Winter in Europe: 22 Best Places to Go

Wondering where to enjoy winter in Europe? Just as Autumn in Europe is lovely, winter is also an incredible season to visit.

Central and Northern Europe are winter wonderlands. In southern Europe, brilliant sunshine lights up the turquoise Mediterranean Sea.

Glimpse the mystical Northern Lights. Go dog sledding. Or visit a Norwegian reindeer farm. With fewer crowds and cheap flights, the best of Europe awaits.

Here’s some destination inspiration for enjoying Europe in winter in 2022:

Best Places to Visit in Europe in Winter

1. See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Iceland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Europe. This natural phenomenon, Aurora Borealis, can typically be seen between sometime in September to March and April.

The trick is that it must be dark enough in order to be visible.

In fact, the Northern Lights are active during the summer months as well, but since the sun sets late (or never sets) in Iceland, it’s only possible to see the Northern Lights during the winter months when it’s dark enough.

For the best chance to see the Northern Lights for yourself,  download a Northern Lights app. You’ll be able to track the daily activity for your visit as well as monitor the cloudiness.

While you won’t be able to see it if it’s too cloudy, you could still drive an hour or two away from your current location to escape the clouds.

And it’s well worth the drive; Aurora Borealis is truly one of the natural wonders of the world.

A last tip: For best success, consider joining a guided tour by experienced Northern Lights chasers.

Locals know best! You can check prices on a tour here.

Alexander | Destinavo

2. Visit the Christmas Market in Cologne

The Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom in German)—visible as far away as neighboring Bonn—is a must-visit on any Cologne or even European itinerary.

And it’s also the center of one of the largest Christmas markets in all of Germany. (But don’t miss one of the prettiest—the Dresden Christmas market—either!)

An impressive gothic structure, the cathedral rivals many of its European counterparts and is actually the most visited tourist attraction in all of Germany.

It also has a more dubious claim to fame: it was one of the only large structures left standing in Cologne after the World War II bombing, as it’s said that Allied pilots used it as a landmark, rather than a target.

The Cologne Christmas market (Kölner Weihnachtsmarkt) attracts visitors from nearby cities as well as international visitors, making it one of the best European winter holiday destinations.

You’ll taste fragrant mulled wine, lebekuchen (German gingerbread treats) and find gorgeous handicrafts.

But the Cologne Christmas market also specializes in delicious local beer (kölsch) and more unique foodie fare.

Try the zimtbrezeln, a fusion between a cinnamon roll and a salty pretzel that will have your taste buds singing.

Spend a few hours walking around this market (which opens in December) before you head into Cologne proper.

More lovely shops await you in the main streets of Hohe and Breite Strasse there.

Consider a river cruise in Cologne or a pub crawl, too. You can check prices and availability on all Cologne tours here.

And if you’re headed towards Munich or Nuremberg next, be sure to visit the beautiful medieval town of Regensburg.

Lee | The Travel Scribes

3. Soak in Budapest’s Thermal Baths

Freezing days, soft snow and a steamy hot bath…It’s the perfect combination to enjoy the winter in Budapest.

The city is famous for its thermal baths and there are many of them scattered across the city, but not all of them have a majestic outdoor swimming pool where you can swing surrounded by snow!

One of the top things to do in Budapest in winter is to visit the Szechenyi Thermal Bath and relax at its gigantic open-air swimming bath.

It’s not just about a hot bath on a cold day, but rather, a sensory experience.

You can relax your body and mind in 21 swimming pools in the complex, spend hours admiring the amazing architecture, and see a bit of Budapest local life.

The bath is busy with locals and tourists during summer, but in winter not many tourists venture there, especially in the outdoor pool.

Yes, you will feel cold when you leave the building and walk to the pool, but after that first dive in, you’ll wish you could stay there forever.

The outside area of Szechenyi Thermal Bath is stunning. In fact, if the sky is clear, you must stay until sunset. The spectacle is stunning!

