10 Best Winter Destinations in Europe
Find out the best winter destinations in Europe—whether you want snowy adventures or sunny escapes, this guide has it all.
Europe in winter is a whole different kind of magic, and I think you’re going to love exploring these incredible destinations as much as I do. From the awe-inspiring Northern Lights in Iceland to the sun-soaked Canary Islands, each spot offers something special.
Whether you’re looking for cozy Christmas markets, stunning landscapes, or just a break from the cold, this guide will help you plan the perfect winter getaway.
I’m sharing all my favorite places, must-do experiences, and insider tips to make your winter trip to Europe truly unforgettable.

The South Coast, Iceland
If the Northern Lights are on your bucket list, then the South Coast of Iceland should be at the top of your winter travel plans.
Watching the aurora dance across the sky is one of those moments that leaves you speechless—it’s pure magic. My favorite spot to catch the lights is Jökulsárlón Glacier.

Besides chasing the Northern Lights, make sure to visit Gullfoss waterfall. It’s spectacular in winter, with ice forming around the powerful falls.
Don’t miss a chance to explore the ice caves either; they are like stepping into another world. And after a long day in the cold, there’s nothing better than soaking in the warm waters of the Secret Lagoon—it’s the perfect way to relax.


Travel tips
- Accommodation: I love staying at Reykjavík Marina. It’s got a fun nautical vibe, and you’re right in the heart of the action. For a more budget-friendly option, Guesthouse Galtafell is cozy, welcoming, and full of Icelandic charm.
- Transport: Renting a car is the best way to explore at your own pace, but driving in winter can be challenging, so be prepared for snowy conditions. My Iceland car rental tips cover everything you need to know.
- Tips: Always check the weather forecast before heading out—conditions change quickly.
Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg is one of the most magical winter destinations in Europe.
The Christkindlesmarkt here is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets, and it feels like stepping into a storybook.

Wandering through the stalls with a mug of mulled wine in hand, the scent of roasted chestnuts in the air, it’s impossible not to get into the holiday spirit.
I love picking up handmade ornaments and, of course, sampling the Nürnberger Bratwurst—those tiny sausages are delicious!
Another favorite of mine is the Handwerkerhof, a charming medieval shopping area where you can watch local artisans at work.
After the market, a stroll through the old town or a visit to Nuremberg Castle is the perfect way to spend the day, especially with a dusting of snow, adding to the charm.

Travel tips
- Accommodation: Karl August and Park Plaza Nuremberg are fantastic places to stay. Both offer onsite restaurants, fitness centers, and great locations. If you’re looking for something more affordable, The Niu Leo has a cozy atmosphere and a great location.
- How to get around: Nuremberg is very walkable, especially the old town, but if you want to rest your feet, take a sightseeing train tour.
- Tips: Try to visit the Christmas market on a weekday—it’s much less crowded, and you’ll have more space to take in the sights, smells, and sounds of this festive wonderland.
Seville, Spain
If escaping the winter cold sounds like your kind of holiday, Seville is a fantastic choice.
With no snow, just warm sunshine, Seville’s stunning Moorish architecture and vibrant plazas shine even brighter in the winter.

I love spending my afternoons wandering through Maria Luisa Park—this massive green space is full of gardens, lakes, and historic buildings. It was part of the royal palace grounds, gifted to the city by Princess María Luisa Fernanda.
Don’t miss Plaza de España—it’s breathtaking. The grandeur of the tiled alcoves and fountains is mesmerizing, especially in the golden winter sunlight.
You should also make time to visit the Royal Alcázar, Seville Cathedral, and Giralda Tower for some incredible views over the city.

Travel tips
- Accommodation: I can’t recommend Hotel Casa Del Poeta enough. It feels like staying in a romantic Andalusian courtyard, and the atmosphere is just perfect. Hotel Amadeus Sevilla is also a charming option, with beautiful rooms and a rooftop terrace. For budget travelers, Welldone Cathedral is a boutique hotel that’s close to all the main attractions.
- How to get around: Seville is very walkable, especially in the old town. If you want something different, try a horse-drawn carriage ride.
- Tips: Don’t miss out on a Flamenco show while in Seville—it’s such an integral part of the city’s culture and an unforgettable experience.
- Day trip: You can take a fantastic day trip to Granada from Seville and visit the famous Alhambra palace and Albaicín quarter of the Moors.
Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt in winter is like stepping into a snow globe. The entire village, with its charming houses nestled between the lake and the mountains, is covered in a soft layer of snow, and everything feels quiet and peaceful.

