Johannesburg, 19 November 2024 | There is something magical about a European winter – the snowy landscapes, the scent of glühwein, and the vibrant festivities of Christmas markets scattered across the continent. As the European winter nears, Air France shares five trending winter destinations South African travellers should consider when planning the ultimate winter getaway.
Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki transforms into a true winter wonderland, offering a blend of modern design, fascinating history, and a pristine natural landscape. Travellers can explore the beautiful Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or warm up in one of the city’s many saunas—an essential Finnish experience. The city also hosts magical Christmas markets, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing over the Baltic Sea. Helsinki’s annual light arts festival, Lux, happens during the coldest months of the year, making it a wonderful excuse for locals and visitors alike to get outside. Helsinki’s unique mix of urban and natural landscapes offers a refreshing winter adventure.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a city that knows how to celebrate winter with style. The Hungarian capital is known for its thermal baths, which offer a warm escape from the cold. Soak in the historic Széchenyi Thermal Bath or Rudas Bath, both with outdoor pools that steam against the chilly air. The city also lights up with festive markets during winter. The Vörösmarty Square market is one of the most popular in central Europe as well as one of the oldest in Hungary. Famous for its traditional Hungarian foods, including lángos, chimney cake, mulled wine and local sausages, visiting this iconic market is a culinary adventure. Crusing the Danube River remains a popular attraction for visitors, Winter cruises are an ideal way to see the city during the festive season where landmarks like Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion look even more magical in the snow.
Oslo, Norway
Oslo, with its snowy forests and scenic fjords, is a dream destination for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. In winter, a visit to the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower is a must, offering panoramic views of the city and the Oslofjord. Travellers can also take part in winter sports like cross-country skiing and ice skating. Oslo’s winter charm is also enhanced by its world-class museums, cozy cafes, and lively winter festivals. For a truly unique experience, take a cruise along the Oslofjord to witness the stunning winter scenery from the water. Additionally, a visit to the iconic Ekebergparken Sculpture Park is a music, even when the temperature dips.
Zurich, Switerland
Zurich offers tourists a unique winter experience, blending its stunning alpine backdrop with urban sophistication. Stroll through the old town’s narrow, cobblestone streets adorned with holiday lights, or skate on the city’s famous Dolder ice rink. Zurich also offers easy access to nearby ski resorts, allowing you to hit the slopes by day and return to the city’s vibrant nightlife and dining scene by evening. Travellers can also take a scenic train ride to explore the surrounding snow-covered mountains, or enjoy a fondue dinner cruise on Lake Zurich, soaking up the winter atmosphere. For the adventurous, a quick dip in Lake Zurich during winter is a refreshing—and bold—tradition.
The French Alps, France
The French Alps are a top destination for winter sports lovers, with renowned resorts like Chamonix, Courchevel, and Val d’Isère. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, thrill seekers can also take part in snowshoeing, ice climbing, hot air ballooning, snowmobiling or even paragliding over stunning snow-covered peaks. The region’s cuisine is another highlight, with must-try dishes like raclette, fondue, and tartiflette. The French Alps also boast over 40 Michelin-starred restaurants, offering fine dining in an unforgettable setting. The cozy alpine villages offer a warm retreat with roaring fires, gourmet cuisine, and lively après-ski scenes, making the French Alps an unforgettable winter destination
Each of these destinations offers something unique, from cultural treasures and festive markets to breathtaking natural landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for thrills or tranquility, these winter getaways promise a memorable escape. With Air France’s convenient flight options from both Johannesburg and Cape Town via Paris, these winter wonderlands are within easy reach for South African travellers.