Best European Cities to Visit in Winter
If you live in Southern Ontario as I do, you may not be too pleased with winter after the massive snowstorm we’ve just been hit with. But, you’ve got to admit that winter is one of the most beautiful times of the year. The only thing better than watching the snow fall is watching the snow fall among beautiful European architecture while drinking mulled wine and snacking on schnitzel.
If that image has you ready to book a flight across the pond for a cozy European adventure, let me help you narrow down your destination choices!
Here are the best European cities to visit during the winter season!
Prague, Czech Republic
With its snow-capped spires, cobblestone alleys, and cozy hue from its old-fashioned street lamps, Prague screams winter fairtytale. Old Town Square looks like something ripped straight out of a Disney movie, especially when the Prague Castle is covered under a blanket of snow.
Bled, Slovenia
Bled’s natural beauty and peaceful surroundings make it one of the most superb alpine getaways in Europe. Renowned for its healing climate, thermal lake water, and “off the beaten path” ambiance, this small city is perfect for travelers looking for a quiet winter escape.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is filled with rich history and absolutely must be on any European Winter bucket list. The winter season is a big part of German culture; you can enjoy hot mulled wine at the Christmas markets, see the Berlin wall under a blanket of snow, and take a walk through history in one of the cities many museums.
Innsbruck, Austria
Covered in internationally recognized alpine resorts and two-time host of the Winter Olympics, there’s a reason Innsbruck is the ski capital of the world. This charming village will smother you in European winter magic as you’ve never experienced before.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is one of my favourite cities in the world – there is really something here for everyone! You can party all night long in the Red Light District, skate along the frozen canal, or visit some of the cities rich history museums. Amsterdam is one of Europe’s tamer cities weather wise too, so it’s perfect for those who aren’t ready to face the brutal cold.
Copenhagen, Denmark
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 relaxing, drinking hot chocolate, and enjoying a fresh snowfall.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland’s capital is one of Europe’s coldest winter destinations, but also one of Europe’s most stunning winter destinations. The annual Winter Lights Festival in February is one of the best European celebrations of winter. With its abundance of restaurants, museums, and winter sports, this city has plenty of things to do to keep you warm!
London, United Kingdom
Budget travelers rejoice! London is home to some of Europe’s most magnificent museums and best of all, they’re free! While London is notorious for being gloomy and rainy, it’s quite beautiful in the winter months. I highly recommend visiting in the colder season to get a new perspective on the city.
Vienna, Austria
I’ve traveled to Vienna three times now and my favourite time spent there was in the winter! Vienna is a magical city year-round but under a blanket of snow and twinkling lights lining the streets, the city really comes alive. Its Christmas markets are world renowned, but even after the holiday season, the winter magic stays alive!
Oslo, Norway
The Norwegian capital is a winter destination not for the faint of heart – it is COLD here. However, the winter months make the city especially beautiful and there is always something fun and exciting happening in the downtown core.
Stockholm, Sweden
Just like Norway, Sweden is COLD. We’re in Scandinavia after all! Stockholm is a beautiful city essentially built on water – kind of similar to Venice, but without all the extra tourists. In Stockholm, you can enjoy quieter, narrow streets, tons of museums, and delicious Swedish pastries.
Moscow, Russia
A little bit of a different note to end off on, but this list would not be complete without Moscow. In case you’ve never seen photos of Moscow, it’s very snowy and cold here. Winters are actually pretty rough, but it’s a huge part of the culture and definitely worth experiencing for yourself.
Read next: A guide to Europe’s Christmas markets
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Joseph Jones
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 Norway!! Thanks for sharing!