I’ve always been an Autumn/Winter girl. All my life, I’ve been positively gleeful when the clocks go back, and my mum and I would start counting down to the shortest day of the year. We were beside ourselves with excitement over the long, dark evenings, hunkering down with cups of tea, books, and TV. It’s not just the chance to hibernate that makes winter my time to shine - nothing beats wrapping up warm, slowing down, and soaking in the beauty of the season.

 

Maybe living somewhere that hits 40°C in summer has colored my opinion slightly. The long summer in Ibiza is an exercise in going slightly loopy from the heat. The constant sheen of sweat, the relentless buzzing of cicadas, and the noise of bars, restaurants, and music make peace a distant memory. Those first quiet nights at the beginning of November, when you can finally lie in bed with a big cozy quilt instead of a sheet? (even that being unbearable at summer's height!) Bliss. I even take a photo to send to my mum - it’s that significant in my calendar. Er, no - I’m not joking and yes, I'm that weird.

 

I digress, because basically, I’m excited! Winter in Europe is nothing short of magical.

From twinkling Christmas markets and cozy cafés, the continent transforms into a wonderland. It’s perfect for a festive getaway or a cultural city break. Whether you’re dreaming of fairy-tale canals, historic castles, or lively holiday markets, Europe has something to enchant every traveler during the colder months. You may even get some snow, depending on where in Europe you are!

Imagine wandering through the charming streets of Bruges, sipping hot chocolate as the canals glisten under soft winter lights. Picture the historic squares and stunning architecture of Prague, where Christmas markets fill the air with warmth and seasonal treats. In Vienna, imperial palaces and festive concerts create an elegant backdrop for a winter escape. Barcelona offers milder temperatures, vibrant streets, and festive lights along Las Ramblas, while Copenhagen brings the Danish concept of hygge to life with cozy cafés, canal-side walks, and the magical Tivoli Christmas Market. When I put it like that, why choose just the one? 

 

(It is an honest to goodness argument in my head around this time each year as to whether I’d live in Denmark or Norway in my fantasy ideal world - or maybe Finland? Choices, choices!)

 

Ready to start planning your perfect European winter adventure? Keep reading for our guide to each city, complete tips, must-see sights, and links to detailed itineraries that make your trip unforgettable.

Take a canal tour in Bruges

Bruges, Belgium - A Fairytale Winter Escape

If ever there was a city made for winter, it’s Bruges. Cobblestone streets, medieval squares, and canals come alive under twinkling lights and the scent of freshly baked waffles and (possibly) the best chocolate in Europe. With crisp air, fewer crowds and story book charm, Bruges is the perfect city to slow down, take a stroll and pretend you're a local - if only for the weekend.

 

Why Visit Bruges in Winter

Bruges in winter is everything you dream it will be. The main square, 'the Markt', transforms into a Christmas village, complete with wooden chalets selling Belgian chocolates, glühwein, and handmade gifts. Wander the quiet canals as mist curls above the water, even better, book a canal boat trip; or climb the Belfry for panoramic views of the city.  Even the horse-drawn carriages feel more romantic when your breath fogs in the cold air, just dress warm! Obviously the main event of the winter season in Bruges is the Winter Glow festival that runs from late November. If you need an answer to the Why visit Bruges question, there it is! 

 

Bruges Quick Snapshot

• Best for: Romantic getaways, photographers, and Christmas market lovers
• Average winter temperature: 2–6°C
• Ideal trip length: 2–3 days
• Highlight experience: Ice skating in Koning Albert 1 Square (part of the Winter Glow festival) 

Top Things to Do in Bruges in Winter

While Bruges is renowned for its year-round charm, the winter months offer unique experiences.

 

Winter Glow (21 November 2025 – 4 January 2026): Obviously this is the MAIN EVENT! Experience the city illuminated with a new light trail, festive ice skating rinks, cozy winter bars, and two enchanting Christmas markets. It's a magical way to embrace the season's spirit. 

 

Cultural Events Bruges hosts various cultural events throughout the year. It's worth checking the Visit Bruges Event Calender closer to your travel dates for the latest updates and announcements. You can put in the dates you're visiting and it will tell you what's on while you are there.

