From sleigh rides through the Swiss countryside and skiing the breathtaking Alps to lounging in outdoor thermal pools and raging at ice festivals, there are some great European cities to visit during the winter. Whether you have just a weekend or a whole week, there are an unlimited amount of places to explore. To help you narrow it down, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten cities to visit in the winter.
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1. Innsbruck, Austria
Innsbruck is known as the ski and snowboard capital of the world. As the two-time host of the Winter Olympics and covered in internationally recognized alpine resorts, Innsbruck does not disappoint. In addition to tearing up the slopes, visitors can tour the famous Olympic ski jump and other nearby athletic facilities.
Innsbruck was also a seat of power for centuries and history buffs will love visiting the royal Hapsburg home and soaking up the city’s beautiful architecture. As if you needed more of a reason to visit, Innsbruck is the home of Swarovski Crystals, and no visit to this city is complete without a tour of their bizarre but beautiful headquarters.
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2. Abisko, Sweden
If you’re a die-hard winter fan and cold temperatures don’t bother you, Abisko is going to give you some serious bragging rights. Located just about as far north as you can get in Europe (unless you’re a reindeer), this Swedish town is known for its incredible views of the Northern Lights. BUT – this region is not for the faint-hearted, as the sun doesn’t rise for weeks during its coldest time. Not totally a bad thing…it means it will always feel like Saturday night!
Besides gazing at the aurora borealis, visitors can ski, hike, ice skate, go dog sledding, and explore the national parks. Don’t forget to check out the world’s first and most famous ice hotel, conveniently named Icehotel, in nearby Kiruna to really top your visit off.
3. Copenhagen, Denmark
It is no surprise that the home of Hans Christian Andersen ended up on this list, as Copenhagen is one of the most fairytale-like cities in Europe, especially in the winter. The Danish concept of “hygge” (or “coziness”) is at its peak in winter, when locals spend their afternoons and evenings relaxing, drinking hot chocolate, and enjoying their beautiful surroundings. The idea of coziness not just being accepted, but promoted, is enough to make Copenhagen one of the best European cities to visit during the winter.
Top sights in Copenhagen include Tivoli Amusement Park, Christiansborg Slot, and Rosenborg Castle, which are all even more charming covered in snow. Don’t miss out on Copenhagen’s winter culture month, Wondercool, which occurs in February and includes concerts in unusual venues, art shows, and culinary events. Yum!
4. Prague, Czech Republic
With its snow-capped spires, cobblestone alleys, and the cozy hue from its old-fashioned street lamps, Prague just screams winter fairytale. It is relatively tourist-free in the winter, which is surprising because the city’s natural beauty really comes to life under a blanket of snow. Stroll through the Prague Castle at your own pace or hit up a local cafe to escape the cold, especially Choco Cafe, which has more than a dozen types of hot chocolate.
If you want to party, make sure you check out our Where to Party in Prague guide, and to experience the local cuisine of the city, take a food tour with Eating Europe.
If you’re in the Czech Republic long enough, be sure to take a day trip to Cesky Krumlov, which is a tiny medieval town known as the “Pearl of Bohemia”. Easy to get to by train and well worth the trip, especially for fans of the movie Hostel, which was filmed here. Nothing like adding a little spook to your winter!
5. Venice, Italy
Hands down one of the top European tourist attractions in winter is the Carnival of Venice. Beautiful, exciting, and definitely a little bizarre, Venice’s February through March celebration is absolutely not to be missed. Be forewarned that costumed events can set you back a hefty penny, but those looking to save a few bucks can get the full effect of the festival by enjoying the many free events around the city – just with a mask purchased at a street market or local shop. Talk about an awesome souvenir!
Carnival aside, traveling to Venice in winter allows visitors to experience the city at a slower pace and really soak up the culture. The city’s canals, unique architecture, and old-fashioned atmosphere become magical in winter, and the lack of crowds don’t hurt, either. A stop in Venice during its colder months is a definite European highlight, as it’s one of the best European cities to visit during the winter.
BTW, Venice is notorious for being tough to find good food in. It’s definitely a city that I recommend doing a food tour in, have a look at The Tour Guy’s Venice food tour with gondola ride included.
6. Granada, Spain
If you’re looking to take a break from the bitter cold, Granada is a great solution. However, don’t go Spain under the impression that it will be a beach vacation. Even southern Spain is too cold for the beach in the winter, which is why a city like Granada is such an ideal option because there is more to do than just stroll along the sand. No other region has as much variety as Granada — you can ski the Sierra Nevadas, head to the coast, or simply just roam the city. Spain is much cheaper and less crowded in the winter months, so visitors can truly enjoy the city’s sights without waiting in line or breaking the bank.
7. Region of Transylvania, Romania
While tour groups line up every summer to visit Dracula’s fabled home, it just doesn’t feel right to visit such a place on a warm, sunny day surrounded by tourists with selfie sticks. So, take a visit to Transylvania when it’s cold and snowy instead to get the full effect! In addition to Dracula, the region of Transylvania is home to so many medieval towns filled with castles, cathedrals, and rich histories that we couldn’t pick just one to feature.
After you’ve frolicked to your heart’s content through winding villages and scenic overlooks, don’t forget to hit up one of the area’s many ski resorts and national parks for some real winter activities.
8. Reykjavik, Iceland
Even though Iceland is a trek from most popular study abroad spots and it is among Europe’s coldest areas, there are many reasons why its capital is a must-see place. The annual Winter Lights Festival in February is one of the best European celebrations of winter and its abundance of winter sports, museums, and restaurants make it quite a happening place, not the frozen and barren land that most people imagine.
