20 best winter destinations in Europe

With charming Christmas markets, top-notch ski resorts, delicious mulled wine, and reindeer sledding, a European winter is on another level. Check out the 20 best winter destinations in Europe, as picked by our editorial team:

1. Kitzbühel, Austria

This small alpine town east of Innsbruck is one of the most popular ski resorts in the world, noted for its excellent ski conditions and postcard perfect scenery. Multitudes of upscale shops cover its town centre, making it great for last-minute gifts too.

Outside of skiing you can also go tobogganing, snowshoeing in the mountains, or even take a horse-drawn carriage ride. Undoubtedly one of the best winter vacations because of the sheer variety of things you can do here.

Nearest airport: Salzburg Airport (SZG)

Average temperature December – February: 4-5°C

2. Rovaniemi, Finland

Nowhere does Christmas like Rovaniemi. Lying right on the Arctic Circle and named the official hometown of Santa Claus, this city brings all the festive vibes! From reindeer sleigh rides and husky long trail adventures to an entire Village for old Saint Nick, Rovaniemi brings the wonder of Christmas no matter how old you are.

The Christmas magic is coupled with the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights (also known as Aurora Borealis), which are a common sight over the winter period.

Nearest airport: Rovaniemi Airport

Average temperature December – February: -4 – -7°C

3. Vienna, Austria

Is there a better winter destination than Vienna? Elegant and opulent, the Austrian capital captivates millions of tourists each year throughout the seasons, but the cold weather and cosy vibe turn it into a must-visit during the tail end of the year. Just make sure you keep an eye on how much Glühwein you’re drinking!

Nearest airport: Vienna International Airport

Average temperature December – February: 4-7°C

4. Prague, Czech Republic

Christmas markets in the Old Town Square, beautiful snow-capped rooftops seen from the watch tower, and morning frosts covering the medieval bridge that crosses Vltava river.  Where would you rather be for winter than Prague?

The best time to visit is as close to Christmas as possible, so you get a chance to see the city awash with festive decorations.

Nearest airport: Prague Airport (PRG)

Average temperature December – February: 3-5°C

5. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn looks like a Disney fairy tale city yet remains an underrated destination. And, during winter, it’s even more of a fable, turning into a winter wonderland in the best way.

The cobbled streets and gothic architecture shine wonderfully in the snow, and a trip here can include anything from ice skating to a dose of culture at the Estonian Open Air Museum, which shows what life was like for the average resident here in the 18th and 19th centuries. The long nights are perfect too, allowing the bright lights and high spirits really shine.

Nearest airport: Tallinn Airport

Average temperature December – February: -2-1°C

6. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is beautiful all year round, but during winter there’s a feeling in the air that’s impossible to find at any other time. You can head on romantic carriage rides through the historic centre, gorge yourself on the world famous chocolate that flows through the city,  and spend hours wandering through beautiful Christmas markets.

Bruges has a little something for everyone, which makes it one of the best winter destinations in Europe.

Nearest airport: Brussels Airport

Average temperature December – February: 7-8°C

7. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is always considered a highlight by travellers whether it’s winter or summer, and tourism numbers in the Hungarian capital tend to drop over this time. All that means is there’s more space for you to be enchanted by its cold weather delights.

You can take advantage of the limited crowds and appreciate the light show at St. Stephen’s Basilica, zoom around one of the many ice skating rinks in the city, or do a nice research project on just where serves the most delicious Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács) in the city.

If you’re a fan of rest, relaxation, and warm bodies of water, the neo-baroque Szechenyi Baths complex is a must visit. It sits right in the City Park and is one of the main winter tourist attractions in Budapest thanks to its history and the respite it provides from the Eastern Europe cold.

Nearest airport: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)

Average temperature December – February: 4-6°C

8. Edinburgh, Scotland

A looming Edinburgh castle covered in snow, the Princess Street Gardens Christmas market in all its glory, and hundreds of pubs serving up mulled wine and hot toddies: Edinburgh’s winter charm is unmatched. And that’s not mentioning the Botanical Gardens, which transforms into an enchanted forest with beautiful light displays.

Don’t worry if you miss the Christmas buzz, though. On the 25th of January, Scottish people come together to celebrate the life and works of poet Robert Burns, feasting on a traditional supper of haggis with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes). Just remember to pack your big coat, as the Scottish winter is no joke!

