Winter, one of the most enjoyable times of the year, continues to be experienced in all its beauty across different geographies. While many chase holiday opportunities to enjoy the snow in addition to the warm and sunny days of summer, it’s also possible to visit various countries and have a great time at countless locations during winter tourism in our country. In this article, we have gathered some information about a few countries where you can experience all the wonders of winter.
Hallstatt, Austria
Austria, known for its natural wonders in various regions, is an excellent destination for winter tourism. Hallstatt, which offers beautiful views throughout the winter season and is perfect for a family holiday, is one of the best alternatives during this time. Although it’s a small village, Hallstatt is protected by UNESCO due to its historical values and is located by a lake. Here, where nature and history intertwine, you can enjoy a peaceful and tranquil holiday. Don’t miss out on tasting the fish from the lake and visiting the nearby mountains and ski resorts.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is among the first places that come to mind when discussing winter tourism. Located in the heart of Europe, it has the appearance of a medieval city. Featuring numerous historical sites spread across its Gothic-style structures, Prague showcases beautiful views during the winter months with its river. Especially during Christmas, visiting landmarks like the Old Town Hall and the Astronomical Clock is a must. Be sure to also check out the Kafka Museum, and one of the best activities in Prague is to wander the streets and get lost.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Another must-visit country on our list for winter getaways is Iceland. Almost every part of the country is ideal for winter tourism. Due to its proximity to the Arctic, Iceland experiences cold weather almost year-round, and one of its most beautiful destinations is Reykjavik. Situated near one of the country’s polar regions, Reykjavik is famous for its volcanic tours and natural parks. If you’re lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of the auroras, known as the northern lights, while you’re in Reykjavik.
Bergen, Norway
Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, is one of the top destinations for winter tourism. The city hosts one of the largest cruise ship ports in Europe and is known for its stunning natural beauty, including fjords. When visiting, don’t forget to enjoy the white nights and the tranquil nature surrounding the city.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges, which resembles a natural set from a historical film and retains its untouched charm, should be added to your list of places to see during the winter months. With its medieval architecture, canals that surround various parts of the city, historical sites, and world-famous chocolates, Bruges is a true tourism city. During winter, when snow falls, the city transforms into something completely different; don’t miss visiting the Beer Museum, St. Salvator’s Cathedral, Belfry Tower, and the Historium Museum.
St. Petersburg, Russia
St. Petersburg, known for its cold and wintery climate, is one of the most beautiful cities in Russia that should definitely be on your list. This city, which has been a capital for the Russian Empire for centuries, is built on 42 islands and is often referred to as the “city of canals.” Beautiful at any time of the year, St. Petersburg becomes even more delightful during winter with its snowfall.
Edinburgh, Scotland
As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh resembles an open-air museum. The city, which spends most of the year under cold weather, transforms with a different beauty when the snow falls in winter. Rich in historical architecture and the essence of Scottish culture, this city is one of the best places to get lost while walking its streets. Especially in winter, the Prince Street Gardens area turns into a film set under the influence of the snowfall.