20 Best European Cities to Visit in the Winter, According to Travel Experts

Nuremberg, Germany

Boehnstedt recommends heading to Nuremberg for the “amazing Christmas markets, musical festivals, and overall festive spirit and atmosphere in the charm of Bavaria.” It will be cold, so travelers should bundle up to explore the charming city — a glass of mulled wine while browsing the famed Christkindlesmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest fairs, helps, too.  

From December 1 to Christmas Eve, take advantage of one of the guided tours of the market and special holiday tasting tours, or check out one of the Christmas concerts at churches in the Old Town like St. Lorenz and St. Martha. While you’re shopping, keep an eye out for special treats and gifts you can only get here — these will be marked with the market’s official logo. Specialty cookie cutters and punch blends from the Wurzelsepp tea shop are Nuremberg exclusives.

Edinburgh, Scotland

“If you like moody skies and cozy corners in coffee shops, Edinburgh is the place to visit during the winter months,” says Zeigler. Despite the cold weather and shorter days — the sun sets before 4 p.m. in December — there’s still plenty to enjoy in the Scottish capital. “Keep warm with a wee dram, cozied up next to a roaring fire in any of Edinburgh’s iconic luxury hotels,” says Zeigler. 

On top of holiday activities like the annual Christmas market, a trip to Edinburgh is a chance to participate in Hogmanay a massive festival with torchlight processions and fireworks that takes place before New Year’s. Afterward, you can also participate in the legendary Hogmanay hangover cure: a cold dip in the River Forth known as the Loony Dook. Costumes aren’t necessary, but they’ll definitely make it more fun!

Valletta, Malta

Snow-capped mountains and excursions requiring multiple layers aren’t for everyone. Thankfully, Europe has other options — one of which is Valletta, Malta. “Malta boasts a mild Mediterranean climate, even in winter. You can explore [Valletta’s] rich history, architecture, and vibrant culture without the scorching summer heat,” says Totengco.

In the winter, the island’s temperatures hover between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which means snow is very unlikely but it’s not warm enough to swim either. However, this tends to be the island’s greenest season and it’s a great time to take advantage of the hiking trails. Plan a trip in December if you’d also like to experience Valletta’s Christmas markets or in February to see the city during Carnival.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Winter is the ideal time to visit the “official hometown of Santa Claus.”

“Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is known for its Santa Claus Village, where one can meet Santa Claus himself. Here, you can also enjoy activities like reindeer safaris, dog sledding, and witnessing the Northern Lights from your unique igloo accommodation,” says Totengco.

One of the main winter activities is the SnowGlow Winter Activity Park which opens in late November and keeps the festivities going until early March. In addition to tons of warming beverages and food on sale, the park’s attractions include mesmerizing light displays, sledding hills, inflatable “zorbs” that you can climb inside, and even a snowman-building station! There are even mini snowmobiles for kids ages 4 to 13.

Lucerne, Switzerland

As temperatures fall below freezing, the cities and towns in the Swiss Alps — like Lucerne — beckon to winter sports enthusiasts, as well as those who want an extra large helping of alpine charm. “Snow sports in the mountains may likely be very possible. Plan a day tour on one of the Swiss scenic trains across the winter wonderland,” says Boehnstedt. Lucerne is also a great option for international travelers, as it’s just a quick 40-minute train ride from Zurich. 

If you’re visiting Lucerne in December, you can experience traditional Christmas markets or time your trip to coincide with the Lilu Light Festival in January. This annual event illuminates the city with creative light installations and dynamic shows all over the old town.

Istanbul, Turkey

“Istanbul’s unique blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture is enchanting year-round. In winter, you can explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque with fewer crowds,” says Tesa Totengco, founder of Travels with Tesa. 

The weather tends to be gloomier in the winter, but it rarely gets below freezing. If you do feel a bit chilly, you could always get your steam on at a luxury hammam in one of Istanbul’s best hotels. In December, you can even see Christmas decorations lighting up the Nişantaşi neighborhood and the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul is known for its annual Christmas market and holiday dinners. A must-have during winter in Istanbul is salep, a hot milk drink made with cinnamon and orchid tubers, which give the beverage its signature thickness.

London, England

“As Christmas approaches, London transforms into a winter wonderland, adorned with captivating city lights, beautifully decorated shops, and many excellent dining choices,” says Forte. Enjoy an afternoon walking through the brightly lit Kew Gardens, or tuck into a Sunday roast at one of the nearby pubs after a long walk through Hampstead Heath. “The weather, while cold, usually is snow-free, so it makes it easier to get about,” adds Boehnstedt.  

