15 best winter city breaks in Europe

Winter is a magical season, and city breaks this time of year can be especially rewarding. They give you the opportunity to wander around fairytale old towns blanketed in snow, explore cities blessed with warm winter sun, and to participate in winter sports and Christmas activities.

Europe has some fabulous cities where you can experience all of this. The hardest part will be narrowing down your choice of options and deciding which one to visit!

I’ve therefore pulled together 15 superb winter city breaks in Europe to help you decide. All have been selected because they are wonderful destinations, full of tourist attractions – and are all places I’ve personally visited and love.

And while these cities are great places to explore at any time of the year, visiting during the winter season is a perfect time to go.

Read on to discover 15 of the best European cities to visit in winter. Whichever one you choose, you’re bound to have a good time!

This post contains affiliate links

Zurich, Switzerland

A view of Zurich old town straddling the river at night with buildings lit up

Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is bursting with attractions whatever the season or weather. But if you’re visiting during the winter months, there are lots of things that you can add to your ‘to-do’ list. 

You can explore the historic old town. This covers the narrow streets and squares that straddle both sides of the River Limmat which flows through the heart of the city. In this area, there’s some beautiful sights, including the twin-towered Grossmunster Church. You can climb one of the spires for views across the river and city.

In the colder months, the narrowness of the streets in the old town, lit up in the dark, makes it feel really festive and wintery (and a little bit romantic for anyone looking for a short break later in February for Valentine’s Day).

During the Christmas holiday season there are Christmas decorations, twinkly festive lights, and Christmas markets to wander around. There are also ice rinks in the city and skiing available in nearby resorts.

After exploring the old town, you can sail down the river and take a cruise on Lake Zurich. In the winter, you’ll be able to see snowcapped mountains in the distance. If you don’t want to see the lake by boat, take a brisk winter walk alongside it, perhaps stopping off in Zurichhorn Park with its small Chinese Garden.

If being outside is not an option in the winter weather, there are plenty of museums to explore, including the Swiss National Museum and art museums.

For more specific interests, there is the Fifa World Cup Museum, The Zurich Tram Museum, and the Lindt Chocolate Museum. Or you could chill out (and warm up!) in a thermal rooftop spa bath overlooking the city.

See my separate post for the top things to do in Zurich in winter.

Why visit Zurich in winter? With a charming old town that is lit up on cold wintry nights, thermal baths to take a dip in, top-class museums, and loads of sights to see, Zurich is a perfect place for a short winter break or long weekend. Over the Christmas period, the city hosts several festive markets and has both indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks. If you prefer to ski, there are areas within 90 minutes of the city where you can hit the slopes.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city, is another fantastic winter destination. It has a plethora of unique activities and experiences that make visiting during the colder months, when the days are short, worthwhile.

One of the biggest draws for many people is the chance to see the Northern Lights (the aurora borealis), a travel experience that often appears on bucket lists.

Iceland is a top destination for this, and on a trip to Reykjavik, you can book Northern Lights tours. Some of these drive you out into the countryside, where it is darker and the light pollution is less, and there is more of a chance of catching the auroras.

Another top activity is to take a dip in country’s hot springs and pools. The Blue Lagoon is not far from the city, and it has a wonderful warm pool you can immerse yourself in while sipping a drink from the waterside bar.

We visited as the sun went down and experienced the lagoon as the twinkling nighttime lights came on. It was really quite magical with the steam coming off the water up into the cold winter air. 

A view of part of the Blue Lagoon at night with steam rising off the water

Back in the city centre, there are plenty of things to do on a winter trip. You can visit the unique cathedral, wander along the harbourside, take a snap of the eye-catching Sun Voyager sculpture, go whale watching, and try the food in the local restaurants.

The Perlan Museum is also highly recommended, where you can go into an ice cave and see a northern lights show. And if you visit the city in February, you can experience the Winter Lights Festival which features a range of light installations and cultural events across the city.

Why visit Reykjavik in winter? It might be colder and darker, but Reykjavik in winter gives you the chance to see the Northern Lights, take a dip in a thermal pool in the dark, and see the city lit up during the Winter Festival.

Paris, France

Paris is one of the most visited cities in Europe, and for good reason. It’s full of amazing sights that are worth visiting, whatever the weather.

