The best hidden spots in Europe for a snowy winter break, according to new data

Norway provides the snowiest escapes.

By Amanda Teague Published January 18, 2025

Alesund Norway — baader1 / Pixabay

A new study by ferry operator DFDS has revealed the best hidden spots in Europe for a snowy break, perfect for travelers seeking fewer crowds and plenty of wintry charm. The study analyzed Google search data across 164 destinations, highlighting those with below-average search volume to uncover Europe’s best-kept secrets for a magical winter experience.

Topping the list is Ålesund, Norway, a picturesque town known for its snow-capped mountains, beautiful fjords, and unique Art Nouveau architecture. Rebuilt after a fire in 1904, Ålesund’s colorful buildings create a striking contrast against a blanket of white snow. Visitors can enjoy skiing, husky sledding, or exploring the town’s museums.

Recommended Videos

In second place is another Norwegian gem, Kristiansand. Located in southern Norway, this charming town comes alive during Christmastime with festive markets and a cozy atmosphere. Stroll along the frozen waterfront, savor fresh seafood at local eateries, and warm up by visiting Sørlandets Kunstmuseum and Kristiansand Kunsthall, two renowned art museums.

Europe’s snowiest hidden gem winter breaks: the full list

Kristiansand Norway — rperucho / Pixabay

Here’s the full list of the snowiest hidden gems in Europe, according to DFDS.

Ålesund, Norway: 59 snowy days per winter
Kristiansand, Norway: 37 snowy days per winter
Jūrmala, Latvia: 45 snowy days per winter
Košice, Slovakia: 33 snowy days per winter
Freiburg, Germany: 25 snowy days per winter
Klaipėda, Lithuania: 38 snowy days per winter
Skagen, Denmark: 26 snowy days per winter
Aalborg, Denmark: 24 snowy days per winter
Ohrid, Macedonia: 30 snowy days per winter
Kiruna, Sweden: 68 snowy days per winter

Europe’s hidden gems for a white Christmas

Norway — CristianManieri / Pixabay

It’s never too early to start planning a Christmas getaway. DFDS also ranked the top hidden spots in Europe where you’re likely to experience a white Christmas. Here’s what they came up with.

Kiruna, Sweden: 70% chance of snow on Christmas
Lillehammer, Norway: 65% chance of snow on Christmas
Turku, Finland: 57% chance of snow on Christmas
Tallinn, Estonia: 57% chance of snow on Christmas
Innsbruck, Austria: 52% chance of snow on Christmas
Oslo, Norway: 52% chance of snow on Christmas
Bergen, Norway: 48% chance of snow on Christmas
Brasov, Romania: 43% chance of snow on Christmas
Stavanger, Norway: 43% chance of snow on Christmas
Lucerne, Switzerland: 39% chance of snow on Christmas

Contributor

Amanda, an accomplished freelance writer featured in several online publications, is a dedicated explorer of both the world…

Topics

Destinations

Travel

This lodge might be the coziest spot in the Columbia River Gorge

Treehouses, glamping, and ziplines: why Skamania Lodge is worth the trip

Skamania treehouse picture from another unit with mountains and trees

If you want it all, you can have it at Skamania Lodge. From zipping through the trees to soaking in a hot bath with a forest view, this Pacific Northwest getaway is located in the Columbia River Gorge, one of our favorite sustainable tourism destinations. The lodge walks the line between rustic and luxurious with surprising ease. The crowd is outdoorsy yet upscale, and you'll see a mix of couples, families, and friend groups peppered across its 175 wooded acres.

Our Skamania Lodge experience will help you decide which unique property to stay in, as well as the best activities to enjoy on site. The lodge is just 50 minutes from Portland, Oregon, and 3 hours from Seattle; it's a relatively quick escape into the forested luxury of the Columbia River Gorge.

Travel

The surprising cities travelers are skipping this year, according to Google

These once-popular cities are falling off the travel map

havanna capitol building

Some of the world’s most iconic cities are seeing a drop in travel interest this year, and the reasons may surprise you.

According to a new global study from travel insurance specialists InsureandGo, travelers in 2025 are turning away from classic city break destinations in favor of less crowded, more off-the-beaten-path spots. The report analyzed year-on-year Google search data for flights, hotels, and itineraries, revealing shifting preferences that could reshape global tourism in the year ahead.

Travel

Golden hour goals: New study reveals the best U.S. beaches for picture-perfect sunsets

Breathtaking evening views across the U.S.

sunset on beach

Looking to capture the perfect golden hour glow photos or experience a "Hozier's yell" moment? A new study reveals the best U.S. beaches for picture-perfect sunsets. Conducted by Gourmet Marketing, a specialized hotel marketing agency, the study analyzed visitor reviews from the top-rated beaches in every U.S. coastal state, using public review data from major travel and tourism platforms.

Each beach was ranked based on the percentage of reviews that specifically mentioned the word “sunset” or related terms. Here's where to travel to for a timeless beach sunset that won't disappoint.