Nearest airport: Edinburgh Airport

Average temperature December – February: 6-7°C

9. Ljubljana, Slovenia

An underrated addition to our list of top winter destinations in Europe is Slovenia’s stunning capital Ljubljana. If you spend a few days here in the run up to Christmas you’ll have the chance to experience the Festive Fair. Here the city comes alive – think evergreen shining under Christmas lights, hearty local food to warm the belly, and local artisans selling traditional wares.

By visiting in the quieter winter months you’ll have a chance to explore Ljubljana’s narrow streets with fewer tourists, allowing you to fall in love with the diverse architectural styles that make up its city centre. There are few places in the world where a two-minute walk allows you to marvel at a baroque-style town hall and modern architectural treasures designed by the world famous Jože Plečnik.

Nearest airport: Ljubljana Airport (LJU)

Average temperature December – February: 4-7°C

10. Malaga, Costa del Sol, Spain

For some people the idea of long, dark nights and breath condensing on the air just doesn’t mix with having a good time. If you prefer to escape the cold but still want culture and celebrations, then Malaga is one of the best spots for some winter sun tinged with a Christmas spirit.

This port city on Spain’s famous Costa del Sol is famous for its picturesque beaches, excellent year-round weather, and vibrant nightlife, with dozens of music bars, cafes and nightclubs to keep you partying till the wee hours of the morning.

Nearest airport: Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport

Average temperature December – February: 17-18°C

11. Amsterdam, the Netherlands

There are few more magical sites in the world than Amsterdam’s famous canals turned white with ice. Escaping from the winding waterside streets into a cosy cafe or atmospheric bar only adds to the fairytale experience of a visit here during winter.

Aside from all the top class cultural touchstones that the city is brimming with, there are plenty of specific winter and Christmas related activities to keep you busy, whether you prefer retail therapy, zooming around on a skating rink, or trying all the local food and drink you can and then some. Plus, thanks to the concentration of major cities in the Netherlands, you can take day trips to some gorgeous spots like The Hague and Utrecht via a simple, quick train ride.

Nearest airport: Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS)

Average temperature December – February: 6-7°C

12. Val Thorens, France

Located at an altitude of 2300m, Val Thorens is both a great winter destination and one of the best ski resorts in Europe. 

While the majority of the local slopes around Val Thorens are for first-time and intermediate users, advanced skiers will also find eight black runs suitable for their level or the option of heading off piste with a guide, the most exciting run being Lac de Lou, which has a 1,400m vertical descent. And, if you prefer the après part of après-ski, you’ll have no trouble finding a cosy spot to slurp on brandy-infused hot chocolate.

Nearest airport: Chambéry Airport

Average temperature December – February: -2 – -5°C

13. Zermatt, Switzerland

Ski lovers everywhere know that Zermatt is no ordinary set of slopes. Located in southern Switzerland’s Valais canto and sitting at an elevation of 1,608m, this iconic spot combines great, varied runs with some of the most breathtaking views in the world – dominated by the infamous Matterhorn Mountain.

Although there is theoretically year-round skiing here, winter is undoubtedly the best time to come for serious skiers, with perfectly powdered snow and dreamy white-capped mountain views.

Nearest airport: Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Average temperature December – February: 2-3°C

14. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

Dubbed the ‘Queen of the Dolomites’, Cortina d’Ampezzo is easily the most fashionable ski resort in Italy. However, it doesn’t just rely on that reputation for visitors, and the runs are a great combination of fun and challenging.

Surrounded by the gorgeous peaks of the Dolomite Mountains, this European winter destination boasts not just excellent ski conditions, but also top notch accommodation, bars and restaurants. In 2026 the Winter Olympics will be hosted here, so if it’s good enough for the best, you know you’re sure to enjoy your time here. And what more could you want than a big bowl of pasta after a day on the slopes?

