Where to go in Europe in winter, where to travel in Europe in winter to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere and see the brilliant aurora borealis? Discover the 10 most romantic, best destinations in Europe in winter, must see & best places to visit in Europe in winter in this post!
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When talking about winter in Europe, many people will immediately think of streets covered in white snow, ancient villages sparkling with lights or colorful Christmas markets. Not only is Europe a place to enjoy the sweet cold, it also offers unforgettable experiences with many fairytale castles, majestic snow-capped mountains and breathtakingly beautiful frozen lakes.
If you are planning to travel in winter, join Klook Vietnam to discover the 10 attractive winter travel destinations in Europe below!
Hunting for the Aurora Borealis and Meeting Santa Claus in Lapland (Finland)
Lapland is considered the “fairyland” of Europe, where the long winter is covered with white snow and the sky is often lit up by magical auroras. The ideal time to hunt for the auroras lasts from September to April, the most beautiful is on clear winter days.
Rovaniemi – the capital of Lapland is a familiar stop for this journey. Visitors can join the aurora tour with a Lappish-style lunch to enjoy local specialties in a warm wooden house, then hunt for magical lights in the middle of a snowy night with a tour guide.
Santa Claus Village photoshoot experience in Rovaniemi
During the day, visitors visit and take souvenir photos at Santa Claus Village – the official village of Santa Claus. Here, you will meet Santa Claus “in the flesh”, send postcards from the North Pole post office, or stroll around the wooden houses sparkling with lights.
Aurora Borealis tour with Lappish picnic in Rovaniemi
A little tip for the trip: bring a tripod and a spare battery to take clear photos of the aurora, because cameras and phones can quickly run out of battery in the cold. The combination of nature and legend makes Lapland an unmissable winter destination in Europe.
Must visit places in Europe in winter: Watching the Aurora Borealis and the Blue Lagoon Hot Springs in Iceland
Iceland is an ideal destination for those who want to combine hunting for the aurora and relaxing in natural hot springs. In winter, from September to April, the aurora borealis often appears in the sky above Reykjavik and its suburbs. You should choose a tour to hunt for the Northern Lights from Reykjavik or a long trip with a visit to the ice lake to increase your chances of admiring the brilliant lights.
Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik
After a night of hunting for the aurora borealis, the Blue Lagoon is the perfect place to “recharge your batteries”. This is an artificial geothermal hot spring, formed from the mineral-rich water of the Svartsengi plant. The milky blue water contains silica and algae, which not only helps to relax but also has a beautifying effect on the skin. The image of you soaking in the warm water, surrounded by white steam and a magical winter sky, will definitely become a memorable moment.
5-Day Northern Lights Hunt & Glacier Lagoon Tour
Blue Lagoon also has spa services, free mud masks, an in-water bar and a restaurant serving exquisite Icelandic cuisine. Advice for you: you should book tickets in advance because the number of visitors here is very crowded, especially during the peak season. A trip with both magical aurora and a natural spa, it is difficult to find a winter journey that is more “flavorful” than Iceland.
Skiing and Admiring the Majestic Mountains in Winter in the Swiss Alps
When it comes to winter in Europe, the Swiss Alps cannot be missed – a paradise for snow sports enthusiasts and mountain landscapes. The Bernese Oberland or Zermatt region is always bustling with tourists coming to conquer world-class ski runs. For something a little more unique, take a helicopter tour of the Alps from Bern, where every frame opens up to a sea of clouds and breathtaking snow-capped peaks.
Glacier 3000 and Swiss Alps Day Trip from Montreux
For those who prefer a more leisurely journey, a day trip to Glacier 3000 from Montreux is a great choice. The cable car takes you up to 3,000m, where the Peak Walk by Tissot suspension bridge connects the two peaks and the Snow Park is perfect for beginners. Alternatively, try the Alpine Coaster – a thrilling and exhilarating speed ride through the snow-capped landscape.
Swiss Alps Private Helicopter Tour from Bern
Note that the weather in the mountains can change quickly, so pack ski goggles, windbreakers and warm boots. With a combination of breathtaking scenery and a variety of activities, winter in the Swiss Alps offers a beautiful journey of enjoyment amidst majestic nature.
Best places to visit in Europe in winter: Enjoy the Bright Lights and Christmas Atmosphere in Paris, France
Eiffel Tower Elevator Guided Tour in Paris
Paris in winter puts on its most splendid coat of the year, when millions of decorative lights begin to light up from mid-November until early January. The sparkling Champs-Elysées Avenue becomes a romantic stroll, where you can admire the brilliant Arc de Triomphe while immersing yourself in the joyful Christmas atmosphere.
