Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Old Town Square looks almost too perfect, like you’ve wandered onto a movie set. The Christmas Markets add a whole new layer of magic, and there’s nothing like those crisp mornings crossing the Charles Bridge with hardly anyone else around. It’s easily one of my favorite places to visit in winter. There’s something extra romantic about Prague when it’s cold—fog rolling in, maybe a little snow dusting the cobblestones, and all the cafes feel extra warm and inviting.
Paris, France
Paris in winter? Absolutely. You can walk along the Seine and slip inside Notre Dame or the Louvre without fighting the usual crowds. It’s the best time to duck into a cozy restaurant, dig into rich French food, or just settle in at a café with a croissant and some seriously good hot chocolate. I visited in early January, and sure, it was chilly, but we bundled up and wandered the city from one end to the other, soaking it all in.
Krakow, Poland
Some places just belong to winter, and Krakow’s one of them. It’s easy on your wallet, too. There’s tons to see right in the city, but the nearby Salt Mines are worth a trip, and though visiting Auschwitz is tough, it’s an experience you don’t forget. The Schindler Factory Museum blew me away—it really brings Krakow’s history in World War II to life.
In December, Krakow’s Old Town Square turns into a bustling Christmas Market, and the food is a highlight. You have to try the pierogi at Zapiecek—they’re open 24 hours, serving up both savory and sweet dumplings that change every day. And if you need to warm up, grab a bowl of peppery borscht.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest has this endless list of fun things to do. The Szechenyi Baths are huge—Europe’s biggest medicinal baths—and honestly, just soaking in those outdoor pools on a cold day is worth the trip. Getting in and out is a bit brutal, but you quickly forget that once you’re in the water. When you’re done, hit up the ruin pubs, these old abandoned buildings turned into some of the coolest bars in the city.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a city that wears its history on its sleeve but keeps moving forward. There’s so much going on—art, tech startups, and plenty to see. You still spot reminders of the past everywhere: pieces of the Berlin Wall, the Holocaust Memorial, or Potsdamerplatz, which used to be stuck between East and West Berlin.
Winter in Berlin is freezing, so bundle up and see as much as you can outside before heading into a museum to thaw out. The Palace of Tears at Friedrichstrasse Station stuck with me—it’s where families once said their goodbyes across the border, and you can feel the stories in the walls.
And of course, Germany’s Christmas markets are legendary. Berlin has plenty, but honestly, you can find amazing ones in Cologne, Dresden, Hamburg—pretty much everywhere.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna just oozes class. Think grand palaces, dramatic monuments, elegant cafés, and stunning museums. It’s a city that feels both timeless and modern somehow. Winter is all about the Christmas Markets—there are so many, each with their own specialties, and the food and hot drinks keep you going when the temperature drops.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Bratislava might be small, but it’s high on my list for Eastern European winter getaways. The old town square has a Christmas Market that still feels authentic, not overrun with touristy stuff. You’ll find real handmade ornaments, big plates of traditional food that don’t cost much, and some very strong mulled wine. Plus, it’s just an hour by train from Vienna, so you can easily do both. I actually stayed in Bratislava and just hopped over to Vienna—it’s cheaper that way!
Gdansk, Poland
Gdansk—yeah, it’s a mouthful at first. But once you get there, you won’t forget it. Tucked up in northern Poland along the Baltic, this city has some real history: World War II actually kicked off right here. The old town took a beating but, honestly, you’d never guess. The colorful buildings lining the streets? All rebuilt, and they look fantastic. Sure, visiting Gdansk in winter isn’t the obvious choice, but the city’s got its perks—cheap flights pop up, and it’s perfect for a quick getaway.
The vibe here’s different, shaped by centuries of sailors and traders drifting through. Throw on a coat, wander the streets, soak in the architecture, and check out the sights. When you’re ready to warm up, pick a cozy café or restaurant—there are plenty.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik keeps landing on my winter travel lists, and for good reason. Iceland in winter is wild—snow everywhere and daylight, well, not much of it. So, make the most of those hours. Head out of the city, take in the weird and wonderful volcanic landscapes, and when night falls, chase the Northern Lights. Eating out costs a bit more here, but Reykjavik’s food scene is surprisingly great, especially if you’re vegetarian or vegan. Before you leave, don’t skip the Blue Lagoon. Slip into that dreamy, pastel-blue water—it’s Iceland’s most famous hot spring for a reason.
Bergen, Norway
