The Dolomites are one of the most popular winter destinations in Europe - and for good reason! Famous for their unique and stunning mountain range, these Italian alps have so much to offer for anyone coming to visit.  If you are a skier or snowboarder, they have some of the best ski resorts in Europe, including Ski Area Tofana and Ski Area Lagazuoi 5 Torri. And even if snow sports aren’t up your alley, the Dolomites are filled with marvelous places to see like Lake Sorapis, Tre Cime National Park, and Lago di Braies. Not to mention the amazing hiking and snowshoeing trails. 

Travel Tip: Plan ahead and rent a car! The Dolomites are bigger than you think and some of the “go to” spots are a bit far from one another. You will want to have at least a general idea of what you want to see when you’re there and the best way to route it out.

Madeira is absolutely stunning. And it’s a great place to go in the winter if you are wanting to be outdoors but escape the snow. The weather in Madeira during the winter months is the perfect temp. They have some of the most stunning landscapes. I highly recommend you rent a car when you go! 

Travel Tip: If you do anything in Madeira, the Ponta de São Lourenço hike is a perfect hike for all skills and fitness levels, while serving the most gorgeous views. It’s an amazing sunrise hike but also an underrated sunset spot as well. Everywhere you look, is another beautiful view of the volcanic erosion that’s been happening for millions of years over the coastline. 

No matter what time of year it is, Strasbourg is always charming and worth a visit. In the winter time, however, Strasbourg takes on the title of the ‘Capital of Christmas’. Renowned for its enormous Christmas market that has been around since the 1500’s, this beautiful city becomes the perfect destination for anyone looking for some holiday cheer. Strasbourg, however, has more to offer than just it's Christmas market. It is actually a part of the Alsace region (and it’s capital). This region as a whole is famous for its beautiful villages, vineyards, and architecture and will leave you with endless things to do on your winter vacation! 

Travel Tip: If you have enough time in your itinerary, try and check out nearby towns like Colmar and Riquewihr. They are the most picturesque little towns you will ever see! 

Recommending this one as a ‘winter destination’ might be a little debatable to some, but I think it’s the perfect getaway in the colder months depending on how you like to travel. If you are someone who enjoys a place that’s a little more off the beaten path, has fewer crowds, and you don’t need a warm, beachy destination, then Jordan is your place. I went in January and I thought it was a great time to explore this beautiful country. It gave you the opportunity to experience places like Wadi Rum Desert and Petra all to yourself (which was my favorite part). Not having to be surrounded by groups of tourists, made the experience that much more authentic and intimate. We were able to have tea with the locals and just learn more about their culture. 
 

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, and a favorite amongst vacationers who are craving some sunshine. Being near the north African coastline, makes this island one of the warmest places you can go in Europe during the winter. I love taking a holiday here because, although the south is known for its lively night scene and holiday hot spots, I especially enjoy the northern side for its beautiful landscape and amazing vineyards. You can do anything from whale watching to exploring national parks. It has a variety of amazing ways to enjoy your vacation while still getting that vitamin D you've been so ready for during the cold months. 

Travel tip: Explore the whole island and definitely take the cable car up to the top of Mount Teide. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the locals some of their favorite spots. We found a lot of amazing restaurants this way, that we otherwise wouldn’t have. Photo below On our drive from the south of the island to the north.

I couldn’t make a ‘Top Winter Destinations in Europe’ list without putting Bavaria on it. Though, I may have a biased opinion after living here for 4 years, I do think that winter in Bavaria is a must see on anyone’s list. It is absolutely stunning and just like the Dolomites, you have so many hikes, gorges, and beautiful lakes to explore. You also can ski on the tallest mountain in Germany, the Zugspitze!