Unlike other baths in Budapest that frequently have different days for men and women, the Szechenyi Thermal Bath is open daily for both women and men from 6 am to 10 pm.

You can get a skip-the-line full day entrance pass to the Szechenyi Spa here.

Nathalie | Love and Road

4. Ski Borovets, Bulgaria

One of the best places to go in Europe in the winter is the small Bulgarian ski resort town of Borovets.

Located just two hours outside of Bulgaria’s capital, Sofia, Borovets can also be reached easily from Plovdiv.

Or you can reserve a full-day tour from Sofia here.

There are two main ski lifts to use, and there are even night ski sessions available for someone looking for a bit of extra adventure.

There are lots of great things to do in Borovets beyond skiing as well, like tobogganing, enjoying the local spas and steam rooms, and even going horseback riding in the snow!

Be sure to enjoy the apres-ski scene in Borovets after a long day out in the cold. With plenty of fun bars, karaoke joints, and delicious restaurants, it’s easy to refuel and relax.

Check out Cool Running, Bulgaria’s only Jamaican restaurant or Sunny’s, a great spot to try traditional Bulgarian cuisine.

There are some beautiful hotels and resorts for a full-service experience, but you’ll also find plenty of budget hotels in Borovets to help keep your ski vacation budget under control.

For anyone who is not yet an expert skier, you can attend ski school and lessons in Borovets before setting out on your own.

Stephanie | Sofia Adventures

5. Sunbathe in Cyprus

Cyprus is one of the sunniest destinations in Europe and is a popular island for escaping the cold winter months of northern and central Europe.

Cyprus is known for its pleasant climate year-round as well as beautiful beaches and delicious food.

The island is located south of Turkey and actually belongs to Asia geographically, although it’s a member of the European Union.

Greek is the language spoken and the cuisine is very similar to Greek food as well.

Some of the most popular destinations are Larnaca, Ayia Napa, Limassol, and Paphos. Ayia Napa is more of a summer destination and is especially known for Nissi Beach, but it’s much nicer to come here off-season when it isn’t crowded.

Paphos, Larnaca, and Limassol are all cities that are inhabited by locals and expats year-round, so if you want a more lively destination, choose one of these.

For a whirlwind tour of the best of Cyprus, consider a full day tour. You can check prices and availability here.

There are flights to Cyprus from all over Europe, especially from the UK. Larnaca is the main airport, and some low-cost carriers will fly to Paphos airport as well.

I recommend renting a car to get around the island since public transportation is limited.

The temperature during the winter months will range between 15-25 degrees Celsius (55 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit).

In winter, expect lots of sunshine for sunbathing and sightseeing with the occasional rainy day.

Alexander | Gourmand Trotter

6. Live Like a Local in Tuscany

When the snow finally drifts down onto Firenze, the city gets a much-awaited reprieve from the tourists, making it one of the best European cities to visit in Winter.

It’s the perfect time to visit the famed Uffizi Gallery or Michaelangelo’s David in the Academica without massive lines snaking as far as the eye can see.

Check prices on guided museum tours here.

Take a cooking class. Enjoy a relaxed wine tasting in the countryside. Drive the famed and scenic Val d’Orcia, which is stark and romantic in winter.

Or soak in one of the many natural thermal pools that abound in this region. There are dozens that range from free natural pools in forests to luxury spa experiences. The choice is yours!

With more time, head to the Cinque Terre in nearby Liguria for a day trip or overnight stay.

You may be among the only visitors during winter, but those magnificent Mediterranean views from your villa will come at one-third the price of high season.

Chris | Explore Now or Never

7. Take in a Swiss Balloon Festival

One of the best things to do in Switzerland during the winter is to experience the hot air balloon festival in the small village of Chateau-d’Oex.

This small town is tucked away in western Switzerland in between the villages of Gstaad and Gruyères.

This yearly festival has food, drinks, and of course, colorful hot air balloons that cover the sky.

The festival—where twenty countries show off their colorful, creative balloons—happens every year for nine days at the end of January since 1979.