I love walking along the lakefront path, where all you can hear is the crunch of snow beneath your boots and the distant sound of church bells.
A must-do is visiting the Hallstatt salt mine—it’s one of the oldest in the world, and riding down the miner’s slide is a blast!
For incredible views, head up to the Hallstatt Skywalk. From there, you can see the whole village blanketed in snow, and it’s breathtaking.


Travel tips
- Accommodation: Heritage Hotel Hallstatt is perfect if you want beautiful lake views and a cozy place to warm up after a day of exploring. If you’re on a budget, Pension Cafe zum Mühlbach is a charming, affordable option that feels like home.
- How to get around: Hallstatt is best explored on foot—everything is nearby.
- Tips: Arrive early to beat the crowds, especially if you’re coming for a day trip.
Canary Islands, Spain
If you’re craving warmth in the middle of winter, the Canary Islands are an ideal escape. Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is perfect if you want to trade snowy boots for sandy beaches.
Playa de las Teresitas is my favorite spot to relax—golden sands, clear waters, and plenty of sunshine.
But if you’re up for some adventure, hiking up Mount Teide is an incredible experience. Standing at the summit, surrounded by a sea of clouds, you really feel like you’re on top of the world.
I also love exploring Tenerife’s charming villages like La Orotava, with its beautiful colonial architecture and relaxed vibe. And, of course, the food is fantastic—grilled octopus and fresh seafood are an absolute must.

Travel tips
- Accommodation: Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey is a beautiful, luxurious option that will make your stay feel extra special. For something more budget-friendly, Hotel Colon Rambla is comfortable and well-located.
- How to get around: Renting a car is the best way to explore Tenerife—check out car rental options here.
- Tips: Visit during off-peak times for better deals and to avoid crowds. And if you want to try something new, take a whale-watching tour—you won’t regret it!
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is absolutely magical in the winter.

One of my favorite things to do is to warm up in the city’s thermal baths.
There’s something so special about sitting in the steaming waters of Széchenyi Thermal Bath while the air around you is crisp and cold. It’s the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.


Vörösmarty Square hosts a beautiful Christmas market where I always find unique handmade gifts and enjoy the best chimney cakes.
I love walking along the Danube in the evening. The way the Parliament Building and Buda Castle are lit up is stunning, and it makes the whole city feel like it’s glowing.
To end your day, take an evening river cruise. It’s such a romantic way to see Budapest, and the views from the river are unforgettable.

Travel tips
- Accommodation: Hotel Oktogon Haggenmacher is stylish and central, and Hotel Moments Budapest offers a touch of luxury in the heart of the city. For a more affordable option, Callas House has a great atmosphere and comfortable rooms.
- How to get around: The Hop-on hop-off bus is great for seeing the city at your own pace. You can take a shared airport transfer if you’re arriving by air.
- Tips: Don’t forget your bathing suit—the thermal baths are open all year, and they’re a must-do in Budapest. Also, visit the baths early to avoid the crowds.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is one of the best places to visit in Europe during winter if you want a slower pace and beautiful scenery.
Start with a visit to Lisbon Cathedral. It’s a beautiful mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, and I always feel a sense of awe walking through its ancient halls.
If you’re into art, the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian is fantastic. Its impressive collection spans different eras.
For a taste of local culture, head to Time Out Market for fresh seafood—grilled sardines and octopus salad are my favorites.
Don’t forget to check out Belém Tower. The climb to the top is narrow, but the views of the Tagus River are absolutely worth it.





Travel tips
- Accommodation: Lisboa Pessoa is a charming hotel, especially if you’re a book lover—it has a cozy literary theme. TURIM Boulevard is another solid choice, centrally located with comfortable rooms. For a more budget-friendly stay, Vila Garden Guesthouse offers a lovely garden to relax in.
- How to get around: Lisbon’s public transportation system is easy to navigate, and I highly recommend getting a Lisbon card for unlimited rides on trams, buses, and the metro, plus discounts on attractions.
- Tips: Make time for a day trip to Sintra. It’s like stepping into a fairytale, with the colorful Pena Palace and lush gardens that make for an unforgettable experience.
Lapland, Finland
Lapland is an absolute dream for anyone who loves winter. It’s also home to Santa Claus—so if you’re looking for that magical holiday feeling, this is the place.
You have to try reindeer sledding—it’s a gentle, peaceful way to glide through the snowy forest, and it really feels like you’re part of a winter fairytale.
For more excitement, husky sledding is an incredible rush. Those dogs are full of energy, and racing through the snow with them is exhilarating.

