Thursday, October 24, 2024

25 Unmissable European Cities to go to in Winter (2023 replace)

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On the lookout for the finest European cities to go to in winter or the very best Europe winter vacation spot concepts? We share the very best locations to go for winter sunshine, winter snow, northern lights or simply plain winter enjoyable!

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Europe Winter Vacation spot Concepts

I LOVE travelling throughout winter. And top-of-the-line issues about travelling in Europe throughout winter is you possibly can select between sunshine, metropolis breaks or mountain retreats.

You’ll be able to select to fly in to one in all these historic European cities, however don’t neglect that Europe is ideal for a winter highway journey so you possibly can have a bit style of every thing (and we don’t simply imply the native meals!)

To assist, we’ve compiled a collection of our favorite European cities to go to in winter – we hope one in all these finest winter locations are good for you!

Best European cities to visit in winter
So many European cities to go to in winter- which is able to you select?

The place are the very best European Metropolis breaks in Winter?

Reality be instructed, there are numerous choices for winter metropolis breaks in Europe– and the right concept for you’ll depend upon what kind of metropolis break you wish to expertise.

If you’d like a European weekend metropolis break, the most suitable choice goes to be a metropolis with an airport which affords direct connection close to you- in any other case, you’ll lose half of your weekend travelling!

We particularly love quick winter journeys to those wonderful European Christmas Markets (though the UK Christmas markets are wonderful too!)

If in case you have longer than a weekend for a winter trip, you could determine should you’d wish to expertise some sunshine (so that you’ll wish to head to international locations nearer the Equator), see the Northern Lights in Europe or head to the snow. Europe has LOTS of mountains and a few unbelievable ski resorts (if in case you have a motorhome, motorhome snowboarding/ ski tenting is an incredible concept!)

We’ve been fortunate sufficient to go to many European cities in winter- listed here are a few of our favourites.


5 Finest winter metropolis breaks in Europe for assured snow

On the lookout for European winter vacation spot metropolis breaks with a excessive likelihood of snow? Whether or not you take pleasure in snowboarding, snowboarding or the drinks within the bar, these European metropolis breaks offers you a style of European winter mountain life.

There’s numerous discuss just lately about local weather change, world warming and climate shifts, however these locations are nearly ‘assured’ to have snow. 

(I’ll admit, a few of them aren’t ‘cities’- there aren’t many cities constructed up mountains!!)

Bear in mind- these locations are COLD in winter- be sure to pack acceptable heat winter clothes!


Chamonix, Mont Blanc, France

Chamonix- one of the best places in Europe to visit in winter.
Snowboarding in Chamonix, France is a few of the finest snowboarding on this planet

We visited Mont Blanc in the summertime– and took the cable automotive up the mountain to benefit from the unbelievable views.

However Chamonix is a good winter metropolis break in Europe. It’s simple (ish) to succeed in from close by airports, there are PLENTY of bars, eating places and locations to remain and (apparently) the snowboarding/ snowboarding is nice.

(I don’t ski- I’m like a child giraffe on ice. I’m scared I’ll harm one thing. However I’m completely happy to benefit from the apres-ski. And the new tubs!)

Chamonix can be known as the ‘mountaineering Capital of Europe‘- adventurers journey from all around the world in winter to expertise climbing and climbing these slopes within the snow! 

In the event you’re travelling the Alps in a motorhome, there’s a nice aire close to Chamonix to take pleasure in. For extra details about utilizing aires throughout winter, see our information to motorhome snowboarding.

READ MORE: Full information to motorhome touring in France

 


St Moritz, Switzerland

St Moritz is the OLDEST winter vacation resort on this planet! It’s well-known for having unbelievable snow, while having fun with round 320 days a yr sunshine.

No, I’m undecided how that’s potential both!

That is the place to come back if you wish to take pleasure in your winter weekend break with royalty and celebrities. There are world-class lodges, eating places, retailers and bars to take pleasure in should you don’t fancy getting out on the slopes. 

The apres-ski scene is relaxed however posh- there’s some huge cash on this resort. However the snowboarding is fantastic- there’s a cause it’s survived this lengthy as ‘the’ place in Europe to go to in winter. 


