Castles, canals, frozen lakes and cobbled lanes create the ideal setting to enjoy the charm of winter.
From one end of Europe to the other, there are many destinations where you can experience the magic of winter. Budapest, Vienna, Prague, London and other capitals are the first destinations that come to mind for a winter getaway. But there are also those small, yet incredibly charming towns, with distinctive architecture and a unique atmosphere, that provide the backdrop for an unforgettable travel experience. The list weve prepared can give you ideas for your next trips.
Cesky Krumlov, Czechia
Cesky Krumlov is a small town in the South Bohemia region of Czechia, 180 kilometers from Prague. It is known for its historic Gothic architecture and Krumlov Castle, one of the largest in Bohemia. Its stone houses, clustered around a meander of the Vltava River, have preserved the towns medieval and Renaissance character, which was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1992. The imposing castle, the Renaissance-style Town Hall with its beautiful arches and domes on the main square, the Gothic Church of St. Vitus and the 14th-century Minorite Monastery impress every visitor.
Colmar, France
Where the Lauch River meets the Rhine, 68 km. from Strasbourg, lies Colmar, one of the loveliest small towns in Europe. Here youll see storybook Alsatian houses alongside striking Gothic buildings, take a romantic boat ride along the canals in the «Little Venice» district and visit unique museums such as the Bartholdi Museum, dedicated to the works of Frédéric Bartholdi, creator of the Statue of Liberty. Need more reasons to visit? The city is on the Wine Route, serving as the «capital» of Alsatian wines.
Hallstatt, Austria
Getting to Hallstatt, in Austrias Salzkammergut region, isnt easy, yet youll surely be rewarded by what meets the eye. Traditional 16th-century wooden houses clinging to a narrow slope, overlooking Lake Hallstättersee and the imposing Alpine peaks, make the scenery incredibly beautiful. Hallstatt is one of the oldest inhabited settlements in Europe and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the town on foot, go boating on the lake, enjoy winter sports and visit salt mines and impressive caves.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Part of the popular Romantic Road that runs through southern Germany, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is famous for its well-preserved medieval town. A stroll through the historic center, with its ancient houses, cobblestone alleys, towers, gates and fountains, is a step back in time. The town has appeared in many films and was the inspiration for the village in Walt Disneys 1940 film Pinocchio.
Bruges, Belgium
About 80 km. from Brussels, Bruges is a city that seems to have leapt out of a medieval fairytale. Its no coincidence that its also called the «Venice of the North». Its medieval architecture remains intact and its historic center is a Unesco World Heritage Site. Many travelers choose to visit Bruges on a day trip from Brussels (the train journey takes less than an hour). However, it definitely deserves a little more of your time, to enjoy its beauty to the fullest. With lovely canals and picturesque bridges, cobbled streets, soaring cathedrals, colorful houses and postcard-perfect lakes, this small universe in West Flanders will enchant you.