 

The Belfry of Bruges

Inspiring artists and poets alike. Read "The Belfry of Bruges" by HW Longfellow for some atmospheric inspo! 

"In the market-place of Bruges stands the belfry old and brown;

Thrice consumed and thrice rebuilded, still it watches o'er the town.

As the summer morn was breaking, on that lofty tower I stood,

And the world threw off the darkness, like the weeds of widowhood."

Consider yourself educated! Now climb the 366 steps for panoramic views of the city and then go explore the chocolate shops, goodness knows you earned it!  

 

Book a Canal Cruise 

You can't visit Bruges and NOT take a boat ride through the canals. A serene meander through the waters, reflecting the golden foliage and surrounding medieval architecture. You want to miss that? Thought not! Just think of the photo opportunities!

 

Market Square & Burg Square 

Wander through these historic squares, surrounded by stunning buildings and the vibrant atmosphere of the city.  Take a break in a local bar and sample the Belgian beer and mussels (almost as famous as the chocolate!). Get settled under an outside heater and watch the world go by, make plans, think about where you're going to eat dinner. Just sit back, take a breather and enjoy the surroundings.... And order that second beer.

 

Warm up in a café and Sample local fare

Drink a rich Belgian hot chocolate and try out the pralines at The Old Chocolate House because who goes to Belgium and doesn't eat the chocolate or want to visit a cute tearoom? It's what their famous for!  

Well that and the local beer, head to Café Vlissinghe, Bruges’ oldest pub. (I've linked to their website so you can check out what it looks like inside and see the menu.  They also have a handy map so you can find them and their opening times, they do not open Monday & Tuesdays!)

You cannot, cannot, go to Belgium and not be sampling the beer!

and finally the Moules Frites!  Ok, personal confession time. (I seem to do a lot of these!) I know Mussels are the National Dish of Belgium, but (pretend this is a vomit face) NO. I don't understand it, them, why. Why? It's not like I haven't tried, god knows the amount of time I spent in Belgo's in London. However, I am totally down with all the chips covered in mayo and cheese, the chocolate and the beer. I'm sure the whole native population of Belgium are really relieved to hear that! But you know the saying "When in Belgium..." so head to Poules Moules or any other bistro that tickles your fancy and try them for yourself!

 

Explore museums

It's always good to have a few "inside" places to visit up your sleeve just incase the weather is a bit grim. The Groeningemuseum offers masterpieces by Flemish artists — perfect for a cozy cultural afternoon. 

Final Travel Tips for Bruges

 

• It is always a good idea to check out the Visit Bruges webpage before you go. It is very good at keeping up to date, especially if there are any weather/storm alerts. Obviously these impact whether certain events are allowed to take place. You may find if there is an Orange storm alert that all public parks/forests and the city ramparts etc will be closed. So keep yourself up to date!

 

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• Stay near the historic center so you can walk everywhere. Bruges is small and best explored on foot. For a truly atmospheric stay, look for a hotel with a canal view or a view over the historic squares or a boutique guesthouse with a fireplace! When the weather is cold or rainy you'll be glad you don't have far to go to get back to 'home'. Some very well rated nice and central options can be found here, but you can mooch around the map and amend your search for where you'd like to be!

The Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic.

Why Visit Prague in Winter

Prague is breathtaking all year round but some places come into their own depending on the season and Prague? Definitely shines in Winter. Less people, cozy cafes and Christmas Markets transform the place into a living postcard.  The Old Town Square hosts one of Europe's most iconic Christmas Markets, complete with a huge tree, local crafts and the smell of trdelnik (sweet pastry rolls).

There's a few things going on in Prague during the winter season. I will give you a pick of a few but if you click on the following link it will take you to the Prague Experience website for a real wealth of tourist information!

