Where to Go for a Winter Vacation in Europe

Vanessa Korovina

Updated: 14 August 2025 ·
Navigation:

Where to Go for a Winter Vacation in Europe

2 Rovaniemi winter
2 Rovaniemi winter
3 Abisko winter
3 Abisko winter
4 Copenhagen winter
4 Copenhagen winter
6 Transylvania winter
6 Transylvania winter
Salzburg Austria
Salzburg Austria
9 Lille winter
9 Lille winter
10 Hasselt winter
10 Hasselt winter
Granada
Granada
12 Reykjavik winter
12 Reykjavik winter
13 Bled winter
13 Bled winter
15 Edinburgh winter
15 Edinburgh winter
16 Rotterdam winter
16 Rotterdam winter
17 Bergen winter
17 Bergen winter
18 Venice winter
18 Venice winter
19 Interlaken winter
19 Interlaken winter
20 Andorra winter
20 Andorra winter
21 Zagreb winter
21 Zagreb winter

Vacations are not just about sun, sea, and summer warmth, but it is also possible to relax and engage in sports, wellness, and cultural trips even in winter. Not all locations are suited for winter vacations, but there are others that are perfect for a break during the cold season.
In addition to great cities, which are beautiful and visitable almost all year, you can find, in Europe, charming towns and less crowded locations that are equally magnificent, especially in winter. If you don't mind the cold, if you are passionate about snow sports or love the white northern landscapes, join us in discovering places suitable for a winter vacation.

1 - Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi is famous as it is considered the official residence of Santa Claus. The favorite bearded man of children lives in a typical grotto in the Arctic Circle that is open for visits. In Rovaniemi, you can breathe the true Christmas atmosphere, among soft white snow and the typical reindeer. Be sure to visit the Arctic Museum. If you plan to visit this location, equip yourself well against the cold as temperatures drop well below zero.

2 - Abisko, Sweden

Abisko, a district of Kiruna in Sweden, is the northernmost location you can reach in Europe by train.

It is a place suitable for true lovers of winter and arctic cold, who are not frightened by weeks of perpetual darkness, as the sun does not rise for a period between December and January. However, this is not viewed as an obstacle but an opportunity to better admire the spectacle of the Northern Lights. In addition to the classic winter sports, you can try the experience of dog sledding.
See also: Where and When to See the Northern Lights

3 - Copenhagen, Denmark

If you are looking for a fairy-tale winter vacation, nothing beats the city that gave birth to the writer Hans Christian Andersen. Forget the overly famous Little Mermaid and instead focus on the cozy locals of the city where you can relax and admire how the snow covers this characteristic city.

In the heart of the city is Tivoli amusement park, which represents both a romantic and kitsch place, especially during the Christmas period. The delightful lights warm the heart, while a steaming cup of glögg takes care of the rest.
See also: Things to See in Copenhagen

4 - Transylvania, Romania

The gloomy atmosphere and the wintry gray sky will provide the backdrop for your visit to the famous Dracula castle, creating a perfect spooky setting!

Transylvania is an excellent destination for a cultural trip among the medieval villages of Romania, such as Braşov and Sighişoara. These locations have several points of connection with the notoriously known and bloody Count Vlad Ţepeş, the historical figure that inspired the literary character of Dracula.
See also: Transylvania: where it is located, when to go and what to see

5 - Salzburg, Austria

The city of music is the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who composed 350 of his works here. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit, as is the baroque heart of the city with its palaces and churches known as DomQuartier.

6 - Lille, France

Admiring Grand Place and the Old City under the snow is a breathtaking and unique spectacle. To warm up, you can stroll through the stalls of Christmas markets, or wrap yourself in a blanket and enjoy the city view from the top of the Ferris wheel.

7 - Hasselt, Belgium

Hasselt is located in the Belgian Limburg and is a cozy and charming city particularly suited to visit in winter. Besides quaint shops and markets, be sure to try the numerous local restaurants! The city is also known as the "capital of taste" of Belgium.

8 - Granada, Spain

If you want to escape the biting cold of winter, here is a city where temperatures remain mild. Of course, it is not warm enough for a beach vacation, but this part of Spain can be both economical and pleasant for skiers or for those looking to spend a few days away from the crowds of tourists and winter sports enthusiasts. You can take advantage of the Sierra Nevada facilities, head toward the coast, or wander around the city.
See also: Must-See Places in Granada

9 - Reykjavik, Iceland

The capital of Iceland is a must-visit city for travelers. The annual Winter Lights Festival, held in February, is one of the most attractive winter events in Europe. This festival is just one part of the abundance of winter sports, museums, and restaurants that make Reykjavik a sought-after destination.
Moreover, just outside the city, you can find natural hot spring pools.
See also: Must-See Places in Reykjavik

10 - Bled, Slovenia

The incredible natural beauty of this location in Slovenia is matched only by its peaceful surroundings, making it one of the most superb alpine destinations in Europe.
It is also famous for the thermal waters of its namesake lake and serves as an excellent destination for a winter vacation. Not only tranquility: Bled is also a great starting point for more adventurous pursuits such as snow sports or nature excursions. Bled Castle, moreover, is a medieval fortress considered the oldest in the entire country.
See also: Must-See Places in Bled

11 - Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

The windy streets, the stunning castles, and the beautiful park Princes Street Gardens make this Scottish city a true winter wonderland. The winter atmosphere can be fully enjoyed from the famous Arthur's Seat, the highest peak of the Holyrood Park mountains.
See also: Must-See Places in Edinburgh

12 - Rotterdam, Netherlands

During the day, you can engage in cultural visits and admire the architectural works of Flemish design that the city is full of.
When the sun goes down, Rotterdam comes alive with its vibrant nightlife, bustling even in winter, with numerous ongoing live music events throughout the streets and in its many clubs.
See also: Things to See in Rotterdam

13 - Bergen, Norway

Known as the capital of the fjords, Bergen is the second-largest city in Norway, second only to Oslo. It is a vibrant cultural location, thanks to the presence of a great university, and it serves as a wonderful starting point for excursions to explore the most untouched nature.
See also: Things to See in Bergen

14 - Venice, Italy

One of the most popular European attractions is the Venice Carnival. The celebrations, which take place between February and March, are not to be missed. To save money, it is better to wear a mask and mingle with the crowd during the free events organized in the streets.
See also: Must-See Places in Venice

15 - Interlaken, Switzerland

This medieval alpine town is a true gem of the Alps. It takes its name from its geographical position, being situated between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. In this resort, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views, and even the most daring will find satisfaction. In addition to classic winter sports, the location is famous for offering opportunities for extreme sports.

16 - Andorra

Andorra is a small and characteristic principality located in the Pyrenees between France and Spain. The location is very famous for its ski slopes but also for its vast green spaces.
See also: Must-See Places in Andorra

17 - Zagreb, Croatia

Although Zagreb is the crossroads of numerous cultures, the Christmas celebrations are very heartfelt and lively. In the time leading up to Christmas, numerous events are organized in the city center, including the ceremony for the inauguration of the traditional Christmas tree. Traditional markets and live music events are not lacking.
See also: Must-See Places in Zagreb

Travel Insurance: Our Recommendation

We always rely on the company Insurance Company, which provides comprehensive coverage at very competitive prices.
Moreover, they offer a customer service, an active call center and 24-hour medical insurance with unlimited telephonic medical advice: we know well that when you are abroad in emergency situations, finding someone ready to respond is the most important thing.
Visit their site and receive a 10% discount on your policy reserved for Travel365 users.