Winter Travel

Winter travel in Europe — skiing in the Alps, Christmas markets, Canary Islands winter sun, and seasonal escapes that work between December and March.

What you will find in this section

• Ski destinations: Switzerland (Zermatt, St. Moritz), Austria (Kitzbühel, Innsbruck), France (Chamonix, Courchevel), Italy (Cortina, Dolomites)
• Christmas markets: Nuremberg, Dresden, Vienna, Prague, Strasbourg, Budapest
• Winter sun: Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura), Madeira, Cyprus, southern Spain
• Northern lights: Lapland (Finland, Norway, Sweden), Iceland
• Winter city breaks: Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Edinburgh, Amsterdam

Seasonal tips

• When Christmas markets open (usually late November through 23 December)
• New Year’s Eve fireworks across European capitals
• Packing for cold-weather travel: layers, waterproofs, thermals
• Best winter months for each destination (January cold but quiet; February half-term crowds)

FAQ

Where are the best places for winter sun in Europe?

Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria — 20-23°C), Madeira, Cyprus, southern Spain (Costa del Sol around 15-18°C). Outside Europe: Morocco, Egypt Red Sea, Cape Verde. Temperature drops below 18°C after late October in most Mediterranean destinations.

When is the best time to ski in the Alps?

Mid-January to mid-March generally offers the most reliable snow and longest days. Christmas-New Year has the highest prices (sometimes 3x). Late March-April provides “spring skiing” with warmer temperatures, longer daylight and discounted accommodation — excellent value for intermediate skiers.

Which European cities are best for a winter break?

Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Krakow, Tallinn and Copenhagen work well winter cities — compact old towns, Christmas markets, museum-friendly weather, and cozy café culture. Airfare and hotels often cheapest November-early December and mid-January-February.

Where can I see the Northern Lights in Europe?

Tromsø (Norway), Abisko (Sweden), Rovaniemi and Ivalo (Finnish Lapland), and Iceland’s south and north coasts. Best months: late September to late March, with peak activity November-February. You need clear skies, darkness, and ideally a multi-night stay to maximize chances.

Do European Christmas markets close on Christmas Eve?

Most markets close on 23 December; a few stay open until 24 December afternoon, then close for the holiday. Christmas Day itself has no market activity. Some markets (Cologne, Budapest, Vienna) reopen after Christmas and run through New Year’s Eve.