Kitzbuhel, Austria

Kitzbuhel, Austria- one of the best European cities to visit in winter
Kitzbuhel, Austria- weekend winter break

I grew up watching the males’s downhill ski racing with my mother and father each winter. It was SO thrilling!

In the event you’re going to select the very best European metropolis for winter ski racing, that is the place. It’s solely two hours from Munich, so you possibly can pop there for the Christmas Market or possibly even go see Neuschwanstein Castle within the snow!

(In the event you don’t know- Neuschwanstein Fortress is the one which impressed Disney’s Cinderella fort. It’s critically lovely.)

Kitzbuhel is posh, however not obscenely so. Bars are full of life and enjoyable, the village is BEAUTIFUL (cobbled streets and wood chalets) and the snowboarding is, as you’ll anticipate, fairly demanding. 


Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy- winter destination in Europe
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy- winter vacation spot in Europe

Consider it or not, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy is 1000 years previous! Simply two hours from the canals of Venice and surrounded by the awe-inspiring Dolomites, it’s an important alternative for a winter break in Europe.

The snowboarding is sweet, plus there are over 50 miles of cross-country trails, if that’s your factor. There are additionally unbelievable glaciers to take pleasure in close by, just like the one above. 

The vibe at Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy is chilled- not as snobby as many ski resorts, though apparently it’s a favorite hang-out of George Clooney!

See extra in regards to the Dolomites right here


Courchevel, France

I debated not together with this in the very best winter metropolis breaks Europe… nevertheless it’s so well-known it’s unimaginable to not! 

That is THE place for celebs to come back to take pleasure in snowboarding, buying and stress-free. It’s additionally top-of-the-line locations for snowboarding nicely into March and generally early April- the snow is that good! 

Individuals make reservations in Courchevel a yr or extra prematurely, so lodges and chalets ebook up rapidly.

Having mentioned that, you will get some FANTASTIC last-minute offers should you hold your eyes and choices open- that’s one in all our favorite methods to get a winter weekend break in Europe on a finances.


Europe in Winter- 5 Finest European cities to go to in winter to see the Northern Lights

Crisp snowy views, clear chilled night time air, sipping a heat drink while staring up at some of the unbelievable sights I’ve ever seen… the Aurora Borealis.

It’s some of the widespread questions- WHERE are you able to see the Northern Lights in Europe?

The quick reply is north of the Arctic Circle and ideally not close to the ocean (though I’ve seen them twice from a ship!)

In fact, doing that solely INCREASES your possibilities of seeing the Northern Lights- it doesn’t assure a sighting sadly. 

Nonetheless, these 5 European cities are broadly thought to be the BEST European cities to go to in winter to see the Northern Lights. The Aurora can most frequently be seen between October- March

I’m going so as to add to this frustration and remind you that these are the finest European cities to go to … however you actually need to go away them at night-time and get away from the sunshine air pollution to get the very best likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights.

Many of those cities provide night/ in a single day excursions to make it simpler for you.

Abisko, Sweden

Best European cities to visit in winter- Abisko is a great winter city break to see the Northern Lights!
Finest European cities to go to in winter- Abisko is a superb winter metropolis break to see the Northern Lights!

Abisko in Sweden is quick turning into top-of-the-line locations on this planet to see the Northern Lights! The mountains and native local weather create good situations, with a surprisingly excessive variety of clear night time skies. 

Temperatures in Sweden are sometimes milder than you anticipate, due to the Gulf stream. This appears to have impact on the Aurora- Abisko has one of many highest ‘sighting ratios’ on this planet. 

Getting there: Abisko is a Europe winter vacation spot which is hard to entry. Flights go to close by Kiruna, and then you definitely want practice or bus north to Abisko.

However this remoteness provides to the elevated likelihood of seeing the lights, so it’s definitely worth the trouble!


Reykjavik, Iceland

Rekyjavik- One of the best European cities for a winter break for see the Northern Lights
Rekyjavik- Among the best European cities for a winter break for see the Northern Lights

Reykjavik in Iceland could be very far north, sure, nevertheless it’s some of the standard cities in Europe for Aurora hunters- primarily as a result of there are such a lot of different issues to do close by.

You’ll be able to benefit from the metropolis of Reykjavik, with its lovely homes, heritage and cafes, however there are additionally many well-known sights close by, such because the Blue Lagoon heated springs, glaciers, waterfalls and extra!

