For so many families, winter is the perfect season for a holiday. Not only is it generally quitter and cheaper than going away in the summer but there’s something quite uniquely magical about a winter holiday. Europe offers a wide variety of winter destinations designed with families in mind, from ski resorts with childcare to cities bursting with festive charm. Whether you’re seeking thrills on the slopes or a magical Christmas market stroll, here are some of the best options for your next family holiday.
Best Ski Resorts for Families
Europe is home to countless ski resorts, but not all are created equal when it comes to family travel. For parents travelling with children, facilities like ski schools, beginner-friendly slopes, and quality childcare are essential. Resorts in the French Alps, for example, are renowned for blending fun and safety with convenience. One standout is Belle Plagne, a purpose-built village in La Plagne that offers excellent ski schools, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a car-free centre for peace of mind. Families choosing belle plagne ski holidays can expect a mix of gentle slopes for children and plenty of après-ski activities tailored to younger guests.
Magical Winter City Breaks
If skiing isn’t on the agenda, Europe’s cities make enchanting winter destinations. Vienna sparkles with festive lights, Christmas markets, and horse-drawn carriages, offering a fairy-tale backdrop for children. Prague delights families with its medieval squares, riverside walks, and the famous Astronomical Clock. Copenhagen, meanwhile, combines cultural activities with cosy Danish hygge, where families can enjoy the famous Tivoli Gardens winter wonderland.
Cosy Countryside and Alpine Escapes
For families who prefer a slower pace, Europe’s countryside and alpine regions offer idyllic retreats. Picture snow-dusted wooden cabins, roaring fires, and snowshoeing trails suitable for all ages. Alpine lodges in Austria and Switzerland provide not just comfort but easy access to sledging, ice skating, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. For something more offbeat, try Scandinavian cabins where northern lights watching and outdoor saunas become the highlights of the trip. These rural escapes allow families to enjoy winter together without the intensity of the ski slopes.
Top Tips for Family Winter Travel
Wherever you go, a successful winter holiday with kids requires preparation. Book accommodation early, particularly in ski resorts where family facilities fill up quickly. Layer clothing to keep children warm but mobile, and always check if destinations provide family discounts on transport, attractions, or ski passes. Also, remember that bringing along simple comfortslike board games, books, or familiar snacks, always helps make travel days easier.
A Winter to Remember
From thrilling ski resorts to enchanting city breaks and relaxing countryside hideaways, Europe is brimming with destinations that bring families together in the colder months. All that’s left is to decide whether this year’s memories will be made on the slopes, in a festive square, or curled up beside a cosy log fire in the mountains.
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