On one Wednesday, there is even a day where the festival is dedicated to the children. It is an especially great time to bring the family.

Of course, one of the best things to do during the festival is to ride a balloon.

For hours, you’ll drift across the stunning valley of Château-d’Oex with the dazzling sun and the majestic, towering mountains.

It is an incredible experience that should not be missed.

The last night of the festival is usually reserved for the famous “Night Glow” show with hot air balloons, para-gliders, fireworks, and music performances as well.

This is probably the best day to attend the Château-d’Oex festival.

Michelle | The Wandering Queen

8. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Edinburgh

When it comes to Edinburgh, Scotland, every season is worth visiting. Despite Britain’s reputation for dreary weather, Edinburgh is also a definitely underrated winter destination!

Edinburgh is one of the most hauntingly beautiful medieval cities in the world.

Its winter charm is all the more apparent with a dusting of fresh falling snow.

Plus, outside of the busy tourist season, you’ll have the most popular spots to yourself.

It’s a great time for a walking tour, a visit to the Edinburgh Castle or to see the historic underground vaults. You can check prices on these tours—and airport transfers—here.

The lone exception to a peaceful, quiet winter in Edinburgh happens around New Year’s Eve, in the form of a world-famous celebration called Hogmanay. It’s one of the most iconic NYE parties in the world!

“Hogmanay” means the last day of the year in Scottish, and the Scots celebrate it with song, traditional sport and activities, and a decent amount of drinking.

(This is Scotland, after all.) Edinburgh throws a massive street party, often featuring well-known musical performers.

Whether you visit Edinburgh to celebrate Hogmanay, explore the Christmas market, or make friends in a welcoming pub, Edinburgh is the perfect European city to spend the winter.

Kaisa | Glam Granola Travel

9. Experience Spanish Holiday Traditions in Seville

The period between Christmas and New Year’s Day is a special time to be in Seville, Spain.

Before Christmas, you’ll see the Bélen or “Bethlehem” in shop windows and cathedrals throughout the city.

Unlike in other countries, the nativity scene in Spain typically includes all of Bethlehem, rather than the manger scene.

In fact, the feria del Bélen (market) where nativity figurines are sold is one of the largest in Spain!

Connect with a local family to experience New Year’s Eve the local way. You’ll feast on fish and then gobble 12 grapes at midnight.

Restaurants offer special menus at this time of year. And finally, take part in the huge parade on January 6th, marking the end of the holidays.

Seville is a must-visit on a visit to Spain any time of year, but it’s also one of the best winter vacations in Europe.

You can reserve your tickets to visit the Alcazar and Seville cathedral here.

If you’re also headed to Barcelona, be sure to check out the food tours there!

Chris | Explore Now or Never

10. Go Snowshoeing in Sarajevo

Bosnia is probably not the first country that comes to mind when you think about a winter destination in Europe.

But it is not for nothing that in 1984 the winter Olympics were held in its capital, Sarajevo. If you are looking for snow and winter sports, choose Sarajevo!

Sarajevo is surrounded by rolling hills. In winter, they are covered in a thick blanket of snow.

The old Olympic mountain resorts Bjeljasnica and Jahorina are less than an hour from Sarajevo and are at the center of winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

In recent years Sarajevo not only developed hiking trails for summer, but also special snowshoeing trails for winter. Trails start from both Bjelasnica and Jahorina.

They go through forests and semi-nomadic mountain villages such as Lukomir and Umoljani.

You will be in a true winter wonderland here with the very best mountain views! Consider a winter tour from Sarajevo, too.

The cozy cafe culture means that a cup of tea to warm up is never far away.

And it is not just the mountains that look beautiful in the snow, so does the city of Sarajevo with its scenic old town.

To understand the history of Sarajevo under siege, consider a guided tour. You can reserve a tour here.

Ellis | Backpack Adventures

11. Savor Paris without the Crowds

The City of Lights is magical in winter! Instead of standing in a line for tourist attractions shoulder to shoulder with all the other sweaty tourists in July, mingle with the locals as the spirit of holiday cheer sweeps the city.

