Winter In Europe: 23 Best Destinations + Travel Tips 2024
Find Your Perfect Family European Winter Destination To Visit
Winter in Europe is not all about Christmas markets, meeting Santa or skiing some of the finest slopes in the world.
Winter also brings out the best in European cities, beaches and islands, making it the perfect time for families to indulge in history, culture and cuisine.
We live in Scotland, with easy reach of mainland Europe, but we can attest to the ease and affordability of exploring top European winter destinations from almost anywhere in the world. Once there, superb rail connections, convenient ferry links and cheap internal flights make Europe a perfect destination for winter travel.
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Winter In Europe
If you’re visiting Europe in winter, you’ll find a mix of festivities, including Christmas Markets, Santa’s Grottos, Ice Skating and Fireworks. While these are essential to Europe’s cultural identity, there are plenty of other reasons to visit.
The Alps and Pyrenees mountains provide world-class skiing, snowboarding and climbing opportunities, perfect for adventurous families. Those seeking more leisurely, family-friendly activities can explore historic cities like Paris, Rome, and Vienna, which have fewer crowds in winter. And for families seeking out the sun, you’ll find it in the south.
While winter is generally from November to March, the weather varies hugely depending on the region. Some have freezing conditions well into spring, and it’s not unusual to have areas of year-round snow in the mountains. Conversely, some southern regions remain comfortably warm throughout the winter months and are popular for off-peak beach holidays.
23 Of The Best Places To Spend Winter In Europe
We love the eclectic mix of festivities, adventure, sun and cultural experiences that Europe offers our family. However, with so many places to choose from, it can seem overwhelming when planning where to go. To help you out, here are our top picks for places to spend winter in Europe for families.
1 | Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh’s historic streets become even more magical in winter, especially when covered in snow! The city comes alive with its Christmas market and is famous for one of the largest Hogmanay celebrations in the UK, held in the streets below Edinburgh Castle.
Families can choose from a range of indoor and outdoor activities depending on the weather. You can spend a whole day in the National Museum of Scotland, famous for its cavernous halls with over 12 million exhibits covering everything from The Natural World to Science and Technology. A great way to get a panoramic view over the city is by walking up Arthur’s Seat, but one of the most popular activities is simply touring Edinburgh Castle.
Where To Stay In Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s Old Town is the best area for families to stay close to the city’s must-see attractions while soaking up the city’s atmosphere even after the kids have gone to bed.
📍The Radisson Blu Hotel, is a modern family-friendly hotel in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. It has a good-sized swimming pool and is centrally situated in a prime location on the Royal Mile. The hotel is a short walk to Prince’s Street Garden, where you’ll find plenty of festivities.
➡️Book Your Stay At Radisson Blu, Edinburgh City Centre Here!
2 | Paris, France
Paris is often called ‘The City of Light’; in winter, it’s easy to see why! You’ll find festive decorations, magical light installations and loads of holiday activities. Ice skating in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, sailing along the Seine and pop-up Christmas Markets are just a few examples; how about taking a day trip to Disneyland Paris’ winter wonderland?
Paris is a truly great family destination in winter and one of our firm favourites.
With fewer tourists, the city’s world-class museums, such as the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, are much quieter, making it easier to enjoy these cultural treasures, especially with kids!
Where To Stay In Paris
The Marais district is one of the best areas for families to stay in Paris, with easy access to major attractions like Notre Dame and the Louvre.
It’s a lively yet safe neighbourhood with plenty of family-friendly restaurants, parks, and boutiques.
📍Hôtel de Joséphine Bonaparte is a great choice, with family rooms and historic Parisian charm. The hotel is centrally located, making exploring the city easy, whether on foot or by metro.
➡️Book Your Family-Friendly Paris Hotel Here!
3 | Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam’s illuminated canals, historic architecture, city parks and museums make it a perfect winter destination in Europe for families.
