Our top 5 European winter city breaks

Edinburgh, Scotland

Winter transforms Edinburgh into a magical wonderland, with its historic buildings and fortresses draped in a snowy blanket. Exploring the city's narrow streets becomes an enchanting experience. As night falls, head to the Grassmarket area, where pubs and restaurants offer warmth, local brewery beers, and traditional Scottish cuisine. Consider spots like The Last Drop or Biddy Mulligans for an authentic experience.

For a more active outing and a break in nature, venture into Holyrood Park. The park's dramatic landscapes provide a visual feast, and from the summit of the legendary Arthur’s Seat, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Edinburgh. The park also has a lake where temporary fishing permits are granted.

Winter is also the best season to explore the city’s famous cultural offering. The city is renowned for its impressive theatre and performing arts scene, offering a mix of classic plays and innovative performances. Check out programs at venues such as Edinburgh Playhouse, Traverse Theatre and Summerhall.

Munich, Germany

Munich's winter landscapes resemble scenes from a fairy tale. Visit Nymphenburg Palace's beautiful gardens, open to visitors for free. Consider exploring the opulent interiors of the palace as well. Another lovely outdoor spot is the Englischer Garten, the world's largest urban park. If winter brings freezing temperatures, you might even be able to ice skate on the park's own lake Kleinhesseloher See.

Munich is famous for its beer culture. A hearty meal and a pint of local beer are the perfect way to recharge after outdoor activities. Even if you're already familiar with Munich, traditional beer halls like Hofbräuhaus are worth revisiting. Other excellent options include Augustinerkeller and Paulaner Bräuhaus.

Wrocław, Poland

The city of Wrocław is one of Poland’s most popular tourist destinations. But how much do you actually know about this historic city? Get ready to be charmed by Wrocław, particularly by its delightful, historic architecture.

Follow the City Moat (Fosa Miejska) and head to the historic streets of the Old Town because this is where you want to be. The centre of the old city is the historic Market Square (Rynek), one of the biggest of its kind in Europe. Located by the square, the mediaeval Old Town Hall is a wonderful example of Gothic architecture. It accommodates the Museum of Bourgeois Art, as well as the Piwnica Świdnicka – one of the oldest restaurants and beer cellars in Europe, established in 1273.

Make sure to visit the Market Hall (Hala Targowa). Here you’ll find all sorts of local produce, from fresh fruit and veggies to sweets, but also local meat and sausages.

Prague, Czech republic

A city of medieval squares and narrow cobblestone streets, Prague is beautiful even during winter. The cold gives you a great excuse to pop into beautiful cafes for a treat or sip some mulled wine at the Christmas markets that stay open after New Year’s in January.

Prague is famous for its beer and comforting food, which are very well deserved after a stroll and sightseeing in the chilly winter air. Hearty is the best word to describe Czech food with warm stews, slow-cooked meats and rich soups. Warm up with Pražská šunka, Prague Ham sold by a street vendor or get cozy in Mincovna in the Old Town Square and try the Czech version of beef goulash – a thick stew served with dumplings.

If you start to get enough of the outdoors, head indoors to some of Prague's many museums. The most famous ones are the National Museum of Prague or The Prague Jewish Museum, but there are some quirky ones to explore as well. How would a visit to the Kafka Museum sound like? Or maybe the Museum of medieval torture instruments?

Gothenburg, Sweden

Gothenburg is the second largest city in Sweden with a vibrant culture and an ultra-cool vibe. And no, we are not talking about the weather, although the weather can be pretty cool too during the winter months. If you haven’t heard of “Swedish mys” – a cosy way to spend your time, after your visit you will surely understand the meaning of it.

In Gothenburg everyone is mad about Haga, the cool and trendy area in this already hip city. Cute wooden houses along the old stone-paved streets are home to inviting cafes and small shops. Taking a ”Fika stund” is a must while exploring the streets of Haga. The Swedish coffee break is so much more than just sipping your takeaway coffee. Get comfortable in a cosy cafe and be sure to enjoy a sweet treat as well. Hagabullen – a huge cinnamon bun, is found at Café Husaren at Haga Nygata, for example.

Head to the Stora Saluhallen to shelter from the harsh weather. Food Market is home to around 40 stalls selling local delicacies and global cuisine. Try out the Swedish meatballs or Vietnamese baguettes and enjoy your lunch at the tables set up inside the market hall.