Don’t miss one of the best Christmas markets in Europe at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, where you can get a hot cocoa and adrenaline fix in one night with tons of stalls for shopping and coasters for riding. For the best overview of London during the holidays, join a themed holiday lights tour or try to catch the Christmas choir performance at Kings College London. Later in the season, you may have a chance to catch unique winter events like January’s International Mime Festival and Burns Night in February, when restaurants all over the city put out Scottish-inspired menus in honor of the famous poet Robert Burns.

Bath, England

A winter’s day in Bath is best spent browsing its various quaint bookstores, indulging in afternoon tea, soaking in the famed waters of the Thermae Bath Spa, and popping into one of the city’s oldest pubs, Saracens Head or The Star Inn. For a more festive touch, add ice skating at Royal Victoria Park and picking up gifts at the Bath Christmas Market to your day’s activities. Many hotels offer special experiences for the season, such as The Bird Hotel, which sets up festive igloos where you can book a festive meal with a great view of the city. You can also get a bit of holiday history in when visiting the Roman Baths with special activities surrounding the ancient holiday of Saturnalia, from which many Christmas traditions take their roots. The baths also host a New Year’s Eve bash with a candlelit meal and dancing in the elegant ballroom.

Paris, France

It’s true what they say: There’s never a bad time to visit Paris. As fall transitions into the colder months, the City of Light becomes extra cozy and even more romantic. “Paris’ famous street cafés are still functioning in winter… with heat lamps and warm furry blankets — perfect for people watching and sipping a glass of wine (or a hot chocolate),” says Zeigler. “And, of course, the lower hotel prices can’t be beat this time of year.”

Christmas in Paris offers a great number of things to do from the charming Christmas markets to the delightful window and light displays at the luxury stores on the Champs-Élysées. If you want the best shopping deals though, better to stick around after Christmas for the Winter Sales (les soldes) when shops all over their cities slash prices throughout January and February.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Given its status as a UNESCO World Heritage City, it’s no surprise that Dubrovnik is popular with tourists, especially in the summer. In the winter, though, you won’t have to fight for the best views of the iconic sights — the City Walls, the Cable Car, and the Dubrovnik Cathedral. Your trip may also fall during the Dubrovnik Winter Festival, featuring concerts, festive lights, and markets. The winter is also the season where you can experience one of the city’s most important religious events, the Festivity of St. Blaise on February 3. Dubrovnik fills up with people as worshippers arrive from all over for this UNESCO-recognized event where many Croatian folk traditions are celebrated.

Málaga, Spain

“Located on the Costa del Sol, Málaga offers a pleasant climate where you can still enjoy outdoor activities, explore historic sites like the Alcazaba […], and enjoy delicious Spanish cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere,” says Totengco. Temperatures typically range from the mid-50s to low 70s, and there the sun provides a much-needed dose of vitamin D.

Winter in Malaga is also a great time to try gazpacho’s warm counterpart gazpachuelo, a hearty soup made with fish and potatoes. If you visit in December, you’ll get to see the city dressed up in twinkling holiday lights and the Christmas market stalls in the Paseo del Parque.

Reykjavík, Iceland

You’ll only have a few hours of daylight in Reykjavík this time of year, but winter is also your best chance to see the northern lights in Iceland. Consider taking a whale-watching tour out of Reykjavík Old Harbor, or use the city as your base camp before heading off on a longer excursion. There are even cruises on New Year’s Eve that give you a great vantage point of the fireworks over the city. To shake the cold, take a dip in the nearby Sky Lagoon, where the waters are typically around 100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. 

In February, Reykjjavíkingers keep their spirits up with the Winter Lights Festival, a free festival that fills the city with decorative lights in the middle of the dark winter. The event also includes a dedicated Museum Night, during which all of the city’s participating museums will open their doors to the public in the evening.

Rome, Italy

Rome’s peak season comes to a close in November, so travelers have December through March to enjoy the capital city’s quieter side. Before or after a day of shopping and sightseeing, Forte recommends grabbing pizza from Emma or getting a table at Roscioli for lunch. We think pasta and pizza sound like the perfect way to warm up from a chilly walk.

In December, the holiday season fills the city with Christmas markets like the Festa della Befana in Plaza Navona and Giftland, an indoor market in Piazza Ragusa. Stick around for the Carnevale celebrations in late February to see Rome at one of the most colorful times of the year. Parades complete with horse-drawn carriages and costumed revelers take over the main streets and plazas for a week of fun before Ash Wednesday.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon’s sunshine is part of its appeal, even in the winter. Depending on the day, you may only need a light or medium-weight jacket as you walk up and down the many hills, through the cobbled streets, and by the tiled buildings of the Alfama district. Compared to summer, this time of year is significantly more pleasant for on-foot exploration — but don’t forget to hop on a yellow tram at least once or twice. 

