12 EPIC WINTER GETAWAY DESTINATIONS IN EUROPE

Winter is a lovely time of year to visit Europe. The ski resorts are in full swing in the Alps, the northern lights are putting on a show in the Nordics, and prices are cheaper in the Mediterranean.

There are so many incredible places in Europe to visit in the winter. If you’re looking for winter travel inspiration abroad, we have you covered. Here’s our guide to 12 amazing European winter getaway destinations.

12 Epic Winter Getaway Destinations In Europe

Ski In The Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps are on almost every traveler’s bucket list. Their captivating mountains, adorable villages, and cozy hotels make them a perfect winter destination in Europe.

The Swiss Alps, also known as the Bernese Alps, cover around 60% of the landlocked country of Switzerland. Throughout the Bernese Alps, you will find charming villages. Some of the best villages include Grindelwald, Interlaken, and Zermatt.

Several options for places to stay are available in the Swiss Alps, including Interlaken, the “big town” of the region. It is large and situated at a crossroads, making it easy to reach and leave other smaller towns, such as Mürren, Wengen, Gimmelwald, and Grindelwald.

If you are set on the Swiss Alps, check out our articles (linked below), which are all about where to eat, stay, and play.

4 and 5* Hotels In The Swiss Alps

• Hotel Eiger Mürren – This family-run hotel has been operating since 1886 and is located opposite the Mürren train station. It has a modern spa area, an indoor swimming pool, panoramic mountain views, an excellent restaurant and a fun bar.
• Grand Hotel Belvedere, a Beaumier Hotel & Spa – The Art Nouveau-style Belvédère hotel is just a five-minute walk from the center of town and offers incredible views of Jungfrau Mountain and the Lauterbrunnen Valley. The hotel has a brasserie and a restaurant that serves Alpine-inspired foods. It has a mixture of rooms and suites with balconies and modern furnishings.
• Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof – Located in Grindelwald, close to Bussalp, Oberer Gletscher, Gletscherschlucht, and adjacent to a golf course. The hotel features 70 rooms with mountain views, balconies, one, two and three-bedroom suites and junior suites. The hotel also has an indoor swimming pool with sun loungers, a spa, and three restaurants.

Top 10 Things To Do In The Swiss Alps

1. Spend Time In Zermatt
2. Go On The Glacier Express
3. Go Skiing at St. Moritz
4. See Matterhorn
5. Try Fondue
6. Visit The Alpine Museum of Switzerland
7. Stay At The Chedi Andermatt
8. Go Snowshoeing
9. Try Snowmobiling
10. Explore Jungfraujoch

Related Article: Where To Stay In The Swiss Alps, The Ultimate Swiss Alps Hiking Guide, and 8 Tips For Traveling To The Swiss Alps On a Budget

Road Trip In Iceland

Iceland feels like a different planet. The unique terrain and activities make Iceland an unforgettable trip. The island nation located northwest of Norway is home to around 400,000 people.

Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and the gateway to all its amazing natural sites. You can fly into the city and use it as a base to explore the country, or you can spend a few days there and then hire a car to get around and see everything Iceland has to offer. 

The best way to explore Iceland’s wonders is by road. This captivating country is relatively small, so road trips are easy.

In Iceland, you will find volcanoes, waterfalls, black sand beaches, geothermal lagoons, the northern lights, the midnight sun, puffins, and more. So, it is safe to say Iceland is truly magical.

For first-time visitors, the best way to see Iceland’s highlights is on a road trip along the Golden Circle.

For more inspiration, check out our Iceland guides, which are linked below!

4 and 5* Rated Hotels In Reykjavik:

• Room With A View Hotel – Simple rooms that feature balconies and, as the name states, good views! It is a great choice due to its ideal central location.
• Hotel Borg by Keahotels – Creative Art Deco rooms overlooking the historic Asuturvollur Square! 
• Canopy By Hilton – Rooms have a minimalist Icelandic design but are located right in the center, so you can explore right from your doorstep.

Top 10 Things To See In Iceland

1. Visit The Blue Lagoon
2. See Reynisfjara, The Black Sand Beach
3. Visit Diamond Beach
4. Go To Gullfoss Falls
5. See The Sólheimasandur Plane Crash
6. Visit The Geysir Geothermal Area
7. Explore Reykjavik
8. See The Northern Lights
9. Snorkel Through Tectonic Plates
10. Vatnajökull Glacier

Related Article: The Ultimate Iceland Campervan First Timer’s Guide

Visit Sunny Lisbon

Lisbon is one of my favorite cities in Europe. With its stunning views, intriguing history, top-notch museums, and amazing food, it is a must-visit destination.

