Five of the best European cities to visit this winter
Autumn/Winter is our favourite time of the year to go out and explore – even if that is in London or a train ride down to Bournemouth. However, some of the best cities across Europe come alive during their winter, meaning that now is the perfect time to consider a city break on the continent.
But with such a vast and varied mix to choose from, where should you go? Here are five of our favourites to visit this time of year:
1) Monte Carlo
Found along the beautiful French Riviera, Monte Carlo is one of the greatest places in the world to try out a few casinos. The glamorous home to the rich and famous is a wonderful place to try to spot a celeb or two whilst sipping on a Martini (shaken, not stirred of course). You could even plan ahead for the casino by practising online.
Being typically Mediterranean, the climate is mild for most of the year with around 300 days of sunshine. In winter the daytime temperatures can be around 14-15˚C, just dropping only slightly at night – so not too chilly if you’re not prepared to shiver.
2) Bruges
Enjoy Belgium’s café culture on a relaxing break whilst you try the local chocolate delicacies. Recent studies have even shown that in moderation chocolate can be good for you.
The Christmas market, which fills the city centre throughout the winter period, has hundreds of local produce goodies from cheeses to traditional mulled wine and pretty hand-crafted tree decorations – a fantastic way to stock up on Christmas presents. You may even want to get your skates on and have a go on the outdoor ice rink.
3) Tromso, Norway
Fully embrace the colder, winter weather this season and trudge through the deep snow. Why not explore the stunning scenery whilst enjoying a dog-sledding experience or try to spot the Northern Lights.
You could always wrap up warm indoors or visit the Arctic Cathedral, the Polar Museum, or the sparkling waterfront. With Tromso situated high above the Arctic Circle, just 2,000 km from the North Pole, there really is a full host of exciting attractions to enjoy.
4) Venice Carnival
Brighten up your winter days with a trip to the Venice carnival. Join in with the festivities with a glass of Prosecco and dress to impress. It’s the biggest party time of the year so allow yourself to be swept away with the crowds and don your mask.
The festival traditionally starts two weeks before Ash Wednesday and ends on Shrove Tuesday. It runs from January 23 to February 9 2016 – when the streets will be filled with colour.
5) Salzburg, Austria
The home of Mozart and backdrop to the movie The Sound of Music – in winter Salzburg becomes even more magical. Pack it all up for an impromptu road-trip to Austria so that you can sit back and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way – it’s truly breath taking! Just make sure you find the right tyres for the long drive. We will always recommend National.co.uk to get the job done.
Follow in the footsteps of the Von Trapp family as you take in the famous sights and landmarks of the iconic film. Try a glass of Glühwein and stroll around the quaint lanes and alleys of the spectacular city’s old town, enjoying its magnificent architecture.
During the festive season the city’s shops are spectacularly decorated and crafts and culinary delights are on offer in its Christmas market, which world famous.
