieter, and the walking paths along the riverbank are peaceful and reflective.
One of the city’s most unique features is the hundreds of little dwarf statues scattered throughout the city. These playful bronze figures, which started as a political symbol, now provide a quirky treasure hunt for a keen observer.
For a break from the cold, step into one of Wrocław’s museums, like the National Museum, or explore the underground tunnels of the Wrocław Cathedral.
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15. REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Reykjavik in winter is not for the faint of heart, but if you enjoy dramatic landscapes, steaming hot springs, and brilliant aurora borealis action, it’s unbeatable.
Despite the cold, Reykjavik remains an excellent city with a thriving arts scene and a lively cafe culture. It’s the kind of place where you casually stroll into a cafe for a chat with locals and accidentally walk out having booked a glacier hike.
Adventure is annealed into the very fabric of the city, and the country at large.
In winter, the colorful buildings of the Old Harbour area contrast with the icy backdrop. The unmissable Hallgrimskirkja Church, with its unique architecture, is particularly stunning against the winter sky. The Blue Lagoon, just a short drive away, offers a steamy, geothermal spa experience that’s particularly enjoyable at sub-zero temperatures.
That said, the real magic lies just beyond the city limits – Reykjavik is the perfect starting point for Icelandic winter excursions, whether you’re heading out to explore the Golden Circle or brave the elements on a glacier hike at Vatnajökull.
Frozen waterfalls, black sand beaches, and the northern lights throwing an impromptu light show in the sky.. It’s the whole nine yards.
Iceland is a bucket list country in every sense of the word, and its capital, Reykjavik, fully does justice to how phenomenal it is.
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