Winter in Europe is a fairytale-like wonderland, covered with snow, filled with holiday lights and the joyful sounds of holiday markets. To the snow enthusiast it is heaven on earth, be it the adrenaline filled ski runs, the tranquil frozen lakes or the picturesque medieval towns sprinkled with fresh snow. The continent is a rich mixture of cultures, cuisines and landscapes, and therefore winter is not only a season, but a magical experience.

The Best Winter Destinations in Europe range from the grandeur of the Alps to the Nordic wilderness and suit all types of traveller. If you are in need of adrenaline-filled ski slopes, Christmas markets full of heartwarming Christmas magic, or train rides through the snow-laden valleys, we have a place to go. Go Kite Travel is a specialist travel company that hand-crafts the most amazing itineraries to make your European winter adventure smooth as well as memorable.

1. Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt is a paradise to the ski lovers and has the legendary Matterhorn and some of the most scenic ski slopes in the world. It has the car-free village which further completes the fairy-tale feel, and its ski area has year-round skiing due to its glacier. The Gornergrat railway will provide you with panoramic views that are just breathtaking during winter. To non-skiers, Zermatt has ample winter hiking routes, fine dining restaurants and posh chalets. You can also fly scenic helicopter flights to get a great view of the Alps above- something you will never forget in your life.

2. Lapland, Finland

Have you ever dreamed of meeting Santa Claus, Lapland is the place where the magic is. This winter wonderland has snowmobile adventures, husky tours, reindeer sleigh rides and the opportunity to view the spectacular Northern Lights. Rovaniemi is the official home of Santa Claus and it is ideal to both families and couples. You can choose between cozy log cabins and beautiful glass igloos where you can observe the aurora playing in the sky in your bed. Lapland is not only a vacation, it is a trip into the world of a winter fairy tale.

3. Innsbruck, Austria

The city of Innsbruck is the capital of the Alps, which mixes urban flair with mountainous panoramas of mountains and snow. Ski resorts surround the city and the activities available in the city include snowboarding, ice skating, and tobogganing. Its buildings are of pastel color on a snowy background which is postcard-perfect. Do not forget the medieval Old Town, Christmas markets and the famous Bergisel Ski Jump. Nordkette cable car also provides amazing views as you are transported to the top of the mountains within minutes leaving the city behind.

4. Chamonix, France

Chamonix is a ski resort at the foot of Mont Blanc and is famous as a ski resort visited by skiers worldwide. It is also an ice climbing, paragliding and snowshoeing hotspot. The town itself has a French alpine atmosphere, crowded cafes and high-end shops. To get the best adventure experience, ride Aiguille du Midi cable car to see French, Swiss and Italian Alps. It is not only skiing in Chamonix in winter, but the mountain lifestyle.

5. Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt, often referred to as the Pearl of Austria is a magical place, even more so when covered in a blanket of snow. The village is a UNESCO World Heritage site located alongside a calm lake with mountains that surround it. During winter, the streets are calm, the landscape is spectacular and the appeal is irresistible. There is the possibility of visiting the ancient salt mines, the Skywalk to see the panorama, or you could just go on quiet walks and enjoy the snow in the village. Hallstatt is ideal in case you are a traveller who wants a serene, beautiful winter getaway.

6. Troms, Norway

Troms, also referred to as the gateway to the Arctic, is one of the best places to view Northern Lights. This place has dog sledding, snowshoeing and whale watching in winter. The city also boasts a vibrant cultural city with museums, art galleries and Sami experiences. Troms is a photographer-s paradise with fjords and mountains surrounding it. Troms is a winter paradise, be it following the northern lights or skiing and snowmobiling in the winter wilderness.

7. Italy Cortina d Ampezzo

Cortina d Ampezzo is the most glamorous ski resort in Italy. It is the host of the Winter Olympics and provides the best ski slopes, elegant hotels and trendy après-ski bars in the world. The snow-covered mountains of Dolomite form a magnificent background to all forms of winter sports. Browse designer boutiques, eat Italian food, or go sightseeing along the mountain passes when you are not skiing. Cortina is an ideal combination of adventure and luxury.

8. Iceland, Reykjavik & Golden Circle

Winter in Iceland is otherworldly. Its capital, Reykjavik, is a city of colored streets, geothermal pools, and a vibrant nightlife. You can then visit the Golden Circle- which has frozen waterfalls, geysers and volcanic terrain. Northern Lights tours are also most active in winter. Think of bathing in the Blue Lagoon with the snow falling on you- a real magical moment in a European winter.

9. Prague, Czech Republic

The Gothic spires of Prague and cobblestone streets are more magical in winter. The Christmas markets in the city are some of the best in Europe and feature mulled wine, crafts and treats. The Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge covered with snow resemble a fairy tale. Prague in winter is also a cheap destination and would suit a traveler who wants to have cheap packages to visit Europe without sacrificing beauty and culture.

10. St. Moritz, Switzerland

St. Moritz is world-renowned as a luxury winter resort that has twice hosted the Winter Olympics and is a favorite among the elite. It has high-quality skiing, ice polo, fine dining and luxury shopping. The frosty lake serves as a race course where horses race and other special winter activities are held. Having more than 300 days of sunshine in a year, St. Moritz can ensure a dazzling winter vacation. This is where you want to be in case you want to have fun and adventure and exclusivity.

Conclusion

Whether it is the snow-capped Alps or the frozen Nordic wilderness, the Best Winter Destinations in Europe have got something unique to offer any traveler. It does not matter whether you are pursuing the Northern Lights, skiing on the slopes of the highest level, or just walking through the fairy-tale towns, Europe in winter is never a disappointment. Not only are these destinations beautiful and adventurous but they are also unforgettable ones.

 When you are willing to finally take your dream snowy getaway, Explore Europe with Go Kite Tours to experience itineraries designed by the experts and smooth sailing travel. Go Kite Travel will allow you to feel the ideal combination of comfort, excitement, and cultural discovery. Discover the enchantment of the snowy European scenery this winter with your heart and soul.