Located on the center coast of Portugal, Lisbon is home to around half a million people. Portugal is one of the most inexpensive countries in Western Europe, so if you are looking to stick to a budget on your European winter adventure, Lisbon is a great option.

Winter is a great time to visit Portugal because it is sunny and dry year-round.

4 and 5* Hotels In Lisbon

• Bairro Alto Hotel – A luxury hotel in the middle of the city, with one of the best rooftops in the city, perfect for relaxing with your girls. The hotel also offers a luxurious and glamorous stay for all guests.
• Le Consulat -This four-star boutique hotel has just 18 rooms in a mixture of apartments, suites, and double rooms. This hotel offers incredible views of the city along with bright and airy rooms.
• Internacional Design Hotel – This luxury hotel in Lisbon Old Town is a great place for a getaway especially as it’s just a short walk from restaurants and bars in addition to the shopping district.

Top 1o Things To See In Lisbon

1. See The Historic Belem Tower
2. Explore The Amalfi District
3. Stop By LX Factory
4. Ride On Tram 28
5. Take a Stroll Down The Lisbon Riverwalk
6. Take a Day Trip To Sintra
7. See Europe’s Largest Aquarium – Lisbon Oceanarium
8. Marvel at Castelo de São Jorge
9. Try Portuguese Food At A Local Restaurant
10. Visit Jerónimos Monastery

Related Articles: A Complete Guide To Lisbon

Explore Ireland’s West Coast

Ireland is an enchanting place. With its stunning landscapes, adorable B&BS, friendly locals, and overall culture, Ireland is a dream destination for many travelers. Visiting Ireland’s west coast was one of my favorite travel experiences.

You will find charming villages and so much natural beauty on the west coast. Base yourself in Galway for easy access to surrounding wonders like the Cliff of Moher and The Aran Islands.

Ireland is relatively mild in the winter. You will have rain and chilly days, but it rarely snows.

Top 10 Things To See On Ireland’s West Coast

1. See The Cliffs Of Moher
2. Explore Galway
3. Visit Dunguaire Castle
4. Explore The Burren National Park
5. Visit The Rings Of Kerry
6. Take A Day Trip To The Aran Islands
7. Explore Connemara National Park
8. See Slieve League Cliffs
9. Explore The Dingle Peninsula
10. See Ireland’s Only Fjord, Killary Harbour

Related Articles: A Guide To Galway

Visit The Stunning Mountain Town Of Cortina D’ampezzo, Italy

Cortina D’ampezzo is a stunning mountain town in the heart of the Italian Dolomites. It is perfect for a winter ski trip and is home to many boutique hotels and cozy resorts.

The 1956 Winter Olympics were held in Cortina D’ampezzo, and they will be held there again in 2026. While in the charming town, you can visit historic Olympic stadiums.

Top 10 Things To See In Cortina D’ampezzo

1. Explore the Cortina d’Ampezzo Town Center
2. Visit Cinque Torri
3. Explore Lago di Braies
4. Go on the Faloria Mountain and cable car
5. Learn about the Dolomites at the DoloMythos Museum
6. See the Olympic Ice Stadium and the 1956 Winter Olympics
7. Marvel at Monte Piana
8. Have a go at skiing and snowboarding
9. Stay at a chalet
10. Try the Great War Trail

See The Northern Lights In Lapland, Finland

Lapland is a region in the northernmost part of Finland. This stunning region of the Nordics is often thought of as The North Pole. In fact, you will find Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland.

While Lapland is full of holiday spirit, the Finnish region offers plenty of amazing outdoor activities and accommodations. While in Lapland, experience the Finnish Sauna culture, snowshoeing through the wilderness, and stay in a snow hotel.

Lapland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, which are visible for about 200 nights a year!

4 and 5* Rated Hotels In Lapland, Finland

• Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort  – This incredible resort comes with a choice of a cozy wooden chalet complete with a fireplace and private sauna or a glass igloo for the ultimate Lapland experience!
• Arctic Treehouse Hotel – Nordic design at its best sets this experience apart from the rest. Everything about this accommodation is Instagram-perfect! 

