13 best places in Europe for winter travel: Lonely Planet selection

Winter Europe offers a variety of vacation options — from Christmas markets to the warm beaches of the Canary Islands. Find out which destinations Lonely Planet has named the best and where Ukrainians should plan to travel this winter

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Winter travel in Europe has long ceased to be limited to ski resorts or Christmas markets. Lonely Planet, the world's largest travel publisher, has named the top 13 places to visit this winter — from the snow-covered forests of Lapland to the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands. During the winter low season, many popular locations become quieter and more comfortable, and traveling becomes much more affordable. Below is an overview of all the destinations selected by Lonely Planet.

Cappadocia, Turkey: winter balloons and Martian landscapes

Cappadocia looks even more magical in winter: stone “fairy chimneys” are covered with snow, and hot air balloons rise above the white valleys. Winter is the best time for hiking in underground cities, walking through gorges, and cheaper balloon tours.

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain: the warm beach season is in full swing

It's eternal summer in the Canary Islands, making Fuerteventura ideal for those who want to escape the cold. Beaches, surfing, volcanic landscapes, and temperatures around +22 °C make the island the most comfortable winter destination in Europe.

Erieri (Snowdonia), Wales: for lovers of active winter

Erieri National Park is a great place for winter hiking, mountain trails, and picturesque panoramas. It is a less touristy but very colorful option for a mountain vacation.

Bilbao, Spain: art, markets, and gastronomy

In winter, Bilbao attracts tourists with the Guggenheim Museum, atmospheric markets, and cozy cafes. With fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices, it is a great choice for a cultural vacation.

Madeira, Portugal: the island where it's always spring

With temperatures of +18...+20 °C, blooming garden terraces, hiking trails, and the ocean, Madeira remains one of the best places for an active and warm winter.

Côte d'Azur, France: glamour without the summer crowds

It is much quieter here in winter, but still sunny. Nice, Cannes, and Monaco offer comfortable weather, seaside promenades, and reasonable prices in the off-season.

Tip: if you are planning a winter trip by car, don't forget about the Green Card — compulsory insurance for entry into the EU. At Visit Ukraine, you can apply for it online in a matter of minutes: the policy is immediately sent to your email and is valid in all EU countries.

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Bavarian Alps, Germany: castles, mountains, and a fairytale atmosphere

This region is a paradise for lovers of snowy landscapes. In winter, Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles look especially magical, and skiing enthusiasts will find dozens of slopes.

Santorini, Greece: the most popular island — without the crowds

Winter in Santorini is a unique opportunity to see the island without thousands of tourists. The weather is cooler, but the views of the caldera and volcanic beaches are the same.

Alentejo, Portugal: tranquility, wine, and authenticity

This is a region for those who want a leisurely trip: wineries, mild winters, medieval towns, and peaceful nature.

Lyon, France: the capital of world gastronomy

It is especially cozy here in winter: restaurants with traditional bouchons, festivals, and the low tourist season make for a comfortable trip.

Cinque Terre, Italy: picturesque villages without crowds

In summer, these locations are crowded, but in winter they open up for meditative walks along the sea and the narrow streets of Riomaggiore or Manarola.

Budapest, Hungary: thermal baths and winter fairs

Winter only makes Budapest better: the contrast between the cold air and warm thermal waters creates an incredible experience. Add to that the holiday markets, and you have the perfect winter weekend.

Lapland, Finland: hunting for the northern lights

Finnish Lapland is the best place in Europe to see the northern lights. Here you can ride dog sleds, visit Santa Claus' residence, and walk through snow-covered coniferous forests.

We remind you! The best tourist streets in the world combine atmosphere, gastronomy, culture, and unique local flavor. Read about which streets topped the Time Out ranking in 2025 and why they attract travelers from all over the world.

Photo: Khunhua144/Shutterstock

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