It’s one of the best European cities to visit in December.

So live like a local! Sip hot chocolate in a cozy cafe or browse the books at Shakespeare & Company. Join the ice skating fun at La Boulogne-Billencourt Rink or taste a Buche de Noel (Christmas cake) at a Paris Christmas market.

As in other seasons, Paris is high fashion in winter, too. So bring your prettiest wool coat and best boots as you duck into some of the world’s most memorable museusm…crowd-free in winter!

You can reserve museum tickets and other guided tours to Paris attractions here.

Be sure to walk the Champs Elysées to ogle the boutiques dressed up in their colorful holiday best.

And afterward, as night descends, buy some hot chestnuts and mulled wine from a street vendor.

With more time, consider a day trip to see the beautiful cathedral in nearby Chartres or tour the D-day beaches in Normandy.

There’s no lavender this time of year in Provence, but it’s sunny and warm and just three hours on the fast train from Paris.

Chris | Explore Now or Never

12. Visit a Reindeer Farm in Norway

One of the most unique experiences in Europe in winter is visiting a reindeer farm and learning about the Sami culture in Northern Norway (or anywhere in the north of the Nordics, really).

There are many things to do in Tromsø, Norway during winter but one of the most essential experiences and activities to partake in is visiting a reindeer farm here.

While a reindeer sleigh ride isn’t recommended, do enjoy feeding the reindeer and learning about their importance to the Sami people of the North.

Usually visiting one of the farms is coupled with other experiences like sitting in a Sami lavvu (tent) underneath the dark, winter skies in Norway listening to joik (songs) and enjoying a tasty and hearty stew… or seeing the northern lights.

You can reserve these and other unique Tromsø experiences here.

One of the coolest things about visiting a reindeer farm in Northern Norway is that you will get a chance to see these beautiful animals up close and personal. And, they are not scared of interaction with humans.

They will allow you to feed them lichen directly and take a few photos with them.

While you can do a lot in the area, from dog sledding in Tromsø to visiting the Tromsø Ice Domes, a trip to a reindeer farm and learning more about the Sami is imperative on a trip to the Arctic.

Megan | MeganStarr.com

13. Go Wine Tasting in Porto, Portugal

Looking for a winter city break in Europe? Head directly to beautiful Porto in Portugal.

This lovely traditional fishing village is a foodie paradise on the beautiful Costa Verde coastline.

Be sure to taste some Bacalhau a Bras, a delicious Portuguese stew of potato, egg, olives, and codfish while here.

Six Eiffel Tower-inspired bridges span the Douro River here between Old Town and Vila Nova de Gaia. Unlike steeper Lisbon, Porto is very walkable.

It’s easy to take a walking tour of Porto and then cross the bridge into Gaia for tasting at the many port houses that line the river there.

Porto is ideal in winter as milder temperatures prevail. (You can expect temps at 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit or 10 to 18 degrees Celsius.)

And if you’re traveling in February, be sure to attend the Simplesmente Vinho festival, which gathers more than 100 winemakers in a one-of-a-kind celebration of food, music, art, and wine.

With more time, book a day trip for port tasting in the lovely Douro Valley.

You can check price and availability on my recommended Douro Valley tour here. I had a lovely day out on this tour!

Heading to Lisbon too? Plan some day trips!

14. Hike in Val Lumnezia, Switzerland

Val Lumnezia in Switzerland is an exceptional destination in the winter.

After all, the name means “Valley of Light”, so you can expect nice, sunny weather even in the winter months.

Because it’s in Switzerland, the infrastructure is well developed. You can easily get around by public transport and you will find clean toilets everywhere.

Val Lumnezia offers many ski resorts that include ski slopes for people with all abilities and the views along the way are fantastic!

However, if skiing is not really your sport, you can also snowshoe or hike here. There are several well-maintained hiking trails.

Cumbel is a cute village to base yourself in. It is the start of many hiking routes and also just a short walk away from the local ski resort.