Top 10 Things To Do In Lapland, Finland

1. Visit Santa’s Village
2. Do A Finnish Sauna Experience
3. Explore Rovaniemi
4. Go Snowshoeing In The Finnish Wilderness
5. Stay At The Snow Hotel In Rovaniemi
6. See The Northern Lights
7. Go On a Husky Sled Ride
8. Visit the Sámi Museum in Inari
9. Experience a Reindeer Safari
10. Visit the Northern Lights Observatory in Kilpisjärvi

Related Articles: Five Day Arctic Adventure In Lapland, Finland

Explore Malta In The Off Season

Malta is a gorgeous island nation off the coast of Sicily, Italy. It is home to Gatorade blue water, picturesque cities, and a rich history. Although it is very hot in the summer, winter is a lovely time to visit this underrated country.

While in Malta, visit the Blue Grotto, Popeye Village, and the Dingli Cliffs.

Top 10 Things To Do In Malta

1. Visit The Blue Grotto
2. Explore Popeye Village
3. See The Dingli Cliffs
4. Explore The Ancient City of Mdina
5. Visit Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site
6. Explore the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
7. Go Diving
8. Take a Boat Tour of the Sea Caves In Gozo
9. Tour the Verdala Palace
10. Walk Through the Upper Barracca Gardens

Related Articles: A Perfect Guide To Malta

Learn About Spain’s History In Madrid

Madrid is the capital of the amazing country of Spain. Located in the center of the country, it is home to some of the best museums in the world and is full of history.

My first trip to Europe was to Madrid, so this city holds a special place in my heart. I remember being in awe of the architecture and cultural differences from the US. Looking back on Madrid after traveling so much, I most remember the astonishing museums, palaces, and cathedrals.

While in the stunning Spanish capital, visit the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace of Madrid, and the Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena.

4 and 5* Hotels In Madrid

• Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid – This hotel has an incredible rooftop swimming pool with a city view. It also has an indoor swimming pool, a full-service spa, a restaurant, and a library. The hotel has 87 rooms, including king and queen options that sleep two people.
• Hotel Regina – Located within walking distance of Gran Via, Puerta del Sol, and Plaza de Santa Ana, this hotel is a great place to explore the city. It has a Mediterranean restaurant and a gym.
• Barceló Emperatriz – This hotel is located near El Retiro Park and the Royal Palace of Madrid. The hotel has a restaurant called Restaurante Mutis and offers guests the use of the gym, heated floors, and pillow menus.

Top 10 Things To See In Madrid

1. Visit The Prado Museum (Museo del Prado)
2. Go On A Rowboat In Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro)
3. Marvel At Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real)
4. See Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena
5. Go Shopping In Puerta del Sol
6. Have A Picnic In Plaza Mayor
7. Explore Gran Vía
8. See The Almudena Cathedral
9. Try The Local Cuisine at The Mercado de San Miguel
10. See The Templo de Debod

Related Articles: 10 Reasons You Should Visit Madrid

Marvel At The Renaissance Architecture In Florence, Italy

Located in the heart of Italy in Tuscany, you will find the picturesque city of Florence. Florence, Italy, is the birthplace of the Renaissance. With incredible art, marvelous architecture, and, of course, phenomenal food, Florence is truly a must-visit city in Europe.

While in Florence, don’t miss the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, and Palazzo Vecchio.

Top 10 Things To Do In Florence, Italy

1. Visit the Uffizi Gallery
2. See the Florence Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze) and climb the Brunelleschi’s Dome
3. Admire Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery
4. Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio.
5. Explore the Piazza della Signoria and the Palazzo Vecchio.
6. Visit the Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace.
7. Discover Santa Croce Basilica and its tombs of famous figures.
8. Enjoy the views from Piazzale Michelangelo.
9. Wander through the Mercato Centrale.
10. Experience the Bargello Museum and its Renaissance sculptures.

Related Articles: 10 Things To Do In Florence, Italy

Road Trip Through The Scottish Highlands

Scotland is like a fairytale. Its small villages, captivating castles, and stunning natural beauty make it the perfect destination for your next European adventure.

The Scottish Highlands are known for their dramatic landscapes, filming locations, Lochs, castles, whisky, and more. If you are looking for an outdoor trip, this may be the place for you!

