Here is a list of 25 best places to visit & top tourist attractions in Europe visit in 2023. This list of the top tourist attractions in Europe will be a magical event during your visit. Is it really cold outside? I don't enjoy the dark, overcast rain, but I do love the winter weather here. Snow white wine, warm scarf, and sluggish breeze.
During winter, Europe was an ideal location for me to visit. We return every year between October and March. The cold winter months shouldn't be an unproductive reason to travel to Europe. It doesn't matter that we have never spent winter in Europe. Millions of vacationing visitors visit Europe each year for the best Winter Holidays in Europe. These must-visit destinations of Europe in winter.
Europe's cities tend to be the last place to visit during the warm summer seasons. If you want warmth then going out into the tropics seems a good way to travel for you. If we're looking at an unrelenting cold Europe, we're going to have to change the rules of cold.
For the most warm winters, I selected some of the most warm and beautiful destinations around the world. However, in this article, I discuss the top 25 best places to visit & top tourist attractions in Europe. So, continue reading and discover these prettiest & top tourist attractions in Europe!
01. Canary Islands
But there are no winter destinations, which must always be cold. Then it makes sense to escape winter and find some warm places where you can rest and relax. In any scenario it'd be hard to choose a better destination, but the islands of the Canaries are a good location.
These Spain islands usually enjoy warm sunshine while Europe freezes. And while other islands usually shut down during winter, there is definite certainty that the Canary Islands are fully open for business.
If you like exploring the Canaries choose between sitting on the beach, swimming and surfing in the water, or trekking through their memorable surroundings.
02. Barcelona, Spain
Do I need a special place for this holiday? What is the deal in Barcelona? This is an incredible city of culture. Not only can I experience this amazing city, but also on New Years Eve in Spanish.
That involves gathering locals to observe fireworks or participating in traditional eating of the 12 grapes at midnight. Obviously, visiting Barcelona during Winter has some perks. The city is relatively warm compared with other places in Europe and therefore getting outside is not an easy task.
A winter vacation is more comfortable and avoids the overtourism that caused Barcelonas overtourism issues.
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03. Hallstatt, Austria
In the cold winter, a few places look the best, such as the beautiful small Alpine city of Hallstatt. The small Austrian city surrounded by lakes sits isolated and shadowed by the nearby mountain range that appears like their trueest self if covered by snowflakes.
Hallstatt's distinctive character combines majestic scenery with charming alpine dwellings. Walking the streets takes little time but it will surely take you steps to admire the landscape around us.
A series of narrow alleys that cross traditional wooden houses, Hallstatt sits tucked between the lake shoreline and steep hills behind.
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04. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Slovenia is a country of infinite beauty, and visitors often travel to beautiful lakes. All the year the alpine lakes become a fairytale winter wonderland when winter arrives. With views of the Julian Alpine Mountains, the Lake Bled has a crystal clear water surrounded by forest walls and castle cliff top islands.
This is just postcard moments that result in a magnificent destination. In Bled, a tiny city where you will have to enjoy the Bled Creamcake. Located directly on the shores of lakes. With a walk or ride on lakefront you can reach Bled Castle or Mala Osojnica to get amazing views.
05. Venice, Italy tourist attraction Europe
In most cases Venice has been regarded as a more popular tourist destination. What are some good reasons to visit Venice during its least-crowded period? The place called Serenissimia is at its quietest.
A visit to Venice during winter means you won't have to battle waves upon waves of boats as you explore the picturesque Canal of Venice. In summer, chaos is replaced by calm air, and this makes the perfect setting for relaxing city breaks.
Venice is not silent during winter. No, things switch gears during the Carnival celebrations which Venice is famous for for many years.
06. Interlaken, Switzerland
Some places appear suitable for winter visits, like Interlaken, one such destination in Switzerland. Although located on an area of hills, the village is near plenty of high mountains in the mountains and is an attractive place for outdoor adventures.
If you have a mountain near you want to make it a priority. In Interlaken accessible Mountain Activities can be found easily within a small town offering all the amenities you need to meet any requirement.
Interlaken provides activities to suit any temperament, from gentle fun seekers to people who are pushing their limits.
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07. Reykjavik, Iceland
Is there anything more appropriate to go to Iceland in the winter months? That will certainly help them stay in the winter and leave the world on their own. Yeah it does. The comfortable accommodation of the island capital of Reykjavik offers a chance to see Iceland in an iced state.