This compact city is easy to explore in winter whether you’re on foot, bike or boat. Enjoy the festive atmosphere at Amsterdam’s winter markets and pop-up ice skating rinks before having a hot chocolate in one of the many cafes.
There is so much happening that you’ll never be stuck for something interesting to do, especially important if you’re travelling with kids.
Where To Stay In Amsterdam
We recommend families stay in the quiet Jordaan district for a true Amsterdam experience with its pretty canals and narrow streets. Despite the peaceful surroundings, it‘s still close to many major attractions.
📍The Pulitzer Amsterdam is a pet-friendly hotel and Spa within easy reach of the city’s main attractions. It is well suited to families with spacious rooms, comfortable beds and great service.
➡️Book Your Amsterdam Hotel Stay Here!
4 | Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken famously sits between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in Switzerland and is surrounded by the Swiss Alps. You’ll find plenty of adventure and scenic beauty here without needing to climb any mountains to enjoy it! Family-friendly activities include snowshoeing, ice-skating and exploring the town’s many winter festivities.
There is easy access to nearby ski resorts such as Jungfrau, where you can take a scenic train journey to see a glacier in all its splendour. The train station, Jungfraujoch, happens to be the highest railway station in Europe and is an attraction in its own right.
Where To Stay In Interlaken
The best area for families to stay in Interlaken is around the Höheweg, in the centre of the town. This area offers easy access to shops and restaurants and is close to Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost train stations.
📍Hotel Interlaken is a popular hotel with interconnecting rooms for families. It is one of the few options that can accommodate a family with 2 adults and two children in the same room, offering a significant saving over some alternatives. It is well located and within easy walking distance of the town centre.
➡️Book Your Winter Stay At Hotel Interlaken Here!
5 | Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a charming European winter destination with its colourful houses at Nyhavn Harbour, cultural attractions, family-friendly activities, and museums.
You’ll find one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, Tivoli Gardens, which transforms into a winter wonderland with a Christmas market, festive lights, ice skating, and many seasonal treats in winter.
Where To Stay In Copenhagen
The quiet Vesterbro area of Copenhagen is an excellent neighbourhood and is close to the city’s top attractions.
📍The Tivoli Hotel & Congress Center is a great choice for families with its themed rooms, and access to activities and attractions, making it easy to nip back to if you need a mid-afternoon rest with kids.
➡️Book Your Copenhagen Hotel Here!
6 | Kraków, Poland
Kraków’s mix of history, culture, and seasonal activities make it well-suited for families. Its historic Old Town is only a 5 min walk from the main train station.
Enjoy walking Kraków’s cobbled streets, full of fascinating sites such as Wawel Castle and its legendary dragon; if you time your visit right, you might even see it breathing real fire!
The main square, Rynek Glówny, comes alive in winter with a festive Christmas market and horse-drawn carriage rides through the snow. Families can enjoy traditional Polish foods, crafts, and holiday decorations while soaking up the atmosphere.
Krakow is within easy reach of the Tatra Mountains, making it ideal for family day trips for skiing.
Where To Stay In Kraków
You’ll find plenty of reasonably priced family accommodation in Kraków’s Old Town. It is a peaceful area of the city and within easy walking distance of many of Kraków’s main attractions, such as the beautiful St. Mary’s Basilica.
📍Hotel Grodek is a great family-friendly hotel with comfortable, spacious rooms and good amenities. It’s in the perfect location for exploring Kraków with kids.
➡️Book Your Stay At Hotel Grodek Here!
7 | Munich, Germany
Munich is Germany’s capital city, and despite being known for its annual Oktoberfest, it is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Europe. This is perhaps most evident as winter rolls in and the famous Marienplatz Christmas market takes up residence in the city’s old town. It has a grand Christmas Tree, traditional carrousel and colourful stalls that sell everything from Bratwurst and Gluhwein to woolly hats and gloves.
Once you’re done shopping at the Christmas Market, you can visit Munich’s interactive family museums and one of Europe’s oldest zoos. For those looking for snowsports, it’s a short trip to the Bavarian Alps; while you’re there, visit the charming Neuschwanstein Castle, which is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle.