Nearest airport: Airport Bolzano (BZO) and Airport Venezia (VCE)

Average temperature December – February: 0 – 3°C

15. Tenerife, Canary Islands

If you prefer soft sand to the crunch of snow, there’s no better choice for a winter destination in Europe than Tenerife. Golden sands, crystal clear waters, and warm temperatures throughout the year round are the most obvious reasons why it’s such a popular destination this time of year, but the biggest of the Canary Islands has so much more to offer than just its stunning scenery and sizzling sun. An underrated extra perk is its reputation as a stargazing destination, thanks to its close proximity to the equator and low pollution levels. While days don’t get cut quite as short here as they do nearer the north of Europe, locations like Teide National Park do get dark earlier, meaning more time to enjoy the cosmos.

And for the foodies out there, let’s not forget that Tenerife is part of Spain, which means terrific tapas, long, wine-filled lunches, and plenty of pastries. What more could you want?

Nearest airport: Tenerife-North Airport (TFN)

Average temperature December – February: 20-22°C

16. Copenhagen, Denmark

City centre lakes covered in frost, steaming hot mugs of delicious drinks, and the wonders of Scandinavian pastries: what more could you want from a winter destination in Europe than what Copenhagen has to offer?

Denmark’s biggest city is a cultural powerhouse and famously has one of the best culinary scenes in the world, which is why it’s a great spot to visit at all times of the year. However, during the colder months the capital takes on a special charm, whether you’re strolling through the famous Assistens Cemetery or taking in the delights of Tivoli’s Winter Wonderland. The festive magic is palpable, and you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Nearest airport: Copenhagen Airport (CPH)

Average temperature December – February: 3-4°C

17. Stockholm, Sweden

Gimme gimme gimme a Stockholm holiday in winter! The Swedish capital shines wonderfully under winter sun, but even when the grey takes over there is an ethereal beauty to this ancient settlement. There are countless Christmas fairs and winter events dotted all over the city, from natural ice skating to winter hikes. And, if the snow starts to fall too hard, then you can check out some iconic spots like the Viking Museum and the ABBA Museum, or bundle into one of the countless bars and restaurants that dot the city centre.

Nearest airport: Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)

Average temperature December – February: 1-2°C

18. Munich, Germany

Nobody does Christmas markets like Germany, and the most traditional are sure to be found in the beating heart of Bavaria, Munich. During the darker months the city comes alive with stalls selling plenty of local fare, but if you prefer to be inside the famous beer halls and cosy restaurants beckon with their warming lights and cheery atmosphere.

If you are keener on active cold weather holidays the Bavarian Alps are just a short drive away, and there are options for single-day skiing, so you can combine thrills and culture with a trip to Munich at the tail end of the year. One of the best winter destinations in Europe without a doubt.

Nearest airport: Munich Airport (MUN)

Average temperature December – February: 4-5°C

19. London, England

This thrumming mega-city comes alive at Christmas. Whether you’re heading to one of the dozens of free world class cultural activities in the city, making it an extra magical trip with a visit to Winter Wonderland, or just soaking in the festive atmosphere that permeates the English capital at this time of year, it will be a winter trip to remember.

Highlights are too numerous to name, but make sure you tuck into a traditional pub roast as well as sample some of the city’s world class international cuisine. You might not see snow, but there’s no doubt you’ll be merry!

Nearest airport: London Heathrow (LHR), London City (LCY), London Gatwick (LGW)

Average temperature December – February: 8-10°C

20. Reykjavik, Iceland

We’ve namechecked the Icelandic capital here, but really the entire country is magnificent in the colder months. Daylight might be limited but there are endless activities to experience and jaw-dropping sights to see. Glacier and ice cave tours are a must, but what you’re sure to remember is the dancing aurora borealis, which are easier to spot late in the year.

Nearest airport: Keflavík International Airport (KEF)

Average temperature December – February: 3°C

Where is the warmest place in Europe in winter?

The warmest place in Europe in winter is definitely The Canary Islands – our top picks being Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Of the eight main islands, Tenerife is the warmest, with temperatures ranging between 18-22°C  in December and January.

Is it worth going to Europe in winter?

Yes, definitely! Not only do many European destinations shine best during the colder months, but ticket prices can be cheaper than summer.

Where can I see snow in Europe?

Most northern European cities will see snow over winter, but the best places to see guaranteed snow in Europe are:

• Alpe d’Huez, France
• Val Thorens, France
• Innsbruck, Austria
• Zermatt, Switzerland
• Lapland, Finland