Up near the Arctic Circle, Reykjavik has developed the winter experiences. Reykjavik is not limited to winter but locals celebrate it with a Winter light festival. The event is held in late February to draw people out in the open air by using imaginative and spectacular lighting displays.
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08. Prague Czech Republic
Prague is without doubt an important city in Europe. It also seems to me not to be surprising that Prague is crazy busy during the warmer months. The funny thing though is that Prague is equally interesting during winters and has less visitors compared to most other cities.
These ancient cities with its grandeur and architecture can even appear more atmospheric with some snowy dust beneath blue skies. While Prague is definitely cultured, its love for beer is an enjoyable destination. Enjoying various local beers at dozens of city bars is pleasant, in any season.
09. Tallinn Estonia
Great cities are wonderful in cold winters but their smaller, sweeter sisters are also good. Let’s look at Estonia's Tallinn capital as an example. The centre is set in a pretty walled old city and represents Tallinn's historic centre.
Although summer brings pleasant conditions for outdoor excursions it cannot compare to how the winter brings out the finest in Tallinn's charming cityscape.
You'll be lucky to visit this Baltic city as Tallinn is a magical place. Apart from these, the historic Christmas markets provide heartwarming lights and a huge festive tree.
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10. Strasbourg, France
When people think of French cities they often imagine Paris as their summer home. France's wildly diverse geography works well in winter destinations and places like Strasbourg are an excellent place.
Strasbourg has a beautiful, quaint, historic city with charming quarter-timber houses and historic buildings as well picturesque canals. Imagine an impressive medieval city covered by snow, you may imagine Strasbourg, a city.
Strasbourg is proving to be a major Christmas market for German residents, and the city has been thriving in its old town for centuries.
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11. Copenhagen, Denmark
Even though you have no excuse to travel to Copenhagen, the festive season might be better than the last. Copenhagen is the ideal setting for enjoying all aspects of this special period of the year.
Danes love hygge. Short and hot days are the perfect companion for this comforting feeling. Tivoli Gardens amusement parks offer a more enjoyable experience than the usual when the snow falls in Copenhagen.
From the spectacular lights to the Christmas markets and the many festive food in the area, there's bound to be a festive atmosphere that is intoxicating.
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12. Nürnberg, Germany
Europa is especially known for Christmas shopping, and when Germany has the best then Nuremberg' s most outstanding is the best. It has one of the largest and best known festive markets in Germany and transforms the beautiful medieval town into dreamland.
A centuries old tradition, the Nürnberg Christkindlesmarkt grew into an enormously successful event promoting joy and happiness. There are more than 100 stores for shopping and dining.
The most famous food to avoid includes everything from the basic bratwurst sausages or the addictive gin lebkuchen.
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13. Budapest, Hungary
In recent years Budapest has been recognized as its most beautiful destination. Its winters and coldness have made it so attractive. If winter limited the activities in Budapest, it appears the city is actually unusually suitable for the short winter.
One glance at the magnificent Parliament buildings illuminated nighttime will confirm this. Budapest is known nowadays for its large thermal baths where people from every background gather to soak. Great fun during the summer, but when you stay cool underneath, they're an excellent gift.
14. Abisko, Sweden
Winter time offers many activities but the most enchanting is watching Northern lights dance around the sky. Abisko offers some excellent places to watch the extraordinary events that are occurring in this area.
Abisko in Sweden Lappland is a small town that sits south north of the polar circle and is likely to be very cold in winter. There are no cold days in the summer, making this an ideal time to see the Aurora Borealis.
The proximity of the poles and long nights are great for seeing the magic of lights. Abisko ticks the latter.
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15. Innsbruck, Austria
Innsbruck offers an ideal winter getaway that offers winter sports and an alpine backdrop to suit all budgets. Located at the foot of the Austrian Alps in Tyrol the town has become a popular tourist spot for the winter.
Innsbruck has great architecture and a magnificent Baroque cathedral. Its location means there is two worlds: a welcoming town and a winter playground nearby.
Innsbruck has mountains that can be explored at your own leisure. Aside from a variety of skills, you'll find the one that suits you best.
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16. Bergen, Norway
Bergen is an important tourist spot in Norway and has an amazing view at its best during the winter. The Norwegian country has no shortage of temperatures and snow. Bergen is frequently a place where people stay for the breathtaking views this blend creates between the fjords and peaks.
