It’s true when they say there’s something special about visiting Europe during wintertime. Unlike summer or autumn, winter can totally transform some places and make them totally unrecognisable, while it seems others are just at their most beautiful during this season.
So if you’re looking to do a tour of Europe in search of a winter wonderland (full of lots of snow!), here are our 5 favourite European destinations you need to add to your travel itinerary:
Bergen, Norway
It’s no surprise that Norway looks particularly sensational during winter – and especially the coastal city of Bergen. Found among mountains and fjords, visitors can spend hours admiring the magnificent vistas this city has to offer while picking out just exactly which bits were used as inspiration for Disney’s Frozen…
Hallstatt, Austria
Another spot that looks its most natural during the winter seasons, the small alpine town of Hallstatt in Austria sits isolated by a lake – and surrounded by the nearby Alps. If these beautiful mountains weren’t enough to tempt you to visit, the town’s special combination of quaint alpine houses and majestic landscape views will surely have you hooked.
Prague, Czech Republic
Popular among tourists during all months of the year, Prague is actually just as good during the colder months – and with far fewer tourists. Why not enjoy the breath-taking old-world architecture and fairytale-esque history of the city with a light dusting of snow instead?
Lake Bled, Slovenia
There’s every chance you’ll have already heard of Lake Bled. But did you know that this alpine lake becomes a winter wonderland straight from a fairytale when winter rolls around? Don’t miss the lake’s views of the Julian Alps, its crystal-clear water, and surrounding forest vistas. And for the ultimate picture-perfect moment? Look out for the tiny island church in the middle of the lake.
Rovaniemi, Finland
With winter, comes Christmas… and Rovaniemi in Finland is the perfect destination to celebrate. Just outside the small city of Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland, you can find the Santa Claus Village, where you can meet the man himself and hang out with some real-life reindeer. But that’s not all that Rovaniemi has to offer. Head to the Arktikum Science Museum to find out more about the local history and culture or go sledging in the pure white snow with husky dogs!
Many think that warm destinations are the only option when looking to travel abroad, but there’s definitely something to be said for embracing the cold icy chills, as well. Not every European destination is suited to this season, but like the five we’ve mentioned above, some just flourish as the temperatures hit below zero. So, the next time you’re planning your next winter getaway, why not keep these 5 European destinations in mind?
Images courtesy of unsplash.com and pexels.com
