Winter holidays in Europe can be very diverse – from visiting the best Christmas markets and conquering ski slopes to warming up under the sun.
The world's largest travel publisher, Lonely Planet, has selected the best places in Europe for winter travel, which are perfect to visit in the coming months.
"Of course, it can be cold in much of the continent, but winter in Europe offers travelers countless options for the perfect getaway. Feel the frosty air as you admire the Northern Lights over the snowy landscapes of Lapland. Or you can completely escape it by heading for the sun on the beaches of Fuerteventura," the authors of the ranking note.
At the same time, travel experts emphasize that the winter low season also provides an opportunity to explore some of Europe's most popular destinations without the summer crowds – "the perfect time for any traveler who values personal space."
13 Best Places in Europe to Travel This Winter
-
Cappadocia, Turkey: exploring underground caves and hot air balloon rides.
-
Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain: winter beach holiday.
-
Eryri (Snowdonia), Wales, United Kingdom: winter sports.
-
Bilbao, Spain: art and fresh produce.
-
Madeira, Portugal: active leisure in warm weather.
-
French Riviera, France: glamorous off-season.
-
Bavarian Alps, Germany: snowy fairy-tale castles.
-
Santorini, Greece: a Greek island getaway without the crowds.
-
Alentejo, Portugal: for wine lovers.
-
Lyon, France: for foodies.
-
Cinque Terre, Italy: life without crowds.
-
Budapest, Hungary: hot springs and thermal baths.
-
Lapland, Finland: Northern Lights observation.
