14 Top Winter Destinations in Europe

Winter may be chilly, but Europe offers a multitude of perfect escapes for travelers looking for a memorable getaway.

You can immerse yourself in the icy beauty of Lapland's northern lights or seek warmth on Fuerteventura's sunny shores. The off-season also lets you explore Europe's top spots without the summer crowds, perfect for those who enjoy a bit more tranquility.

No matter what your winter travel dreams entail, our curated list of Europe's best destinations is sure to fulfill them.

1. Tallinn, Estonia

Ideal for Christmas Markets

Tallinn’s medieval charm makes it a standout destination for Christmas markets. The city’s well-preserved Old Town and Toompea Castle create a magical setting, especially when blanketed in snow. Twinkling lights adorn the cobblestone streets, and the festive spirit shines through the bustling market stalls and towering Christmas tree.

Although the days are short and the nights are long, the city’s enchanting atmosphere makes up for it. Traditional fare, from black pudding to gingerbread, offers comforting warmth. Plus, the sound of holiday music resonates from concert halls and churches throughout the month, making it unforgettable to hear carols while snow gently falls outside. Enjoy Tallinn’s charming boutique hotels and fine dining, all wrapped in festive cheer without the typical holiday chaos.

Best Times to Visit:

• November to March – chilly
• April to May and September to October – milder, more peaceful

2. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Ideal for a winter beach escape

The striking, almost extraterrestrial landscapes of Fuerteventura, the second-largest Canary Island, are particularly enticing during winter. As much of Europe deals with chilly, gray skies, Fuerteventura basks in sunshine. With average temperatures reaching 21ºC (70ºF) even in January, it's one of the rare spots where you can enjoy a true winter beach getaway. And the beaches here are exceptional – from the expansive Playa del Matorral to the remote Cofete and the sweeping dunes of Parque Natural de Corralejo.

Fuerteventura also offers great opportunities for wellness. Imagine practicing yoga, tai chi, qigong, or meditation outdoors, with the soothing sounds of the ocean in the background and the invigorating sea breeze enhancing your relaxation and sleep.

Best Times to Visit:

• September to November: pleasantly warm with cooler evenings
• December to February: mild but busy
• March to June: delightful weather

3. Snowdonia, Wales

Top Choice for Winter Adventure Sports

True to its name, Snowdonia is a winter wonderland, with its rugged mountains, sparkling coastline, serene lakes, ancient forests, and cascading waterfalls potentially blanketed in snow. While the weather can be unpredictable, it’s perfect for adventure seekers who are prepared. Specialized companies offer winter walking experiences, teaching essential skills like mountain safety, navigation, and crampon use before guiding you on serene, uncrowded hikes. The National White Water Centre, open year-round, offers thrilling rafting experiences (wetsuits required). Additionally, the former mining sites in the area now host a range of underground activities, including abseiling, zip-lining, boating, climbing, and trampoline jumping in a unique subterranean setting.

Optimal Visiting Times:

• September to October – pleasantly warm with autumn hues.
• November to March – chilly
• April to May – warming up, with blooming wildflowers

4. Madeira, Portugal

Ideal for outdoor adventures in pleasant weather

Madeira, located in the far Atlantic near Morocco, enjoys a consistently mild climate without drastic extremes. The island basks in sunlight year-round, with February temperatures often reaching 20°C (68°F). Even if rain appears, the island's varied microclimates mean you won't need to travel far to find clearer skies.

The gentle winter weather is perfect for exploring Madeira’s levadas (ancient irrigation channels) or enjoying a poncha (sugarcane spirit cocktail) at a seaside bar. Funchal, the capital, offers attractions like the intricate Sé Cathedral, the art deco Mercado dos Lavradores, and the cable car ride to Monte, where the Monte Palace Tropical Gardens are always in bloom. Alternatively, stay in Câmara de Lobos, a charming fishing village once frequented by Winston Churchill. Madeira also offers a range of activities including trail running, mountain biking, and canyoning.

Travel Tip: Madeira’s airport is a 25-minute drive east of Funchal. Given the island’s mountainous terrain, driving can be challenging; using buses and guided tours is recommended for exploring the island.

Optimal Visiting Times:

• October to April: mild and wetter
• May to September: hotter and drier

5. Bilbao, Spain

Perfect for art enthusiasts and food lovers

Bilbao's winter weather can be chilly and rainy, with temperatures peaking around 12°C (54°F). Yet, this vibrant city’s charm remains undiminished. Its blend of urban grit, stylish flair, and exceptional cuisine makes it a standout even under gray skies. Plus, the lower prices for off-season accommodations mean more budget for indulging in delicious pintxos (Basque tapas).

For indoor attractions, the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, is a must-see, while the Museo de Bellas Artes offers a more diverse collection. The transformed Azkuna Zentroa, once a wine warehouse and now an exhibition space designed by Philippe Starck, hosts a range of events and features a rooftop pool open year-round. A stroll through the Casco Viejo (Old Town) is a highlight, from the bustling Mercado de la Ribera with its cafes and produce stalls to the medieval Siete Calles (Seven Streets). Plaza Nueva is also known for its wide selection of pintxos bars.