Christmas markets such as Trocadéro or La Défense bring a colorful world of hot crepes, mulled wine and unique craft stalls. If you love the art of shopping, visit Galeries Lafayette to admire the legendary upside-down Christmas tree under the splendid Art Nouveau glass dome.
Best of Paris Guided Tour with 15-30 Attractions
At the end of the day, book a ticket to the top of the Eiffel Tower to see the whole city shimmering under the night sky. A little tip: bring a thick coat and non-slip shoes to comfortably walk for hours in the chilly weather, and don’t forget to prepare a camera because every corner of Paris during Christmas is worth keeping as a memory.
Immerse yourself in the ancient Christmas atmosphere in Prague (Czech Republic)
Prague in winter has a different, ancient and mysterious beauty. From the beginning of December to January 6, Old Town Square becomes the center of the city’s largest Christmas market. Amidst the Gothic cathedral and Prague Castle, you will come across a giant Christmas tree, a series of wooden stalls selling trdelník, grilled sausages and steaming glasses of mulled wine.
The trip will be more complete if you stroll through the Prague Christmas market, listen to interesting stories about local customs and try countless traditional delicacies. Alternatively, from Vienna you can take a day tour to Prague, combining exploration of the old town, Charles Bridge and cozy cafes along the way.
From Vienna: Prague full day tour
The winter weather in Prague is usually below 0°C, with light snow covering the roofs, creating a fairytale scene. If you like peace, come in January or February, when the crowds of tourists have thinned out, hotels are heavily discounted, and you can easily enjoy Prague like a local. You must try kulajda soup – a specialty dish made from potatoes, dill, sour cream and eggs, perfect for warming up on a cold day.
Enjoy an Emotional Concert Night in Vienna, Austria
Vienna is known as the “music capital” of Europe, and winter here is the ideal time to enjoy a concert filled with a festive atmosphere. From mid-November, Christmas markets with bright lights begin to appear around Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn Palace, and what makes Vienna even more special is the music.
The city hosts countless concerts, from classical music by Mozart, Strauss to soulful Christmas carols. In the heart of Vienna, visit the State Opera, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and historic squares, before ending with a musical experience at a historic auditorium. Sitting in a warm space, listening to the orchestra while the snow falls outside, will definitely leave you with unforgettable memories.
If you love luxury, book concert tickets at Kursalon or Musikverein – home to the world-famous New Year’s Concert. A good tip for you is to buy tickets early because the peak season is very crowded, and don’t hesitate to wear formal clothes to fully experience the unique European artistic spirit.
Explore Little-Known Historical Sites in Rome in Winter, Italy
Rome Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill Tour
Winter in Rome offers a completely different look, when the ancient streets are less crowded and the space becomes quiet, making it easy for you to fully appreciate the history here. If in the summer, the Colosseum or the Vatican is always crowded with tourists, then from December to February, you can leisurely visit without having to wait long.
An ideal choice is to join the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill tour to explore the heart of the ancient Roman Empire. The tour guide will help you better understand the gladiator game, political life and culture of that time. Besides, the tour of the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica is also worth experiencing. In winter, you can fully admire Michelangelo’s masterpiece ceiling without being obscured by the crowd.
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica Tour in Rome
After a day of walking around, enjoy wood-fired pizza or gelato in the Trastevere area – a popular spot for local Romans. Tip: book your tour tickets in advance through Klook to avoid long lines, and remember to bring a warm coat and thick-soled shoes as the cobblestone streets of Rome can be slippery when it rains. Traveling to Rome in winter is an opportunity to experience the city at a slower, more romantic and deeper pace.
Join the Colorful Carnival Season in Venice, Italy
Venice in winter becomes more vibrant than ever when the Carnival festival takes place, usually in February or early March. This is the occasion when the canal city puts on a mysterious and brilliant look. Thousands of tourists and locals wear elaborate costumes and elaborate masks to join in the festive atmosphere. The main focus is St. Mark’s Square, where artistic performances, mask competitions and the spectacular “Flight of the Angel” event are held.
You can also attend royal banquets in ancient palaces, where every detail recreates the luxury of Renaissance Venice. Alternatively, join a traditional mask-making workshop and create your own exclusive souvenir of the trip. Don’t forget to enjoy hot frittelle donuts and sip an Aperol Spritz – the typical drink of the Veneto region.