 

Prague Quick Snapshot

• Best for: History buffs, couples, and fans of Gothic architecture
• Average winter temperature: -1–4°C
• Ideal trip length: 3–4 days
• Highlight experience: The Old Town Square Christmas Market and Astronomical Clock 

Top Things to Do in Prague in Winter

 

Wander the Old Town Square

Obviously Prague and her Christmas Markets come in to their own starting 29th November 2025 - 6th January 2026, the largest of which you will find in Old Town Square.   What else makes this square special? Glad you asked! Well, there are the beautiful churches of Our Lady before Tyn (Gothic) and St Nicholas Church (Baroque), and the Kinsky Palace (Rococo). It is here you will find the world famous Astronomical Clock! There is not enough space here to explain why this clock is so significant but lets get to the real draw shall we? Every hour on the hour the clock comes to life with a procession of the 12 Apostles (and other figures). It has been doing this for centuries, how insane is that! Just think of the people over hundreds of years who have stood watching that, just like you!

 

Walk Charles' Bridge

Yes it is beautiful and perfect for photos all year round. But wanna know something cool? All the lamps on Charles Bridge are gas lit. It is the only fully gas lamp lit bridge in the world! Wanna know something even cooler than that? During Advent (end of November onwards) a "lamp lighter" in traditional costume begins to manually light all the lamps (46 of them!) at around 4pm. He starts at the Old Town Bridge Tower and works his way across from there and talks about what he's doing etc. Now that is proper old school Christmas vibes right there!

 

Visit Prague Castle

Who doesn't want to visit a castle? Moreover who wouldn't want to visit the worlds largest castle complex? Ok, let's clear something up. It is probably not what you envisage in your head when you think traditional castle, you know turrets, moats (although it did have a moat!), drawbridge. It is a complex, that means it is made up of different types of buildings; it has palaces, churches, courtyards etc.  They hold the crown jewels there, it's the seat of governmental power, it has housed Kings and Holy Roman Emperors. If you're a history nerd, this is the place to go!

 

Sample the Local Food

I'm always a fan of grabbing a taste of local treats and pastries when having a walk around the town or local markets, and the Czech's sure know how to do pastry and bread!  If you're visiting Prague in the winter that you have to try Vánočka, basically Christmas Bread, made with almonds, raisins, citrus and sometimes a hint of rum. Or perhaps try Trdelník, a Chimney Cake, a rolled dough pastry that gets grilled over a flame and then filled with the good stuff  like ice cream, nutella, whipped cream (whatever you fancy) and sprinkled in icing sugar. Gotta keep your energy up! You know the saying..... When in Prague.... eat all the Trdelník. (Yes I am going to do this with every place ever, it is another of my weird and quaint things.)

 

As for actual food food and not the ridiculously sweet treats? If you want a very well rated popular place to eat, that's out of the tourist traps yet still kinda central and serves up authentic Czech cuisine and beer- you don't want much do you? Only Kidding! U Kroka - listen, if a place is popular with the locals, that should be pretty much the only recommendation you need!

 

Final Travel Tips for Prague

 

• When visiting Prague in winter, bring a good pair of walking shoes and a warm coat — the cobblestone streets can be slippery, and you’ll want to explore on foot. 

 

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• Most places take cards, take one that has a low foreign transaction rate. It is worth withdrawing a little Czech koruna once you arrive for markets or smaller cafés and tips. Some of the smaller market vendors are known to prefer cash. Skip the currency exchange booths in tourist areas and use a (well known) bank ATM instead for a fair rate. Also take note that some places may well let you pay in Euros but you might be given your change in CZK, the rate of which will probably be pretty terrible!

Top Things to Do in Vienna in Winter

Explore Schönbrunn Palace 

If there’s one place that totally nails the fairytale feel, it’s Schönbrunn Palace. By day, it’s all imperial splendor and frosty gardens, but come evening, the courtyard transforms into a glowing Christmas market filled with twinkling lights, the scent of roasted nuts, and the sound of choirs and brass bands. There’s even a vintage carousel adding to the magic - total Insta opportunity.

Step inside the palace itself for a glimpse of royal life: the opulent rooms of Empress Sisi and Emperor Franz Joseph are open all winter. And as I seem to be on a recommending-reads-as-well-as-places-to-visit roll, before you go, read The Accidental Empress by Allison Pataki. Again… you’re welcome.

