But where are the best places to go if you want to enjoy some snowfall?
Bergen, Norway
If you have seen the pictures of the stunning looking Nordic villages, then this is that – for real. There are beautiful colorful wooden buildings, stunning fjords, and a scenic harbor too. The summer is gorgeous, but it comes into its own in the summertime. And as an added bonus you can see the northern lights. There is a range of places to stay, but to make the most of it, check when the snowfall and the northern lights coincide most often.
Tallinn, Estonia
If you want to see snow and castles, then you are going to have a great time here. It is located in the Baltic Sea. It is known for having one of the most well preserved historical centers in Europe. And most of the churches and houses fall under UNESCO protection too. Toompea Castle allows you to soak up some utterly breathtaking views in every season. But throw a soft blanket of snow on it? You have something out of a movie.
Bruges, Belgium
The holiday season is where Belgium just shines. The food is already delicious but throws some hot waffles in your hands while the snow falls around you, and you have a recipe for utter joy. The holiday season is a big deal here, so the festive lights will be bright and beautiful early in the season. And of course, there isn’t a finer place in the world to have Belgian hot chocolate than Belgium itself.
Paris, France
There isn’t a time where going to Paris is a bad idea. In fact pretty much anywhere in France is a good idea in the winter. You will have to wrap up warm, though, so bring your thickest coat. Twinkling lights on the Champs-Elysées, the smell of food and coffee hanging in the air, Christmas displays at Galeries Lafayette are over-the-top and a delight all at the same time. It is also the best time to go because tourism is typically less busy over the winter. Or, you can skip Paris and take a catered holiday in Meribel with skiblue.co.uk.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Most people get right into the middle of Amsterdam, and some can find it overwhelming with bikes and busy people. But the festive season in the Netherlands starts with the arrival of Sinterklaas. You should expect to see lights, happy children and a lot of pepernoten (spiced bite-sized biscuits) in the shops. When the temperatures drop, there is a significant drop in tourism too. Meaning you are more likely to get a holiday, a booking at a restaurant, and won’t pay out much to do some.
Edinburgh
Head up for Hogmanay and stay for the views. Celebrating the New Year is loud and booze-fueled but a lot of fun. If you aren’t one wild night, then you might prefer to grab a whiskey and relax at any of the many pubs. Skiing is also possible in Pentland Hills Regional Park – if you like to get some activity in on your holidays. If that sounds too much, then the Royal Botanic Gardens has stunning winter flowers.
Prague, Czech Republic
If you need a city that will turn into a total winter wonderland, then Prague is it. Old Town’s church spires gently coated in soft snow is something that you have to see at least once in your lifetime. And if you love a Chrismas Market, then you will be happy to know that Prague has some of the best outsides of Germany. Try the trdelnik.
Copenhagen, Denmark
So you’ve probably heard of Hygge, and it originated in Denmark. So with that in mind, you should have the coziest winter you’ve ever had. As you stroll around, you will smell fresh pastries hanging in the air and admire the colored buildings in Nyhavn.
These are some of the most stunning locations in Europe when the snow begins to fall. All you have to do is pack your thickest coat and a woolly hat to enjoy the sights without the excess tourist queues.
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