What makes Reykjavik even more special are the city’s many outdoor geothermal swimming pools, which are some of just a few in Europe. There is nothing quite like relaxing in their naturally warm waters while the snow falls around you. Every pool is unique, so don’t be afraid to try as many as possible!
9. Edinburgh, Scotland
The winding streets, stunning castles and palaces, and beautiful Princes Street Gardens transformed into a winter wonderland make Edinburgh a city to definitely visit in winter. There is nothing more charming than ice skating in the center of one of Europe’s oldest cities and wandering through the Edinburgh castle as the snow slowly falls, if you’re lucky to see it. Be sure to check out the highlands as well, which are exquisite in winter.
Arthur’s Seat, on the edge of the city, is the perfect place to take a snowy stroll while soaking up unparalleled views. Just be sure to pack an extra coat – it can get windy at what feels like the edge of the UK! Regardless, Edinburgh is still one of the top European cities to visit during the winter.
10. Bled, Slovenia
Bled’s incredible natural beauty combined with its peaceful surroundings make it one of the most superb alpine areas in Europe. Renowned for its healing climate, thermal lake water, and “tucked away” ambiance, this small city is perfect for anyone looking to have a relaxing winter escape. However, don’t shy away from Bled if you’re looking for a bit more adventure – its terrain is ideal for anyone interested in outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, or ice skating. In between relaxing and skiing, don’t forget to check out Bled Castle, a medieval fortress believed to be the oldest castle in Slovenia.
Whether you’re into shredding the slopes or strolling the quaint cobblestone streets, Europe has plenty to offer in the winter. Don’t get bogged down by the cold weather or cabin fever – just pop some cold-weather travel gear on and try something you otherwise couldn’t do in your own city.
More tips for Winter in Europe:
7 Must-Have Items for Cold Weather Travel for Girls
7 Festive Christmas Markets to Visit in Europe
6 Fun Activities to Do in Europe During the Winter
Photo Sources:@Doug88888 via Flickr,nate2b via Flickr, Michael Heilemann via Flickr, Tim Waters via Flickr, Tena Elman, Tori Van Sambeck, Joaquín López via Flickr, Leo-setä via Flickr, Mórka via Flickr, zoetnet via Flickr, mk_is_here via Flickr
Transylvania is not a city. There are plenty of worthwhile cities in the area- Brasov, Sibiu, etc., but this is a pretty gross error.
Thanks for pointing that out K, we love the whole area so much that we just had to include it all 🙂
A good list of places…Why is there no “Swiss” cities in this list? I find basel and Zurich really good during the months of December and January.
Good point Sudhi! There are plenty of other places that could have been included on this list, for sure.
I wanted to know if you know of any places other than Lapland that we can get to from Rome for a Reindeer sleigh ride in early december! I have been having trouble finding an option for my Hubby’s 40th…
hi I think the best top 10 to visit is Austrian Vienna it the most beautiful of Europe history culture scenic and a lot more with nice and friendly people especially when you visit their
Christmas market it was really stunning.
Great recommendation Barbara, thanks!
Great list! Don’t give too much on the “snowy” description of Edinburgh though, we’ve only had about 3 days of snow (like 1 inch) here this year and none last year, Scotland’s winter is nowhere as cold as its reputation 🙂
I am looking to visit Swiss, Itay, France & UK during Feb, 16 for celebrating my 25th marriage anniversary.
share your thoughts
🙂
I am looking to visit Swiss, Itay, France & UK or european best place to visit during Feb, 16 for celebrating my 25th marriage anniversary.
share your thoughts
🙂
What do you think about the places we’ve suggested?
Hi! I’m from Romania and I’m very happy to see that Transylvania is on your list (indeed, it’s not a city, but not this is important). The whole country is very beautiful and we have a lot of traditions.
Congrats for this cute article! 😀
Thanks so much Roxi! 🙂
I’m planning a trip for the end of January. Which one of these cities on the list would you recommend for a 3-day trip? I’m scared that if we hit somewhere big I won’t be able to fit it all in 3 days. Places not on the list are also welcomed suggestions!
Thank you.
Where will you be traveling from Mike?
Thank you for a nice list. Lake Bled is a place I would like to go to one day 🙂
Thanks for reading Jesper!
I would also add Vienne to your list! One of the most beautiful European capitals and it’s especially popular during the Christmas holidays. A must-go!
Nice Velizara, thanks for the suggestion! 🙂
Madrid is beautiful in Winter! Specially during Christmas time and end of February as the weather starts getting ready for Spring. 🙂
Thanks Mery!
We r planning a Mediterranenan cruise for a week starting from Barcelona n covering places like Marseille, Genoa, Rome, Palermo and Valletta in Feb 2017. Its for our honeymoon. Is it a good idea to visit these places aroubd 1st n 2nd week of Feb?
Any time of the year is a great time to travel! Just depends on what you want out of the trip.
Which places would u recommend in early January in Europe for our 25th Anniversary..like we’ve around two weeks vid us.
Thanks
Anything on this list! 🙂
Hi – Could you suggest top 2 cities/countries to visit in the 3rd week of Jan? I have a weeks time and I ll be travelling from india.
There are 10 good suggestions in this post 🙂
We just want to visit Switzerland in Feb 2018 with my wife an son
Great!
Hi, we are planning our family holiday for two weeks in mid to end of December 2018 in Europe. Any suggestion where is good places to visit.
All the ones in this post 😀
We will be visiting Europe for 10 days in the last week of January for our15th anniversary. The only thing which might restrict us is that I am pregnant in my 25th week. What would be the best suitable destination based on your research?!