Top of these is the iconic Eiffel Tower. Standing at over 1000 feet, it dominates the skyline and is one of the world’s most visited monuments.

You can go up the tower and experience the incredible views. At night, it is lit up and twinkles in the night sky. In the winter, you might get to see it covered in snow and when the days are shorter, it sparkles in the dark for much longer!

A view of the Eiffel Towr covered in snow

The city also has world-class museums such as The Louvre and The Musee D’Orsay, as well as the beautifully manicured Jardin du Luxembourg to wander through.

You can also stroll along the Champs-Élysées. This is one of the world’s most famous avenues, with charming cafes and boutique shops and the Arc de Triomphe at one end. On New Year’s Eve, it is lit up with colourful fireworks to welcome in the new year.

Another place worth strolling around is the artistic neighbourhood of Montmartre. Here you can visit the beautiful Sacré-Cœur Basilica with its panoramic views of the city, and its small Christmas market.

Or if you prefer, you can see some of the sights by boat. You can take a cruise down the River Seine, many of which give you the chance to indulge in some lunch or dinner, with or without champagne!

And when you’ve exhausted all the fantastic sights in the city centre, head out on a day trip to the Palace of Versailles. 

Located just a few miles away, it’s a massive residence with beautiful gardens set in extensive grounds spanning over 60,000 square metres. In the winter – between November and March – you can go into the parks and gardens for free.

Why visit Paris in winter? Paris is another year-round destination given the vast number of sights there are to see, not least the city’s world-class museums. But in winter you get to see the Eiffel Tower lit up at night for longer, can visit the Christmas markets, and stroll around the gardens at Versailles for free.  

Oslo, Norway

Norway’s capital city has a wealth of attractions to suit visitors, regardless of their interests. As you explore it, you’ll find many historic buildings standing alongside iconic modern structures.

The main sights to see in central Oslo include the cathedral, the Norwegian Parliament building, and the National Theatre. There’s also a lovely park – Slottsparken – with the early 19th century Royal Palace at the centre.

The Royal Palace building in Oslo

You can also walk around Oslo’s vibrant waterfront area and stroll along the pedestrianised Harbourside Promenade which runs for miles. In this area of the city, you’ll find a number of special and quite unique buildings: the modernist City Hall, the Nobel Peace Center, Oslo Opera House, and the Munch Museum. There’s also the more traditional castle Akershus Fortress.

And if all this isn’t enough, there are several other museums on the Bygdoy peninsula and an absolutely superb sculpture park about 20 to 25 minutes outside of the city centre.

For those looking to take advantage of Norway’s famous landscape, you can sail along the Oslofjord. This is around 100 kilometres long, and stretches down the North Sea. In the part nearest the city, there are islands with colourful houses and beaches. You can catch ferries across to these to explore.

You can also go cross-country skiing, tobogganing, and ice skating.

If this is your thing, you might be interested in the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower, with its ski jump tower and ski simulator. Or there’s the SNO Ski Dome, Norway’s only indoor ski resort.

In winter, the city also has “steaming hot fjord saunas” along the harbourside promenade. We didn’t go to one of these when we visited, so we might have to go back!

Why visit Oslo in winter? Although for some summer will be the best time to visit, Oslo is worth visiting in the winter months, especially if you want to partake in some winter sports or see the country’s beautiful landscape in the snow. There are over 50 museums in the city, so it’s easy to escape from the cold and wet if need be – plus there are unique hot fjord saunas in the harbour to try out!

Valletta, Malta

A view of the Grand Harbour in Malta with the city in the background and a small boat in the water

Valletta, Malta’s capital city, is a great destination, full of fascinating history. There are many museums and churches, and stunning architecture throughout the centre. So much so, it’s a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On a short break here, you can learn more about the island’s unique history, going back to the Great Siege of Malta in the 16th century, and more recently, its experiences during World War II. You can visit the Grandmaster’s Palace – once home to the Grand Master, the head of the Knights of Malta – and sail across to the ‘Three Cities’.

These fortified towns sit on the other side of the Grand Harbour. There are small medieval streets potter around and the Inquisitor’s Palace to visit.

You should also go inside St John’s Co-Cathedral if you have time. The interior is spectacular and you get to see its famous Caravaggio paintings.

