Europe is the perfect destination if you’re dreaming of a chic winter getaway. Picture yourself playing on the slopes of a luxury ski resort, browsing through designer shopping districts, and sipping mulled wine at charming Christmas markets! Indeed, there’s no shortage of glamorous experiences to indulge in the region.
But with plenty of incredible places to visit in Europe this winter, you might need help planning your trip. So, to give you some ideas, here’s a list of the most stylish European destinations to visit this winter.
- SwitzerlandSwitzerland is one of Europe’s most beautiful countries, and it shines even more beautifully in winter, with its breathtaking mountain scenery and gorgeous Alpine villages surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Best of all – it has some of the world’s most luxurious ski resorts, so it just makes sense why it’s a great choice for those seeking a stylish winter getaway in Europe.Winter activities abound in Switzerland. Resorts like St. Moritz, Verbier, and Zermatt are known for their pristine slopes, where you can enjoy skiing or snowboarding. These resorts will also delight you with their sophisticated après-ski experiences, from unwinding in style at cosy mountain lodges to indulging in gourmet food.
For something truly relaxing, go ice skating or sledging. Swiss towns like Davos and Grindelwald are perfect for these activities. Aside from having stunning ice rinks, there are scenic trails for sledging. A more unique way to explore is winter hiking. With a guide to lead you, you’ll explore snow-covered trails in the Alps and venture into picturesque mountain villages.
Don’t miss the chance to visit Swiss Christmas markets on your winter getaway in Switzerland. You’ll find the best ones in Basel, Zurich, and Montreux. These places have beautiful markets, with stalls selling souvenirs, handmade crafts, mulled wine, and more!
- FranceHome to luxurious resorts and pretty mountain villages, France is another great destination for a sophisticated winter holiday in Europe. You can splurge on a glamorous getaway in the French Alps or soak up the sophisticated vibe of Paris. Regardless of how you wish to spend your holiday here, you will for sure have a great time!There are some amazing holidays with hotels and flights to France, making it easy to plan your dream winter getaway. Check out Sno for some great holiday options. France is also a top for skiing, home to exceptional resorts like Chamonix, Courchevel, and La Plagne. These places attract ski enthusiasts who want to enjoy world-class slopes but also luxurious accommodations and incredible après-ski experiences.
While skiing is the highlight, there are many other winter activities to keep you entertained here. You can enjoy ice skiing by the Eiffel Tower in Paris or snowshoeing in the Alps – surrounded by the magical, snowy landscapes! A more unique and thrilling way to enjoy a winter getaway in France is to try heli-skiing in the more remote areas of the Alps!
- AustriaAustria is a stylish country renowned for its rich culture and stunning natural beauty. It also has picturesque Alpine landscapes, which makes it a perfect destination for a stylish European getaway in winter. If you’re here for a skiing adventure, there are glamorous ski resorts in the charming mountain towns of Tyrol.The best way to jumpstart your holiday is to go skiing and snowboarding in world-renowned resorts like Kitzbühel, St. Anton, and Zell am See. These resorts have the best slopes in all of Europe! Aside from providing top-tier skiing, there are luxurious accommodations and exceptional après-ski scenes.
For a more relaxed experience, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing – a more exciting way to explore the stunning snowy landscapes of Austria. You can also try ice skating in the heart of Vienna, in front of the Rathaus (City Hall). But for a more unique winter escape, go tobogganing down the sledging trails!
- ItalyAnother fascinating destination to consider for your stylish European break is Italy. It’s home to the Dolomites, where there is an abundance of stylish ski resorts with world-class slopes. Cortina d’Ampezzo is another region renowned for its excellent skiing and snowboarding facilities. There are also cosy mountain lodges and fancy restaurants specialising in gourmet dining.If you’d rather do something more relaxing, check out beautiful cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. These famous places are quieter in winter, so you can explore their historic sites without dealing with the busy crowds. Enjoy a winter stroll through the ancient streets of Rome, visit the iconic art galleries in Florence, or try a gondola ride in Venice.
For a warmer escape, venture into the Mediterranean island of Sicily. The island enjoys mild weather even in winter. You can still enjoy its beaches and stroll through charming villages. You can even rent incredible villas in Sicily, great for a stylish European break! These villas often feature breathtaking views, and you can guarantee a truly relaxing winter retreat.
While in Sicily, explore Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano. Hike through historic towns like Taormina and Palermo and stop by local eateries to indulge in delicious Sicilian cuisine!
- Portugal If you want a winter getaway in Europe that involves sunny escapes, outdoor adventures, and fun sightseeing, Portugal is a great choice. It boasts mild winter weather, charming villages, and historic cities. And the best part? You can still enjoy the beaches!If you’re here for a beach getaway, head to the Algarve. The coastal region is still blessed with lots of sunshine in the winter season, and you can still go on coastal hikes, explore hidden coves, or even play golf! Visit the pretty towns of Sagres and Lagos, which overlook the Atlantic Ocean’s stunning views!
For a dose of culture, head to Porto or Lisbon. These cities are great to explore in winter since they usually have fewer crowds. Be sure to check out famous landmarks like the Belém Tower and wander around the historic Alfama district. Head to Porto, where you can taste some of the world’s most delectable port wine.