With fjord cruises, it's not easy to understand the reason Bergen became the inspiration for The movie Frozen. Even though the streets are covered in snow and the warm outdoors are pleasant you can visit Bergen.
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17. Rovaniemi, Finland
Why wait till Christmas to bring Santa to your home instead? I mean no North Pole, rather a small Finnish village called Rovaniem in Lapland. Just beyond Rovaniemei is Santa Claus Village.
Official residence for good old Saint Nick. Nearby the Arctic Circle you can meet Santa, have your special stamp stamped onto your passport or just hang out. There's nothing that can't keep us from getting into that fairy tale. Rovaniemi enjoys other activities as well.
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18. Cyprus
As one of most hot spots in Europe during the winter, with over 340 sunny years, Cyprus is certainly an excellent winter destination. Enjoy a holiday away from the beaches and walking around the Troodoulos Mountains in the mountains of Kyrenia in the heart of Nicosian history.
Then you can enjoy some European winter sunshine. While sunsets start fairly early and you get the closest you can see the water in winter, Cyprus is a unique–and uncrowded– experience.
But Cyprus has traditionally been known in the eyes of foreigners for its Winter Sun destinations but head high enough up the mountain ranges and you may also ski there!
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19. The Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve has a beautiful sunny climate, a mild temperature and excellent hiking opportunities. Portugal's Algarve has an excellent winter weather. From exploring charming towns like Lagos, Carvoeiro, Sagres & Tavira to hiking stunning trails like the Seven Hanging Valley Trails there's lots to enjoy during the winter in the Algarve. And honestly the water in the Algarve gets so cold during summer that it is difficult to swim during the summer without being able to get out into the extreme climate like we do. I don't swim. I'll pay less for an amazing beach to yourself!
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20. Sicily, Italy
Sicily is the ideal destination for travelers who want to enjoy the winter sun on the Mediterranean coast. As visiting Sicily in February or January excludes the beaches, a winter trip can afford more inexpensive prices and enjoy the incredible cultural sites.
Enjoy a visit to the Temple Valley of Agrigenta, get lost at Ortigia, taste chocolate from Modica, admire the sights of the Greek Theatre Taormina and visit Palermos impressive cathedral.
We enjoyed this food and historical excursion to Palermo and would recommend them very much!
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21. Malta
The summer months often fill the tourist areas of Malta with cruise ships, but with the Winter holiday visiting Malta, the crowds are gone! Valetta is the sunniest capital of Europe and is ideally situated to enjoy the winter sunshine in Europe. Other enjoyable activities include exploring the Silent City of Mdina, the charming fishing villages of Marsaxlokk and exploring the rock and beauty coast in Gozo (you can't go swimming here). Malta is extremely hot and dry in Summer due to the dry climate and extreme temperatures.
22. Crete, Greece
It is probably more than likely Greece's biggest and southernmost island and beats Gavdos there. The best part of a visit to Crete in winter is the opportunity to experience beautiful Venetian harbours of famous cities like Chania and Rethymnon.
Although it'll be very cold and impossible to swim at 60F/15C, it still remains beautiful beaches worth watching from the coast. The main attraction of any planned vacation in Greece is the food.
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23. Madeira
Sometimes called Hawaii in European terms, Madeira is on the northwest coast of Africa. The autonomous Portugal region of Madeira is easily accessible via mainland Europe but often feels world apart.
Some of our favourite activities on Madeira include visiting the Nun Valley, admired Cabo Girao and tasting Madeiras best wines. Make time for a walking tour through Levada — a unique channel situated in the side of Madeira Mountain.
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24. Andalucia, Spain
Andalucia offers beautiful beaches with whitewashed houses surrounded by stunning architecture. You might not have a wish for swimming on the popular Costa del Sol but they'll certainly get better.
In addition to that, the coastal city of Malaga offers much more fun and interesting activities during winter than during the notorious summers.
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25. Tromso Norway
In addition to being a popular location to search the Northern Lights, Tromso Norway is definitely among the best locations in winter! Although seeing the stars is no guarantee, professional night tours like this give you the best chances to spot them at Tromso.
In addition to lighting there are numerous winter adventure options to be had in Troms. Try dog-sledding or whale watching if you're interested! It's a must that you get cable car rides for spectacular views from the top of an exceptionally snowy Tromso.
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