The fact that Malta is the 5th smallest country in Europe (it’s only 121 square miles) means that on a trip to Valletta, it’s also possible to take day trips to other parts of the island.

A short journey away is the old capital of the island, Mdina – or ‘The Silent City’ – so named because it’s now virtually deserted.

You can also go to the harbour town of Marsaxlokk with its beautiful Church of our Lady of Pompeii and its bustling Sunday market, or island hop to nearby Gozo and Camino, the two other Maltese islands in the Mediterranean Sea.

Why visit Valetta in winter? This destination is one for those looking to escape the cold. Average temperatures are in the mid-teens in Celsius in December and January, with potential highs that go into the low 20s. When I visited for a winter break, I was treated to bright, warm days for my sightseeing. It was a perfect destination for some winter warmth.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is often called the ‘Venice of the North’, so if you prefer somewhere smaller than Venice, but still built around gorgeous waterways, head to this delightful city in the north of Belgium. With its cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, medieval charm, and cosy cafes, it’s a perfect place for a short break.

This is true year-round, but is especially the case if you visit in winter when the city may be dusted in frost or snow, and the city lights come on earlier in the evening. And during the festive period, there are two Christmas markets in the centre.

There are many sightseeing opportunities here (also covered in my post on a weekend in Bruges). There’s the Grote Markt, the city’s central square with its colourful, gabled buildings, and the 13th century belfry tower, which you can climb for views across the city.

Burg Square also has three memorable and striking buildings: the City Hall, the Palace of the Liberty of Bruges, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. A short walk from here is Rosary Quay, which is said to be one of the most photographed spots in Bruges.

The Rosary Quay in Bruges at night

This is where you can pick up a boat ride through Bruges’ winding canals. It’s an excellent way to see the city’s historic buildings and beautiful bridges, and the views from the water are particularly lovely. Or if you prefer, you can sightsee wrapped up in a warm coat from the top of a horse-drawn carriage.

For really cold or inclement days, there are lots of museums to jump into. A highlight is the Historium Museum, where you can go back to the ‘Golden Age of Bruges’ and learn about the city via seven historically themed rooms.

Why visit Bruges in winter? Because it’s gorgeous! Twinkling winter lights and frost and snow make it feel really quite magical. The city’s cosy cafés, bustling Christmas markets, and smaller crowds, make it a perfect destination for a winter escape.

Milan, Italy

Milan, Italy’s second-largest city, is a fabulous destination, and if you’re looking for a place with many indoor activities to keep you going in the cold winter months, you should put it on your list.

It’s a place that has something for everyone, be that exploring the city centre sights, visiting some of its top museums, partaking in some retail therapy, or wandering around the stadiums of two of the most famous football teams in the world. 

Top of the list of the sights to see is the incredible Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral). This is the largest church in Italy and can hold to up to 40,000 people inside. It has a stunning interior you can wander around, and you can also go up to the rooftop for views of the piazzas and streets below.

The Duomo in Milan

Across from the Duomo is the neo-Renaissance Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with its eye-catching glass-domed roof.

Art lovers will enjoy the various museums on offer in Milan. These include the Pinacoteca di Brera, the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, and the museums in Castello Sforzesco (Castle Sforza).

For history lovers, there’s a lot here to learn about one of the city’s most famous sons, Leonardo da Vinci.

You can also visit his famous ‘Last Supper’ work which is painted onto a wall of the Santa Maria delle Grazie church.

Milan also has parks to stroll through, a vibrant canal district, the renowned La Scala opera house, and a world-famous fashion scene.

See my post on for an itinerary for 2 days in Milan for more ideas of things to do here.

Why visit Milan in winter? Milan is an excellent city if you enjoy visiting world-class museums and historic sites that don’t need to rely on the weather to be a hit. If you’re a fashionista, the winter sales take place in January and February, followed by Milan Fashion Week. And if you enjoy seeing icy lakes and snow-capped mountains, there’s easy access to places such as Lake Como and Lake Lugano.

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg in Austria is another place with a gorgeous ‘chocolate-boxy’ old town that is wonderful in the winter months. The cobblestone streets and small squares are lined with buildings with beautiful baroque architecture, quaint shops, and cosy cafés to warm up in if the weather is cold.

