With the nights drawing in and the temperature dropping, it can only mean one thing: winter is coming! While the colder months may not seem like the best time to go on holiday, you might be surprised to learn that Europe is full of fun winter-friendly activities. Whether you want to hit the slopes with a ski holiday, enjoy a cultured city break or soak up stunning snowy landscapes, Europe is perfect for a wintertime break. If you’re planning a getaway this winter, consider checking out these cool attractions you can enjoy on the continent:
Visit the Lou Queernaval festival in Nice
The beautiful city of Nice was the first in France to pick up the ‘Gay Comfort’ label, so it’s no surprise that it serves as the home for the renowned LGBTQI festival Lou Queernaval. Attracting 10,000 - 15,000 revellers each year, Lou Queernaval is a top European attraction that’s well worth a visit this winter, whatever your sexual preference.
Visit the Ice Tunnels in Iceland
While you might associate Iceland with pickled fish, igloos and trolls, the country is also home to a network of world-famous ice caves and tunnels that serve as the perfect winter treat if you’re planning a getaway. Popular destinations include Katla Ice Cave, Crystal Ice Cave, the Skaftafell Ice Caves and the Langjökull Ice Tunnel.
Go to Croatia’s tallest waterfall
Situated in the heart of Croatia, the Plitvice National Park is home to some of the most jaw-dropping views you’re likely to see this winter. The Park is home to 16 lakes, where you’ll find the 78-metre-tall waterfall Veliki Slap, the tallest in the country. In the colder months, Veliki Slap’s flowing water freezes, which makes for some seriously impressive wintertime snaps for the gram.
Hit the slopes in Andorra
The snowy season is perfect for skiing. If you’re looking for the ideal location for a ski holiday this year, consider taking a trip to Andorra, a skiing paradise nestled between France and Spain in the Pyrenees. The country is famed for its quality ski resorts and stunning picture-postcard views.
Check out the Nuremberg Christmas market in Germany
If you’re thinking of whisking the family away for a festive treat this winter, there’s no other European getaway that’ll get you more into the Christmas Spirit than the Nuremberg Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt). Whether you’re shopping for gifts or sampling Bratwurst sausages, Spekulatius almond biscuits and German gingerbread, you’re sure to get that festive feeling at this iconic Christmas market, which is one of the oldest in the world.
Try one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths
While Budapest is well-established as a popular location with British stags and city-breakers, its status as a winter wonderland is pretty underrated. The city is a great place to unwind in the colder months - if you feel the need to warm up when you’re visiting, consider taking a dip in the beautiful Szechenyi Thermal Baths, a top winter location in the heart of City Park.
