Last Updated on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 by Lavania Oluban
Winter holidays are a great way to escape the UK and visit a snowy wonderland. For families, the best trips combine opportunities for adventure and relaxation that appeal to both adults and children.
From skiing and sledging to exploring festive markets and chasing the Northern Lights, there are countless options across Europe. Here are five destinations that promise winter fun every family member will enjoy.
Innsbruck, Austria
Nestled in the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck offers vibrant city life and mountain adventure. You can spend the mornings exploring museums and wandering through charming old town streets before treating the kids to hot chocolate at a local coffee shop.
Within minutes of leaving the cafe, you can be on the slopes enjoying fresh snow. Innsbruck is perfect if you want variety in your next holiday. Cultural attractions like the Imperial Palace and Alpine Zoo balance well with quick access to skiing and snowboarding. Families looking for ski holidays in Austria will find that the Tyrolean capital boasts everything they need.
Reykjavík, Iceland
Reykjavík features accessible city comforts and gentle winter walks through colourful streets. Nearby, you’ll find geothermal pools such as the Blue Lagoon, which will prove a hit with the kids.
I fell in love with this place when I first visited as a teenager and I’d say Iceland needs to be added to your travel bucket list because it’s simply breathtaking.
The Northern Lights are the star attraction of the city, giving your family a chance to witness one of nature’s most dazzling shows. There’s also whale watching, lava caves, and the Golden Circle’s waterfalls to add excitement to educational outings.
Strasbourg, France
Home to the famous Christkindelsmärik, one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, this Strasbourg transforms into a winter wonderland each December. You can browse the market stalls selling handcrafted gifts and stop to enjoy seasonal treats such as gingerbread and mulled wine before taking a family photo in front of Strasbourg’s giant Christmas tree.
History buffs will love taking part in a tradition that dates back to 1570 in a backdrop that looks almost frozen in time. The city’s half-timbered houses decorated with twinkling lights create a storybook setting that’s sure to delight younger kids.
Jasná, Slovakia
For families mindful of budget, Jasná in Slovakia offers an affordable yet high-quality alternative to the Alps. Known as the country’s largest ski resort, it features modern facilities, long runs suitable for all abilities, and excellent value compared to better-known Alpine destinations.
Children can learn to ski in welcoming beginner areas while more experienced family members tackle steeper terrain. Off the slopes, you’ll find cosy restaurants serving hearty Slovakian dishes like the sauerkraut soup Kapustnica and Lokše, a rich goose or duck dish served with potato pancakes.
Tyrolean Rail & Walking Retreats
Not every family holiday needs to revolve around skiing or city sightseeing. In Austria’s Tyrol region, winter breaks combining scenic rail journeys with gentle walks are becoming increasingly popular. The self-guided trips let you soak up Alpine views at a slower pace, staying in charming hotels along the way.
Austrian journeys by rail are comfortable and family-friendly, and walking routes are flexible enough to suit all ages. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the tranquillity of winter landscapes without the crowds of busier resorts.