The sled route down the mountain is another fun activity that adults and children can equally enjoy.

You can take up your sled up the ski lift, so no need to carry it all the way up. It’s also possible to rent sleds on site.

This area has many green initiatives—the ski lifts operate with solar power, for example—so if you want to have an eco-friendly winter holiday, this is the place to go!

Eniko | Travel Hacker Girl

15. Dog Sled in Lapland

Lapland is one of the most amazing places you can visit in the winter.  

Located in Finland’s northernmost region, the majority of the Finnish Lapland lies above the Arctic Circle but is considered one of the best places for a winter vacation, especially for families.

In fact, the city of Rovaniemi is in the heart of Lapland and is known as the official hometown of Santa Claus. 

It has millions of visitors each year and is one of the best places to see northern lights and reindeer enjoy a husky ride.

These are working dogs. Huskies and malamutes are common in the uppermost part of the continent as they pull sleds in the deep winter snow.

As a result, husky safaris are one of the most popular activities to take part in here and are great for individuals, couples or families.

You’ll choose from a wide variety of packages and tour operators across Lapland, from Rovaniemi to Saariselka.  

Husky rides range from 20 minutes to several day tours, with overnight stays.

And for those who prefer to skip a husky ride, consider a husky kennel visit where you can learn about these dogs and their way of life.

Typically, you’ll find these opportunities outside of the main cities.

You can book a Lapland reindeer and husky safari here.

Diana | The Elusive Family

16. Eat and Drink Your Way through Prague

If you’re looking for a wonderful seasonal adventure, it’s hard to find a place more charming than Prague in winter!

There are tons of Christmas markets dotting the city center, the largest of which you’ll find in Old Town Square near the Astronomical Clock. 

However, during the winter, this can be quite busy and chaotic, and there are lots of smaller and more charming Christmas Markets to explore, such as Malá Strana and Wenceslas Square.

Besides Christmas markets, you can also drink your way through Prague’s great beer scene! Enjoy a pint of Pilsner Urquell at the place where it was first poured, U Pinkasu, and wash it down with a hearty Czech meal. 

A food tour is also a great way to spend a Prague winter day! Enjoy rich Czech dishes like roast goose, goulash with boiled bread dumplings, and garlicky soup while getting a historical tour of the city from a local guide.

Check price and availability on a 3 or 5 course medieval dinner with unlimited drinks here.

Besides eating, drinking, and shopping your way through the city, you can also go ice skating in Ovocný Trh, enjoy a heated river cruise or classic car ride through the city, or take a sauna on a riverboat on the Vltava at Lázně na Lodi.

Allison |Eternal Arrival

17. Soak in Azores’ Hot Springs

If you want some winter sun while avoiding the crowds, head to the charming Azores Islands—a cluster of islands off the coast of mainland Portugal —this winter!

Beautiful enough to be nicknamed “The Hawaii of the Atlantic”, the Azores are still relatively under-touristed compared to other more popular islands in the Atlantic like the Canary Islands and Madeira.

All the better for you though! Winter in the Azores is mild and pleasant, though it can be mercurial and occasionally rainy.

Fog is frequent and can derail your plans, particularly in the mountains where Lagoa do Fogo, one of the most famous lakes in the Azores, can be found.

That said, you can generally expect mild sunshine and temperatures in the 60s when it’s not raining. But there’s a variety of things to do no matter what the temperature and weather!

On a cool or rainy day, visit the warm hot springs dotted all over the island of Sao Miguel. 

Ferraria is a mix of hot spring and cold ocean water to create an all-natural hot spring that alternates warm and cool with the tide!

There’s also the yellow-gold waters at Terra Nostra and the Jurassic Park-looking Caldeira Velha. Plus, Ponta Delgada is a great place to go whale and dolphin watching. Check price and availability on a tour here.

On a sunny day, spend the day hiking around Lagoa das Furnas or even go sunbathing on a black sand beach like Praia Pequena de Água d’Alto or Mosteiro.

