10 Magical cities to visit in the snow

Snow is magical and changes the way we see everything - even cities.

There are some cities that are even more beautiful in the winter, and with all the Christmas lights and Christmas markets (you are really spoiled for choice for those across Italy and the rest of Europe), even if it's snowing you won't feel the cold.

Some cities become truly magical in the snow, with their roofs turning white, their roads, lakes and canals freezing over to become perfect skating rinks, and drinking hot chocolate turns from a sinful treat into an absolute necessity.

Despite all of the downsides of winter, it's still a season with a mystique all of its own, linked to many traditions and fairy tales.

So which are the most magical cities to visit in the snow? We have 10 suggestions for you.

PARIS

Paris is always beautiful and romantic in every season, but strolling through its streets while the snow falls from the sky is truly poetic.

Enjoy eating crepes as you look outdoors, admiring the falling snow and imagine that you are inside a snow globe.

We have also made a list of important things that you should know before you set off on your trip, and you can find them here.

VIENNA

Snow and Vienna are two words that always go hand in hand. There's no better time to eat a slice of Sacher Torte and drink a coffee topped with whipped cream than when it's cold and snowing outside.

The capital city of music is also famous for its Christmas markets, so you definitely shouldn't miss them. Here, you can read some information about the city and find out about the 10 best hostels to stay in.

Photo Credit: Philip Milne

NEW YORK

In the spring you'll see Central Park in bloom, but in winter you'll see it covered in snow. The winters are pretty cold, but if you put an extra sweater in your backpack, you won't have a problem.

Photo Credit: Guillaume Delinte

If you get the chance to climb the Empire State Building, you'll be able to see the city from above... completely covered in white.

STOCKHOLM

Since Stockholm has a relatively cold climate we usually associate the city with winter, and although the idea of visiting in the Spring may be tempting if you want the weather to be a bit warmer, you will miss out on the frozen lakes and the chance to slide along on their surface.

Do you want to know how to organize a trip to Stockholm? Find out here.

Photo Credit: Patrick Lauke

LJUBLJANA

Small and cosy, especially when it's covered in white, a weekend in Ljubljana is perfect, but you could even go there for a day trip.

AMSTERDAM

Winter in Amsterdam is a party, skating on the frozen canals just like in the classic film Silver Skates.

Spending a few days over the Christmas period or New Year's Eve in Amsterdam also allows you to become better acquainted with the Dutch way of life, with its strong seasonal traditions and Christmas markets.

Photo Credit: Anne Helmond

If it's too cold, you could always take refuge in one of Amsterdam's coffee shops. Here, we give you all the know-how to help you organise your trip to the capital of the Netherlands.

KRAKOW

Others may think that you're crazy to go to Krakow in the winter, however we think it's a great idea.

Photo Credit: Berry Norton

Of course you can't expect warm weather, but this medieval town is impressive in the snow and is a perfect place for a cheap and easy weekend getaway.

LONDON

London is one of the best cities to see in the snow. This romantic city is even more mysterious when its Celtic cemeteries turn white and the gold from the street lamps shine on the snow.

Photo Credit: Paul

Make sure you choose the right place to stay during your visit so that you can easily get to all of the key sights.

TALLINN

Another city with medieval heritage, Tallinn's old town still reveals some of the city's old way of life. Drive along St Catherine's Passage in the snow, and it will be a sight you won't see anywhere else.

Photo Credit: Armine Paglevanyan

Do you need more reasons for visiting Tallinn? Here are 5 more that are sure to convince you.

ST. PETERSBURG

The city of the Tsars, this royal city looks even more authentic in the snow.

St Petersburg in the winter is much more charming than in summertime, glorious in its true element. Don't be surprised to see Russians walking on the ice-covered Neva River and making a hole in the ice to catch fish.