While colder temperatures might have you longing for a sunny beach escape, winter reveals a unique charm across Europe. Many cities go all out to celebrate the holidays, and their allure lingers long after the decorations are tucked away.
From January to March, you can explore numerous must-visit locations, all while avoiding the summer crowds. Plus, as it’s considered low season in many spots, great deals on flights and accommodations abound.
Whether your interests lie in skiing, experiencing the northern lights, cozying up in charming cafes, or outdoor adventures, these destinations are brimming with winter magic.
The Dolomites
Located in Italy’s far northeastern region bordering Austria, the Dolomites are a winter haven for skiers and summer hikers alike.
Admire stunning Alpine architecture while savoring local delights like fondue and apple strudel. The area was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire until 1918, showcasing both Italian and Germanic influences.
Ski enthusiasts can purchase a Dolomiti Superski pass, granting access to 12 ski resorts with 745 miles of slopes and 450 lifts. Cortina d’Ampezzo serves as a great base (hosting the Winter Olympics from Feb. 6-22, 2026), with numerous ski-in/ski-out hotels and spa resorts dotting the mountains.
Where to stay: Forestis, a sleek modern hotel that merges glass-and-pine towers with a historical Habsburg chalet built in 1912, features a massive spa with indoor-outdoor pools and saunas. Their activities include forest hikes and ancient Celtic yoga. An adults-only property, rates start at $799 or 74,500 World of Hyatt points per night this winter.
Gstaad, Switzerland
While nearby St. Moritz is renowned for lavish hotels and a glamorous social scene, Gstaad is a charming winter village worth a visit.
Accessible by a scenic train ride from Zurich, you must try local cheese and fondue when in Gstaad. The town also boasts high-end boutiques and galleries, including a Gagosian contemporary gallery outpost.
Where to stay: Gstaad Palace, part of The Leading Hotels of the World, resembles a castle and offers luxurious accommodations, a nightclub, a fantastic spa, and four dining options, including one housed in a former gold bunker from World War II. Rates begin at $1,317 per night.
Iceland
Discover snow-capped volcanoes, frozen waterfalls, and geysers amidst Iceland’s winter wonderland. After exploring ice caves or glacier hiking, unwind at one of the island’s famous hot springs.
Though days are short, winter evenings provide ample opportunity to enjoy Reykjavik’s nightlife, the Dark Music Days festival in January, and the Winter Lights Festival in February.
Where to stay: The Ion Adventure Hotel in Nesjavellir offers a modern boutique experience with design elements inspired by local driftwood and lava. Conveniently located near the Golden Circle, rates start at $349 or 62,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Copenhagen
Copenhagen truly excels as a winter destination, embodying the cozy spirit of hygge with warm decor like candles and blankets.
From the festive rides at Tivoli to art and design museums for indoor retreats, the city offers a vibrant scene for all ages.
Where to stay: The Darling features boutique apartments infused with Danish style in Old Town’s shopping district. Rates start at around $600 or 60,750 Hyatt points per night.
Vienna
Vienna fully embraces winter’s charm, renowned for its festive Christmas markets showcasing handcrafted ornaments, gifts, and warm drinks.
With palatial backdrops like Schönbrunn and Belvedere, the city also hosts concerts in its historic churches and concert halls.
Where to stay: The Park Hyatt Vienna, set in a former bank, offers luxurious rooms at $681 or just 25,000 Hyatt points per night, making it an excellent value.
Champagne, France
Imagine sipping champagne in the enchanting Champagne region of France during winter.
Indulge in special menus at hotels and restaurants, and explore Reims for its stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral featuring stained-glass by Marc Chagall. The high-speed train from Paris to Reims is only about 45 minutes, but consider renting a car for countryside adventures.
Where to stay: La Caserne Chanzy Hotel & Spa, located across from the cathedral, boasts scenic views and reasonable rates, starting at $254 or 39,000 Marriott points per night.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh in winter is perfect for curling up in a cozy pub over hot toddies or celebrating lively traditions like Hogmanay, a massive New Year’s Eve festival with a torchlight procession and live music.
Where to stay: The Caledonian, Edinburgh, located on Princes Street, offers convenient access to both Old Town and New Town, starting at $202 or 58,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Swedish Lapland
To fully embrace winter’s spirit, venture to Swedish Lapland, a prime spot for witnessing the northern lights and engaging in activities like snowmobiling and dogsledding.
Where to stay: Arctic Bath, a remote wilderness escape on the Lule River, offers breathtaking views and modern cabins. Winter rates start at $922 or 150,000 points per night, ideal for optimizing your Hilton free night certificate.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Visiting Rovaniemi in winter is like stepping into a snow globe. Meet Santa at his village, enjoy reindeer sleigh rides and admire the stunning northern lights overhead.
Where to stay: Experience luxury at Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle, where glass igloos provide perfect views of the northern lights, starting at $1,018 per night.
Budapest
Budapest transforms into a romantic destination in winter, perfect for strolls among its snow-covered architectural gems like Fisherman’s Bastion and St. Stephen’s Basilica.
Enjoy the city’s famous thermal baths or skate at City Park Ice Rink, famed as one of Europe’s largest.
Where to stay: Take advantage of fewer crowds and better rates at the Parisi Udvar Hotel Budapest, starting at $251 or 17,000 Hyatt points per night.
Disko Bay, Greenland
For those willing to brave the cold, Greenland’s winter wonderland awaits. Glide past majestic icebergs in Disko Bay or try dogsledding for a unique Arctic experience.
Where to stay: Best Western Plus Hotel Ilulissat offers basic comfort starting at $133 or 24,000 Best Western Rewards points per night.
Norway
Winter in Norway invites you to unwind amidst breathtaking landscapes while sipping glogg at local Christmas markets. Tromso is a go-to for northern lights and adventure activities like whale watching and snowmobiling.
Where to stay: Consider the Clarion Hotel The Edge in Tromso, with rates from $337 or 35,000 Choice points per night.
Ireland
While Ireland may not be blanketed in snow, its winter ambiance is enchanting. Dublin’s festive lights, Christmas markets, and cozy pubs make for a delightful experience.
On the west coast, the Cliffs of Moher present a rugged beauty without summer tourists, perfect for winter hikes or visiting historic castles.
Where to stay: At Ashford Castle, tale meets reality in a magical setting with rooms starting at $573 per night.
Bottom line
Europe offers more than just summer adventures. If you’re seeking a winter getaway in the upcoming holidays or early 2026, a wealth of experiences awaits, whether in snowy cities or idyllic mountain retreats.
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