Winter is well and truly on its way. Rather than letting this fact get you down, you could instead make the most of the months ahead by planning a winter vacation. With this in mind, we are going to give you a rundown of some of the best things you can do across the continent during the next few months. Of course, you are unlikely to find huge amounts of sunshine and warmth, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have an unforgettable getaway.
Visit Christmas Markets in Austria and Germany
Christmas markets are now springing up all across the continent, but Austria and Germany are two countries that you could visit to enjoy them in the most authentic of styles. There will be plenty of quaint stalls selling everything from gingerbread men to hand-crafted toys and trinkets. And you will undoubtedly be able to stop for a glass of mulled wine or two. You could either go for one of the big cities or alternatively try one of the smaller towns for a less touristic experience.
Go Skiing
Whether you are a winter sports enthusiast or a skiing first-timer, there are plenty of places to go on a thrill-seeking adventure all across Europe. Of course, the premium destination in the Alps in one of the French or Swiss resorts, but you could alternatively look at Andorra holidays for something a little different. Otherwise, you could go further east for lower prices in countries such as Poland or Slovenia.
Check Out Copenhagen
In many ways, Copenhagen is the ultimate wintertime destination. After all, it is the home of Hans Christian Andersen. If the snow starts falling outside, there are plenty of cosy cafes and bars where you can seek shelter. Otherwise, there is the wonderful Tivoli amusement park in the heart of town which really gets in the Christmas spirit with lights, decorations, and gallons of festive cheer.
Bathe in Budapest
When the temperatures start to plunge in Budapest, there is no better place to be than the outdoor thermal baths where you can luxuriate in warmth and comfort. One of the other unmissable activities to enjoy here is skating on the huge outdoor rink in the city’s central park Városligeti Műjégpálya. Once you are finished, dart inside one of the ruin bars to enjoy a couple of drinks in unique surroundings.
Take a Trip to Andalusía
Though we said that there aren’t many places to visit where you can be warm in Europe during the winter, Andalusia in southern Spain is about as close as you are going to get. This is the region of the country that feels the most authentically ‘Spanish’ – a place where you can enjoy some of the best tapas and nightlife in the country. The top sights include Seville’s stunning Alcazar palace and the awe-inspiring Alhambra in Granada.
Any one of these destinations would make a wonderful getaway in winter, so why not choose one to visit?