Inverness is the largest city in the Scottish Highlands, with a population of around 50,000. It is surrounded by natural beauty and has lovely restaurants, boutiques, adorable hotels, a museum, and lovely parks.

A road trip through the Scottish Highlands is an amazing way to see the region. For more inspiration on the Scottish Highlands, check out our guides below!

Top 10 Things To See In The Scottish Highlands

1. Explore Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
2. Visit Ben Nevis, which has the highest peak in the UK.
3. Take a day trip to the Isle of Skye – don’t miss the Fairy Pools and Old Man of Storr.
4. Marvel at Eilean Donan Castle.
5. Explore Cairngorms National Park.
6. The North Coast 500 Route – a scenic drive through the Highlands.
7. Explore Glen Coe’s dramatic landscapes.
8. Visit Inverness.
9. Explore the Black Isle.
10. Spend a day at the Five Sisters of Kintail.

Related Articles: A Scottish Highland Adventure

Have a Glamorous Weekend In Paris, France

There is no better city than Paris to have a glamorous weekend. The luxury hotels, designer shops, Michelin restaurants, and enchanting museums make Paris the perfect European city break.

4 and 5* Hotels In Paris

• Le Cinq Codet – A 5-star hotel on the left bank in Paris, conveniently located close to the Palais les Invalides, the Rodin Museum and the Eiffel Tower.
• The Relais Christine -A 5-star hotel perfectly located on the left bank of Paris. Built on the remains of the Abbey of the Grands-Augustin.
• Treat yourself and stay at the fabulous Four Seasons and enjoy brunch with your friends at Le George restaurant.

Top 10 Things To Do In Paris, France

1. Visit the Eiffel Tower
2. Explore the Louvre Museum and see the Mona Lisa
3. Stroll along the Champs-Élysées
4. Discover Notre-Dame Cathedral
5. Wander through the Montmartre District
6. Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens
7. Visit the Musée d’Orsay
8. Explore Le Marais district
9. Take a Seine River Cruise
10. Enjoy the Palace of Versailles and its stunning gardens

Related Articles: Paris Is Always A Good Idea

Explore The French Riviera In The Low Season

The picturesque French Riviera is located on the Mediterranean. In the summer, this region of France is full of tourists, and for good reason: the weather is perfect, and the beaches are beautiful.

During the winter in the French Riviera, you will find no shortage of beauty for only a fraction of the price. While you may not be able to swim in the sea, the weather is mild and dry – perfect for exploring the cities along the coast!

My favorite cities in the South of France are Nice, Menton, Eze, and Marseille. However, the French Riviera has many other wonderful places worth exploring. For more information on the South of France, check out our article below.

4 and 5* Star Hotels In The French Riviera

• Hôtel Barrière Le Gray d’Albion – Located near the Palace of Festivals and Conferences and Cannes Harbour, this is an upscale eco-certified hotel. The hotel features 18 holes of golf, a casino, and a beach bar. There is also a nearby private beach, a gym and activities like snorkeling and water skiing.
• Domaine de Valmouriane – This hotel is located in St.-Rémy-de-Provence. All guestrooms are individually furnished and include comforts such as premium bedding and heated floors. The hotel offers rooms that can sleep up to five people, perfect for a small group or bachelorette party.
• Chateau de la Gaude – Located near Paul Cezanne’s Studio, this hotel boasts an on-site fine-dining restaurant, Le ART, which has a Michelin star rating. Additionally, the hotel includes Spa Valmont, an on-site spa, a vineyard, and a tasting room.

Top 10 Things To See In The French Riviera

1. Explore The Nice Promenade des Anglais
2. Take a Day Trip To Monaco
3. Visit The Fabulous City of Cannes
4. Explore Saint-Tropez Old Town and Port
5. Hike To Eze Village
6. Explore Antibes
7. Marcel At Menton’s Old Town
8. Visit The International Perfume Museum
9. Explore The Enchanting Villefranche-sur-Mer
10. Visit Cap-Ferrat

Related Articles: A Complete Guide To Marseille, France

Europe Winter Getaway Destinations Wrap Up

There you have it, our top 12 destinations for a fun winter getaway in Europe! If you have questions about visiting Europe in the winter, please leave them in the comments below or message me directly on Instagram @daisymaclellan.

You can also check out all our Winter guides for more travel inspiration!

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