Looking for inspo for a quick winter break getaway to fill your soul with that christmassy magic ? Look no further!
Let’s Book a Winter Break!
As the grey days dwindle into long and bleak nights and Jack Frost sprinkles the ground with snowflakes – thanks for making us late to work again! – our hearts begin to yearn for mulled wine, crackling fireplaces and a magical winter break to brighten up the season. While we often tell ourselves to save our holidays for summer, winter destinations offer a unique wreath of festive charm that can banish away those all too familiar winter blues.
However, when we do choose to book a winter holiday we’re bombarded with the typical “on-trend” destinations that have been the Christmas scene for as long as we can remember. We see Lapland, London, Prague, Paris, etc, plastered all over Instagram, ensnaring tourists and tossing them a hefty bill. Although these cities all present a gorgeous winter experience in their own right, why not try something different this year? Let’s explore five underrated but enchanting cities that offer the perfect dose of festive magic away from the mainstream crowds.
Salerno, Italy
While southern Italy may not scream “Winter Wonderland,” Salerno is nationally renowned for its captivating Christmas scene. Every year from November to January, Salerno hosts Le Luci d’Artista, a dazzling light display with intricate installations spread throughout its historic streets. The display transforms the city into a Christmas fairytale well worth visiting on a winter break. Pair this with a stroll down the stunning Lungomare waterfront, where a string of festive markets awaits, and you will well and truly be doused in the winter spirit.
Plus, the heart of the Amalfi Coast lies just over the mountains. With bucket-list destinations like Positano and Amalfi in their off-seasons, this is the perfect time to explore their authentic beauty without the usual crowds and experience a traditional Italian Christmas. From fantastical light sculptures to classic Italian markets, Salerno offers a warm and festive escape with all the magic of a winter holiday—without the bustling crowds.
York, England
For a quintessentially English winter break, why not visit York? This city has a cozy, cottagecore vibe with historic streets lined with medieval buildings that seem to glow with ambience. Wander through the candle-lit passages, feeling like a character in Harry Potter, as you choose a tearoom to find the best eggnog or mulled wine.
During winter, alpine chalets pop up across the city to create a maze of Christmas markets, offering everything from handmade candles to woollen scarves and gingerbread. You’ll find all the essentials along with unique gifts, like Yorkshire Pudding Beer!
York’s St. Nicholas Fair transforms the cobblestone Shambles. Here you’ll find artisanal goods, carollers, and the aroma of spiced cider in the air. The ambiance is perfect for travellers seeking an charming Christmas atmosphere with a hint of old-world charm. As twilight falls, York Minster stands beautifully illuminated against the winter sky, creating a truly magical holiday scene.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is one of my absolute favourites for its unique Christmas traditions. The city sparkles with life year-round. During winter, it hosts many seasonal events. These include the Els Llums de Sant Pau Christmas Garden, festive markets like La Fira de Santa Llúcia (held since 1786), and the quirky Copa Nada, a Christmas Day swim.
Between the many glowing illuminations decorating Passeig de Gràcia and the Christmas markets that stretch across the city like a small village, statues of a man in a rather questionable position can be found on every street corner. El Caganer, or the “pooper,” is a welcome addition to most nativities in Catalonia and other neighbouring areas. El Caganer, a symbol of fertility, serves as a token of luck. People believe that including him in Christmas decorations brings fertile earth, ensuring a good harvest and good fortune for all.
Another unique figure in Catalan Christmases is Caga Tió – the pooing log. Instead of Santa, Caga Tió, a wooden log decorated with a face, takes on the role of gift-giver. It gets “fed” and eventually “poos” out presents! Between the markets, cultural flair, and warmer winter climate, Barcelona is a vibrant, one-of-a-kind winter destination.
Andorra la Vella, Andorra
Nestled in the Pyrenees, Andorra la Vella feels like stepping inside a snow globe… Picture snow-dusted pine trees and scenic mountain views.
With its high altitude and significant investments in snow-making infrastructure, if you venture to this small country sandwiched between Spain and France, you’re almost guaranteed a white Christmas. It’s no surprise, then, that Andorra is a fantastic destination for winter sports and activities. Hop between ski resorts in the capital and other small towns to make the most of the gorgeous scenery – and save money while doing so. As Andorra is still somewhat of an undiscovered destination, the prices for winter sports are usually much cheaper than in more well-known locations.
During the festive season, Andorra la Vella offers quaint markets, winter decorations, and a lovely blend of French and Spanish holiday traditions. With its mix of customs, keep an eye out for El Caganer, Caga Tió, Los Reyes Magos, and Santa!
This hidden gem is a peaceful retreat. It’s ideal for those wanting a snowy escape with a touch of luxury that won’t break the bank.
Tallinn, Estonia
For a truly enchanting winter break, Tallinn is hard to beat. The city’s medieval Old Town, with frosted rooftops and winding streets, creates a picturesque winter scene. It feels like a storybook come to life. At the heart of the magic stands the iconic Christmas tree in Town Hall Square. This is where the tradition of the world’s first public Christmas tree began in the 15th century! Wander through the Christmas markets, where you can sample warm roasted chestnuts, sip on local mulled wine (glögg), and pick up unique handcrafted gifts.
Wrap up warm, as Tallinn is the coldest destination on the list, with winter temperatures often dipping below freezing.
Skate at Harju Hill’s ice rink or relax in a cozy cafe. Tallinn offers a peaceful, picture-perfect winter escape with charming streets and a festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect quiet but magical holiday.