There are lots of sights to see in the old town. Salzburg Cathedral is among them, as well as Mozart’s Birthplace, an attractive yellow townhouse on one side of Getreidegasse. This street is particularly beautiful, with historic signs and charming boutiques. It’s a lovely place to wander and soak in the city’s atmosphere.

You should visit the Hohensalzburg Fortress as part of your trip. This is an impressive medieval fortress perched on a hilltop overlooking one of the city squares. If you visit when snow has fallen, you’ll get a beautiful view of the city roofs and river, and the surrounding Alps.

A view of the castle and part of Salzburg covered in snow in the dark

Also, make sure you explore the 17th century Mirabell Palace and Garden.  The beautifully landscaped gardens, adorned with sculptures and fountains, are perfect for a stroll.

If you’ve seen the ‘Sound of Music’, you might recognise these – and if you’re a fan, you might even want to book a ‘Sound of Music’ tour. This will take you out to various sights from the movie, while passing through some of Austria’s beautiful countryside.

Why visit Salzburg in winter? The charming fairy tale old town with surrounding lakes and mountains makes a trip in winter a delight. If you’re visiting because of the Mozart connection, you can time your trip for the classical music event ‘Mozart Week’. There are also lots of winter activities on offer in the city, including ‘Winterfest’, the Krampus and Perchten parades, and Christmas markets.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia in northern Europe, might be a little further for some people, but it’s worth making the effort. It has an enchanting medieval old town, a maze of medieval cobbled streets that wind around the city, and old city walls with imposing watch towers.

It’s an amazingly photogenic city, especially in the winter months where snow – which is common in the months from November to March – may be lying on the ground and dusting the tops of the roofs and spires on the city’s skyline. You can get views of this from Toompea Hill. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, with its striking architecture, is also worth a visit while you’re there.

The old town is a real delight. You can wander through narrow streets and see beautiful medieval buildings. The Town Hall Square has lots of cosy bars and restaurants you can snuggle up in with a drink. We loved sitting here and looking over the pretty buildings lit up in the winter sky.

At Christmas, the festive market is held here, and there are Christmas lights.

Tallinn Christmas market

After taking in the old town and the view across it, you can then take a short jaunt out to the romantic Kadriog Park.  This is a gorgeous park that is perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll. It has a lake (Swan Pond), fountains, and beautiful flower beds. 

If the weather is not good, you can visit Kadriorg Palace, a striking building surrounded by beautifully tended gardens and that houses an art museum. Or you could opt to visit one of the other many museums you can find in the city.

Why visit Tallinn in winter? Tallinn is often described as a ‘winter wonderland’ and that really is true. Its geographical location – by the chilly Baltic Sea – means that people often visit during the warmer summer months which can result in the small old town becoming a bit overcrowded. So, if you want to see the city at a quieter time of year, winter might be the season to pick.

Malaga, Spain

A view of part of Malaga looking out over the rooftops

Malaga is another European city that is a good choice for a winter break.

The city is perhaps best known for being the birthplace of 20th century artist Pablo Picasso and for its proximity to the many beaches that stretch along the popular Costa del Sol (‘Coast of the Sun’). But you don’t have to visit during the summer to appreciate all it offers.

Most of the main attractions are in the old town. This makes the city really walkable – although you can sightsee using the hop-on hop-off bus, which is handy for the castle which sits high on the hill.

The Castillo de Gibralfaro is the highest point in the old city centre. From the battlements, you can see out across the harbour and over to the City Hall and bullring.

After exploring here, you can then walk down to the Alcazaba below. This former Moorish palace is visually more spectacular than the castle, with its beautiful courtyards, archways, and gardens. Next door is the Roman Theatre.

The old town has charming streets and squares to explore, as well as a cathedral, featuring Baroque, Renaissance and Gothic features. This area has many cafes and restaurants where you can sample some local food – or you could try out some of the tapas on offer from the kiosks in Atarazanas market, the central indoor market.

And for art lovers, you can visit the Musee Picasso Malaga, Picasso’s birthplace museum in Plaza de la Merced, or the Pompidou Centre in the harbour area. If you visit the harbour area, you can combine this with a boat trip or walk to the nearby beaches.

