The Christmas market on Domplatz in Salzburg at night, with the cathedral behind the lit-up stalls

Winter escapes

Where to go in winter

The right winter trip depends on what you want: sun, snow and Christmas markets, or a quiet city break after the holidays. Start with the question you are asking, then check the month.

Christmas market, Salzburg

Photo: Salzburger Nockerl · CC BY-SA 4.0

Winter sun

Where it is actually warm from December to February, from hot beaches to mild southern Europe.

Where to go for Christmas and New Year

Warm escapes, Christmas-market cities, mild city breaks and big festive cities for the holidays.

Christmas markets in Europe

European Christmas market cities compared on December weather, crowds and prices.

Winter city breaks

Cities that are quiet and good value in January and February, after the holidays.

Spain in winter

Mild, bright and cheaper than summer. See the best month and city across Spain.

By month