Posted on Wednesday, 13 December 2023

If you're seeking snow in December, Europe has many enticing options.

The following five destinations enjoy snow for more than half of the month between December and March, and really come alive during this magical season - despite the low temperatures.

Whether you're after snowy Christmas markets, winter sports action, or access to absorbing city attractions, one of these choices is sure to meet your needs. 

Tallinn, Estonia

Estonia's capital is super photogenic throughout the year - but especially so after a blanket of snow. What's more, it snows an incredible two thirds of every month between December and March!

Tallinn's residents take their Christmas joy seriously: a highlight is the festive market located in the cobblestoned Old Town Square (over which towers the city's largest Xmas tree). Here you'll find all manner of wooden gifts, mouthwatering food, and warming drinks.

Overall, Tallinn is a top choice if you’re looking for snowy Christmas markets.

With snow blanketing the old alleyways and the Gothic towers, the city has an ethereal look made more magical by the short days.

It does get pretty cold here, but the warmth of the many cafes and restaurants - and locals - are sure to keep you warm.

Due to budget flights and affordable beer, UK stag and hen do parties are not uncommon in Tallinn, but there's still plenty of peace and quiet for those who get their thrills from museums and architecture.

Culturally, Tallinn is a melting pot of different influences, having been fought over by Poles, Danes, Swedes, Germans and Soviets. Today, the Estonian flag flutters over the medieval churches and townhouses of this alluring city.

Vilnius, Lithuania

The crumbling grandeur of Vilnius' medieval centre is even more fetching with a blanket of snow - and with 18.5 days of snow per month (Dec-Mar), you have a great chance of such a sight.

The city's historic centre has been UNESCO listed since 1994 - and it's easy to see why. Ancient baroque churches seem to be on every street.

But the city has embraced the 21st century, as can be appreciated in the National Museum of Art of Lithuania, and in the striking street art.

Aside from the snowfall, another reason to visit Vilnius is the excellent ski resort of Liepkalnis, around 5 km from the centre. Here you can enjoy the best views of the city as you ski or snowboard. 

The city also embraces the festive season, with a colourful Christmas market that runs until early January.

Among white Christmas holidays, Europe's second most easterly capital is sure to delight.

Both Wizzair and Ryanair run direct flights to the Lithuanian capital. These affordable airfares, combined with low-cost hotels and food to make Vilnius a great choice for a budget white-snow getaway.

Helsinki, Finland

The vibrant Finnish capital doesn't shut down during winter - the locals embrace the snow and ice with gusto! Here you can hire a plastic sleigh for about 10 euros and have some fun in one of the city parks, or even go skating on the partially frozen Baltic Sea!

But the Finns are all about balance, which is why the sauna plays such a big role in life here. Aside from the pleasure of extreme heat and ridding oneself of toxins, it's an important social experience, where people build connections and exchange ideas - with their modesty covered by a brief towel!

Speaking of balance, don't miss the Design Museum, which showcases the Finnish flair for design - something you'll become aware of as you explore this future-focused city.

The chances of snowy Helsinki vistas are fairly high from December to March, with 16.5 days of snow per month.

Finnair, British Airways and Ryanair all operate direct flights from London.

Grenoble, France

Winter sports lovers will find all they need in Grenoble, one of France's premier ski destinations.

And with 15.5 days of snow per month, you're unlikely to have your fun interrupted by a lack of snow.

Enjoy a ride in one of the famous spherical cable cars (“Les Bulles'' - Bubbles) that connect the city with Bastille Hill. If you're feeling energetic, you can ascend the mountain on foot. Either way, impressive views of the city await once you reach the summit.

Located in the southeastern Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, this buzzing university town has lots of cultural attractions to enjoy, too, including museums and art galleries gathered along the pretty Isère River. 

And let’s not forget the restaurants - the city is home to several Michelin-starred eateries.

If you're after both fabulous cuisine and snow in December, Europe's capital of gratin dauphinois (an unmissable potato dish that was invented here) - is a satisfying choice.

Multiple airlines operate direct flights to this winter sports 'hotspot'.

It's not the cheapest snowy destination on our list, but a great option if you have the budget for a fancy outdoor escape this winter.

Innsbruck, Austria

With 15.5 days of snow per month, you have a solid chance of seeing a blanket of the white stuff in Innsbruck. 

Despite being home to just 130,000 people, this diminutive city has become a go-to destination for local and international winter sports lovers.

Access all 13 ski resorts with the SKI plus CITY Pass - which should help manage the cost of an otherwise pricey visit. As well as being able to enjoy more than 300 km of pistes, this pass gives you access to dozens of cultural and lifestyle attractions spread across the city.

This being a popular winter destination, numerous airlines run direct flights from London - including easyJet, Ryanair, TUI Airways, and Jet2.

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