Why visit Malaga in winter? Málaga in winter provides a warm escape if that’s what you’re looking for. Winter might see the coldest months, but temperatures are mild, and there are sunny days with blue skies. You can also explore the beautiful city and historic sites without the high tourist numbers that may visit during a vacation to the Costa del Sol during the summer months.

Lucerne, Switzerland

Part of Lucerne old town straddling the river with snow on the hills behind

Lucerne is a beautiful city in central Switzerland. It is situated on the shores of Lake Lucerne and surrounded by the Swiss Alps.

There is a beautiful old town here nestled against the shores of the lake, and which is full of medieval buildings and narrow, winding streets. In the winter, these are lit up during the dark nights, and there are cosy cafes and restaurants to pop into for some warming Swiss food.

On a trip here, you can see the famous Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge). This dates back to the 14th century and is Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridge. It’s a striking sight, even more so when it’s covered in snow during the colder months.

Although Lucerne is a great place to visit at any time of the year, in winter, there are many seasonal activities to add to the city sights that makes it worth a trip.

There are a range of outdoor activities and winter sports to partake in, such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. You can also go on a boat cruise on the lake and visit the nearby mountains. This includes Mount Titlis, the highest summit in central Switzerland and that has “the world’s first revolving aerial cableway” with panoramic 360-degree views from it. 

And in December there are several charming Christmas markets and festive events. These are followed by the Lucerne Light Festival (Lilu) that takes place in January. This popular event sees light installations appear in the city, lighting up the landmarks. Various events also take place.

See my post for more detail on the top things to do in Lucerne in winter.

Why visit Lucerne in winter?  Winter is arguably the best time to visit Lucerne when it is covered in snow and there is a view of snow-capped mountains. The city hosts a Christmas market, and the old town is lit up at night to create a magical atmosphere. As a bonus, you’re not far from winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is another place to put on your list for a short winter break. Check out my post on the best things to do in 3 days in Edinburgh.

It’s another place where the winter weather can add to the atmosphere of the old medieval streets, especially on the Royal Mile in the old town. Mist hanging low in the air, snow on the ground, and the crisp winter cold can really bring alive the history of the old buildings, quaint shops, and hidden nooks and crannies.

You can experience some of this by visiting the Real St. Mary’s Close which runs underneath the Royal Mile. Afterwards, you can warm up with a whiskey tasting at the nearby Whiskey Experience Museum or in one of the many pubs in the city.

At the top end of the Royal Mile is Edinburgh Castle, perched dramatically on top of an extinct volcano.

A view of Edinburgh Castle

During the winter months, it is lit up and you can take part in one of its after-dark trails. At the other end is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, a small attractive palace with a view across to Arthur’s Seat, a volcanic hill that sits 800 feet high above the city.

There are sweeping views from here across the city, as well as from Calton Hill. For fresh air in the main centre, you can also take a stroll around Princes Street Gardens and admire the magnificent Victorian Gothic Scott Monument.

If you visit during the festive season, you’ll find a Christmas market around here. Stay for longer, and you’ll get to experience the city’s famous Hogmanay celebrations.

Why visit Edinburgh in winter? Edinburgh in winter offers a fantastic blend of historic charm and seasonal festivities that take place in its medieval streets. The city’s renowned Hogmanay celebration, cosy pubs (with the chance to sample Scotland’s famous whisky!), and scenic views from various places make it a must-visit winter destination.

Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany’s fourth largest city, is another place worthy of putting on your city break list. Located close to the border with Belgium and the Netherlands and along the River Rhine, it provides an excellent base for exploring other cities nearby.

Despite significant damage during the Second World War, much of the city’s rich history has been carefully preserved and notable buildings have been restored. You can see many of these in the old town, including the Old City Hall (Altes Rathaus), many of the city’s distinctive Romanesque churches, and the Fischmarkt (fish market) with its row of brightly coloured buildings dating back to the Middle Ages.

There are also lots of museums to visit, and as you’d expect, a museum dedicated to the history and invention of Eau de Cologne perfume.

However, perhaps the most significant sight to visit on a trip here is the city’s iconic twined-tower cathedral (Kölner Dom). This miraculously survived the devastation of the Second World War.

Together with Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, it is arguably Germany’s most recognisable site. It is the country’s largest cathedral, the world’s third largest Gothic cathedral, and the site of one of the country’s best Christmas markets.

