Although dark nights and plunging temperatures can feel gloomy, winter also comes with a promise of cozy fires, long baths with a good book, and time to mull over the past year. For those who are feeling restless from all that time indoors, here are seven winter cities to escape to this festive season.
Innsbruck, Austria
One of the skiing capitals of the world, Innsbruck sits beneath the rising splendor of the snowy Alps. When you aren’t hitting the heart-pounding slopes, you can visit the Swarovski Factory to admire their stunning crystal tree, gorgeous galleries, and awe-inspiring gardens.
Rome, Italy
When in Rome…a stunner anytime of year, but the mild winter months make the buzzing city an absolute pleasure to explore. Stroll the ancient Forum, hear midnight mass at the tiny St. Maria church in Travestere, and stop for prosecco in the shadow of the Pantheon. The Christmas market in Piazza Navone hits the spot with its sweet treats and brave souls can push through the crowds at Vatican City come Christmas morning.
Seville, Spain
Andalucía with fields full of grain, I have to see you again and again. Those who are seeking a splash of winter sun, can head to the romantic Spanish shores of Seville. Flamenco flavor and the zest of oranges in the air, you can take a horse and carriage ride around pretty plazas, and admire the intricate gardens of the Alcazar Palace.
New York, USA
The Big Apple may be blasted with icy winds, but you won’t be tempted to hibernate in a city so full of festive cheer. The fifth avenue department stores are bedecked in glitter and gold, Central Park is stunning under a blanket of snow, and Rockefeller tree stands majestically swathed in five miles of lights. Sip steaming hot chocolate in Café Sabarsky on the Upper East Side, splurge at Macys, and take a spin around the famous ice rink.
Copenhagen, Denmark
The home of Hans Christian Anderson turns Copenhagen into a real-life fairyland come Christmas. The 19th century Tivoli Gardens takes on even more charm when draped in thousands of fairy-lights, and the glogg stands boast an air of both warmth and excitement. Duck into the firelit cafes and bars, and cozy up with all the hygge in the world.
Berlin, Germany
The German markets have made a splash across the continent, but for the real deal – Berlin boasts the best. From Winterwelt on the Postdamer Platz to the iconic market blazing with lights and gluhwein beneath the TV tower. Hit the wooden stalls for handmade goods and sizzling bratwurst, before climbing aboard the carousel and big wheel for striking views across the city.
Ottawa, Canada
Winter means big fun in Ottawa; the Rideau Canal naturally freezes over becoming the worlds longest skate track at a staggering five miles. Ice hockey games can be caught on every pond, and the winter jazz festival spills out onto the streets. Throw in the twinkling lights of Parliament Hill and you have a pristine winter destination.
Dec 15, 2017
seven cities to escape to this winter
Although dark nights and plunging temperatures can feel gloomy, winter also comes with a promise of cozy fires, long baths with a good book, and time to mull over the past year. For those who are feeling restless from all that time indoors, here are seven winter cities to escape to this festive season.
Innsbruck, Austria
One of the skiing capitals of the world, Innsbruck sits beneath the rising splendor of the snowy Alps. When you aren’t hitting the heart-pounding slopes, you can visit the Swarovski Factory to admire their stunning crystal tree, gorgeous galleries, and awe-inspiring gardens.
Rome, Italy
When in Rome…a stunner anytime of year, but the mild winter months make the buzzing city an absolute pleasure to explore. Stroll the ancient Forum, hear midnight mass at the tiny St. Maria church in Travestere, and stop for prosecco in the shadow of the Pantheon. The Christmas market in Piazza Navone hits the spot with its sweet treats and brave souls can push through the crowds at Vatican City come Christmas morning.
Seville, Spain
Andalucía with fields full of grain, I have to see you again and again. Those who are seeking a splash of winter sun, can head to the romantic Spanish shores of Seville. Flamenco flavor and the zest of oranges in the air, you can take a horse and carriage ride around pretty plazas, and admire the intricate gardens of the Alcazar Palace.
New York, USA
The Big Apple may be blasted with icy winds, but you won’t be tempted to hibernate in a city so full of festive cheer. The fifth avenue department stores are bedecked in glitter and gold, Central Park is stunning under a blanket of snow, and Rockefeller tree stands majestically swathed in five miles of lights. Sip steaming hot chocolate in Café Sabarsky on the Upper East Side, splurge at Macys, and take a spin around the famous ice rink.
Copenhagen, Denmark
The home of Hans Christian Anderson turns Copenhagen into a real-life fairyland come Christmas. The 19th century Tivoli Gardens takes on even more charm when draped in thousands of fairy-lights, and the glogg stands boast an air of both warmth and excitement. Duck into the firelit cafes and bars, and cozy up with all the hygge in the world.
Berlin, Germany
The German markets have made a splash across the continent, but for the real deal – Berlin boasts the best. From Winterwelt on the Postdamer Platz to the iconic market blazing with lights and gluhwein beneath the TV tower. Hit the wooden stalls for handmade goods and sizzling bratwurst, before climbing aboard the carousel and big wheel for striking views across the city.
Ottawa, Canada
Winter means big fun in Ottawa; the Rideau Canal naturally freezes over becoming the worlds longest skate track at a staggering five miles. Ice hockey games can be caught on every pond, and the winter jazz festival spills out onto the streets. Throw in the twinkling lights of Parliament Hill and you have a pristine winter destination.