We visited Reykjavik for an extended weekend in March and we undoubtedly wanted heat winter clothes, nevertheless it wasn’t so chilly that you just couldn’t get outdoors and benefit from the unbelievable landscapes. 

In fact, to essentially respect the fantastic thing about the Aurora, be sure to get away from town lights and head to one in all these finest locations in Iceland to see the Northern Lights

Getting there: Direct flights from London and lots of main cities in Europe & USA. 


Tromso, Norway

Tromso, Norway- a perfect winter city break in Europe
Tromso, Norway- an ideal winter metropolis break in Europe

We stopped at Tromso for 2 nights earlier than catching a Hurtigruten cruise ship (which was unbelievable!) We sailed the coast all the way in which as much as the Russian border and again, seeing unbelievable wildlife.

There are such a lot of breathtaking locations in Norway– it’s unimaginable to select a favorite!

We have been additionally fortunate sufficient to see the Northern Lights all 4 nights of our cruise!

Tromso itself has many bars, cafes and lodges, in addition to a couple of winter actions to take pleasure in. Simply beware the prices- Northern Norway is even costlier than Southern Norway, particularly for meals & drink!

January is a superb time to visit- Tromso holds the Northern Lights Pageant each January, which is filled with music and leisure,

Getting there: Direct flights from many locations in UK, Europe & US.

Don’t neglect, if you wish to tour Norway in a motorhome, most of the roads are tough to drive throughout winter, so that you may wish to save your highway journey till the roads have cleared.


Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi, Finland- one of the best cities in Europe for a winter break
Rovaniemi, Finland- extra than simply Santa’s playground

Many individuals know of Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland as the house of Santa Claus and reindeer. A whole bunch of over-excited youngsters flip up every year on Santa flights (seriously- that’s what they’re known as), to allow them to eat an excessive amount of sugar and inform Santa all their secrets and techniques. 

However Rovaniemi is far more than that. There are lodges for adults to take pleasure in stargazing and Northern lights watching, in addition to images and wildlife excursions. 

Autumn and early Spring are finest in Finland; clear nights, however not freezing. There are numerous lakes round Rovaniemi which supply unbelievable reflections of the Aurora if it comes out to play!

Getting there: May be difficult, relying on airways, regardless of Rovaniemi airport being ‘Santa’s airport’. You’ll most likely have to fly to Helsinki first after which change. 


Kiruna, Sweden

Enjoy a weekend winter city break in Kiruna, Sweden
Take pleasure in a weekend winter metropolis break in Kiruna, Sweden

Kiruna is a spot many individuals cease at on the way in which to Abisko, nevertheless it has so much to supply in its personal proper. For a begin, it’s so much simpler to get to than Abisko, with common flights.

It additionally affords excursions resembling snowmobiling on electrical sleds- making them nearly silent- a magical option to benefit from the countryside and, hopefully, the Northern Lights twinkling overhead.

There are many lodges accessible within the space, in any respect value ranges. 

Getting there: Many direct flights function throughout winter months. 

The place are you able to see the Northern Lights in Europe? Discover out HERE


Europe in Winter- 5 finest European cities to go to in winter for Christmas Markets

Everybody desires to know the largest and finest Christmas Markets in Europe- and methods to go to them.

I’ve a whole publish on the Largest Christmas Markets in Europe, however right here’s a fast rundown on 4 of my favourites:

BIGGEST Christmas Market in Europe- Nuremberg Christkindlsmarkt, Germany

Winter in Europe- BIGGEST Christmas Market in Europe- Nuremberg Christkindlsmarkt, Germany
BIGGEST Christmas Market in Europe- Nuremberg Christkindlsmarkt, Germany

Nuremberg is the largest Christmas market in Europe. It has over 350 stalls- which is HUGE, however that’s what makes it enjoyable! (In the event you’ve ever been to one of many London Christmas Markets, it’s like that… however greater)

I really like every thing about this market. There’s a lot to see, do, eat and admire that you just’ll wish to spend for much longer than a weekend right here. You’ll be able to benefit from the scrumptious meals, skating rinks and stalls stuffed with handmade crafts. It’s great.


