Best family-friendly winter trips to Europe: 8 magical destinations

I was listening to an audiobook this morning, and the author said something that stuck with me: our habits are really just our brains on autopilot. That hit home—especially when I realized that one habit that I fall into, and you might too, is mistakenly thinking that Europe is best visited in only three seasons: spring, summer, and fall. But if we get into that habit, we're shortchanging ourselves! Winter in Europe is amazing! Whether you're chasing snowy wonderlands, festive traditions, or even warm, sunny skies, Europe has it all!

Here's a list, to get you started, of the top family winter destinations in Europe, along with age recommendations, suggestions of when to go, and experiences you can look forward to.

Winter-Long Family Destinations (December–March)

Grindelwald & Zermatt, Switzerland

Best for: Ages 6+

When to go: December–March

Hit the slopes, zip line over snowy valleys, and cozy up in charming mountain lodges. Perfect for active families who love skiing, snow tubing, or simply playing in the snow.

Rovaniemi, Finland (Lapland)

Best for: Ages 3+ (and Santa-loving adults)

When to go: November–March

Welcome to Santa’s official hometown. Expect reindeer rides, husky safaris, Northern Lights spotting, and magical stays in glass igloos. Ideal for young kids and the young-at-heart.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Best for: Ages 5+ and outdoorsy people of all ages

When to go: December–February

Quieter than bigger resorts, Bled offers beginner skiing, winter hiking, and those iconic boat rides to its island church. Peaceful, affordable, and absolutely picturesque.

Christmas-themed Family Trips (late Nov-Dec 24)

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Best for: All ages, especially age 4+

When to go: Late November–Dec 23

A true storybook town. Explore festive markets, a toy museum, and glowing medieval streets filled with holiday charm.

Salzburg, Austria

Best for: Ages 7+ and music lovers

When to go: Late November–December

Horse-drawn sleigh rides, Christkindlmarkt magic, and Mozart melodies in the snow. A beautifully cultural choice for a festive family trip.

Montreux, Switzerland

Best for: Ages 3+

When to go: Late November–Dec 24

Santa arrives by mountain train, and Château de Chillon hosts castle-style Christmas festivities. Great for kids and a little nostalgia for the adults.

Warm Winter Destinations for Families (Dec-March)

Tenerife, Canary Islands

Best for: All ages

When to go: December–March

Warm beaches, volcano hikes, and wildlife encounters. If your family prefers sandals over snow boots, this sunny island is a winner.

Lake Como, Italy

Best for: Ages 8+

When to go: December–February

Off-season serenity, winter lights, and charming boat rides await. It’s slower, scenic travel—perfect for thoughtful, older kids and relaxed family time. Not hot temperatures, but nice and relaxing.

Tips for Planning your Family Winter Vacation

• Book early—especially for Christmas markets or Santa-themed trips

• Pack layers—Europe in winter can be snowy, sunny, or both

• Balance busy and calm days to avoid burnout for all ages

• Consider off-peak travel in January or February for fewer crowds and better pricing

Ready to Plan a Winter Trip They'll Never Forget?

From festive markets to cozy igloos to sunny beaches, there’s a perfect winter trip out there for your family—and I’m here to help you find it.