If you dream of starting your ski season or just taking refuge from the winter cold, Europe offers you a variety of spectacular tourist destinations.
Dream destinations for a memorable winter holiday in Europe Photo Collage DMS
Condé Nast Traveler recently included 13 of the most attractive places for a December vacation, from which we selected six European destinations that are close to home and ideal for a winter getaway.
Whether you prefer the snowy landscapes of the Alps or the sunny villages of Greece, these places offer unique experiences, from Christmas markets and ski slopes to quiet islands and volcanic landscapes.
In future editions we will explore other destinations around the world for a full variety of holiday options this season.
Paros, Greece, an island gem away from the crowds
A favorite tourist destination for winter holidays in the sun, Paros is a lesser-known island in the Greek Cyclades archipelago. Although not as famous as Santorini or Mykonos, Paros offers plenty of beaches and picturesque villages with white houses, perfect for enjoying the mild weather (temperatures in December are around 10-15°C).
An advantage of Paros over other destinations is the lack of crowds. Here you will meet more locals and European tourists who come to spend time in their holiday homes in the villages of Naoussa, Parikia, Lefkes and Marpissa.
Paros Greece an excellent destination for winter holidays Foto eskapas com
As for accommodation, both luxury resorts, some of which have been awarded by Condé Nast Traveler (Hot List 2023), and modern hotels are recommended. The resorts offer private beaches, crescent-shaped infinity pools and relaxing rooms that allow for an island living experience at its highest level. The other accommodation option allows for easy walks to the nearby beaches, and the rooms on the top floors have private balconies with Jacuzzis.
Azores, Portugal and its unique volcano in the world
The once lesser-known Azores archipelago is now an adventurer’s dream destination, offering spectacular activities such as whale watching, caldera hiking and waterfall abseiling. On the island of Terceira, visitors can explore a unique volcano in the world, which includes a “hive” volcanic and a secondary magma chamber, placed side by side.
Even though the archipelago is in the middle of the Atlantic, the climate in December is surprisingly mild thanks to the Gulf Stream, and temperatures rarely drop below 15°C.
Hot Springs in the Azores Islands Portugal Photo David Rodrigues
Santa Maria Island is usually the warmest, but the water can be too cold for swimming in the winter. If you want an aquatic experience, you can visit one of the geothermally heated hot springs, perfect for outdoor relaxation.
Switzerland and the memorable eight-hour train journey through fairy-tale landscapes
In Switzerland, one of the most beautiful countries in the world regardless of the season, winter brings a special charm: the town squares are covered with a fine layer of snow and the mountains are transformed into some of the best ski slopes in the world.
If you’re looking for a memorable experience in December, traveling on the Glacier Express is a great way to explore this wonderful winter world.
The Glacier Express is an eight-hour train that connects two of Switzerland’s most famous mountain resorts – Zermatt and St. Moritz. While the destinations are spectacular, the travel experience is truly the main attraction.
Switzerland an unmissable experience for winter vacation Photo Collage DMS
The train crosses over 290 bridges, offering panoramic views of iconic sites such as the Oberalp Pass and the Matterhorn. In addition to the stunning scenery, passengers can enjoy a three-course meal, turning every moment into an unforgettable experience.
Salzburg, Austria: the magic of Christmas teleports you into a world of stories
Although Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, neighboring Austria offers an equally festive and delightful atmosphere, especially in Salzburg. It is no wonder that the Old Town, part of the UNESCO heritage and known as the setting for “The Sound of Music”fills its Christmas Market – Christkindlmarkt – with carols and traditional music.
With a history dating back to the 15th century, Salzburg’s Christkindlmarkt impresses with choirs, brass music, mulled wine and stalls with Christmas decorations and woolen socks. And the culinary delights, such as “bauernkrapfen” (Austrian doughnuts), perfectly complements the festive atmosphere.
Salzburg Christmas Market Photo Shutterstock
The market has an added bonus: it’s within walking distance of one of the world’s oldest luxury hotels, the Hotel Goldener Hirsch, where visitors can warm up between outdoor shopping sessions.
Paris, France: Magic of Lights and Group Tours for a Legendary Experience
Paris shines in particular during the winter holiday season, from the magical lights on the Champs-Élysées to the shop windows transformed into true art exhibitions.
This year is a great time to visit the city, especially thanks to the direct flights offered by low-cost airlines and the new top hotels that have opened their doors. Some of these, like Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin, are list winners “Hot 2024” of CN Traveler, thanks to the original design, inspired by the universe of Wes Anderson and the atmosphere of “Alice in Wonderland”.
Paris France a great destination for winter holidays Collage DMS
For a special experience, group tours are recommended “Paris of the Holidays” (November 28 – December 5) organized by companies specializing in luxury tourism in France. Tours include an evening walk to admire the Christmas lights, a private tour of the Louvre, a Bûche de Noël (traditional Christmas dessert) making workshop and French high tea sessions at some of the most elegant Parisian hotels.
The Cotswolds, England – vivid painting of elegant inns and quaint cottages
Known for its special charm, the Cotswolds region is the ideal place for a winter holiday in December, especially for film fans “The Holidays” (location of Kate Winslet’s fictional home). This hilly region of south-west England, with its picturesque cottages, elegant inns and plenty of traditional pubs, becomes a true living painting when a light layer of snow covers it. Plus, it’s only an hour and a half to two hours by train from London, making it an affordable tourist destination for a dream winter holiday.
Cotswolds England a great winter holiday destination Photo Collage DMS
The region is home to many charming towns, but accommodation in Gloucestershire is recommended for the full experience. Here, tourists can benefit from hotel stays that, in addition to cooking schools, also offer relaxing spas. An example would be a family hotel that offers year-round activities, including the opportunity to explore 150 acres of gardens and hiking trails.
In December, there are special offers including cooking classes for traditional Christmas dishes (8th, 12th, 22nd and 29th December) and a Christmas wreath making workshop with the local florist on 19th December. After a day of cooking and walking, retire to rooms decorated in classic English style with floral wallpaper, antique furniture and clawfoot tubs.
