Top 3 EuropeanWinter Destinations

Traveling in Winter is no easy feat, but is it worth it? ABSOLUTELY!!!

Coming from the tropical island of Sri Lanka, we experience hot summers and monsoon rains, that's about it. The thought of having a white Christmas is only possible if we travel during this time.

Having traveled predominantly in winter here are my top 3 European winter destinations. 

Prague - Czech Republic

Prague is my absolute favourite city in Europe, and I wish I had traveled there a lot more often during my trips. I do not believe that pictures on the web does it justice. Prague is a dream winter destination, towns adorned with twinkling Christmas lights, tinsel and golden bells, it simply creates a fairy tale vibe, especially in old town square. You can watch an iron monger dole out pendants and various trinkets in real time, an authentic experience for adults and kids alike. Dig in to some yummy unique hot dogs whilst you watch the 'Astronomical Clock' do its rounds every hour and people partaking in the general merriment of the season. Prague is a large city so and staying closer to Old Town square will be heavier on the pocket but you can stay in the outer cities but then it would be wise to purchase the day tickets to get around. 

Astronomical Clock: https://tinyurl.com/Astronomical-Clock-Prague

Transport Tickets: https://pid.cz/en/tickets-and-fare/

Zagreb - Croatia

I know that there maybe much smaller more picturesque cities to visit in Christmas, but Zagreb was a stunner when we visited. Having won the best Christmas markets three years in a row, Zagreb offers a more modern yet cozy aspect to Christmas. Several, comfortable accommodation options are available in the heart of the city. My favourite aspect was the two level Christmas markets in the same city. You find one at the heart, and when you take funicular up you get a whole different set of markets, which is wonderful. Shopping is a breeze too with a lot of high street brands like Nyx, Kiko Milano, H & M, Zara adorning the sides of the streets. Another exceptional feature for the Sri Lankans would be the availability of curry bowl to get in a dish of that 'Kottu' to satisfy the home bound taste buds. 

Curry Bowl: https://www.srilankancurrybowl.com

Rovaniemi - Finland

Nestled in the Northern most region of Finland is the picturesque town of Rovaniemi, home to Santa Claus and his Family. When I say this destination is a top winter getaway, I mean it with the purest of love for the location. It is perfectly sized, from the time you get off the train or the bus you immediately dive in to the Christmas spirit even if you are the Grinch!!! Being the home to Santa itself is enough to visit Rovaniemi. Santa's Village is wonderful, it has no entrance fees and is open year around. Several vendors provide services such as reindeer rides, Husky rides, husky parks, petting zoos and so much more. You can visit Santa Claus and this was one of the best experiences for kids and adults alike. Taking the Santa's Express was another delight altogether - a comfortable night train taking you to and from Helsinki. There are so many activities, I would suggest at least three days to take it all in. 

Santa Clause Express Tickets: https://www.vr.fi

Santa Clause's Village : https://santaclausvillage.info

Hope this guide was helpful to anyone who wants to plan some winter activities in Europe. For more details you can visit my TikTok and Youtube for detailed videos on planning a visit to Santa's Village.

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mandatorytravel?_t=8s7uKhdpcb2&_r=1

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mandatorytravel

Until next time :-)