Where To Stay In Munich
The Altstadt-Lehel district has good transport links and easy access to Munich’s major attractions. It’s an ideal area for families to stay in and has a range of accommodation.
📍The Hotel Deutsche Eiche has a great selection of rooms at reasonable prices, but perhaps the best value are their apartments. They sleep 4 as standard, but extra beds are available upon request.
➡️Book Your Winter Stay In Munich Here!
8 | Budapest, Hungary
Budapest’s historic city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site and Hungary’s capital city. Winter brings with it crisp, clear days and often a dusting of snow. There is plenty to choose from when it comes to family activities, with a great selection of museums, including the Hungary National Museum and the kid’s favourite, the National Sweet Museum!
The city has over 100 thermal baths and hot springs that provide a unique way to warm up in winter while visiting Budapest’s landmarks. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit some of the many Christmas Markets and to go Ice Skating in the City Park.
Where To Stay In Budapest
Downtown Budapest is a good choice for families looking for accommodation in the heart of the city. It is relatively quiet in Winter while being within easy walking distance of all of the city’s main attractions.
📍The Mercure Budapest is a great value, upscale hotel that is both family and pet-friendly. It offers an excellent range of food in its in-house restaurant and has amazing views over the Danube River.
➡️Book your Budapest Hotel Here!
9 | London, England
London is a great winter destination for families to visit for a mix of seasonal attractions and cultural experiences in a festive atmosphere.
Parks turn into Winter Wonderlands, famous landmarks light up at night, and the dazzling Christmas lights on Oxford Street are worth a visit. Make time to see famous attractions such as the Tower of London and Big Ben.
Where To Stay In London
Centrally located, South Kensington is a great area to stay in when visiting London with kids. You have easy access to major attractions like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and Kensington Gardens, and it is well-connected by public transport to explore other parts of the city.
📍The Double Tree Hilton Kensington is an ideal hotel for families and small groups. Its large, comfortable family rooms allow up to six people to sleep and are of great value for money, especially in London!
➡️Book The Double Tree Hilton Kensington Here!
10 | Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt has reliable snow conditions in winter, making it an excellent destination for winter sports in Europe. The picturesque mountain town offers a range of slopes suitable for all skill levels, making it ideal for families learning to ski.
Families can explore the safe, car-free environment (taxis and locals accepted) and enjoy winter activities such as sledging, hiking and scenic train rides.
Where To Stay In Zermatt
The Sunnegga and Rothorn ski areas are excellent choices for family-friendly accommodation in Zermatt. You’ll find plenty of accommodation choices with ski-in / ski-out access and enjoy the stunning scenery the town is known for.
📍The Riffelalp Resort 2222m is a luxurious family-friendly hotel situated high in the mountains, offering ski-in/ski-out access, a kid’s club, and stunning panoramic views of the Matterhorn. While expensive, it’s a stay you and your family will never forget.
➡️Book Your Zermatt Hotel Here!
11 | Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is an excellent winter destination for families, and its compact centre is easy to explore on foot. The city is lit at night, and there is a vibrant, festive atmosphere, especially around the Old Town and the Christmas Markets.
The city is the gateway to Iceland’s stunning landscapes and geological features, and if you are looking to travel further afield, hire a car to visit its natural wonders at your own pace. Glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs, ice caves and waterfalls can all be found within an hour’s drive of the city, and as night falls, the Northern Lights can often be seen dancing in the skies above.
Where To Stay In Reykjavik
Downtown Reykjavik, near the Old Harbour, is an excellent location for families staying in Iceland in winter. With easy access to family-friendly restaurants, city attractions and day trip guided tours to nearby natural sites, such as the Golden Circle or the South Coast.
📍The Reykjavik Marina is consistently rated ‘excellent’ and close to main attractions. It has generously sized suites, perfect for families; you may even spot the Northern Lights from your balcony.
