I love appetizers. Emma and I have been known to order what we call “appetizer feasts” when we go out for dinner, so we try more apps and skip the main course. They’re delish! Today I’m excited to share my own recipe for my favorite classic appetizers: spinach artichoke dip!
I’ve been making this spinach and artichoke dip for years and years now and the recipe hasn’t really changed. It’s a classic for a reason! If you are hosting or need a great baked dip to take to a party try this.
Thaw and drain the frozen spinach. If it’s not already chopped then finely chop. Drain the artichoke hearts and cut into small pieces. Mince the garlic.
In a large bowl, combine the spinach, artichoke hearts, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, half the parmesan cheese, garlic and crushed chili flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
Mix until the entire mixture is evenly moist. Pour the mixture into an eight inch cast iron skillet, square pan or pie dish. Top with the remaining parmesan cheese.
Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F until bubbly and the top is golden. Allow it to cool for five minutes before serving.
Notes and Substitutions
For a lighter version use reduced fat cream cheese, Miracle whip and low fat greek yogurt.
I use all Parmesan cheese for this dip most of the time BUT if you like a more melty, sting-y cheese situation feel free to substitute half the Parmesan for mozzarella.
If you don’t like spicy food, omit the chili flakes or cut them in half for something less spicy.
I like to serve this dip with toasted baguette slices or warm pita but crackers or tortilla chips are great as well.
Thaw and drain the frozen spinach. If it’s not already chopped then finely chop.
Drain the artichoke hearts and cut into small pieces.
Minced the garlic.
In a large bowl, combine the spinach, artichoke hearts, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, half the parmesan cheese, garlic and crushed chili flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
Mix until the entire mixture is evenly moist. Pour the mixture into an eight inch cast iron skillet, square pan or pie dish. Top with the remaining parmesan cheese.
Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F until bubbly and the top is golden. Allow it to cool for five minutes before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version use reduced fat cream cheese, Miracle whip and low fat greek yogurt.
I use all Parmesan cheese for this dip most of the time BUT if you like a more melty, sting-y cheese situation feel free to substitute half the Parmesan for mozzarella.
If you don’t like spicy food, omit the chili flakes or cut them in half for something less spicy.
I like to serve this dip with toasted baguette slices or warm pita but crackers or tortilla chips are great as well.
We all pigged out on this during work one day and later I used it to top a salad (SO good). Then I added some to a piece of baked salmon (also really good!) If you don’t make this for a party, expect to have some leftovers. xo. Elsie
This dip is made with just five ingredients (shredded chicken, hot sauce, cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese) and only takes about 20 minutes to make and bake.
This dip is sweet and salty, creamy, and totally unique. Made with feta crumbles, cream cheese, minced garlic, honey, olive oil, almonds, and pita bread.
I love setting popcorn out for a party, and a bite-size dessert like rocky road caramel popcorn (with marshmallows and chocolate chips) is a fun twist on a caramel corn. And, as always, homemade popcorn is so much better!
A delicious recipe homemade chicken dip recipe that combines chicken with cream cheese and the salty tang of soy sauce. Serve on top of cucumber slices or with crackers.
These are such an easy and healthy snack you can throw together with very few ingredients like chickpeas, olive oil, seasoning salt, garlic powder, and cayenne.
I used potato chips in these crab cakes, and I love the salty crunch alongside the other ingredients like imitation crab meat, jalapeno, celery, Dijon mustard, seafood seasoning, and eggs.
There are many variations of Jello salad, so here is what you can expect from this recipe. This is a dessert OR sweet side dish in three layers: pretzel crust, cream cheese center, and a strawberry-cranberry Jello top.
These Spicy Pimento Cauliflower Bites are crunchy, spicy and go oh-so-well with the creamy pimento cheese dip I made alongside them. This is vegetarian comfort food at its best if you ask me. You need cauliflower, milk, diced pimento, hot sauce, cream cheese, mayo, and cheddar.
