“I love wintertime in Europe. There’s something magical about snow-covered pastel houses and Christmas markets that makes everyone cheerful. From tucked-in wood cabins nestled in the Austrian alps, to cobblestone streets lit by twinkle lights in France, to gingerbread houses and snow-covered castles in Romania”. 

Here’s a list of some of my favorite places to visit for your upcoming winter wonderland holiday!

Lech, Austria

When to go: December through February. You’ll enjoy the true meaning of Christmas in December, and the peak of the ski season in February.

What to expect: A ski town straight out of a postcard, complete with snow-covered Austrian chalets, stunning mountain ranges, cozy gasthofs (guesthouses), and plenty of fondue and cider to enjoy après-ski.

Can’t-miss highlights:

-An afternoon hike or cross-country ski with lunch at the cozy Gasthaus Aelpele

-At least one day on the slopes, along with an evening at an après-ski spot. The Mooserwirt is wild.

-A traditional fondue dinner.

Lapland, Finland

When to go: December through April. If you want to sleep in an Ice Hotel or if you want to check the Snow Castle off your bucket list, visit from January through April

What to expect: Igloos, dog-sledding, reindeer, the Northern lights, and incredible Finnish landscapes.

Can’t-miss highlights:

-At least one night of sleeping under the stars and (if you’re lucky!) the Northern Lights. Take a look at Kakslauttan Arctic Resort or Arctic Treehouse Hotel.

-Dog-sledding Ulla’s husky farm is family-run and was easily our favorite experience in Lapland.

-Floating in the arctic sea – definitely a bucket list item! This is possible on the Icebreaker Cruise in Kemi.

Transylvania, Romania

When to go: November through February. The hills are beautiful year-round, but if you want snow, aim for January or later.

What to expect: Pastel towns and endless rolling hills in the Transylvania region. The area is filled with plenty to see, and is perfect for small road trips and visits to local towns.

Can’t-miss highlights:

-A day trip to Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a beautiful old town center.

-A visit to Bran Castle(Dracula’s Castle). We also loved Peleș Castle.

-Poiana Brașov, the most picturesque pastel town. Stop for hot chocolate at the unique Doctor Jekelius.

Gstaad, Switzerland

When to go: December through February. Snow isn’t guaranteed during the Christmas season, so if you want powder, plan for January/February.

What to expect: A gingerbread Swiss town, surrounded by jaw-dropping mountain ranges and pristine snow-covered rooftops. Plus, some truly unique hotels (and lots of shopping).

Can’t-miss highlights:

-Shopping and wandering the streets of Gstaad, one of the most picturesque towns in winter.

-If you aren’t staying at Huus Gstaad, at the very least go for a drink at their bar or for their hot chocolate alone (pictured above).

-Taking the ski lift up to Wasserngrat Gstaad for lunch overlooking the alps.

Germany + France Christmas Markets

When to go: November through December, for the full Christmas experience. Double check the websites for opening times of any Christmas Markets you’re visiting!

What to expect: Decked out market stands selling everything from Christmas ornaments to German sausages. Mulled wine, giant Christmas trees, caroling (if you’re lucky), and plenty of holiday cheer.

Can’t-miss highlights:

-Cologne and Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber in Germany were our favorite Christmas Markets.

-Collecting your own personal mugs as a souvenir every time you buy mulled wine.

-Trying the local food at every market you visit. You can’t visit the Nuremberg market without trying their famous Nuremberg Gingerbread!

Amsterdam, Netherlands

When to go: November through January. For Christmas decor and markets, visit in December. Ice-skating takes place in the museum square from November through January.

What to expect: Ice-skating in the museum square, local Christmas markets, cozy (“gezillig” in Dutch) cafés, a giant Christmas tree in Dam Square, and romantic evenings on the canals. Snow isn’t as common in recent years, but cold fronts often bring snowfall a few days each winter. And sometimes, even frozen-over canals!

Can’t-miss highlights:

-The 9 streets shopping area all the way to Dam Square, which is decorated for Christmastime each year.

-Ice-Skating in Museumplein, starting in November. There’s nothing like skating in front of the grand Rijksmuseum.

-If you’re visiting in November, book tickets for Museum Night. It’s when all the museums in the city stay open late and serve food, drinks, and even host small concerts.

What are you waiting for? Start planning your vacation with us now!