Winter in Europe is a season that captivates travelers with its diversity, offering a range of experiences from snow-covered mountains to mild coastal retreats. Spanning from December to February, this time of year brings colder temperatures across much of the continent, but the extent of winter varies greatly by region. While Northern Europe, including countries like Norway, Sweden, and Finland, as well as Eastern Europe (such as Poland, Czech Republic, and Romania), are often blanketed in snow, creating perfect conditions for winter sports and winter festivals, Southern Europe—including Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Greece—enjoys much milder temperatures, making it ideal for those who prefer a more temperate climate.
What to Expect in Winter in Europe
Winter in Europe is diverse, from December to February, with temperatures varying greatly depending on the region you’re visiting. Winter temperatures can vary greatly—ranging from -10°C in Northern Europe (Sweden, Norway, Finland) to 15°C in Southern regions like Spain, Portugal and Greece. Expect shorter days, especially in the northernmost parts of Europe like Oslo or Stockholm. Mountainous regions such as the Alps and Pyrenees receive heavy snowfall, perfect for winter sports, while cities like Paris or Rome might see rare, light snow or none at all.
Winter in Europe: Region by Region
Northern Europe (Scandinavia, UK, Baltic States)
- Temperature: Northern Europe can be extremely cold, with temperatures often dropping below -10°C in countries like Norway, Sweden, and Finland.
- Weather Features: Expect snow, particularly in Norway and Finland, along with rain and strong winds in places like Scotland and Ireland.
- Daylight: Very short days in the Arctic Circle (Polar Nights), where the sun doesn’t rise for weeks. The further south, like in London or Stockholm, daylight is still limited but more manageable (about 7-8 hours of daylight).
- Best for: Northern Lights in Norway, winter sports in the Alps, and Christmas markets in cities like Copenhagen and Helsinki.
Central Europe (Germany, France, Austria, Switzerland)
- Temperature: Generally between -3°C to 7°C, colder in the Alps.
- Weather Features: Snow is common in the Swiss Alps and other mountain ranges, but rain is more common in cities like Paris, Vienna, and Munich.
- Daylight: Expect about 8–10 hours of daylight, but it can feel much shorter due to cloudy skies in places like Germany and Austria.
- Best for: Winter sports, cultural escapes, and Christmas markets.
Southern Europe (Spain, Italy, Portugal, Greece)
- Temperature: Milder winters with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C.
- Weather Features: Snow is rare in most places, but coastal regions like the Canary Islands offer pleasant temperatures, perfect for a mild winter escape.
- Daylight: Longer days compared to the north, with 10–12 hours of daylight.
- Best for: Winter escapes, historical tours, and exploring coastal destinations.
Eastern Europe (Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Romania)
- Temperature: Can drop as low as -10°C to 5°C, especially in countries like Poland and Czech Republic.
- Weather Features: Snowfall is more frequent in Eastern Europe, and cities like Budapest and Prague offer beautiful winter landscapes.
- Daylight: About 6-8 hours of daylight.
- Best for: Affordable travel, winter festivals, and historical sightseeing.
Winter in Europe: Month by Month Breakdown
December in Europe
December marks the beginning of winter in Europe. It’s the start of the holiday season, and the festive atmosphere can be felt in cities and towns all over Europe. You’ll see beautiful Christmas markets in almost every major city, from Munich to Prague, where you can buy handmade gifts and enjoy warm mulled wine. Temperatures range from 0°C to 10°C, colder in the north and mountainous regions. Expect light snow in areas like the Swiss Alps or Norway, and rain in cities like London and Paris. It is the best time for holiday travelers, Christmas market enthusiasts, and those looking for cozy experiences. However, it is also an expensive time to travel as it is considered a peak month.
January in Europe
January is typically the coldest month across Europe. Winter sports enthusiasts flock to the mountains for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-related activities. It’s also a quieter month in many European cities, with fewer tourists than the holiday season. Average temperatures range from -5°C to 5°C, with more frequent snowfalls. Coastal areas like Lisbon remain milder, while the Alps experience heavy snowfall. It is best for travellers looking for snow experiences and new year celebrations.
February in Europe
The end of winter sees a slight increase in temperatures. Still, ski resorts remain popular, and many European cities host cultural events and festivals. While snow continues to blanket mountain towns, cities start to show the first signs of spring, especially in the south, in Spain and Portugal. Expect temperatures between -4°C to 8°C in Central Europe, with colder temperatures in the north. The snow persists in high-altitude destinations like St. Anton (Austria) and Chamonix (France). Also, the month is prefered by travellers seeking cultural festivals, skiing, and affordable travel towards the end of the month.
Events in Winter in Europe
December: Christmas Markets across Germany, Austria, and France, New Year’s Eve celebrations, and winter festivals.
January: Ice Sculpture Festivals, and New Year celebrations.
February: Venice Carnival, Fête de la Saint-Valentin in Paris, Winter Wonderland in London.
What to Pack for Winter in Europe
Clothing: You’ll need thermal layers, warm jackets, wool hats, scarves, and gloves. Waterproof boots are essential for wet or snowy conditions.
Accessories: Sunglasses (to avoid glare from snow), sunscreen (high altitudes), and a travel adapter for electronic devices.
Special Gear: Ski gear (if you’re heading to the Alps or Pyrenees), camera gear for capturing the winter landscapes, and a travel bag that can hold multiple layers.
General Tips: Pack for mixed weather, especially if you're traveling across multiple regions with different climates. Keep in mind that Northern Europe will be much colder than Southern Europe.
Visiting Europe in winter offers a unique and peaceful experience, with fewer crowds compared to the summer months, allowing you to explore major attractions at a more relaxed pace. Travelers can also enjoy lower prices for accommodation, flights, and some attractions, especially in winter sports destinations like the Swiss Alps. However, winter travel in Europe does come with its challenges. Cold temperatures can make outdoor activities less comfortable for some, and short daylight hours, particularly in Northern Europe, may limit sightseeing opportunities. Additionally, heavy snowfalls can restrict access to certain destinations and limit outdoor activities in some areas, especially those prone to freezing conditions. Despite these drawbacks, Europe in winter remains a wonderful option for those seeking winter sports, festive celebrations, and a quieter, more intimate travel experience.