➡️Book Your Reykjavik Hotel Here!
12 | Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s fairy tale architecture looks amazing at any time of the year, but when it is covered in snow in winter, it is truly magical!
Its friendly, festive atmosphere makes it a great winter destination in Europe for families.
The Old Town Square dates back over 1,000 years and is well worth spending time in. Have a coffee in one of the traditional cafes before viewing the medieval Astronomical Clock, visiting Prague Castle and enjoy the Christmas market. Kids will love the Christmas decorations and festive atmosphere, with plenty to enjoy for adults.
Where To Stay In Prague
Malá Strana district, located below Prague Castle, is a quiet area where families can relax. Regular trams to the rest of the city make exploring further afield a breeze.
📍The Hotel Golden Star has modern, spacious rooms perfectly suited for families. Extra beds are available on request, and the continental breakfast buffet is excellent.
➡️Book Your Family-Friendly Prague Hotel Here!
13 | Venice, Italy
Winter is a great time to visit Venice, with fewer crowds, lower prices and higher availability than peak summer. You’ll still enjoy relatively mild temperatures, and the famous Venetian canals, bridges, piazzas, and iconic sites can be explored comfortably. There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants and cafes where you can warm up and enjoy local Venetian cuisine while exploring the city.
Where To Stay In Venice
The quiet Dorsoduro district is a great place for families to stay in Venice during winter. It is close to many of the city’s major attractions and museums, making it ideal for families with young kids.
📍The Avogaria 5 Rooms is a pet and family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms, traditional decor, a welcoming atmosphere and helpful staff. It is well located within a 15-minute walk of the city’s main attractions.
➡️Click here to book your Winter Hotel in Venice
14 | Vienna, Austria
Every November, Vienna transforms into a festive winter wonderland, with Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and spectacular light displays, making it one of the best winter destinations in Europe.
Vienna is famous for its Christmas markets, like the ones at Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn Palace; they’re very family-friendly, and with ice skating, carousel rides and lots of tasty treats, the kids can experience the season’s magic in a fun and safe environment.
Where To Stay In Vienna
The district of Leopoldstadt, close to the city centre, is a great area for families visiting Vienna.
📍The Voco Vienna Prater has spacious family suites and is close to public transport, making it an ideal base for exploring the best of Vienna in winter with kids. They also offer childcare facilities and have a 24-hour airport transfer service for a stress-free arrival and departure.
➡️Book Here for the perfect Vienna Hotel!
15 | Lapland, Finland
For families wishing to visit Santa Claus at his official home in the North Pole, Lapland has to be the ultimate winter wonderland destination in Europe.
Lapland has guaranteed snow and a range of winter activities suitable for the whole family, including husky sledging, snowmobiling and reindeer safaris. It’s also a great place to seek out the Northern Lights with dark skies and typically clear nights.
If you are looking for a unique, magical family Christmas experience, you’ll find it in Lapland.
Where To Stay In Lapland
Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, is situated within the Arctic Circle and is a top choice for family-friendly activities and attractions. It’s a perfect base for exploring the area and is just a short hop from the official home of Santa Claus.
📍The Arctic Treehouse Hotel in Rovaniemi has great family accommodation at a very reasonable price and is our top pick in the area. Its rooms are super cosy, and offer great views of the surrounding countryside.
16 | Balearic Islands, Spain
The Balearic Islands are a fantastic winter getaway for families, with mild weather, natural beauty, and the opportunity to relax.
The largest islands, Majorca, Ibiza, and Menorca, have plenty of charm, with quiet beaches, picturesque towns, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for winter sun in Europe.
Where To Stay In The Balearic Islands
Ibiza is perfect for families, despite being known for its party scene. Families will find peaceful beaches, quiet towns, and plenty of wildlife in winter.
Talamanca is a quiet area just outside of Ibiza city. With its sandy beach, traditional restaurants and laid-back vibe, it is perfect for families looking for easy access to the main attractions while remaining out of the hustle and bustle.