Winter Break in Europe- the OLDEST Christmas Market- Dresden, Germany

Winter in Europe HAS to involve Christmas markets- the perfect winter city break
Winter in Europe HAS to contain Christmas markets- the right winter metropolis break

Dresden is the oldest Christmas Market in Europe. It’s lovely and an ideal place to spend a winter metropolis break. This market is now over 580 years previous!!!!! 

I’m additionally a fan of the carousel and the Ferris wheel- simply provides to the enjoyable, carnival vibe. As you possibly can see above, Christmas markets in Europe are the ‘real-deal’; the locals take nice pleasure of their markets and all the metropolis will get concerned within the festivities.


OLDEST & largest Christmas Market in France- Strasbourg

Winter in Europe- winter city break. OLDEST & biggest Christmas Market in France- Strasbourg
OLDEST & largest Christmas Market in France- Strasbourg

Strasbourg is the oldest Christmas Market in France- and makes the good metropolis to go to in winter for a European metropolis break.

It’s one other lovely metropolis to discover, with quaint streets, lovely structure and scrumptious meals!

I really like the variations between Germany Christmas Markets and French ones- each enjoyable and festive, however delicate variations in tradition. If in case you have time, I like to recommend a winter weekend break to each!


London, England- top-of-the-line locations in Europe in winter

Best Christmas Markets in the UK
Finest Christmas Markets within the UK

London is magical in winter. There are Christmas lights EVERYWHERE and all the massive shops make an actual effort to decorate their store home windows and entice folks inside.

Make sure you go to Harrods- its storefront alone is among the most Instagrammable locations in London at Christmas. You might spend a whole day fortunately wandering across the busy buying streets, simply absorbing the ambiance.

In fact, should you solely have a weekend in London, you’ll have to spend it correctly. A number of the finest locations to go to throughout winter embody:

  • A visit on the London Eye
  • Ice skating at one of many many out of doors rinks
  • Discovering at the very least one of many many museums in London
  • Don’t miss a ship trip on the Thames- and a visit to Greenwich to see the Worldwide Date Line
  • And naturally, the well-known Winter Wonderland, one of many finest UK Christmas markets.

Good Winter Metropolis Break- Munich, Germany

Perfect Winter City Break- Munich, Germany Best European cities to visit in Winter
Good Winter Metropolis Break- Munich, Germany

Munich was the primary Christmas Market in Europe we ever visited- and it was magical. Munich in winter doesn’t disappoint.  The ambiance, the pleasant folks, the beer… I’ve by no means felt so Christmassy!! 

All of the locals turned as much as the market after work to benefit from the music, beer and ambiance, the beer halls have been filled with males in lederhosen and it was a unbelievable weekend break for a really affordable value! 

We additionally cherished that there have been so many issues to do in Munich other than the Christmas Market. 

In the event you’re planning to go to a Christmas Market in Europe, listed here are 9 ESSENTIAL issues you could know earlier than you go!

Different notable cities for Christmas Markets embody Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen (Denmark), Prague (Czech Republic), Bruges (Belgium), Salzburg and Vienna (Austria), Budapest (Hungary), Tallinn (Estonia), and Amsterdam (the Netherlands). Discover out extra about Christmas Markets in Europe right here.


Europe in Winter- Finest European cities to go to for sunshine & tradition

I hate to be the bearer of unhealthy information, however not many locations in Europe are heat throughout Winter, particularly January- March. Positive, you may get sunny days, however there are a LOT of chilly winds which brings the common temperature down considerably.

HOWEVER, travelling Europe in winter may be the right time to see a few of the busiest and extra congested cities in Europe.

Locations the place you usually can’t transfer for our bodies within the previous city sq. or get near the magnificent structure usually are PERFECT locations to go to in winter. 

You might wander round carrying a heat coat as an alternative of shorts, however don’t let that put you off; these are a few of the finest winter metropolis breaks in Europe.

Even higher, flights and lodging are sometimes half the price- so you possibly can see extra for much less! In the event you’re winter motorhoming, some campsites areup to 70% cheaper!

