Snow-covered and dressed in their festive finery, these European cities are pure magic in winter.
Winter is the ideal season for revitalizing journeys across Europe. Atmospheric old towns with cobbled lanes and arcades, imposing castles, bridges over rivers and Christmas markets, especially when paired with snowy landscapes, set the perfect stage for unforgettable winter trips.
The travel magazine Conde Nast Traveller published a list of European cities that are even more enchanting in winter and we present 12 of the most beautiful.
Vienna, Austria
The Austrian capital is wonderful in every season, but in most travelers minds it is synonymous with winter and Christmas. The charm of the old town, the beautifully decorated Christmas markets, classical music concerts, fragrant strudels, Viennese cafes, the sight of Schönbrunn Palace and St. Charles Church being covered in snow, lend a magical dimension to Vienna.
Budapest, Hungary
Embracing the majestic Danube, with Budas hills to the west and Pest to the east, Budapest is undoubtedly one of Europes most beautiful cities. And winter suits it perfectly. The emblematic Hungarian Parliament building and the large chunks of ice drifting on the Danube offer a truly impressive spectacle, while the grand cafes, superb museums and famous baths are the ideal refuge after wintry strolls in the city.
Edinburgh, Scotland
The imposing capital of Scotland captivates visitors with its Gothic buildings, the striking Royal Mile (Royal Mile) and the 12th-century castle on the hilltop. If you find yourself in Edinburgh at New Year, youll be lucky enough to experience Hogmanay, one of the most distinctive New Year traditions- an experience you wont have anywhere else. Visit any time in winter, however, and youll enjoy the atmosphere in the cobbled lanes, the arcades and in a cozy cafe with a glass of good whisky.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a fascinating experience for every traveler. The fairytale atmosphere, contemporary architecture, Danish design and culinary vanguard make Copenhagen a unique destination that fits winter like a glove. The picturesque Nyhavn harbor, with its colorful 17th-century houses and a promenade lined with restaurants, cafes and bars, feels like a scene from an old film and is an ideal place to relax after a day of exploring the city.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
The capital of Slovenia is fairytale-like whether in sun or in snow. Built along the verdant banks of the Ljubljanica River, Ljubljana is a small city (one of Europes smallest capitals) with distinctive architecture, engaging cultural and nightlife, manicured parks and an extensive network of pedestrian areas and cycle paths. The innovative Slovene architect Joze Plecnik shaped the citys profile in the early 20th century, building striking bridges (such as the famous Triple Bridge, a symbol of the city) and churches, blending Neoclassical style with Art Deco.
Bergen, Norway
Nestled between imposing mountains and dramatic fjords, with a colorful collage of wooden houses, Bergen,the second largest city in Norway, looks like it has stepped out of a fairytale. The citys famed fish market is the biggest magnet for tourists. Picturesque Bryggen, Bergens old wharf with its distinctive architecture, has 900 years of history and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. A must is the funicular ride to Mount Floyen, as is a cruise on the fjords- the nearby Sognefjord, is Norways largest fjord by area.
Paris, France
Paris is always a good idea. In winter, though, its an even better idea. With impressive architecture, grand boulevards, world-class art, historic cafés, bistros tucked into little lanes and a unique culinary scene, the French capital is an iconic city and the number one romantic destination in the world.
Prague, Czechia
Built on the banks of the Vltava River, Prague is, as Goethe put it, the "most beautiful gem in the stone crown of the world". Its hard not to love this city in winter. The historic center, the grand market on Old Town Square with the masterful Astronomical Clock, Charles Bridge, the lanes of the historic Mala Strana district and of course the fairytale Castle will convince you that Prague is the perfect winter destination.
Reykjavik, Iceland
The capital of Iceland - and the northernmost capital in the world- will give you the feeling of an approachable city. In Reykjavik youll find distinctive bars and restaurants, shop for original clothes by Icelandic designers and see unique contemporary art exhibitions. The city will be your base for excursions to Icelands enchanting locations - from glaciers to volcanoes and from waterfalls to geothermal springs.
Salzburg, Austria
Set at an elevation of 420 m, at the foot of the Alps, this fairytale city in west-central Austria leaves no one unmoved. Imagine a setting of lanes that take you back in time, architecture playing between Baroque and Renaissance, palaces and an impressive castle shining high on the hill. Add snow and the melodies of Mozart (Salzburg is the birthplace of the great composer) and you have the perfect Christmas escape.
Stockholm, Sweden
Northern Lights, Christmas markets in the heart of the Old Town, welcoming cafes and an amazing culinary scene... Stockholm may have more travelers in summer, but it is made to offer the ultimate winter experience. Christmas is an ideal time to visit, when local restaurants serve traditional Christmas buffets called julbord. If you want to enjoy and photograph the city under snow, plan your trip for January or February.
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn overflows with charm, thanks to its superb castles and ideal location on the Baltic. The capital of Estonia has one of the best-preserved historic centers in Europe, with many medieval churches and other buildings under UNESCO protection. The view of the city from Toompea Castle is stunning in every season, but snow makes everything look even more beautiful.
