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Winter travel

person walking past snow covered mountains looking at the northern lights in iceland

Winter travel

Q: Why should I visit Europe during the holidays?

Our travelers who [visit Europe](/tours/europe-tours) on their winter getaways say it’s completely different than any other season due to the cooler weather, fewer tourists, and magic of the holidays. Learn what it's like to [visit Europe during the holidays](/travel-blog/articles/why-visit-europe-during-the-holidays).

There’s something magical about winter getaways to new places—especially during the holiday season. See the Northern Lights in Iceland or the lit-up cobblestone streets in the Netherlands, and so much more when you travel on our trips during the winter.

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How it works

Our travel experts can help you plan the perfect winter vacation.

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Choose from 175+ tours all around the world. Need help narrowing down? Call our regional experts at 1-855-935-4674 to talk through how you like to travel.

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Sit back and get ready for your trip

Your tour includes hotels, breakfast daily and other select meals, comfortable transportation, an expert Tour Director, guided sightseeing, and more.

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Take off on an adventure, stress-free

Your local Tour Director will meet you and your group on the first day, and be your go-to for the best sites, flavors, and stories of the region.

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What our travelers say about their winter getaways

Wonderful trip

By 2nd-time traveler Carla on 12/08/19

These countries are beautiful during Christmas, even though there was no snow. I can’t decide which city I like the best as they were all gorgeous. Friendly people everywhere you go. The Hotels and excursions were fabulous. Jens, our tour guide was efficient, patient, and most of all FUN.

Christmas Markets of Budapest, Vienna & Prague

Wonderful Winter Break

By 2nd-time traveler Christina on 02/22/20

A week in Iceland might not sound like the perfect winter break....but it was! The hotels, meals and the pacing of the trip were perfect. We could not have asked for a better guide.

Iceland: Reykjavik & the Northern Lights

Winter Vacation in Europe?

12/28/18 by 3rd-time traveler Nancy

Our terrific tour director, Alex, and our bus driver, Marcin, who seemingly navigated with ease the snowy winter roads around the countries we visited. And snow on top of buildings and scenery is beautiful, especially in places that we visited.

New Year's Eve in Lucerne: Germany, Switzerland & Austria

Christmas came early this year

By 2nd-time traveler Rev Msgr John on 12/07/19

Planning since July for Christmas seemed crazy but when the time came there were things I wish I had done better to prepare - like done a lot more walking or riding an exercise machine! From the moment I landed in Amsterdam to seeing me off at 6am departure day our guide Jionet was WONDERFUL!!!

Christmas Markets of Amsterdam, Luxembourg & Brussels

What are the benefits of traveling in the winter?

Here are just a few reasons why winter vacations are amazing.

1. Fewer crowds
One of the biggest benefits of winter trips is fewer tourists. Because winter is traditionally considered the off-season, you’ll reap all the benefits that come with traveling against the grain.

2. It’s not as hot
If you’re someone who’s always warm, you’ll love winter travel. You’ll be far more comfortable on long walks and any outdoor activities you may want to do!

3. Seasonal cuisine
Whether it’s truffles in Italy or mulled wine in the Alps, you’ll get to taste some of the best seasonal foods on our winter vacations.

4. Better value
Another benefit of winter travel is that you get the most for your money. Winter tours tend to be less expensive because there’s less demand for them, but they are just as fun!

5. A more authentic experience
With fewer tourists around, you’ll get to experience what it’s like to live like a local—wherever you choose to go on your winter tour.

Looking to travel during a different season?

Off-season travel

Summer travel

Frequently asked questions about our winter tours

What are some special winter activities to do on tour?

All of our winter vacation packages have activities you won’t want to miss, including:

Visiting the Christmas markets of Europe
Swimming in the snow at the Blue Lagoon in Iceland
Seeing the site of two Olympic Games in Austria

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What should I pack for winter trips?

We offer a variety of winter tour packages, so you’ll want to check out the specific packing lists for each one. However, as a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to bring a lot of warm layers and a hat or two on all winter trips. And don’t forget to bring one dressier outfit! There’s nothing more special than visiting a high-end restaurant or performance in a new country as the snow falls outside.

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Why should I visit Europe during the holidays?

Our travelers who visit Europe on their winter getaways say it’s completely different than any other season due to the cooler weather, fewer tourists, and magic of the holidays. Learn what it's like to visit Europe during the holidays.

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What's the weather like on a winter trip?

View any of our tour itineraries to find the local average temperature during the winter months. For further information, our team of travel experts are available to answer any questions you may have: 1-800-590-1170

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