On the lookout for sunshine in Europe in Winter? Listed here are a few of the warmest locations in Europe in February


Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece- one of the best European cities to visit in winter
Athens, Greece- top-of-the-line European cities to go to in winter

 Beneficial by Jen from Jen on a Jetplane

Whereas the Greek Islands are quiet within the winter, Athens is buzzing year-round. The town is a vacationer hotspot as a result of year-round Mediterranean cruise ships which dock close by.

Winter is the right time to plan a visit to Greece. Athens normally has sunny days and gentle temperatures. It’s tied with Madrid for sunniest metropolis in Europe, boasting a blinding 350 days of sunshine yearly.

That is the right time to go to the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum the place centuries of historical past and priceless artefacts are displayed.

There’s additionally a free strolling tour on the Rick Steves app that will help you get acquainted with monuments you’ll see all through the neighbourhoods — historical past is in every single place.

If you wish to expertise a style of island life within the metropolis then go to Anafiotika, a residential neighbourhood with whitewashed partitions and scenic alleyways that could be a hidden oasis. 

Athens makes the right base for day journeys or winter weekend escapes. You might take a practice to the Oracle of Delphi or wander north to Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Sore and Recreation of Thrones location. See all of them on this 2-day Athens itinerary.

Winter could also be dreary elsewhere, however in Athens it’s eventful and full of life. Make the most of the low season costs and diminished crowds to come back and discover this historic metropolis. 

Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: The common highs are 14-15 celsius (57f) however it may well typically be even hotter. 

TOP TIP for Winter metropolis breaks: Lastly, no go to to Athens is full with out attempting a few of the scrumptious food- and at all times say sure when supplied baklava. 


Rome, Italy

Rome is a perfect Winter City Break. Best European cities to visit in Winter
Rome is an ideal Winter Metropolis Break.

We’ve campervanned in Italy and visited Rome a few times- as soon as in June when it was loopy busy and we as soon as once more visited Rome in February– which was magical. 

The distinction within the quantity of individuals was amazing- there have been no queues for the Vatican or the Colosseum and you possibly can get unbelievable pictures of the key websites with out crowds in the way in which.

True, you couldn’t sit by the Trevi fountain having fun with an ice cream, however you COULD sit there and revel in a pleasant scorching chocolate whereas watching the world go by. Get extra Italian highway journey suggestions right here

 
Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: The common highs are 13 celsius (55f)

Why is it top-of-the-line European cities to go to in Winter? The historical past! You might stroll round this metropolis for days and nonetheless not see every thing!
 
TOP TIP for Winter Metropolis Break: The Horse-drawn carriage could look cute, however AGREE a value earlier than you begin the trip… or it may be an costly mistake! 


Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik- one of the best European cities to visit in Winter
Dubrovnik- top-of-the-line European cities to go to in Winter

Beneficial by Kate from Our Escape Clause

That includes shiny sunshine, terracotta rooftops, epic Adriatic views, and all of the Recreation of Thrones filming areas you possibly can hope for, it’s exhausting to argue that there’s a greater place to hunt out winter sunshine in Europe than Dubrovnik.

It’s no secret that Dubrovnik has issues with overtourism–the small, walled metropolis merely isn’t large enough to carry all of the individuals who wish to go to it, however a straightforward resolution to this drawback is to go to in winter!

Positive, you’ll want to go away your swimsuit at dwelling, however with winter temperatures averaging a minimum of 48 levels Fahrenheit/9 levels Celsius within the coldest months of the yr, it’s not such as you’ll freeze throughout a winter journey, both.

Whereas some companies do shut throughout the low season, you’ll discover Dubrovnik removed from abandoned even within the depths of winter. Fashionable tour choices like Recreation of Thrones excursions and day journeys to close by areas run all yr, and also you received’t have any issues discovering a cup of espresso or a tasty meal.

Winter Metropolis Break- Low cost lodging & excursions!

The advantages of visiting Dubrovnik in winter are overwhelming. The costs alone are a marvel, with lodging typically listed at round 75% LESS than their going price in excessive summer time! In fact, should you’re going motorhoming in Croatia, you’ll nonetheless be capable to discover some campsites open too.

Lots of the finest issues to do in Dubrovnik, together with visiting Lovrijenac Fortress, admiring the view from Minčeta Fortress, watching the sundown at a cliff bar, and strolling its well-known metropolis partitions, are all accessible in winter.

