Europe in winter has a certain kind of magic, twinkling lights on cobblestone streets, the scent of mulled wine drifting through squares, and that perfect mix of crisp air and cosy cafés. Summer has its shine, yet winter turns familiar cities into something cinematic.
If you’re dreaming of a winter escape that balances charm, culture, and a touch of luxury, these are our five favourite winter city breaks in Europe for 2025 – a blend of hidden treasures and beloved classics with a fresh twist.
Ghent, Belgium
Ghent, Belgium
Medieval glow and canal-side cafés
Tucked between Bruges and Brussels, Ghent is a winter wonderland that keeps its cool. Medieval façades, snow-dusted rooftops, and glowing stalls set the scene for a weekend that feels romantic without the crowds.
Don’t miss: A slow wander along Graslei, the gothic Gravensteen Castle, and a Belgian hot chocolate or a trappist beer by the canal.
When to go: Late November to February.
Travel Seen Tip: Visit in February for the Ghent Light Festival, when the city becomes an open-air gallery of installations.
Where to stay
1898 The Post — storybook boutique inside Ghent’s former post office, moody and elegant.
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof — refined, central, with a serene courtyard and a quietly luxurious feel.
Pair with: A day trip to Bruges by train for wintry canal views, then back to Ghent’s lively dining scene.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Fairytale lights and riverside strolls
Ljubljana is winter charm in pocket-size form. The old town glows beneath festive lights, riverside cafés feel like a Christmas card come to life, and December brings music pop-ups around the centre.
Don’t miss: Ljubljana Castle for views over terracotta rooftops, a stroll along the Ljubljanica River, and an arty detour to Metelkova.
When to go: Early December to mid-January for peak sparkle.
Travel Seen Tip: Pair your city break with Lake Bled — just 40 minutes away and even more magical under a dusting of snow.
Where to stay
Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel — intimate, design-led, and steps from the river.
InterContinental Ljubljana — modern skyline views, spa, and an easy base for winter wanders.
Pair with: A half-day at Thermana Laško or Therme Olimia if you fancy Alpine-adjacent wellness.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, Hungary
Thermal baths and river lights
Few cities do winter like Budapest. Imagine easing into Széchenyi or Gellért as steam curls into frosty air, then stepping out to grand boulevards, market squares, and candlelit dinners by the Danube.
Don’t miss: Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market, the Parliament glowing at dusk, and a Danube dinner cruise for warm plates and city lights.
When to go: Late November to early January for markets and the famous fairy-lit Christmas trams.
Travel Seen Tip: Book thermal baths with timed entry to skip queues and keep the day unhurried.
Where to stay
Four Seasons Gresham Palace — Art Nouveau icon opposite the Chain Bridge.
Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel — palatial glamour with a standout bar.
Aria Hotel Budapest — music-inspired boutique with a glass-roofed atrium.
Pair with: A morning at Ruin Bars for photos without the crowds, then a pastry stop at Gerbeaud.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, Austria
Baroque spires and snow-globe romance
Home to Mozart and the Sound of Music, Salzburg turns delightfully old-world in winter. Baroque spires, snow-topped rooftops, and elegant markets create a city break that’s timeless without trying.
Don’t miss: Hohensalzburg Fortress, mulled wine in Residenzplatz, and a classical concert in a gilded hall.
When to go: Advent weekends through Christmas for market energy, January for calmer streets.
Travel Seen Tip: Stay in the Altstadt to wake up to church bells and buttery pastries.
Where to stay
Hotel Sacher Salzburg – riverfront grand dame, chocolate torte included.
Hotel Goldgasse – chic rooms on a tiny historic lane, perfect for walkers.
Hotel Bristol Salzburg – classic style with theatre-night energy.
Pair with: A snowy day trip to Hallstatt if conditions are favourable.
Kraków, Poland
Kraków, Poland
Cinematic squares and serious comfort food
Kraków’s cobbles glint under fairy lights, with Rynek Główny transforming into a festive hub of wooden stalls and hand-crafted gifts. When the snow falls over the Cloth Hall, it’s pure film set.
Don’t miss: Wawel Castle, the cafés and galleries of Kazimierz, and a hot-chocolate stop so thick your spoon stands up.
When to go: Early December to mid-January for markets, late January for fewer crowds.
Travel Seen Tip: Try winter comfort plates – pierogi, goulash, warming soups — then a late-night jazz bar in Kazimierz.
Where to stay
Hotel Copernicus – vaulted ceilings and historic gravitas near Wawel.
PURO Kraków Kazimierz – contemporary, design-forward, walkable to everywhere.
Hotel Saski, Curio Collection – heritage shell with smart modern touches by the square.
Pair with: Daytime culture at MOCAK then evening drinks on Szeroka Street.
Kraków, Poland
Kraków, Poland
FAQs
What are the best winter city breaks in Europe for 2025?
Ghent, Ljubljana, Budapest, Salzburg, and Kraków for festive markets, cosy cafés, and standout hotels.
When is the best time to visit Europe for winter markets?
Late November to early January, with many markets closing around 24 December. Some cities keep lights and pop-ups into early January.
Is winter a good time for luxury hotels in Europe?
Yes. Outside peak Christmas and New Year, winter often brings excellent value with upgraded room types and short-stay offers.
Which winter city break is best for spa lovers?
Budapest for thermal baths. Salzburg pairs nicely with Alpine wellness. Ljubljana offers easy day trips to lakes and Slovene spas.
Where can I avoid heavy crowds but keep the festive feel?
Ghent and Ljubljana are brilliant for a calmer, more local atmosphere while still feeling celebratory.
Find your winter escape with Travel Seen
Ready to plan? Our team will tailor flights, transfers, stays, and restaurant bookings, with on-the-ground insight from places we actually visit.
Interested? Call us on 0333 305 9912 and we can plan your trip for you.
