Plan an escape to Europe with your family during the winter season! This beautiful region has diverse destinations promising fun, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences for everyone. From the dreamy streets of Paris to the cosy mountain retreats in Zermatt and the snowy landscapes of Reykjavik, there’s a destination to suit every family here.
To help you decide which place to head to, here is a list of some family-friendly destinations in Europe perfect for winter breaks!
Paris, France
Paris is beautiful any time of the year, but it’s more magical during the winter season. So, it makes sense why it has become a favourite destination for a winter break. For families heading here, there are endless attractions and activities to entertain both adults and kids!
Whether you’re visiting Paris for the first time or have been here several times, the Eiffel Tower is a must-visit. In the winter season, the views from this iconic landmark are enchanting, especially at night when the lights are lit up. Take the elevator to the top for a truly unforgettable experience.
Of course, don’t miss Disneyland Paris. The park is even more festive during the holiday season, with fun parades, holiday shows, and vibrant decorations. Your kids will surely enjoy meeting their favourite Disney characters in a winter wonderland setting.
For fun outdoor activities, head to the Tuileries Garden. During the holiday season, the garden hosts a winter fair with fun rides and games. There’s also an ice skating rink! It’s indeed a fun place for you and your kids to hang out and have fun!
Another exciting activity to do with the family is to explore Parisian Christmas markets. These markets have stalls selling festive treats, gifts, and holiday souvenirs. They are great for family strolls and for trying out delicious French food.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is a perfect family destination for winter escapes. Discover a variety of fantastic holiday options, from hotels to flights in Zermatt. Sno, for instance, provides great holiday packages tailored to your preferences.
In winter, this scenic mountain town transforms into an even more magical place, offering breathtaking alpine views and snow-blanketed landscapes. Its natural beauty and allure have made it a favourite for ski vacations. Zermatt has slopes to suit all levels of skiers. Thus, it makes a great place to visit with the kids. While the adults play on the more challenging runs, the kids can take lessons at ski schools here. The entire family will surely have a great time!
Another exciting activity is riding a train at the Gornergrat Railway. This scenic ride offers incredible views of the Matterhorn and nearby mountains. It’s an easy and relaxing way to see the beauty of Zermatt in the snowy winter season!
If you’re seeking a bit of adventure, go sledging or try ice skating at the local rink. It’s great fun for kids of all ages and adds a bit of excitement to your winter activities!
You can also try hiking in the beautiful trails of Zermatt. These are perfect for families who want to explore the snowy landscapes on foot and breathe fresh mountain air!
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is another fascinating destination to consider for family adventures in winter. The city is even more beautiful during the winter season, with festive decorations and lights all over the place! There are also Christmas markets that would be fun to explore with the kids. Some have carousel rides and other child-friendly entertainment.
Another must-see is the Vienna Ice World at the City Hall. This massive ice skating rink is perfect for family fun. Imagine gliding under the twinkling lights – creating a truly magical experience!
Take the time to visit Vienna’s top attractions, such as the Schönbrunn Palace. The palace has a special Children’s Museum where kids can dress up like royalty and learn about history in a more interactive way. It’s a fun and educational stop that everyone will surely love!
Check out the Prater Amusement Park. Even in winter, the famous Giant Ferris Wheel is open, rewarding you with amazing views of the city. It’s a fun ride for kids and adults alike!
Whether you love music or not, Vienna’s House of Music is a fantastic place to stop by. It’s full of interactive exhibits where kids can learn about sound and music in a more enjoyable way.
Sicily, Italy
Fancy an island getaway in winter? Head to Sicily. As the largest Mediterranean island, it has fun activities to delight everyone! Make the most of your visit by staying in spacious family-friendly villas in Sicily. These villas are spacious enough to accommodate families. Here, you can relax and enjoy your time together after a day of sightseeing.
Even though Sicily is a popular summer destination, there is plenty to enjoy here even in winter. For instance, it’s a great time to visit Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, is a must-visit. You can explore the snowy summit on a cable car ride or a jeep tour. Either way, it’s surely a fun and exciting adventure for the entire family!
Don’t miss the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. These ancient ruins are fascinating to explore with the kids. They will enjoy learning about the island’s history while wandering through the impressive temples from ancient times!
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city, is a unique destination to consider for a winter break with the family. It looks even more incredible in winter, with its magical snowy landscapes! Not only that, but winter is also a great time to see the famous Northern Lights, and Reykjavik is an ideal spot to see this amazing display of lights! Seeing the bright colours dancing in the night sky is an experience best shared with the people you love!
Another attraction not to miss while in Reykjavik is the Blue Lagoon. It’s the perfect place for warming up amidst a chilly winter day! The whole family will surely love soaking in the warm and mineral-rich waters with the snow-covered lava fields in the surroundings!
Make the most of your visit by renting a car and driving through the Golden Circle route. It takes you to famous spots like the Gullfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, and the Geysir. It’s a fun and convenient way to see Iceland’s highlights!