Best times to visit:

• October and November – cooler and rainy
• December to March – mild and damp
• April and May – warm

6. Côte d’Azur, France

Best for off-season elegance

Times have shifted. Visiting the glamorous Côte d’Azur in winter is now seen as an off-season option, a perfect way to escape the summer throngs. Once a favorite winter retreat for British aristocrats, including Queen Victoria, the French Riviera – stretching from Menton to St-Tropez – was renowned for its mild winters. The region's alluring azure waters, picturesque offshore islands, and lush green hills attracted artists drawn to its unique light. Today, these features are still present, but the summer crowds have largely dispersed. Enjoy the tranquil, less-crowded coves, serene coastal drives, and the charming old town of Nice and the opulent harbor of Monaco in the cooler months.

While many now wait for summer’s heat, you can relish the Côte d’Azur’s splendor in the off-season. Enjoy uncrowded beaches, open coast roads, and a more peaceful experience of Nice’s historic streets and Monaco’s luxurious harbor.

Best times to visit:

• October – unpredictable weather
• November to January – some attractions may be closed
• February to May – serene and warm

7. Bavarian Alps, Germany

Ideal for snow-covered fairy-tale castles

Winter transforms the Bavarian Alps into a scene straight out of a fairy tale. This picturesque region, just north of the Austrian border, features snow-draped mountains, shimmering lakes, and a collection of enchanting castles. Notably, Schloss Neuschwanstein, the fantastical creation of King Ludwig II from the late 19th century, embodies the ultimate fairy-tale castle. The sight of Neuschwanstein and other local castles like Linderhof or Hohenschwangau, covered in a layer of ice, is simply magical.

The medieval town of Füssen, perched high in Bavaria, makes an excellent base. Stroll through its charming old town, visit St Mang’s Abbey, and warm up with a drink in a traditional Bavarian Bierstube. Venture onto gentle trails with snow boots or snowshoes, and if the weather permits, you might even skate on the lakes. With fewer crowds, fresh air, and serene forests, Füssen offers a peaceful retreat.

Best times to visit:

• December to February – snowy conditions
• March and April – starting to warm up
• May, June, September, and October – warm and less crowded

8. Santorini, Greece

Perfect for a serene Greek-island escape

Santorini's breathtaking allure often attracts hordes of tourists during peak season, overwhelming this stunning island of whitewashed homes nestled on the caldera's edge. However, winter offers a tranquil alternative. From January to February, ferry traffic dwindles, cruise ships are absent, and hotel occupancy drops to around 10%. You might find yourself savoring the island's spectacular sunsets with just the locals for company.

While beach weather might not be ideal (with January highs around 14°C/57°F), wandering through Santorini’s narrow streets without the usual crowds is a true pleasure. The towns of Oia and Fira remain lively and open, offering the best accommodations and the most stunning caldera views. Though many hotels close for the winter, an increasing number are remaining open, often providing significant discounts compared to summer rates.

Travel tip: Santorini is accessible year-round via ferries and high-speed catamarans from Athens’ main port, Piraeus, with the journey taking about 8 hours and typically just one service per day in winter. While direct international flights to Santorini are limited during winter, flights to Athens are available year-round.

Best times to visit:

• November to March – cool and quiet
• April and October – mild with fewer visitors
• May to June and September – hot and bustling

9. The Alentejo, Portugal

Best for wine enthusiasts

On a crisp winter day with clear blue skies, savoring a robust, warming red wine among the very vines it was produced from is a special treat. The Alentejo, a relatively undiscovered gem in the wine world, becomes particularly inviting in winter. The clear skies highlight the rolling hills, cork forests, traditional wineries, and Moorish architecture, all bathed in the soft winter light.

The historic walled Old Town of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, makes an excellent base. It features an impressive cathedral, a picturesque town square, the Templo Romano (one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in Iberia), and a vibrant atmosphere. It's also home to the Rota dos Vinhos do Alentejo (Wine Route of the Alentejo), where you can explore wineries and enjoy tastings. In the northeast, the Serra de São Mamede region is known for its full-bodied reds, while smoother reds and fruity whites are available closer to Évora in Estremoz and the medieval village of Monsaraz.

Travel tip: Évora is just a 2-hour train ride from Lisbon. While staying in the town, you can easily take day trips to nearby wineries, many of which offer rich Alentejan dishes and tastings. Some vineyards also provide charming accommodations, often at reduced prices during the winter season.

When to visit, at a glance:

• November to March – cooler, off-peak
• April, June, September, and October – warm to hot

10. Lyon, France

Top choice for food enthusiasts

As France’s second city, Lyon is unrivaled when it comes to gastronomy – it might just have more restaurants per square foot than anywhere else globally. From Michelin-starred establishments crafting nouvelle cuisine (a culinary style born here) to traditional Lyonnais bouchons (family-run bistros) serving dishes like calves’ feet and tripe sausage, the city is a haven for food lovers. Local markets are brimming with Bresse chickens, St-Bonnet-le-Froid mushrooms, exceptional cheeses, and various offal. You’ll also find numerous charcuteries, fromageries, chocolatiers, and boulangeries.

