Embrace the winter season by planning the perfect short break with this selection of 10 wonderful European winter city breaks, featuring enchanting cobbled streets, vibrant Christmas markets, picture-postcard snowy scenery and more!
Europe has a destination for everyone in the winter months, aside from the mid-December rush, most European cities are crowd-free and inexpensive. They offer unique outdoor activities and cosy experiences well worth travelling for. Whether you plan on ice skating on a frozen lake in Slovenia or sipping real hot chocolate in a riverside Belgian café, these 10 tried and tested winter breaks in Europe will have you packing your winter woollies in no time!
10 Best European Winter City Breaks
Here are ten of my best European winter city breaks with all the details you need, including what to see and do and where to stay that will help you make the most of the coldest season.
1. PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
With its Gothic and Baroque architecture, Prague is stunning year-round, but it takes on a special charm in winter. The city’s Christmas markets, historic sites, and cosy cafes make it an ideal winter city break destination.
SEE & DO
Start in the old town square, the prettiest area in Prague – where you can visit the iconic Astronomical Clock. It’s one of the greatest attractions in Prague, head to the top of the tower for even more stunning views. The old town square is also where you’ll find the imposing Church of Our Lady before Tyn, the Christmas Markets and plenty of cosy cafés and restaurants such as La Dégustation Bohéme.
Take a stroll over the cobbles to Charles Bridge and admire all the different building styles and traditional puppet shops on the way to the magnificent Prague Castle. Afterwards, follow the winding cobbles under the castle to the secret charming area of Malá Strana, here’s where you’ll find rows of postcard-perfect pastel houses. In the evening see a musical show or grab a cocktail at Hemmingway’s or Black Angel Bar – both are excellent.
STAY
The beautiful Allure Hotel in the historic centre of Prague. It features classic and elegant rooms with high-end furnishings, some with balconies overlooking the rooftops. The nearest airport is only 12km away, which can also be reached by train.
2. LJUBLJANA & LAKE BLED, SLOVENIA
The charming cobbled capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana and the postcard-perfect Lake Bled make one of the best European winter city breaks – two wonderful destinations in one trip!
SEE & DO
Wander the vibrant old town of Ljubljana and along the river banks – cross the famous triple bridge and admire the pink Baroque Church. Next walk or take the funicular to the castle perched above the town for views and on the way back down, why not try a local speciality at Figovec Restaurant – their tasting boards are spot on.
Spend a wonderful day exploring Lake Bled surrounded by a mountainous snowy landscape – scenes straight out of a Christmas card box. Walk the 6km waterside path around the lake and climb up to Bled Castle for 360 views, while there grab a table at the Castle’s restaurant and don’t forget to try the famed Lake Bled cake! For something a little more organised from Ljubljana book this day trip.
STAY
Five star boutique hotel Zlata Ladjica, situated in a prime position within the old town over-looking Cobblers Bridge. This boutique has tasteful rooms with views to match! Fly directly into Ljubljana then take the 45 minute shuttle bus. Catch the bus or train to Lake Bled or take an organised trip.
Read Next: Slovenia by Train – Best Places to Visit
3. VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Vienna, Austria embraces winter with its imperial elegance, enchanting lights, and classical charm. As a best European winter city break, Vienna offers a magical escape!
SEE & DO
Vienna’s opulence and grandeur are magnificent at any time of the year, but in winter you can glide across the ice at the Rathauzplatz ice rink right in front of Vienna’s city hall and linger in the beautiful historic coffee houses! Book a table at Cafe Central and warm up with a strong Austrian coffee and treat yourself to a sachertorte (thick chocolate cake) before for a night at the opera! The opera season is in full swing during the winter months.
Visit the Schönbrunn Palace, which is adorned with lights during the winter, creating a fairy-tale-like ambience and allocate an afternoon to admire the extensive art collection at Belvedere Palace including Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss”. If you are lucky enough to be there for New Years eve you are in for a treat! Join in the festivities at Silvesterpfad.
STAY
Historic Hotel Motto, is situated on Vienna’s main shopping street – a ten minute walk from the Museumsquartier and historic Spittleberg Quatre. The elegant rooms are delightfully furnished in dreamy pastels and there’s a restaurant and pretty roof terrace bar on site. Jump on the 30-minute speed train straight from Vienna’s Airport.
