The European cities that come alive in winter

Winter in Europe can be magical, with snowy scenery, festive displays and hearty food all in abundance. Make your season merry and bright with our favourite European destinations to visit this winter. 

Paris, France

The warm twinkling lights, the fragrant hanging fir branches, the glow of decorated shop windows: there’s no doubt that the City of Love feels even more romantic during wintertime. Marvel at the illuminations along the Champs-Elysées and around the Place du Vendome, or admire the opulent displays at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann before heading to the rooftop for ice skating and panoramic city views. On grey days, get lost among the galleries of the Musee d’Orsay, or let yourself be transported away with a performance of The Nutcracker at the Paris Opera Ballet.

Where to stay: There’s only one choice:  Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel is pure Parisian refinement, just minutes from the Champs-Elysées.

Heidelberg, Germany

Less than 90 minutes from cosmopolitan Frankfurt by train, Heidelberg is a city preserved in time and home to a majestic castle. In December, the city is given over to Christmas markets selling traditional crafts and warming mugs of gluhwein. In January and February, the streets are calmer, allowing you to take a leisurely walk over the famed Karl Theodor Bridge, through the picturesque old town, and up the hill to Heidelberg Castle. If you prefer to take things more gently, there's also a funicular. For dinner, book a table at the Michelin-starred Scharff's Schlossweinstub .

Where to stay: Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg radiates European elegance, but for a dose of contemporary German cool, opt for NH Collection Heidelberg.

London, England

You won’t feel the cold of winter when surrounded by London’s vibrance. Decembers were made for basking in the warm glow of Regent Street and indulging in Dickensian nostalgia at the Old Vic, where performances of A Christmas Carol have become tradition. Meanwhile, those crisp January mornings are perfect for a ramble over Hampstead Heath, and rainy afternoons are best spent browsing the bookstores around Cecil Court or admiring the treasured antiquities at the Victoria and Albert Museum, before settling into a cosy armchair at the Candella Tea Room in Kensington.

Where to stay: In the heart of Holborn, Rosewood London exudes the same mix of sophistication and edginess that defines the city.

Lucerne, Switzerland

This idyllic Swiss city, less than one hour from Zurich by train, has everything you need for a quintessential European winter getaway: alpine beauty, historical charm and a festive spirit that lasts from November to February. If you’re dreaming of fresh white snow and clear blue skies, take a cable car up nearby Mount Titlis. If it’s Christmas magic you’re after, make your way to Franziskanerplatz in Lucerne’s old town for colourful Christmas markets. Seeking pure relaxation? Visit one of the numerous spas around Lucerne and discover why a thermal bath is never better enjoyed than in the coolness of winter.

Where to stay: The opulent Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern sits right on the banks of Lake Lucerne. Alternatively, Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa offers complete escapism.

Madrid, Spain

Spain’s capital does wintertime festivities better than anywhere else in the country, with elaborate nativity scenes at Christmas, lively gatherings in Puerta del Sol for New Years’ Eve and a celebratory parade on for Epiphany on 6 January. As chilly as it can get, the sun rarely stops shining, and outdoor terraces remain filled with merrymakers. We recommend visiting Cibeles Palace for a glimpse at its beautiful nativity display, then heading up to Azotea Cibeles for some al fresco dining. If you really want to get back indoors, however, make straight for the cosy Café de la Luz .

Where to stay: Housed in a heritage building mere metres from Puerta del Sol, JW Marriott Hotel Madrid is as central – and as indulgent – as it gets. 

Aosta, Italy

Drive two hours northwest from Milan, and you’ll find yourself travelling back in time. Nestled in the Italian Alps, Aosta is a small historical city boasting Roman monuments and gothic churches. During the festive period, Aosta welcomes the Marché Vert Noël Christmas market, becoming one giant enchanted Christmas village. At other times, you can lose yourself in the quiet cobblestone streets or visit a traditional local restaurant to tuck into hearty alpine cuisine. Make sure to pop into one of the many artisanal food shops around town to stock up on wines, pastas and cheeses.

Where to stay: Located in Aosta’s historic centre, Hotel Duca D'Aosta has the grown-up retro-chic look down to perfection.

Colmar, France

This medieval town, just half a day’s drive from Paris towards the French-German border, beckons with its picturesque setting and fairytale-like charm. During the holiday season, its timber-framed buildings are decked out in lights and winter foliage, and a never-ending succession of market stalls line its streets and canals. Attend a chocolate workshop at Choco-Story , discover local delicacies at Colmar’s indoor market and stop for a hot drink and pastry at charming French café Au Croissant Doré. If you prefer your food more rustic, you’ll love flammkuchen: it’s a thin dough topped with onions, bacon and creme fraiche.

Where to stay: La Maison des Têtes blends a historical setting with creative design, while L'Esquisse Hotel & Spa Colmar - MGallery offers modern luxury in tranquil environs outside the city.