Europe is full of beautiful winter destinations whether you’re after scenic walks, plenty of snowfall, want to see the Northern Lights or just want somewhere that feels particularly festive
Europe is full of beautiful places, but come winter there are a host of towns and national parks that transform into real-life winter wonderlands.
We’re talking the stuff of storybooks with snow-dusted forests, night skies lit up by the Northern Lights, epic glaciers, ski resorts and plenty of festive cheer, including some of the world’s best Christmas markets. There are some popular locations such as Lapland in Finland or Tromso in Norway, but also lesser-known hotspots in the likes of Slovenia and Montenegro. For a dose of wintery wanderlust, we’ve rounded up some of the prettiest real-life winter wonderlands to be found across Europe – so grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine, curl up and start dreaming about your next enchanting getaway!
1. Lapland, Finland
A gorgeous snow-covered town that’s also home to Santa’s Village was always going to be top of the list. Every year thousands of Brits flock to Lapland aka Rovaniemi in Finland, to spend time with Father Christmas and his Elves, and enjoy plenty of festive magic. However, even if you’re not going to see Santa, there’s heaps to see and do in Lapland all winter. Highlights include Northern Lights safaris, husky and reindeer sleigh rides, snowshoeing hikes, ice fishing and plenty of brilliant spas and saunas if you need to relax amidst all of the adventures.
2. Hallstatt, Austria
A town that’s said to have inspired Disney’s Frozen was always going to have major winter wonderland credentials. Hallstatt in Austria looks like something straight out of a storybook thanks to its gorgeous lakefront location and snow-capped mountains that make up the rest of the scenery. In the village itself you can expect cosy lodges, 16th century buildings and heaps of boutiques and cafés. However be warned if you’re planning to take heaps of photos; locals have been fighting back against crowds of tourists who block the roads, so make sure you’re aware of your surroundings when you stop to pose for a selfie!
3. Reykjavik, Iceland
There are so many incredible places to visit in Iceland over winter from awe-inspiring glaciers to remote wintry spots with near-perfect views of the Northern Lights. Reykjavik can be an ideal base from which to go exploring whether you’re heading on an Aurora safari (although you can sometimes even see the Lights from the city!), are planning a trek along the snow-capped forests or even want to drive out to some of those black sand beaches created by the country’s volcanic landscape. Then of course there are those gorgeous thermal spas including the iconic Blue Lagoon as well as the Sky Infinity Pool, both of which boast warm waters from which you can enjoy views of the snow-covered landscapes.
4. Bled, Slovenia
In the summer, Lake Bled is popular with those who want to enjoy the 6km loop around its water’s edge, and the fun nightlife to be found in Bled itself. However, in the winter it transforms into a completely different but equally beautiful destination. The waters turn to ice, the lush green forests become dusted with snow, and it’s easy to forget you’re not on a film set. There’s plenty of fun to be had too whether you’re having a go at ice skating and sledding, or just want to enjoy a scenic wintry walk along the lake.
5. Prague, Czech Republic
If you’re lucky you may enjoy some snow over the winter months in Prague, but what really makes this a wonderland is the city’s gorgeous Christmas markets and twinkling lights over the festive season. After all, there’s a reason why Prague is repeatedly tipped to have one of Europe’s best Christmas markets. The Old Town Square is where you’ll find the bulk of the action with everything from hundreds of craft stalls to carol singers and a giant Christmas tree. Meanwhile the city is full of breathtaking landmarks from Prague Castle to the beautiful Charles Bridge (make sure you head over at sunset for some truly incredible views of the city).
6. Tromso, Norway
One of Norway’s best places to see the Northern Lights, Tromso has long been a hit with Aurora-seekers. Of course there’s never a guarantee you’ll see the natural phenomenon but the good news is that you’ll still have plenty to enjoy on a mini break including the likes of husky sledding, fjord cruises, reindeer feeding, and snowshoe hikes. Oh, and make sure to leave time on the itinerary for a trip to the incredible Arctic Museum!
7. Montenegro
An underrated winter spot in Europe, Montenegro boasts some gorgeous national parks and budget-friendly ski resorts in the winter. Tipped as a ‘natural winter wonderland’, its Durmitor National Park has a whole host of picturesque trails along frozen lakes and ice caves, while the ski resort Kolašin boasts some impressive snowfall and cheaper ski pass prices compared to other hotspots on the continent.