 

Attend a classical concert

Vienna is the home of Mozart and Strauss don'tcha know! So if you're going to go to the trouble of organizing a winter break in Vienna then surely a performance of some sort has to be on your itinerary. Step into the Vienna State Opera, where gilded interiors, soaring ceilings, and chandeliers whisper of centuries of high society. Take a guided tour or, if you’re feeling fancy, get dressed up and grab a ticket for a live performance - even standing room can feel glamorous. Keep your eyes peeled for a scandalous love affair unfolding somewhere in shadows! Or you know...be the scandalous love affair, as the saying goes:- When in Vienna... embark on a torrid love affair! Okay, no it doesn't, you got me.

 

Visit Belvedere Palace

So, you’re feeling the love and floating on the high of waltzes, scandalous glances, and a touch of Viennese magic, now’s the perfect moment to head to Belvedere Palace.

Marble halls, manicured gardens, and golden ceilings set the scene. Home to the world’s largest collection of Gustav Klimt’s work - yes, including The Kiss - it’s basically the ultimate “get swept off your feet” art experience. Who hasn’t had a Klimt print stuck somewhere at some point in their life? Yes, you did. Now go see the real thing up close, genuinely amazing.

The palace itself is a work of art, so don’t just rush to The Kiss. Soak in the opulent rooms, charming courtyards, and those snow-dusted vistas that scream winter-in-Vienna.

 

Take a horse-drawn carriage (Fiaker) ride

A quintessentially Viennese experience, a Fiaker ride lets you glide through the city’s historic streets in classic style. Wrap up warm, drape a cozy blanket over your knees, kick back, and give your feet a well-earned rest from all that walking. The clip-clop of hooves on cobblestones, the twinkle of festive lights, its just so big heart eye emoji! So, make like Royalty in your own (hopefully snow-dusted) fairytale.

You can catch the carriages from the main squares around Stephansplatz or the Hofburg Palace, where drivers offer tours of varying lengths. Whether it’s a 20-minute spin past palaces and cafés or a longer 1-hour romantic tour through winter-lit streets, it’s a perfect way to soak up Vienna at a slower pace. Not joking though, wrap up warm! You feel the chill a lot more when you're sitting still.

 

Final Travel Tips for Vienna

• Skip the long ticket lines with the Vienna Card or advance bookings. Many travelers don’t realize just how busy the city’s top attractions can get during winter, especially the Christmas markets and Schönbrunn Palace. Grab a Vienna Card or book palace tours, opera tickets, or concert seats in advance. You’ll save time, get discounts on public transport, and avoid queuing in the cold - which is always worth it! Take a look on the official Visit Vienna website for further info.

 

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• Explore the hidden passages and winter alleys. Vienna is full of charming covered passages and side streets that most tourists miss, perfect for a winter wander. Places like the Kärntner Strasse arcades or the passageways around Graben and Kohlmarkt are magical in winter, with twinkling lights, boutique shops, and little cafés where you can warm up with a hot chocolate. It’s a secret slice of Vienna that feels like you’ve stumbled into a private Christmas scene.

If winter were a feeling, it would be Copenhagen. This is the kind of city that doesn't just do winter, it is winter.  "With its canals, colorful houses, and friendly locals, Copenhagen in winter is a balm to the soul. The Danish capital practically invented coziness, and nowhere does the concept of hygge - that sense of warmth, comfort, and contentment - better. Okay, I'm going to say it... Hygge is my spirit animal. Well a totally hygge cat anyway. Picture cozy strolls, candlelit cafés and steaming mugs of gløgg (mulled wine). Sounds a real struggle doesn't it? But you know what they say.. When in Copenhagen.... Drink all the gløgg. Yeah. Totally made that one up. Or did I?

 

 

Why Visit Copenhagen in Winter

Copenhagen shines brightest in the colder months. Tivoli Gardens transform into a wonderland of lights, snow-dusted trees, and festive stalls. The Nyhavn harbour looks postcard-perfect beneath the winter sky, and the city’s cafés - like Kafferiet or The Living Room, are made for lingering with a hot drink and a pastry. Beyond the Christmas cheer, you can visit the Rosenborg Castle, shop for some authentic Scandinavian bits and bobs (like a proper warm totally authentic fisherman's jumper wouldn't go amiss), or make like a local, get on ya bike and go adventure!