St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace tour in Venice
In 2026, the Venice Carnival will take place from January 31 to February 17, so you should book your tickets and hotel early to get a convenient location near the center. Prepare non-slip shoes as the cobblestones can be slippery, and bring a standout outfit if you want to fully immerse yourself in this magical atmosphere.
Ice Skating and Shopping in London, England
London in winter is the perfect combination of festive activities and modern experiences. In December, the whole city is lit up with Christmas lights, bustling Christmas markets and open-air ice skating rinks everywhere. A must-see place for fun is the ice rink at Somerset House and the Natural History Museum, where visitors can skate while admiring the ancient architecture shimmering with light.
After exercising, take time for a day of shopping at Bicester Village, a famous outlet area about an hour away from London. Here, you can easily hunt for countless fashion items from big brands at preferential prices. Don’t miss Oxford Street, Regent Street or Covent Garden, which are decorated in splendid winter, suitable for walking, shopping and enjoying hot cocoa.
American Museum of Natural History Ticket
The weather in London in December-February is quite cold, around 0-5°C, often with drizzle, so bring a waterproof jacket, warm shoes and gloves. If you want to avoid the cold, you should go to the ice rink or shopping areas in the morning. A winter trip to London will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the typical European Christmas atmosphere, enjoy a vibrant shopping experience like no other.
Explore the Traditional Christmas Market and Enjoy Winter Beer in Munich, Germany
The winter atmosphere in Munich has an irresistible attraction, with traditional Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmarkt) lighting up the historic squares. Walking through Marienplatz – the heart of the city, you will be immersed in the brilliant red, green, and yellow of thousands of lights, along with small wooden stalls filled with handmade decorations, sweet gingerbread and the strong scent of cinnamon.
At the market, you cannot miss German winter beer, a drink associated with Bavarian tradition. Unlike regular beers, winter beer (Winterbier) often has a richer flavor, darker color and a slightly higher alcohol content to help warm the body in the cold weather. Holding a steaming glass of craft beer in your hand, enjoying it with grilled sausages or roasted chestnuts, you will clearly feel the connection, joy and family of the festive season.
Romantic Road: Rothenburg and Harburg Tour from Munich
Munich in winter therefore becomes a great destination for those who want to enjoy Christmas in the true sense: both classic and cozy. Don’t forget to join the joyful crowd, listen to the echoing carols and let the warm winter beer close a day full of unforgettable experiences.
Winter Travel Tips for Independent Travelers in Europe
Traveling to Europe in the winter on your own is fun but a bit difficult if you are not well prepared. Here are some small tips to make the trip easier:
- Prepare your Schengen visa early: The review time can be long, especially during the peak season at the end of the year, so you should apply a few months in advance to avoid missing out on your plans.
- Book a Christmas tour combo or aurora hunting through Klook: Save money and worry less about scheduling. These combos often include shuttle bus, entrance tickets and tour guides, convenient for independent travelers.
- Bring enough warm clothes and non-slip shoes: When the temperature drops below zero, the roads can be icy, so down jackets, gloves, scarves and shoes with good grip are indispensable “weapons”.
Frequently Asked Questions When Traveling to Europe in the Winter
What clothes and equipment do you need to prepare when traveling to Europe in the winter?
You should bring a thick coat, sweater, gloves, woolen hat, scarf and non-slip shoes. Also, remember to bring a mini heater to keep warm.
Which cities in Europe are the most famous for viewing the aurora?
The famous cities for viewing the aurora include Tromsø (Norway), Reykjavik (Iceland), Lapland (Finland) and Abisko (Sweden).
How to travel conveniently between major cities in Europe in winter?
The most convenient way is to take a high-speed train, long-distance bus or domestic flight. Eurail Pass is also very convenient for traveling to many cities.
What are the special winter festivals that cannot be missed in Europe?
You should not miss the Christmas Festival, Lyon Light Festival (France), Hogmanay in Edinburgh (Scotland) and Harbin Ice and Snow Festival (near Europe, in China).
What are some famous Christmas markets to visit when traveling to Europe in the winter?
Some famous Christmas markets include the Munich and Cologne Christmas Markets (Germany), Strasbourg (France), Vienna (Austria) and Prague (Czech Republic) – where the festive atmosphere is filled with handicrafts and cuisine.
Winter in Europe always brings a romantic and magical picture: snow-covered towns, Christmas markets with brilliant lights, majestic Alps and ancient cities wearing enchanting winter coats. It is the combination of natural beauty and festive atmosphere that makes winter travel in Europe a dream journey for every travel enthusiast.
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