Cologne Christmas market by the Cathedral

Go inside to see the sheer scale and beauty of its interior. You can also climb its South Tower to get some of the city’s best views.

After this, you should walk across the Hohenzollern Bridge to see one of the city’s most photographed cityscapes. The steel bridge is covered with love locks, and once you’ve walked across it, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of Cologne’s skyline.

Why visit Cologne in winter? Although the city is a year-round destination, if you visit during December, you can see the famous Christmas market and combine this with a visit to the magnificent cathedral. There are also plenty of museums and indoor activities for the colder winter days.

Gibraltar, United Kingdom

Gibraltar, the tiny British Overseas Territory that borders Spain on its southern shores, is another option for a winter trip. It might only be 2.6 square miles, but there’s plenty to see and do here – and the chance to hop over to Africa. It’s also an easy place to get to: it has its own airport which is just a short walk to the centre.

Most of the top things to do in Gibraltar centre around ‘The Rock’. This is hardly surprising since, at almost 1,400 feet, it’s impossible to go anywhere without seeing it. So a trip up it is a must.

The rock of Gibraltar

You can walk up the Mediterranean Steps (although these are steep), book an organised tour, or catch the cable car (a ride of only six minutes). At the top, there is a viewing platform from which you get some incredible views out across the sea.

You can then walk back down the Rock to the Gibraltar town, stopping at St. Michael’s cave. Go inside, and you’ll see massive stalagmites and stalactites all lit up.

On your walk down, you’ll come across Gibraltar’s famous monkeys, the only wild troop of barbary macaques in Europe. They lounge around on fences and at the side of the lanes. Or you can visit Apes’ Den where they also often hang out.

History lovers can go inside the Rock and learn about Gibraltar’s defence from France and Spain in the 18th century Great Siege Tunnels. You can also wander through other parts of the rock that were excavated to provide space for equipment and troops during World War II.

For some rest and relaxation, head to Gibraltar’s beaches. Although you’re more likely to get a suntan during the summer, the weather is still good in winter. When I visited in early January, the days were warm and sunny and ideal for a walk along the beach.

Why visit Gibraltar in winter? The mild weather at this time of year is perfect for exploring Gibraltar’s beautiful landscapes and iconic Rock. If you want to walk up the Rock via the steep Mediterranean Steps, the heat of the summer months might make this harder. And if you fancy a bit more sunshine, you can book a quick trip over to Morocco in Africa.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is a fantastic choice for a winter break. It has a blend of historic charm, old vintage trams that travel around the city, scenic views, and vibrant culture. My post on 2 days in Lisbon provides more information on the top things to do here.

Start in the Baixa area, where many of the city centre’s main attractions and landmarks are located or can be easily reached. This includes the Praca Dom Pedro IV square, with the neoclassical theatre at one end (when we visited one winter there was a gorgeous Christmas tree here). There’s also the sweeping Praca do Comercio which stands on the edge of the River Tagus.

The Alfama district, Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood is also worth visiting. It has a warren of narrow, winding, and steep streets, as well as the city’s cathedral and St. George’s Castle. The historic charm and cosy ambiance here make it particularly lovely in the cold winter days. And when you want to warm up, there are plenty of charming cafes to pop into, including the beautifully decorated Café A Brasileira in the Bairro Alto area.

You can also take a ride on Tram 28, an iconic vintage yellow tram which winds its way through Lisbon’s historic neighbourhoods and eat out at the Time Out market. Then head to the Belem district to visit the historic sites in this area and try the famous Portuguese custard tarts that originated in the nearby monastery.

Given that Lisbon is another place that often experiences mild weather during the winter, you can also take a trip to the beach. You can take the train to Cascais from central Lisbon, or get off at Estoril and walk to it along the seaside promenade.

And if you want to visit a fairytale – and quite unique – castle, put a visit to the Pena Palace in Sintra on your list.

Why visit Lisbon in winter? Lisbon is a fantastic destination at any time of year. However, a trip in winter is perfect. It combines the chance to sightsee in mild weather, go out to the local beaches, experience the festive activities in the city, and visit the fairytale Pena Palace when tourist numbers are lower.

One of the squares in Lisbon lit up at night with a Christmas tree

Written by Emma Marshall

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *