Where to travel in Europe during Winter
Here are some great European destinations to consider visiting during the winter season:
Portugal
Portugal can be visited in the winter season, which typically runs from December to February. Although the weather is cooler and there may be some rain, the country offers a milder winter climate compared to other European destinations. Winter is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to experience a different side of the country, with fewer crowds and lower prices.
Some popular winter activities in Portugal include visiting historic sites, such as castles and palaces, exploring charming towns and villages, and indulging in local cuisine. The country is also known for its winter festivals, such as the Festa de São Martinho in November, which celebrates the wine harvest.
Additionally, Portugal’s coastline offers some great winter beach destinations, such as the Algarve, with mild temperatures and sunny skies. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, the Serra de Sintra mountain range provides opportunities for hiking and cycling, even during the winter months.
Overall, Portugal is a destination that can be enjoyed year-round, and visiting in the winter season provides a unique opportunity to experience the country in a different way.
See our article on a Portugal trip here
Edinburgh, Scotland
Hogmanay is the Scottish New Year’s Eve celebration that takes place on December 31st. A highlight for the Winter season. It is one of the most significant festivals in Scotland, with a rich history and a variety of traditions that are still practiced today. The origins of Hogmanay are not clear, but it is thought to have pagan roots, marking the end of the old year and the beginning of the new one.
Hogmanay celebrations in Scotland typically include street parties, torchlit processions, fireworks displays, and live music performances. The tradition of “first-footing,” where the first person to cross the threshold of a home after midnight on New Year’s Eve is believed to bring good luck, is also an important part of the celebrations. Another popular tradition is “Auld Lang Syne,” a song that is sung at midnight to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new.
Overall, Hogmanay is a vibrant and festive celebration that brings together families and friends to ring in the New Year with music, food, and festivities.
Luxembourg
You can visit Luxembourg in the winter season. Although the country experiences cold temperatures and potential snow and ice, it still offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors. Winter is a great time to explore Luxembourg’s historic cities and quaint villages, such as the capital city of Luxembourg and the picturesque town of Echternach.
In the city of Luxembourg, you can visit attractions such as the historic fortifications, museums, and Christmas markets. Winter is also a great time to experience Luxembourg’s culinary scene, with hearty dishes such as “F’rell Am Rèisleck” (a type of stew) and traditional sweets like gingerbread and “Stollen” cake.
If you’re interested in outdoor activities, Luxembourg has several ski resorts, such as the ski resort of Ovifat, that offer skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The country’s scenic countryside is also a popular destination for winter hiking and snowshoeing.
Overall, Luxembourg can be a charming and festive destination during the winter season, with a range of activities and attractions to enjoy.
Lapland, Finland
Lapland is a region in northern Finland that is known for its stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and exciting winter activities. It is located above the Arctic Circle and is home to the indigenous Sámi people, who have a rich history and traditional way of life. Home to Santa and the Winter season.
Lapland is a popular destination for winter sports, with ski resorts offering a range of slopes and activities. In addition, Lapland is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, including forests, lakes, and mountains, which provide a spectacular backdrop for winter activities such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, and reindeer sledding.
One of Lapland’s most famous attractions is the Northern Lights, which can be seen in the winter months. The region is also home to several national parks, such as Pyhä-Luosto and Pallas-Yllästunturi, where visitors can enjoy winter hiking, cross-country skiing, and other outdoor activities.
Lapland is also a destination for those seeking a unique cultural experience, with traditional Sámi music, dance, and crafts, as well as reindeer herding, providing a window into the region’s rich heritage.
Overall, Lapland is a winter wonderland that offers a range of activities and experiences, from winter sports and outdoor adventures to cultural immersion and natural beauty.
Skiing
Ok, maybe not a place. But if you’re after Skiing then the country doesnt matter as much as where the best mountains are to get your shred on. Here’s a few places to consider:
- The French Alps: With famous ski resorts such as Chamonix, Les Trois Vallées, and Val d’Isère, the French Alps offer some of the best skiing in Europe, with a variety of slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
- The Italian Dolomites: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a winter paradise, with ski resorts such as Cortina d’Ampezzo, Sella Ronda, and Val Gardena offering breathtaking views, challenging slopes, and traditional Italian hospitality.
- The Swiss Alps: Switzerland is home to some of the most iconic ski resorts in the world, such as Verbier, Zermatt, and St. Moritz, offering incredible ski experiences for all levels, as well as a range of non-skiing activities.
- The Austrian Tyrol: Austria is a classic ski destination, and the Tyrol region offers a variety of ski resorts, such as Kitzbühel, St. Anton, and Ischgl, with a traditional Alpine atmosphere and top-notch skiing and snowboarding.
- The Spanish Pyrenees: The Pyrenees offer some of the best value skiing in Europe, with resorts such as Baqueira Beret, Formigal, and Candanchú offering a range of slopes and activities.
- Bankso, Bulgaria – the most cost effective option for skiining. Here you will find great skiing at more affordable prices.