However as an alternative of battling crowds to get a view on town partitions at sundown, it’s possible you’ll simply end up standing utterly alone whereas overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: The common highs are 12 celsius (54f)

Why is it top-of-the-line European cities to go to in Winter? The Recreation of Thrones areas! You’ll really be capable to see them right now of yr!! 
TOP TIP for Winter Metropolis Break: Take the wind chill into account- these winds may be chilly.


Lisbon, Portugal

One of the best winter city breaks in Europe- Lisbon. Best city in Europe to visit in winter
Among the best winter metropolis breaks in Europe- Lisbon

Beneficial by Kristen from Our Ardour for Journey

When in search of European sunshine within the winter, Lisbon is a straightforward choice. A go to right here throughout the depths of winter in December and January will see common highs of 15 levels and lows of 8 levels.

Pair this with 9-10 hours of daylight every day, and also you’ve bought a real winter sunshine vacation spot (which might be why so many individuals transfer to Portugal– even when only for the winter months!)

In the event you’re campervanning in Portugal, head to the hills. In some ways, climbing Lisbon’s hills could also be higher in winter than summer time. You’ll nonetheless really feel the lactic acid burning in your calves, however the extra nice temperatures will definitely make it simpler.

At sundown, head as much as St George’s Fortress for some unforgettable views over town.  Of all of the issues to do in Lisbon, this isn’t to be missed. 

You’re nicely perched right here to absorb the colorful structure, the bustling hum of town and the cool sea breeze.

Europe in Winter- Travelling round Lisbon

In the event you’re on the lookout for the quickest tour of Lisbon accessible, there isn’t a higher choice than the #28 tram. And with much less vacationers than the crowded summer time months, the wait time for this tram is more likely to be so much lower than these poor souls ready within the scorching solar.

The #28 tram takes you on a surreal, winding journey of Lisbon’s streets. Watch as the driving force winds the extremely guide tram round 90-degree bends and the tram feels prefer it’s going to scrape the partitions. Seize it wherever alongside its route and revel in this nostalgic ride- it’s the right option to take advantage of your sooner or later in Lisbon.

Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: The common highs are 15 celsius (59f)

Why is it top-of-the-line European cities to go to in Winter? It’s one of many few areas in western Europe with first rate climate throughout Winter.   

TOP TIP for Winter Metropolis Break: Give your style buds a deal with at Pasteis de Belem with a ‘pastels de nata’ or 3! The delectable Portuguese egg tarts are initially from this location, and this actually is a case of the unique being the very best.


Good, France

Nice France- One of the best cities in Europe to visit during Winter
Good France- Among the best cities in Europe to go to throughout Winter

Beneficial by Heather from RaulersonGirlsTravel

The French Riviera is a superb place to go to if you end up on the lookout for sunshine to chase the doldrums of winter in Europe. In the event you’re motorhoming in France, you may come to Good in January for a few days and find yourself staying a complete week due to the great climate.

With its personal microclimate, Good tends to remain hotter than the remainder of the South of France as a result of its location surrounded by mountains. Good can be a major spot to remain within the French Riviera as it’s handy to journey to many different cities alongside the Mediterranean- that’s why it’s one of many prime cities to go to in France.

Day journeys to Èze village, Saint-Paul de Vence, and Monaco are fast and simple on public transportation. If you wish to keep on the town there may be loads of issues to do resembling: stroll alongside the Promenade des Anglais, discover the previous quarter, and even see a film on the cinema.

Finest issues to do in Good in Winter

The very best factor to do is to eat and there are such a lot of selections so that you can decide from. You’ll be able to sit outdoors of a restaurant, munch on a croissant and drink espresso whereas watching the folks stroll by or you possibly can dine on French delicacies in any of the superb eating places.

In January common temperatures vary within the mid-50s, however with the solar shining down it seems like it’s within the 60s. With so many issues to do and the fabulous local weather throughout the winter, Good needs to be on the highest of your checklist to go to when the remainder of Europe is roofed in snow.

Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: The common highs are 13 celsius (54f) (feels hotter within the solar)  

Why is it top-of-the-line European cities to go to in Winter? The south of France can be well-known for being the centre of Impressionism and homes many artwork museums so that you can discover together with the Marc Chagall Nationwide Museum in Good.  

