We’re all dreaming of a White Christmas or a snowy Winter Break! There’s nothing quite like a snow-covered scene to feel celebratory during the darker months. Here are our top 7 snowy destinations in Europe to enjoy this season.
Sami Matias Breilin on Unsplash
1- Zermatt, Switzerland
Switzerland is stunning throughout every season, boasting breathtaking mountains, thousands of lakes, and quaint European villages. In winter, the charm factor increases exponentially. Zermatt is a mountain resort in the Valais canton with ski runs and the Matterhorn peak surrounding a town full of boutiques, hotels, and ice skating rinks.
2- Chamonix, France
This town in France is close to both the Italian and Swiss borders. Chamonix, in the French Alps, is widely known as the mountain capital of the world and a top destination for skiers and snowboarders. Mont Blanc is Western Europe’s highest mountain and is a highlight of the area. The Sea of Ice (Mer de Glace), on the northern slopes of its massif, is the largest glacier in France.
3- Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø, a city in Norway, is sometimes referred to as the Arctic Capital or “Paris of the North” and lies above the Arctic Circle. Visitors can sometimes catch the Northern Lights in October and November or February to April. Come prepared for the Polar Night around the holidays, as the city receives no daylight at all from November 21 to January 21. (traveler tip: try something unique. Staying in an ice hotel!)
4- Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt is a small village straight out of a fairytale in the Austrian Alps listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can enjoy views of the lake and the historic old town. The colorful buildings stand in stark contrast to the bright white winter snow and snow-capped mountains.
5- Zakopane, Poland
Zakopane, considered the winter capital of Poland, has long served as a hub for art and culture. The town is nestled in the Tatra Mountains which form a natural border between Slovakia and Poland. Visitors have a long list of winter activities to choose from, including skiing, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, and ice skating.
Maryia Plashchynskaya on Pexels
6- Bavarian Alps, Germany
Medieval castles, snow-covered small towns, charming churches, and impressive dot the Bavarian Alps landscape. Although the mountaineous area is the perfect winter countryside getaway, nearby major cities well worth winter visits include Munich and Salzburg. Munich is famous for its local cuisine (pretzels, schnitzels, and beer!) and Salzburg boasts one of the best Christmas market scenes in the world.