 

Quick Snapshot

• Best for: Couples, design lovers, and fans of all things cozy and Christmassy
• Average winter temperature: 0–4°C
• Ideal trip length: 3–4 days
• Highlight experience: Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market

Things to Do in Copenhagen in Winter

Experience Tivoli Gardens: 

Listen, if the Danes can't get Christmas right then we are all done for! Fortunately for the world they know their bacon! (See what I did there?) Every year Tivoli delivers.  From mid-November to early January, Tivoli gardens transforms to a truly magical Christmas experience. Think ice rinks, thousands of twinkling lights, and mulled wine (gløgg) warming your chilly hands. Festive market stalls with crafts and seasonal treats, and rides open under the night sky. Just think to yourself "What is absolutely everything I imagine to be a perfect Christmas experience?" and there you are.

 

Explore Nyhavn: 

Copenhagen’s winter evenings are beautiful, especially around Nyhavn, where the colorful old houses are strung with fairy lights that reflect off the canal. Go for a bite to eat at Restaurant Nyhavn 41 and get some traditional Danish food to warm your insides up, it sits right on the canal so you can watch the world go by. Obviously it's a high tourist hot spot so you may want to book! 

 

Embrace hygge not hurry 

Copenhagen in winter isn’t about racing between attractions, it’s about slowing down and soaking up that cozy Danish “hygge” vibe. Like, what else are you there for if it isn't fully embracing the Danish bacon? Did I say bacon? Way! I meant way! But you know they do make the worlds best bacon, right?

Plan time to duck into candlelit cafés, sip gløgg (mulled wine) or hot chocolate, and watch the snow or rain fall outside. Just enjoy being.  When in Copenhagen......ja ja ja!

 

Try local food: 

Copenhagen’s food scene is all about comfort done beautifully - perfect for winter. Start with the Danish classic smørrebrød, those open-faced sandwiches you’ll see everywhere. They’re a local lunch staple, layered with pickled herring, roast beef, or smoked salmon on dense rye bread. For a proper introduction, head to Aamanns 1921 near Strøget or Restaurant Nyhavn 41 down by the canal, they both do traditional versions with a modern twist. Pair it with a local beer or a chilled schnapps (akvavit) if you’re feeling brave. No, it is not like the syrupy peach schnapps you probably drank far too much of in your youth. It's way more potent than that. (Insert my knowing cackle here). Think along the lines of a herby vodka/gin spirit with a punch. That's why it's a shot!

 

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, try a warm kanelsnegl (cinnamon roll) from Laura’s Bakery at Torvehallerne Market, or treat yourself to a flaky wienerbrød - yes, the original “Danish pastry” and no, I did not giggle like a child at the name.  When it comes to something heartier, look out for flæskesteg (roast pork with crackling), or stegt sild (pan-fried herring) or frikadeller (Danish meatballs), all perfect for a cozy winter dinner.  And at the risk of annoying the whole of Italy, man do the Scandanavians know how to make meatballs!

 

A great way to sample a bit of everything is to visit Torvehallerne, Copenhagen’s glass-covered food market near Nørreport Station. Try local cheese, cured meats, and fresh smørrebrød - while staying warm indoors. (Win-Win) Or, if you want something a little more atmospheric, book an evening table at Restaurant Schønnemann, one of the city’s oldest lunch spots, where Danes have been sharing rye bread and stories since 1877.

 

Final Travel Tips for Copenhagen

• Don’t underestimate the cold and wind. Copenhagen’s winter chill cuts through you because of the coastal wind, so even if the forecast doesn’t look extreme, bring thermal layers, a windproof coat, gloves, and waterproof shoes. Locals cycle everywhere year-round, but many visitors underestimate how quickly you can get cold just walking between sights, especially along the harbor or Nyhavn. Thermals are your besties.

 

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• Denmark is almost entirely cash-free, so you rarely need kroner. However, some toilets, public transport, and small food stalls use MobilePay or card-only systems. Download the DOT app (for public transport tickets) before you go. It covers buses, metro, and trains, and saves a lot of confusion when trying to buy tickets at the machine in the cold. Take a look at the Visit Copenhagen website for up to date info.

Photo Credit: Audrey Wells - Pinterest