TOP TIP for Winter Metropolis Break: Keep right here in February, and you’ll go to the close by city of Menton for the annual Menton Lemon Pageant! (Critically- it’s a must to see it to imagine it!!)  

NOTE: There’s a new France winter tyre law- learn extra right here should you’re travelling by highway.


Madrid, Spain

Madrid is among the finest European cities to go to in winter. The climate stays heat (ish) and there are sometimes extra sunny days than not, even when the air can really feel cool.

How heat is Madrid in Winter?

Surprisingly, snow can fall in Madrid in December and January, however typically the common temperature is round 6’c. Not bikini climate, however not too chilly to cease you having fun with exploring this lovely metropolis.

The place to remain?

In the event you’re not touring Spain in a motorhome, there are many lodging choices accessible throughout winter. Madrid is a giant vacation spot for Christmas customers, so lodges, flats and airBnBs in Madrid all keep open all through winter.

Finest issues to do in Madrid in winter?

A number of the highlights of a winter metropolis break to Madrid embody:

  • Using the Navibus (Christmas bus- all by way of December)
  • The Christmas markets (a few of the finest and largest Christmas markets in Europe)
  • Go to the Royal Palace
  • Benefit from the many museums and galleries
  • Stroll down Gran By way of
  • Marvel at Palacio de Cibeles

In fact, if in case you have time, there’s lots to do round Madrid as nicely. You might take a day journey to Toledo, or head north to Valladolid, go to Seville for the oranges or the Spanish coast (though it may be very windswept in winter!


Naples, Italy

Naples Italy- one of the best European cities in winter
Naples Italy- top-of-the-line European cities in winter

Beneficial by Kaisa from Glam Granola Travels

Most individuals take into account Naples the gateway to Southern Italy—town the place Southern tradition, delicacies, and sure, climate, actually start!

My favorite winter months to go to Naples are February and March. There isn’t usually a lot rain, and the hours of sunshine per day are climbing rapidly, significantly in March. Common temperatures are within the early teenagers (c) (50+F) 

Naples is already a splendidly genuine vacation spot with a way more native really feel to it than cities like Rome or Florence, and within the winter that is all of the extra true. You’ll be surrounded by locals, fairly than vacationers.

Europe in Winter- Out of doors actions in Naples

Whilst you received’t wish to go swimming, the climate is beautiful for a hike. You’ll be able to spend at the very least a day exploring the ruins of Pompeii, which you will have all to your self!

Mt. Vesuvius needs to be open to hikers by February as nicely, except the winter ice went significantly late. It’s a extremely doable day hike with insane views of all the metropolis, plus who doesn’t wish to hike a well-known volcano?!

Inside the metropolis itself, be sure you eat some Neapolitan pizza. I can’t let you know what number of occasions we’ve sat outdoors pizzerias, people-watching with a glass of wine or Peroni beer while motorhoming in Italy.

Naples has Southern Italy’s attribute slow-moving, stress-free, laid again vibe to it. I can consider no higher metropolis to take pleasure in some peaceable winter solar, out of doors adventures, and ridiculously tasty meals.

Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: The common highs are 12 celsius (52f)   

Why is it top-of-the-line European cities to go to in Winter? True, genuine Italian pizza. The “finest pizza on this planet”, the one Liz Gilbert penned love sonnets to in Eat, Pray, Love, may be discovered at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele.   

TOP TIP for Winter Metropolis Break: Make sure you go to Herculaneum in addition to Pompeii. We loved each, however Herculaneum is INCREDIBLY nicely preserved!    


Alternatively, head over the border into Asia and revel in a few of these unbelievable Winter Metropolis Breaks:

Baku, Azerbaijan

Beneficial by Ellis from Backpack Adventures

Baku is a good vacation spot to go to in winter. Despite the fact that it does get chilly, its location on the coast makes for a milder local weather than elsewhere in Azerbaijan.

Snow is uncommon and the common temperature is round 10 levels Celsius. More often than not the climate shall be sunny. This makes winter a good time to discover town whereas escaping the summer time warmth.

Baku is a metropolis on the crossroads of Europe and Asia and it’s really a little bit of each. Whereas Baku’s trendy buying avenue appears typical European, its previous city brings you straight to the Center East with historical caravanserais, mosques and palaces.

