Europe’s Hidden Gems for a White Christmas

Whisking the family away to a winter wonderland is a popular thought over the festive period, but which destinations offer the best chance of a white Christmas? Below are the top hidden gems ranked in order of probability of snow.

With a 70% chance of snow on Christmas Day, Kiruna is a true winter paradise. This remote town in northernmost Sweden is renowned for its stunning arctic landscapes and iconic Icehotel. Despite its snowy allure, it remains relatively undiscovered, with just 100 average searches per month.

Known for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics, Lillehammer boasts an almost two in three chance of snow on December 25th. Turku, with a 57% chance of a white Christmas, is a Finnish hidden gem with only 100 searches per month. Here, visitors can experience traditional festive markets whilst soaking in the culture of Finland’s oldest city.

We’ve analysed the average number of snowfall days across winter to identify the destinations where you’re most likely to enjoy snow. We looked at destinations that have above-average snowfall (according to the average amount across the analysis) and ranked the top 10 in order of searches, from smallest to largest. Discover your next snowy European winter break, from Norway to Sweden, Germany to Lithuania.

Ålesund offers a more relaxed and less crowded experience compared to other Norwegian destinations. Discover a perfect winter getaway that combines breathtaking scenery with rich cultural experiences.

Visitors will be captivated by the snow-capped mountains and picturesque fjords (long, deep, narrow bodies of water with steep cliff sides) that surround Ålesund, set against the backdrop of its unique Art Nouveau architecture. The town was rebuilt in this style after a fire in 1904, and its colourful buildings stand out against the white snow. Explore the Art Nouveau Centre Museum or simply wander through the charming streets.

In winter, skiing enthusiasts can hit the slopes at nearby resorts like Strandafjellet, renowned for its deep powder and stunning views. Adventure seekers can enjoy a wide range of activities, from snowshoeing to husky sledding, and can maybe even witness the magical Northern Lights.

Experience the ultimate winter escape in Kristiansand, southern Norway, a location with plenty of coastal charm and festive spirit. Most popular in summer for its city beach, it’s a sleepy town in the colder months, but expect a winter wonderland upon your arrival.

Kristiansand is known for its inviting atmosphere and picturesque harbour, and its scenic coastline looks even more spectacular with a dusting of snow. Enjoy walks along the waterfront and delicious fresh seafood at the local restaurants. Art enthusiasts can warm up in Sørlandets Kunstmuseum and Kristiansand Kunsthall – two must-visit art museums.

Over Christmas, Kristiansand comes alive with winter festivities, from its cosy Christmas markets to its outdoor ice rink.

Often overlooked in winter because of its sandy beaches enjoyed in summer, Jūrmala is a unique coastal town that offers more than meets the eye. Averaging 45 days of snowfall during winter, it’s a haven for those seeking a festive escape. Stroll along the peaceful, snow-covered beach and explore the beautiful pine forests that are perfect for winter walks. The town is also known for its historic wooden villas, which provide a charming backdrop for a relaxing getaway.

Jūrmala’s winter appeal goes beyond its natural surroundings. The town is famous for its wellness retreats, offering a range of spa experiences that are perfect for unwinding after a day outdoors. It also hosts various cultural events and local markets throughout winter, so visitors have a chance to experience Latvian traditions. The highlight? The city’s iconic Christmas Festival, which takes place at the Dzintari Concert Hall.

While often overlooked by winter travellers, the historic city of Košice brims with exciting things to see and do. It has a beautifully preserved old town with a Gothic cathedral (St. Elizabeth’s) and cobblestone streets, which look especially magical under a layer of snow. The city's vibrant cultural scene, including winter markets and seasonal performances, offers a taste of the local traditions.

If you love the great outdoors, enjoy snowshoeing in the surrounding countryside or hit the slopes at the nearby resort of Jahodná. After a day of activities, you can relax in one of the city's cosy cafés or sample Slovak cuisine at a traditional restaurant.

Despite often flying under the radar during the festive period, Freiburg’s medieval old town comes to life in winter with its historic buildings and colourful cobbled streets.

Sail on a ferry to France and drive over to Germany to explore the city's iconic cathedral, Münsterplatz, and its surrounding squares that host winter markets. Warm up with traditional German treats like mulled wine and bratwurst and ride on the Schauinslandbahn, Germany’s longest loop cable car.

The cable car takes you from the edge of the city up to the summit of Schauinsland Mountain, offering stunning panoramic views of the snow-covered Black Forest. On clear days, you can see the distant Alps. At the top, enjoy the winter hiking trails or simply admire the breathtaking scenery before heading back down to Freiburg for a cosy evening.

Explore our guide to driving in Germany ahead of your trip to plan your journey on the road.

According to the Met Office, the last white Christmas in the UK was in 2010, with snow reported on the ground at 83% of its stations. But how likely are we to see a white Christmas this year?

If you’re planning to visit the Isle of Man over the festive break, you’re in for a treat, as this location has a 52% chance of snow on Christmas Day. Next is Edinburgh, with a 35% chance, followed by Snowdonia, the Isle of Skye, and Glasgow, with a 30% chance. Cities with a 0% chance of snow include London, Bath, Norwich, and Plymouth.