After a day in the cold, there’s nothing better than cozying up by a fire and watching for the Northern Lights. Seeing the sky light up in greens and pinks is an experience I’ll never forget.

Travel Tips
- Accommodation: Staying in a glass igloo at Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle is a dream—you get to watch the stars and hopefully catch the Northern Lights right from bed.
- How to get around: Renting a car is great for exploring Lapland, but if you’re not comfortable driving on icy roads, there are plenty of guided tours to take you around safely.
- Tips: Dress in plenty of layers—it’s extremely cold here, and frostbite can happen quickly if you’re not prepared. After a day in the snow, warm up in an Arctic Sauna—it’s a true Finnish experience that’ll leave you feeling refreshed.
Malta
Malta is a fantastic winter destination if you want to avoid cold weather while soaking up plenty of history.
Winter here is mild and sunny—ideal for exploring Valletta, the capital, which is packed with Roman-era architecture and fascinating historical sites.
I love just wandering through Valletta’s narrow streets, taking in the colorful balconies and enjoying views of the Mediterranean. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, Malta is a treat—you can visit some of the filming locations from the series.
The local flea markets are also great if you’re in the mood to pick up some unique souvenirs, like handmade crafts or trinkets.

Travel Tips
- Accommodation: The Phoenicia Malta is a luxurious choice with stunning views, while 1926 Hotel & Spa offers a more affordable but still comfortable stay.
- How to get around: The bus system in Malta is quite reliable, and renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
- Tips: Winter is the off-season in Malta, meaning fewer tourists and lower hotel prices—take advantage of that! Visit popular spots like Mdina and the Blue Grotto without the crowds. Also, be sure to try some traditional Maltese food—pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas) are an absolute must.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague in winter is simply magical. Picture the entire city blanketed in snow, with Gothic spires rising into the cold, crisp sky.
I love wandering through Old Town Square with a hot chimney cake (trdelník) in hand, the warmth of the pastry keeping me toasty as I take in the festive atmosphere.
One of the best experiences in Prague is catching the sunrise over the Charles Bridge. Watching the mist swirl around the statues as the sun comes up is unforgettable—it makes you feel like you’re in a different time. The cobblestone streets can get quite slippery, so be careful.
And when you need to warm up, there’s no shortage of cozy pubs where you can sip mulled wine or hot chocolate.
Evening concerts in historic churches and halls are also a must—they add a touch of magic to your winter nights.



Travel tips
- Accommodation: Art Deco Imperial Hotel is a stunning place to stay with gorgeous interiors. Botanique Hotel Prague offers modern comfort, and City Nest Apartment is a fantastic value for budget travelers.
- How to get around: Prague’s public transport is reliable and easy to use—trams are a particularly fun way to see the city. I also recommend arranging an airport transfer for a smooth arrival.
- Tips: The Prague Card is well worth it if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing, as it includes entry to many attractions and discounts. And yes, the Astronomical clock show might be touristy, but it’s an iconic part of Prague that you shouldn’t miss.
FAQs about winter destinations in Europe
Is it a good idea to visit Europe in winter?
Absolutely! Visiting Europe in winter can be magical. Sure, some attractions might be closed, but the crowds are smaller, and you get to see cities in a more relaxed, almost storybook setting. Plus, winter is the perfect time to explore cozy Christmas markets, enjoy winter sports, or even chase the Northern Lights without fighting through throngs of people.
What countries in Europe are warm in winter?
Europe in winter isn’t exactly tropical, but there are some great places where the temperature stays nice and mild. If you want to escape the cold, head to places like the Canary Islands, Cyprus, or southern parts of Spain, Portugal, and Italy. These spots offer some much-needed sunshine and warmth even during the winter months.
How to prepare for visiting Europe in winter?
Packing for Europe in winter means bringing layers! Think thermal shirts, a warm coat, gloves, and waterproof boots. Also, if you’re planning on visiting places like Iceland or Lapland, protective gear like a beanie and scarf is a must to keep yourself comfortable. I also highly recommend travel insurance in case you run into any unexpected weather or travel delays—it’s better to be prepared than stranded.
Before you go
Ready to explore winter in Europe? Make sure to check out my other guides on essential packing tips for a winter vacation.