4. COLMAR, FRANCE
Colmar, France, a medieval masterpiece, transforms into a winter wonderland with charming streets festive lights, and bustling markets, making it one of the best European winter city breaks – a magical escape awaits.
SEE & DO
Wander the cobbled streets illuminated by a trail of lights, take pictures of the colourful buildings that link all six Christmas markets – voted the most beautiful in Europe! Shop for traditional crafts at Place Jeanne d’Arc or eat your way around the Marché Gourmand where you will find intriguing influences from neighbouring Germany.
Stop for lunch at one of the three Michelin-rated restaurants before embarking on a canal boat trip that takes you across to the striking half-timbered buildings of Petit Venice. For more culture visit the Unterlinden Museum filled with artworks or take The Four Wonders of Alsace Day Tour – a breathtaking area famed for its scenic vineyards and medieval villages.
STAY
Hotel Le Colombier is situated in the heart of Petit Venice, the most sought after and central area in Colmar, its the perfect mix of old character and new decor and amenities. The nearest airport is Strasbourg which is 35 minutes from Colmar, or you can get the 2.5hour train from Paris.
5. AMSTERDAM
Amsterdam captivates in winter with its picturesque canals and lively atmosphere. As one of the best European winter city breaks, the city’s historic charm, numerous cafés, restaurants and bars promise lots of festive fun!
SEE & DO
Visit the pretty 9 Streets canal and if it’s cold enough, put on a pair of skates and join the locals ice-skating over the frozen canal water. Explore Dam Square, feast on warm Dutch pancakes and visit one of the many museums, the Anne Frank House is the most famous followed by the Van Gough Museum.
Hire a bike and cycle around the canals, stopping at the cool Jordaan and 9 Street districts for boutique shopping. Dine in one of the classic restaurants in Amsterdam, Carstens Brasserie and Restaurant Smelt innovatively showcase the best fresh produce – start with the fondu and try the dainty cocktails!
STAY
The fashionable Hoxton Hotel, a boutique in the middle of affluent 9 Streets – the perfect location to explore Amsterdam. The Hoxton has a cool bar on site and an excellent vibe day and night, it’s one of my favourite hotels. Fly directly into Amsterdam Airport and catch the shuttle, just a 10-minute walk to the Hoxton.
Read: My review of The Hoxton – at Christmas
6. SALZBURG & HALLSTATT, AUSTRIA
Visit this cultural city in style with the sound of Mozart and a day trip to the most beautiful village in Europe – Hallstatt. You’ll find a backdrop of snow capped mountains and an extra special ambience during the European winter season.
SEE & DO
Stroll around the romantic old town of Salzburg and follow the cobbled streets to the impressive Salzburg Cathedral and its surrounding atmospheric squares including Mozartplatz, Kapitelplatz and Residenzplatz, where you can pick up a horse-drawn carriage. On the Alter Markt, you’ll find the historic cafe of Tomaselli, the oldest cafe in Austria and one-time Mozart haunt.
Join a sound-of-music tour to see the iconic scenes from this classic film, visit Mozart’s birthplace and residence and check out the views from Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of the best-preserved fortresses in Europe. To round out your cultural trip book a day tour through the mountains and lakes to beautiful Hallstatt – this day trip is not to be missed!
STAY
Boutique Hotel Auersberg, with tasteful rooms nearby historic Salzburg. This family run hotel features a bar, restaurant and terrace-garden serving organic breakfasts. Salzburg airport is a 20 minute bus ride, Vienna a 2.5 hour train.
7. COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
Attractive harbours, colourful historic buildings and cozy restaurants – the word ‘hygge’ is Danish for cosiness! Copenhagen is one of the best European winter city breaks packed with creativity and museums.
SEE & DO
Copenhagen is most known for the colourful stretch of houses along Nyhavn. A cool 17th-century waterfront, canal district housing cosy bars, restaurants and hotels. Walk around this scenic area of the city, admire the historic boats and houses and pay a visit to Lady of the Rocks statue. If you get too cold warm up with a spiced hot punch served all along Nyhavn called Glogg.
Visit the famous amusement park Tivoli, built in 1842, which is a magical place to spend an evening in the winter months, marvel at Christiansburg Castle, and go vintage shopping – the city is bursting with beautiful concept and design stores. Lastly, try a modern Danish smorrebrod (hearty rye bread with toppings) at stylish a restaurant, Selma or Aamanns 1921 are both excellent.