In reality, town has an extended historical past of influences from totally different empires like The Persians, the Ottomans and the Russians.

Baku can be a cosmopolitan metropolis with numerous new futuristic buildings just like the flame towers. They’re a logo for the nation’s huge reserves of oil and gasoline.

Most of its wealth is concentrated in Baku. That doesn’t imply Baku must be costly. For a Capital metropolis, it’s nonetheless very budget-friendly.

Among the many prime issues to do in Baku is wandering across the previous city that’s fantastically renovated. Don’t miss the palace of the Shirvanshah.

Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: 13c/ 54F

TOP TIP for a winter metropolis break: To see Baku’s futuristic structure stroll alongside the ocean boulevard after which take the funicular as much as the flame towers for a wonderful view over town.


Kusadasi, Turkey

Kusadasi, Turkey- one of the best cities for a winter sunshine break
Kusadasi, Turkey- top-of-the-line cities for a winter sunshine break

Beneficial by Rebecca from Rayner En Route

Turkey is an unbelievable nation to go to for winter sunshine and top-of-the-line areas to take pleasure in right now of yr is the port metropolis of Kusadasi.

Located on Turkey’s western coast, in the summertime months, Kusadasi is nicely and actually alive with guests coming to land from the various big cruise ships that dock right here.  

Issues get quieter within the winter, however with temperatures averaging 16c throughout these months, there’s nonetheless loads of sunshine-filled enjoyable available. For the warmest temperatures, head to Kusadasi in October or November to benefit from the warmth within the early ’20s.  

Winter Metropolis Break- issues to do in Kusadasi

Throughout your journey, begin by exploring town of Kusadasi itself, rambling by way of its many vibrant medinas. These markets delight the senses, with the waft of sturdy spices filling the air because the energetic sounds of bartering may be heard throughout.

Right here you possibly can decide up a Turkish eye, a standard image mentioned to beat back unhealthy spirits and hold its proprietor protected. 

READ MORE: Weird Customs and traditions in Europe that you just’ve by no means heard of!

Subsequent stroll as much as the Güvercinada peninsular, which accurately interprets to imply Pigeon Island. The fort on the Island was commissioned by an Ottoman admiral, however these days it’s a stress-free place to stroll and discover.

After seeing Kusadasi, a visit to the historic historical metropolis of Ephesus is a should!  This metropolis was an essential metropolis in each Greek and Roman occasions and affords guests a spectacular perception into historical life. 

One of many highlights discovered at Ephesus is the unbelievable Celsus library, which was as soon as the third largest library of the traditional world, housing over 12,000 scrolls. 

Taking a tour of Ephesus from Kusadasi is one of the best ways to see these unbelievable ruins. Benefit from the perception supplied by a educated information, with transport that simply takes you to the sight in simply half-hour.  

Common Winter Sunshine Temperature in January: 16c/ 61F

TOP TIP for a winter metropolis break: An expertise to not be missed is a go to to Pamukkale’s mineral-rich thermal waters. These attractive UNESCO standing baths are heat cascading swimming pools that provide guests the right place to chill out, in a setting the simply teleports you to a different planet.

Entry to Pamukkale prices simply £6 and is among the most visited sights in Turkey. 

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Europe Winter Locations- The place is the very best place in Europe to spend Christmas?

It is a powerful one- and once more it most likely depends upon what you need out of your Christmas in Europe.

Would you like some winter solar and to spend Christmas Day on the seaside with a BBQ? If that’s the case, Spain or one of many European Mediterranean Islands might be a good suggestion.

Alternatively, do you wish to take pleasure in unbelievable mountain views, however nonetheless need some life and a celebration to hitch? Maybe one of many ski resorts would give you the results you want.

If you’d like top-of-the-line New 12 months’s Eve events ever, head to Edinburgh in Scotland. Bringing within the New 12 months with Hogmanay is an unforgettable expertise.

However if you wish to get away from all of it, disguise in a log cabin and watch the Northern Lights shimmer overhead, head additional north, above the Arctic Circle and revel in a Christmas Day you’ll always remember! 

Have you ever travelled Europe in Winter? The place did you take pleasure in? 

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