December is a lovely time to be in Lisbon for the Christmas markets, the largest of which is Wonderland Lisboa, which also has attractions like ice skating and a Ferris wheel. In the first week of January, Lisbon celebrates Three King’s Day so if you’re there on this day, you can try the Portuguese version of King’s Cake.

Barcelona, Spain

Winter is the low season for tourists, so you might even feel like you have more elbow room at some of Barcelona’s top attractions. According to Zeigler, in Barcelona, “one of Europe’s largest and busiest cruise port cities,”  winter means getting a break from the crowds created by cruises. “Strolling and exploring are more pleasant; restaurants are less crowded,” she says. Outdoor swimming may be a no-go, but travelers can still bask in the rays along the oceanfront promenade.

After the Christmas festivities and Three Kings Day Parade of Barcelona’s holiday season, winter travelers visiting from late January on can look forward to trying a rare winter treat. Calçots are large green onions only eaten when in season and for the Catalan people, they also signal the return of wintertime barbecues. Barcelona restaurants will be advertising this unique experience and you can learn the proper (and very messy) way to participate.

Venice, Italy

“On a sunny winter day, Venice is pure magic! With the city’s new floodgates almost fully working now, hardly any high water (Aqua Alta) affects Venice anymore,” says Zeigler. And, as with most European cities in the off-season, it will be easier to navigate your way through the compact city without the staggering number of summer travelers.

“Winter is the perfect time to visit the big sites, as you can get tickets and don’t have to do the ridiculous queues,” says Forte. Check off all the classics, including the Piazza San Marco, the Bridge of Sighs, Doge’s Palace, and Forte’s personal favorite, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

In the winter, gondoliers will provide blankets to keep you warm if you still want to take an iconic ride or participate in an even more wintry activity at the ice skating rink in Campo San Polo. Winter is also a great time for shopping in Venice with Christmas markets in December and many shops selling elaborate masks in the weeks leading up to the city’s world-famous Carnival celebrations.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam might not be the first European destination you think of when planning winter travel, but it has its own brand of magic this time of year.  “When it stays cold enough, long enough, the many canals of Amsterdam become a giant outdoor skating rink,” says Zeigler. This event is rare — and becoming increasingly so — but there are other sides of Amsterdam to explore as well. Bring a book or a good friend to one of the city’s many coffee shops and pubs, complete with “winter lights and cozy nooks,” she adds. 

This time of year you can also try the seasonal doughnut olibollen, which you can buy hot right on the street. Amsterdam is a great place to be for Christmas lights thanks to the Amsterdam Light Festival, which ups the ante with high-tech artist-designed displays.

Nice, France

You won’t be frequenting Nice’s beach clubs this time of year, but there’s still beauty to be found in the waterfront city; you just have to know where to look. Get your steps in by walking up Castle Hill, a feat rewarded with an incredible view, or spend a day meandering through the narrow streets of Old Town. Schedule permitting, take a day trip to Monaco, or explore one of the many small towns in the French Riviera. 

In December, you’ll find the Christmas market on Place Masséna — just look for the big Ferris wheel — and the palm trees that line the Promenade des Anglais will be all aglow. If you’re in town for New Year’s, head to the beach for fireworks over the bay.

Florence, Italy

Those visiting Florence in the winter might not see any snow, but they’ll have the gift of lower hotel prices, fewer fellow travelers, and the option to go truffle hunting. “This time of year is when truffles are in season,” says Forte, who shares that guests of Hotel Savoy — named one of the best hotels in Florence by T+L readers — can book a truffle excursion via a vintage car. “The experience is especially extraordinary as guests can enjoy stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, and San Miniato along their drive before heading into the Tuscan hills on their search for truffles,” she explains. 

During the holidays, you’ll find Christmas festivities like the market on Piazza Sant Croce. Head toward the Florence Eye Ferris wheel and you will also find one of the largest ice skating rinks in Tuscany at the Florence Ice Village.

Vienna, Austria

Get out your dancing shoes and black-tie attire because Vienna hosts lavish balls all winter long. Following the holiday season’s Christmas markets like the Viennese Dream in front of the City Hall and the Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace, Vienna keeps the parties going with its famous balls. Viennese balls are open to the public, so travelers just have to find one that aligns with their trip and buy tickets — and don’t worry, there are quite a few to choose from. Not sure where to start? Bookmark the city’s official Ball Calendar.

Winter temperatures in Vienna average typically fall between 28 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit, but luckily many of the city’s best attractions happen indoors. Book tickets in advance for a performance at the Spanish Riding School or perhaps catch an opera at the iconic Staatsoper.