Allison |Eternal Arrival

18. Eat Your Way through Palermo

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a complex city, caught between West and East for thousands of years.

With an intense culture that’s a mix of both, Palermo is full of stunning architecture, chaotic markets and hidden corners to explore.  

With a mild year round climate and the benefit of warm African winds in winter, Palermo makes a great destination for the cooler months.

The markets will be just as vibrant and the street food just as delicious, but there will be fewer people meaning you can roam the city and experience the highlights without the summer tourist crush.

One of the best ways to fully appreciate the street food and history here is with a guided tour. You can check price and availability on a 3-hour street food and history walking tour here.

Visit Palermo as you road trip Sicily and enjoy a different vibe to many of Italy’s other great cities.

With Moorish architecture providing a contrast to the ancient Greek temples which dot Sicily and lively squares full of cafes serving endless espressos and cannoli, Palermo is a wonderful place in winter.

Head to Palermo around Christmas time and you’ll also find traditional a selection of traditional Christmas markets and living nativities performed in Palermo’s fabulously ornate churches.

If the warm wind is blowing, you’ll also be able to spend a day at the beach!

Isobel | Gap Decaders

19. Try a Sand Buggy Tour in Canary Islands

If you’re looking for European winter sun destinations, then the Canary Islands are a fantastic choice.

Located between Spain and North Africa, the Canaries benefit from warm weather all year round. While there is more chance of rain or clouds in winter, the weather will still be mid 20s and very pleasant. 

Fuerteventura is the second biggest of the Canary Islands and makes a great travel destination.

Because of the winter sun, this time of year can still be considered peak, unlike other European destinations. All the major tourist attractions are open, so you don’t have to worry about things to do. 

One of the most popular areas of Fuerteventura is Corralejo as it has a great balance of beaches, nightlife, and other fun activities.

One of the best things to do in Corralejo is to take a sand buggy tour of the island. You can take a 3.5 hour tour departing from Corralejo, heading to the Natural Park of the dunes for amazing views and then move on to Villaverde passing through a “volcanic area” with arrival at Parque Holandés.

Check price and availability on the sand buggy tour here.

The volcanic and rocky nature of Fuerteventura lends itself perfectly to an adventurous day exploring the golden sand dunes and windy mountain roads.

If you prefer, you could choose one of the many white sandy beaches to relax and soak up the sun.

On Corralejo beach, you will notice many handmade stone wind breakers that create a unique and practical place to relax as well as added privacy. 

Kerry Hanson|VeggTravel

20. Fall into a Fairytale in Strasbourg

If you are looking for an epic winter escape in Europe then the place for you is Strasbourg. Strasbourg is a stunning town to visit in any season but in the winter months, Strasbourg comes alive.

From magnificent winter markets to delicious local food and drinks, Strasbourg has something for everyone. 

Strasbourg is the largest town in the Alsace region of France and is a mecca for anyone wanting to get into the Christmas Spirit.

Tourists and locals alike flock to the Alsace for the markets and Strasbourg has one of the biggest.

But what is there to do after you have had your fill of Christmas Markets or you arrive when they are over for the year?

Strasbourg is a walkable city. Begin your tour of the fairytale colorful buildings here at the Strasbourg Cathedral.

After touring the inside, make your way to La Petite France for more strolling, people watching, and to sample the world-famous Alsatian cuisine and local wine.

Wolfberger is a local winery that also produces some delicious liqueurs that you may want to try if wine is not for you.

Be sure to visit one of the most photographed places in Strasbourg: the Ponts Couverts. Once defensive structures to keep Strasbourg safe, they are now monuments to the past.

A visit to the Palace Rohan is also a great way to spend a couple of hours if the weather is not wonderful. For a different way to see the city, you can take a Batorama river cruise through the canals. 

There are also plenty of day trips from Strasbourg for you to enjoy. Chateau Haut Koenigsbourg is a castle that sits mighty on a hill over looking the valley below, standing guard.