This homemade French onion dip is creamy, decadent and the perfect blend of savory with a little sweet. Made with onions, garlic, chives, cream cheese, sour cream, mayo, and mustard.
This classic baked macaroni and cheese has no eggs or evaporated milk, but it is made with macaroni noodles, garlic, flour, chicken stock, pepper jack cheese, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs.
This is the most delicious fruit salad I have ever had. The honey citrus dressing makes it sweet and slightly tart at the same time. Use any fruit you would like and to make the dressing you need with orange juice, honey, orange zest, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract.
This dip would also be great to serve during a ball game (football or otherwise) or really any casual or semi-casual get together. It’s creamy, salty and just the right amount of spicy. You need cream cheese, mayo, pepper jack cheese, jalapeno peppers, green chilies, and parmesan cheese.
This 7-layer dip recipe includes: refried beans, spiced sour cream and cream cheese, guacamole, salsa, cheddar cheese, olives, and tomatoes as the layers. Bonus points if you throw some cilantro or green onions on top for some additional color.
Taco dip is made of three basic ingredients (cream cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning), but then gets dressed up with any and all toppings you might put on a taco.
This delicious cream cheese-based dip is soft, creamy and perfect for almost any get-together. You need cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, whipped topping, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips.
These asparagus sticks make a fantastic party appetizer that is sure to wow your friends. made with cheese sticks, asparagus, eggs, Panko bread crumbs, and flour.
I love serving hummus when hosting a party. This homemade hummus is made with creamy avocado, red pepper, and jalapeños. Serve it with veggies or pita chips for a tasty appetizer. This hummus is great on mini toasts, too.
This recipe for pretzel pizza bites is as good as it sounds. Soft chewy pretzels combined with gooey melted cheese get dusted in fresh herbs and then dunked in hot marinara sauce.
The secret to a great pinwheel sandwich is the cream cheese filling! This is the “glue” that keeps this rolled up sandwich looking great and it tastes amazing. You can fill them with bacon, sliced cheese, deli meat, or anything you want.
Pigs in a blanket is probably the most adorable appetizer name of all time, right? The idea is simple—hot dogs (or other pork sausage) rolled in bread and baked.
I LOVE air fried wings because they are still super crispy, but more of the fat cooks off without adding oil from frying or even baking. All you need is chicken wings, seasoning, and wing sauce.
While my kids love Chick-fil-A sauce for me it’s Cane’s Sauce forever! I love the bold, garlic, vinegar-y flavor of Raising Cane’s sauce and this homemade copycat recipe is SO easy to make. If I make air fryer french fries you better believe I am whipping up some homemade cane sauce to go with it.
This homemade cane sauce is great on french fries as well as other things like hamburgers, chicken tenders, or other sandwiches.
Related: Next try our recipe for homemade Big Mac sauce.
Ingredients
Mayo
Ketchup
Worcestershire sauce
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper
How to make Cane’s Sauce
In a small to medium size mixing bowl combine all ingredients. Stir into a sauce.
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Notes + Substitutions
If you want to lighten this up try using Miracle Whip or a lite Mayo.
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce you could use soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for something similar. They will not taste exactly the same but they are decent substitutions if you need.
In a small to medium size mixing bowl combine all ingredients.
Stir into a sauce.
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Notes
If you want to lighten this up try using Miracle Whip or a lite Mayo.
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce you could use soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for something similar. They will not taste exactly the same but they are decent substitutions if you need.
I’m always delighted when a restaurant serves fresh mint tea. It feels luxurious! It’s super easy to make your own fresh mint tea at home and with the cold, dark months ahead this has become a staple at our house.
The recipe for fresh mint tea is simple: water and mint. You really can’t mess it up. I like to add some lemon and honey if I have it. I often have leftover mint from cooking. I make these thai chicken bowls a few times a month that call for fresh mint but not much so I use the rest of the package making fresh mint tea!
