Bruges, Belgium
Charming and picture-perfect, Bruges feels like stepping into a storybook. Its medieval center is laced with peaceful canals, stone bridges, cobblestones, and ornate 14th-century façades. Winter adds extra coziness: warm up in a traditional Flemish pub with Belgian beer, admire the iconic Belfry of Bruges, explore the Groeninge Museum, and indulge in local favorites — crispy fries and heavenly waffles.
Easy access: Just 3.5 hours by rail from the UK via Brussels.
Stay at: Monsieur Ernest — a stylish mix of modern design and historic details.
Vienna, Austria
Grand palaces, elegant coffee houses, classical music, and world-class museums make Vienna a dream winter destination. Don’t miss the Heidi Horten Collection for impressive modern art and the Kunsthistorisches Museum, home to the planet’s largest Bruegel collection. Sample a slice of Vienna’s famous Sachertorte, and end the day with a classical concert in the home city of Mozart and Beethoven.
Scenic rail: Eurostar to Paris, then an overnight sleeper to Vienna.
Stay at: MOTTO — a boutique beauty on bustling Mariahilfer Street.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Slovenia’s capital is compact, charming, and ideal for a chilled weekend. Its pedestrian-only old town curves around the Ljubljanica River, making it a joy to explore on foot. Climb or take the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for sweeping skyline views. Taste traditional štruklji pastries and enjoy a craft-beer tour at the historic Union Brewery beside Tivoli Park.
Low-carbon route: Eurostar to Paris → Munich → NightJet sleeper to Ljubljana in < 24 hours.
Stay at: Hotel Cubo — sleek and central, less than 10 minutes from the old town.
Turin, Italy
Elegant, welcoming, and framed by the Alps, Turin shines brightest in winter. Wander through its refined arcades, sip rich hot chocolate, and explore architectural gems from the era of the House of Savoy. Visit the spectacular Museo Egizio—one of the world’s top Egyptian collections—and enjoy unforgettable views from the steps above the Gran Madre di Dio.
Frequent winter flights thanks to its proximity to ski resorts.
Stay at: Hotel Antica Dogana — a historic mansion once hosting Mozart himself.
Málaga, Spain
Craving winter sun? Málaga brings warmth, culture, and beach vibes all at once. Explore the Centro Histórico’s 2,000-year legacy, discover Picasso’s artistic roots at the Picasso Museum, and unwind at the Centre Pompidou Málaga. Enjoy fresh seafood at lively markets or along beachfront chiringuitos — where fish is grilled before your eyes.
Plenty of direct winter flights from the UK.
Stay at: Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro — hilltop views, castle next door, and a rooftop pool.