During the winter, escape the chill by exploring Lyon’s traboules (historic passageways originally used by silk weavers) and enjoying a meal at one of the many cozy restaurants nestled within them. The cold is no deterrent when you’re inside, whether dining, browsing chic boutiques, or attending one of the city’s renowned cooking classes.

Travel tip: Lyon also makes a great base for a ski getaway, with slopes just a 2-hour drive away.

When to visit, at a glance:

• November to March – brisk and chilly
• April and May – warming up with blooming flowers
• September to October – cooling down with harvest season

11. Cinque Terre, Italy

Ideal for a classic Italian escape without the tourist throngs

Few places rival the breathtaking charm of the Cinque Terre. These five historic fishing villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Manarola, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore—perch dramatically on the Ligurian coastline, their colorful facades cascading towards the sea. The downside? Their small size and immense popularity lead to crowded streets every summer, with thousands flocking to explore the 120km (74 miles) of scenic hiking trails.

However, visiting in winter offers a glimpse of the Cinque Terre as it was before the crowds arrived. While many businesses may close, the remaining hotels are more affordable, and each village will have at least one open bar and restaurant frequented by locals. Despite some trail closures due to weather, winter usually sees only eight rainy days per month compared to five in summer. Enjoy the dramatic winter scenery, with its stormy seas and quiet streets.

Tip for planning: Opt for accommodation that allows you to prepare your own meals using fresh local produce instead of relying solely on restaurants. Avoid staying in Corniglia, as it is the least-visited village and has fewer open facilities during the off-season.

Best time to visit, at a glance:

• November to March – cool temperatures, with a higher chance of trail closures
• April, May, and October – pleasantly warm, with fewer visitors
• June to September – increasingly hot and crowded

12. Cappadocia, Türkiye

Perfect for snow adventures and exploring underground wonders

In Cappadocia, the unique tuff rock formations create a surreal landscape of ravines, plateaus, and spires. When dusted with Turkish snow, these features become even more magical, enhancing the already striking views of ancient rock-cut homes and churches.

During the off-season, you'll find lower room rates and fewer crowds, making it easier to explore attractions like the Keşlik Monastery, the sprawling underground city of Kaymaklı, and the fresco-adorned cave churches of the Göreme Open-Air Museum. Many of Cappadocia’s attractions are either underground or carved into rock, offering a cozy refuge from the cold. On chilly days, enjoy a walk through the Ihlara Valley, followed by a relaxing soak in a hammam or a hearty bowl of lentil soup by a warm stove. Each night, retreat to the comforting embrace of a boutique cave hotel.

Planning tip: Hot air balloon rides are a must-do in Cappadocia. Although available year-round, winter weather can lead to more cancellations, so consider extending your stay to increase your chances of a successful flight.

When to go, at a glance:

• November to March – cold with possible snow
• April to June and September to October – warm and sunny

13. Budapest, Hungary

Best for hot springs and thermal baths

Budapest keeps you warm and cozy even in the depths of winter. The city sits atop more than 120 hot springs, many of which have been transformed into public thermal baths. From the historic Turkish Rudas Baths to the stunning art-nouveau Gellért Baths and the expansive Széchenyi Baths, there are plenty of places to enjoy a soothing soak. Budapest itself is enchanting year-round, with the medieval splendor of Buda Castle Hill juxtaposed against the 19th-century elegance of Pest. As the evenings grow longer and darker, the city's vibrant nightlife – from eclectic ruin pubs to captivating performances at the opulent neo-Renaissance State Opera House – ensures you have plenty to do.

Planning tip: Not all baths operate daily, and some may be designated for men or women on specific days; it's wise to verify schedules beforehand. Typically, weekday visits are capped at 2 hours, while weekends allow for 90 minutes.

When to go, at a glance:

• November to February – cold to cool, with potential for snow
• March to June – warming up, blooming, and spring festivals

14. Lapland, Finland

Best for witnessing the northern lights

During winter, the Arctic Circle transforms into a sparkling wonderland, blanketed in snow and with lakes frozen solid. This is an ideal time to catch the northern lights, especially between February and April, or September and October. December attracts families to Rovaniemi to visit Santa Claus’ village.

Winter in Lapland is perfect for adventurers of all ages. Despite the extreme cold, wilderness lodges offer a range of activities to keep you warm: husky sledding, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. And if you need more warmth, a traditional Finnish sauna will do the trick.

Planning tip: Rovaniemi and Ivalo airports provide access to Finland’s Lapland. To increase your chances of seeing the aurora and enjoy a full range of snowy activities, stay at a wilderness lodge for at least four nights. Lodges located away from city lights will offer the darkest skies for the best aurora viewing.

When to visit:

• September to November – brief autumn with cooling temperatures
• December to April – ideal for snow activities and aurora sightings (aurora visible from September to April)