You can add other ingredients like lemon juice, honey (or other sweeteners), ginger root or other herbs like lavender.
Any kind of fresh mint will work well. Spearmint is what I see sold most often at the grocery stores I frequent, but peppermint or thai mint work well too.
How to make Mint Tea
Heat the water to around 200°F. It’s OK if it comes to a boil. I have an electric kettle that will heat to a specific temperatures and for most tea I heat the water to 200°F. If you are heating water on the stovetop and don’t have a way to check the temperature then simply bring the water to a boil and then remove from the heat.
Roll and mash up the leaves a little in your hands. The goal is to let them release some of their natural oils. Another option is to muddle or mash the leaves into the bottom of your mug.
Add the water and allow to steep for 5 minutes. At this point you can remove the leaves if you like.
Add any honey or lemon and enjoy warm.
Notes
You do not need to measure the mint to water ratio. If you use more mint leaves the tea will have a stronger flavor, less and the the flavor will be more subtle. I use around 8-10 mint leaves for 16 oz (2 cups) of water.
You can add the mint leaves to a tea infuser or steeper if you want to remove them before drinking. I don’t because I like the look and don’t mind drinking around them (they are also safe to consume if you like).
If the water from your tap has a strong flavor use filtered water.
Heat the water to around 200°F. It’s OK if it comes to a boil. I have an electric kettle that will heat to a specific temperatures and for most tea I heat the water to 200°F. If you are heating water on the stovetop and don’t have a way to check the temperature then simply bring the water to a boil and then remove from the heat.
Roll and mash up the leaves a little in your hands. The goal is to let them release some of their natural oils. Another option is to muddle or mash the leaves into the bottom of your mug.
Add the water and allow to steep for 5 minutes. At this point you can remove the leaves if you like.
Add any honey or lemon and enjoy warm.
Notes
Any kind of fresh mint will work well. Spearmint is what I see sold most often at the grocery stores I frequent, but peppermint or thai mint work well too.
You do not need to measure the mint to water ratio. If you use more mint leaves the tea will have a stronger flavor, less and the the flavor will be more subtle. I use around 8-10 mint leaves for 16 oz (2 cups) of water.
You can add the mint leaves to a tea infuser or steeper if you want to remove them before drinking. I don’t because I like the look and don’t mind drinking around them (they are also safe to consume if you like).
Each January, this strategy offers a reset: a way to refocus and set the tone for the year ahead. What you take from it evolves each time, shaped by where you are and what you need most right now.
Air Fryer hamburgers are one of the meals I make for dinner over and over again at our house. This recipe only uses 5 ingredients and takes less than 15 minutes to make. It’s so easy! Add a salad, vegetable side or baked french fries and you’ve got a delicious homemade meal the whole family will love.
You can use ground beef, ground turkey, ground chicken or even a combination of ground meats (like ‘Boston Burger’ which is typically beef and pork) depending what you have or how much fat / protein you want in your meal. We most often use ground turkey at our house but please note the nutrition facts in the recipe card use ground beef as that is what is pictured here.
You will also need hamburger fixings including: buns, lettuce, tomato, cheese and / or other toppings and sauce you prefer.
How to make Air Fryer Hamburgers
In a small to medium sized mixing bowl stir or mash together the ground meat, onion powder and garlic powder. Form four patties from the mixture.
In a small bowl or glass combine the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Brush this over the patties, both sides, after you place them in your air fryer basket.
Air fry at 375°F (this is sometimes labeled ‘Roast’ on air fryers) for 10-12 minutes, flipping the patties halfway through cooking. Once done use a meat thermometer to check that they are done. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.
Toast the hamburger buns in the air fryer for the last minute of cooking or in a dry pan. Top your burgers with whatever fixings you prefer.
Tips and Notes
I don’t preheat my air fryer before making burgers. But if you do you may be able to reduce the cook time a minute or two.