📍The Ocean Drive Ibiza is a modern boutique hotel within easy walking distance of the beach. It has large, comfortable rooms and is one of the most family-friendly hotels on the Island. The hotel looks out onto the nearby marina, a boat spotters dream, with luxury yachts from around the world.
➡️Book Your Family Friendly Ibiza Hotel Here!
17 | Algarve, Portugal
In southern Europe, the Algarve is a great winter sun destination for families. Its mild winter weather makes it an ideal escape from colder climates.
Outdoor activities are often much more enjoyable in the sun, and in winter, it doesn’t get much sunnier than the Algarve! Families can enjoy beach walks, hiking, and exploring some of the charming coastal towns without the summer crowds.
Where To Stay In the Algarve
Albufeira is one of the best areas for families to stay in the Algarve, with its family-friendly atmosphere and range of activities for all ages.
📍The Pine Cliffs Hotel has spacious family suites, multiple pools, and direct beach access for families looking to enjoy the sunniest region in Europe. It has a great view over the sea and offers great value for money.
➡️Book The Pine Cliffs Hotel Here!
18 | Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø is perhaps one of the best places in the world for families wishing to see the Northern Lights. Polar nights are typically bitterly cold and clear but are perfect for catching a glimpse of this legendary natural phenomenon. There are also plenty of other winter activities, from dog sledging to whale watching, to keep even the most intrepid explorers happy.
Where To Stay In Tromsø
Tromsø city centre is the best place to stay for families with minimal travel to the city’s attractions and winter activities.
📍The Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø is ideally located between the harbour and the city centre. They provide a high level of comfort at a reasonable price, complimented by great service and a huge selection at the buffet breakfast.
➡️Book Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø Here!
19 | Bled, Slovenia
Bled is a true fairytale winter destination with its picturesque lake, medieval castle and horse-drawn carriages weaving through the cobbled streets. The surrounding Julian Alps offer family-friendly winter sports, including skiing and snowboarding and are perfect for the ultimate winter family holiday.
Where To Stay In Bled
There are several hotels on the shores of Lake Bled, and while you will pay a little bit more for the view if you have the budget, it is well worth it. The town is relatively small, and wherever you stay, you won’t be far from all the main attractions and amenities.
📍The Grand Hotel Toplice is a great choice for families. Its indoor pool is a hit with the kids, and while it is sumptuously appointed, it is also very reasonably priced. Breakfast is included in the room rate and is served in the main dining area overlooking Lake Bled and the surrounding mountains.
➡️Book The Grand Hotel Toplice Here!
20 | Innsbruck, Austria
Surrounded by the imposing Austrian Alps, Innsbruck is a picture-perfect European winter destination. With its mountain scenery and vibrant city atmosphere, families can enjoy various winter activities, explore the historical sites of the city’s Old Town and spend a few happy hours walking the festive markets.
Where To Stay In Innsbruck
The district of Igls is a great area for families to stay in Innsbruck. This friendly suburb is much more relaxed than the busy city centre and within easy reach of all the important amenities.
📍Hotel Gruberhof offers mountain views, an indoor pool and a wellness area. Its location provides easy access to the ski slopes and local attractions, making it a convenient and comfortable choice for families.
➡️Book your Family Friendly Innsbruck Hotel Here!
21 | Chamonix, France
Chamonix is an excellent European winter destination, offering winter sports at the foot of Mont Blanc. This friendly town in the French Alps is renowned for its stunning mountain views and world-class skiing.
Families can also participate in snowshoeing, sledging and ice skating or take scenic cable car rides up the slopes.
Where To Stay In Chamonix
We recommend staying in the centre of town where you have quick access to the shops, restaurants and ski lifts. If you want more peace and quiet, the Argentière area is still convenient for families but has a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere than central Chamonix.
📍La Folie Douce is a family-friendly hotel in the centre of Chamonix with well-appointed family rooms, great service and good food. The icing on the cake is the ski-in, ski-out access, meaning you don’t have to lug your gear and kids around town.