Or visit the nearby Alsatian towns of Ribeauville, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim …each with unique and beautiful streets to wander. 

One of the best ways to visit the Christmas markets in Riquewihr, Colmar and Kaysersberg is on a full day guided tour. You can check price and availability on the Christmas markets tour here.

Mark | Wyld Family Travel

21. Get Beachy in Malta

Malta is a small island country in the Mediterranean Sea, 56 miles (90 kilometers) south of Sicily.

It’s a great destination to visit in winter because of its sunny weather, rich culture, and incredible landscapes. It’s got some of the best winter sun in Europe!

The perfect city for someone who’s interested in history, Malta has many monuments dating back to antiquity.

Malta also has many attractions worth exploring…from luxurious hotels with heated pools to historical sites that will fascinate history buffs.

I lived in Malta for almost three years, and like all Maltese, I waited for winter, as winter meant fewer tourists, less traffic, but still nice warm weather.

Malta is one of the best places in Europe to visit in December. You can go to the beaches and enjoy the sun as well as swim in the sea.

In December, water temperature in the Mediterranean are around 64 degrees Farenheit/18 degrees Celsius… which for locals, means too cold. But if you are from northern Europe, you know the water is warmer than the Baltic Sea in the summer.

In fact, one of the best ways to enjoy Gozo and Comino, Malta’s two smaller islands, is on a full day boat tour from Bugibba. You’ll cruise along the coastline to reach the Crystal and Blue lagoons, renowned for their turquoise water here.

Check price and availability on a full day boat tour to Gozo and Camino here.

Just watch for winter storms. In Malta, the waves reach 23 feet/7 meters, though they are beautiful to watch.

Then it’s time to cozy up in a coffee shop somewhere on Sliema Harbour and watch the waves crash against the rocky shore.

But don’t worry, a “bad weather spell” never lasts long. In no time, you’ll be back to sunbathing and splashing in the waves.

Aria | Travelling Twins

22. Visit Copenhagen’s Winter Wonderland

Copenhagen is a magnificent city in any season but winter makes it absolutely magical. There are so many things to do in Copenhagen in winter that will see your itinerary fill so quickly you won’t know when to stop!

Being an easy walking city you can either walk between some of the sights, ride a bike, catch public transport if it’s too cold or you can get the sightseeing bus to get you to all the very best Copenhagen attractions quickly.

Top of the list of places to see in Copenhagen in winter is Nyhaven. These gorgeous little canals are filled with boats and the colorful buildings that line them make it one of the most picturesque places in Copenhagen.

It’s the perfect place to sit in a cafe with a hot beverage to warm up if the weather turns bad. In the lead up to Christmas, you will find the shops decorated and selling some amazing treats that are popular this time of year.

Also, the Tivoli Gardens transforms into a magical winter wonderland. Wander the Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market.

Taking in the decorations, the atmosphere, the food and the welcoming spirit of the locals will bring out the child at heart in everyone, especially if there has been a snowfall overnight. Kids will love the small theme park here.

You can grab a skip-the-line ticket for Tivoli Gardens here.

Ice skating in Copenhagen is a wonderful way to enjoy winter. There are plenty of places around the city where you can hire skates and join in with the locals as they glide and slide over the ice.

In some of the parks after a heavy snowfall, you may find that you are able to sled down the snow.

A great attraction for kids in Copenhagen is the Little Mermaid statue a few meters from shore. Some harbour cruises will also take you past the statue as well as other popular landmarks on the shores. It’s a great way to get a different perspective of the city.

Copenhagen must-sees? Start with a tour of the Rosenborg Castle for all things royal. Then head to the Treasury under the castle to ogle the Danish Crown Jewels.

If you’re lucky, you’ll spot the changing of the guards here, too. Many of the other castles in Copenhagen are open to the public as well and may even have their gardens decorated.

Winter is a wonderful time to visit Copenhagen without the tourist crowds. Just remember to dress in layers and look for welcoming cafes to take the chill off.

Bec | Explore Victoria Australia

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