STAY
Hotel Sanders, elegant boutique hotel with world class service and fantastic bar/lounge area located in Nyhavn. Fly directly into Copenhagen Airport and catch the 20 minute train to the central station, then walk 15 minutes to the hotel. With the Copenhagen Card you have access to 80 plus museums and free transport including the airport!
8. SEVILLE, SPAIN
Seville brings warm weather in Europe during winter, a nice break in cold weather with highs of 65F, flamenco, plazas, spectacular architecture and tasty tapas!
SEE & DO
Seville’s striking 15th cathedral is a good place to start, climb to the top of the Giralda Tower for the best views over the old town. Hop across the square and pay a visit to the attractive Real Alcazar Royal Palace and gardens. Book your skip-the-line ticket here, it’s the busiest location in Seville. In the late afternoons, stop by charming Santa Cruz for traditional tapas. El Rinconcillo is the oldest tapas bar in Seville and is worth seeking.
Enjoy a sunny stroll through Maria Luisa Park towards the Plaza de Espana with its circular dusty pink buildings and ornately painted bridges. You can often catch a free flamenco performance or two in the afternoon. Or book a traditional flamenco show inside a cosy cavern. Los Gallos Tablao, is one of the best in the old town. All performances are outstanding and the intimate venue is a perfect way to spend a winter’s evening.
STAY
Los Seises Sevilla, boutique hotel housed in a 16th century historical building. Situated in the heart of the old town of Seville with a very attractive lobby and sun terrace. Seville has an international airport, with a bus connecting it to the city centre in 35 minutes.
9. BRUGES, BELGUIM
Bruges transforms into one of the best European winter city breaks from November through to March, with its canals and medieval architecture dusted with snow. Indulge in Belgian chocolates, and explore the city’s stunning scenic spots.
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Start in the heart of Bruges old town – the Grote Markt (market square) where you’ll find plenty of cosy cafes, restaurants and the medieval Belfort Belfry Tower. Climb the spiralling 366 stairs to the top of the tower for panoramic views, it’s well worth the effort.
Cosy up on a horse and carriage ride around the historic squares adorned with twinkly lights for the festive season. Visit a chocolate-themed museum (Chocolate-Story Museum) and for a posh chocolate fix head to The Chocolate Line. A skillful chocolatiers with an assortment of flavours to try. Belgium lovers can choose from over 300 beers at Brugs Beertje or take a tour and tasting at De Halve Mann dated 1856.
STAY
Dukes Academie Bruges, a newly renovated hotel next to the famous Minnewater – the most scenic area in Bruges. Beautiful decor throughout and an onsite bar. The nearest airport is Brussels and Bruges is also easily reached by train, connecting to the Eurostar and local trains.
10. TALLINN, ESTONIA
Known for its medieval charm and well-preserved historic centre, Tallin offers a magical winter atmosphere with fairy-tale-like cobblestone streets, castles and cathedrals and a rich cultural scene.
SEE & DO
Go back in time to the 13th-century UNESCO-listed old town of Tallinn, where you’ll find the best medieval buildings including the imposing St. Olaf’s Church. Climb to the top of the church’s tower for spectacular city rooftop views. Tallinn is easy to walk around and there are plenty of free places to explore such as Toompea Castle perched on Toompea Hill – another area offering views.
Visit the Old Town Hall Square in the festive season – this is where you’ll find the colourful Manson pastel houses, the seasonal markets and cosy restaurants, made even more tempting in the snow. If you get too cold, warm up with a traditional hoogwein (mulled wine with fruit and nuts) in a cosy candle-filled cellar restaurant.
STAY
On the edge of the old town, new Nunne Boutique Hotel. One of the most well-appointed places to stay in Tallin with modern style rooms. Tallin’s international airport is only 4km from the city centre. A bus or tram transfers link the two in 15 minutes.
Visiting European cities in winter can offer an unique and enchanting experience with the added benefits of a festive atmosphere and cosy ambience in cafes, restaurants and hotels. Imagine sipping hot drinks by the fireplace after a day of exploring! So pack your winter essentials and prepare for an unforgettable weekend winter escape!
Related Posts:
What to Pack for a Winter City Break
To help plan the rest of your European winter city break. Here’s my go-to list of resources for booking everything from flights to accommodation, tours and more:
- Booking.com: For the best accommodation rates
- Trip Advisor: Check out the latest reviews & trips
- Rail Europe: Book any rail journey
- Viator: For incredible day trips
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