➡️Book Your Family-Friendly Chamonix Hotel Here!
22 | Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn offers families a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. As the nights start to draw in, the city’s compact medieval Old Town transforms into a winter wonderland with its cobbled streets and colourful festive markets.
Families can enjoy exploring the Christmas market at Town Hall Square, where kids can experience traditional crafts, festive foods, and seasonal activities.
Where To Stay In Tallinn
Tallinn Old Town is the best place for families looking for easy access to many of the city’s key attractions and activities.
📍The Tallink City Hotel is just a short walk from the Old Town and offers comfortable family rooms, a sauna, and a decent buffet breakfast. It’s an excellent option for families visiting Tallinn in winter and won’t break the bank.
➡️Book Here For The Perfect Family Friendly Hotel in Tallinn!
23 | Rome, Italy
Winter in Rome brings mild temperatures and fewer crowds than in summer. We love the rich history of the ‘The Eternal City’, its vibrant culture, and easily accessible family-friendly attractions.
Families can visit iconic sites like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Vatican City at a relaxed pace away from the intense heat and summer crowds. Parks, such as the Villa Borghese, offer space for children to play or enjoy a fresh pastry after exploring the city’s museums and famous landmarks.
Where To Stay In Rome
If you are looking for a family-friendly area to stay in, consider the centrally located Prati district. It offers easy access to main attractions such as the Vatican and historic centre while maintaining a more residential and less tourist-heavy atmosphere.
📍The very reasonably priced Hotel Diplomatic has large, comfortable rooms, perfect for families. The hotel is located within easy walking distance of many of the major landmarks in Rome.
➡️Book Your Family-Friendly Rome Hotel Here!
Travel Tips
Here are our top travel tips to help you have a perfect European Winter getaway.
✨ Pack For European Winter Weather
Some things, such as sunscreen and sunglasses, are essential whether you are skiing or soaking up the sun on a beach. Warm, waterproof clothing is required for snowy regions, while lightweight layers are the norm in milder climates.
✨ Plan For Indoor And Outdoor Activities
Europe’s winter weather can be unpredictable wherever you go, so be prepared to change your plans with a flexible itinerary. Pick indoor activities such as a museum visit or a trip to the theatre for rainy days, and enjoy your outdoor adventures while the sun shines.
✨ Book Accommodations And Activities Early
Book your flights, accommodation and main activities as far in advance of winter as possible. Availability goes down, and prices tend to go up the closer you get to your travel dates. Avoid peak holiday periods and travel midweek to benefit from the lowest-cost options.
Europe In Winter FAQs
We’ve spent years exploring some of the best destinations to visit in winter. Here are some common questions about winter family travel in Europe.
Winter in Europe typically lasts from November and March, with huge variations in weather conditions depending on location. Mountainous areas, such as the Alps and Northern regions of Europe, experience longer winters than Southern areas closer to the equator.
Europe has a vast range of destinations and climates to make it a worthwhile destination for everyone. Europe has snowy wonderlands, sunny beaches and city breaks that are all perfect to visit in winter.
It does depend on what you are looking for. If you are looking for winter sun, then head south to the Mediterranean, but for the skiers amongst you, it’s the Alps and Pyrenees that will be ideal. We like to mix it up with a city visit on arrival for the Christmas Markets and festivities before heading to the hills for some winter sports.
Final Thoughts | Winter Destinations In Europe
It’s easy to forget just how big and diverse Europe is. With the continent spanning from the northern tip of Norway in the Arctic Circle to the sun-soaked Greek Island of Gavdos in the Southern Mediterranean, Europe is an excellent choice for a winter destination for families.
Depending on what you want to do, Europe can be more affordable in winter than in summer, with lower accommodation prices and off-season travel deals available. Of course, this doesn’t apply if you book a ski package or a North Pole experience!
We love the mix of festive holiday magic, adventure, sun and cultural experiences that Europe offers as the perfect family winter destination.