You can add parchment paper to an air fryer but I don’t when making homemade burgers. If you do, cut slits or holes in the paper so the fat from the burgers can drip through as this is one of the benefits of air fryer.
I want to make a cheeseburger I add a slice or two of cheese to the top of the burger for the last two minutes they are cooking.
All air fryers, like ovens, can run slightly differently so for me I tend to need to cook my burgers for the full 12 minutes. If you prefer your hamburgers with some pink in the center, medium to medium done, try 9-10 minutes the first time you make this recipe and see.
In a small to medium sized mixing bowl stir or mash together the ground meat, onion powder and garlic powder.
Form four patties from the mixture.
In a small bowl or glass combine the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Brush this over the patties, both sides, after you place them in your air fryer basket.
Air fry at 375°F (this is sometimes labeled ‘Roast’ on air fryers) for 10-12 minutes, flipping the patties halfway through cooking. Once done use a meat thermometer to check that they are done. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.
Toast the hamburger buns in the air fryer for the last minute of cooking or in a dry pan. Top your burgers with whatever fixings you prefer.
Notes
You can use ground beef, ground turkey, ground chicken or a mixture like Boston Burger (beef and pork) for this recipe.
I don’t preheat my air fryer before making burgers. But if you do you may be able to reduce the cook time a minute or two.
You can add parchment paper to an air fryer but I don’t when making homemade burgers. If you do, cut slits or holes in the paper so the fat from the burgers can drip through as this is one of the benefits of air fryer.
I want to make a cheeseburger I add a slice or two of cheese to the top of the burger for the last two minutes they are cooking.
All air fryers, like ovens, can run slightly differently so for me I tend to need to cook my burgers for the full 12 minutes. If you prefer your hamburgers with some pink in the center, medium to medium done, try 9-10 minutes the first time you make this recipe and see.
A travel outfit for the week where your schedule is basically snacks, logistics, and getting photographed against your will, built around comfy layers that still look like you planned it.
Winter in Europe is like a snow globe come to life. The fantastical scenes of Christmas markets, the smells of roasted nuts, and the snow flocked chateaus make a dreamy scene. But the best part? Visiting Europe in winter time usually means you can find cheaper flights, accommodation, and less crowds.
Having many winters in Europe under my belt, I’ve selected my top 15 Winter destinations. I tried to narrow it down to 10, but there were just so many magical places that I had to include.
Whether you’re after the Christmas spirit, a charming, snowy landscape, or a frolic through a castle, this guide to the best places in Europe for the colder months has it all. From the best places to go for Christmas or if you’re wanting an escape this is the best of Europe.
Grab a hot drink and get ready for the best cities and places in Europe to spend winter in.
The Best Winter Destinations in Europe
Below you can find a map of all the places discussed in this post:
The falling snow was mesmerizing as I sat by the window, overlooking the quiet town below. Not a car in sight or a soul walking around – only skiers gliding down well worn paths. I was in Zermatt, Switzerland and the ever looming Matterhorn had yet to be seen. After days of not seeing this incredible mountain, the clouds finally parted, the snow lifted, and she stood proudly.
This beautiful and romantic city is one of the prettiest in Europe. It offers plenty of winter activities and is the perfect place to relax. I had one of my all time favorite stays in this charming place and I will remember it for years to come.
There is no city in the world that transforms into a Christmas wonderland quite like Strasbourg. Every single window and lane is decorated from nearly top to bottom with lights and even stuffed animals. It’s a gingerbread town come to life with the half-timbered houses and the lively Christmas markets, shopping, and the traditions of German Christmas markets spilling over from the nearby country. Check out my full guide for what to do in Strasbourg for Christmas. Since you’re in the area I suggest taking a short trip over to Baden Baden, Heidelberg, or The Black Forest in Germany for the traditional markets.
In the summer months you’ll find miles of green and the sound of bells on cows as they roam the wide open hills. But winter frosts the ground and makes everything feel like a wonderland. The rough peaks of the alps are truly an incredible sight and the tall steeples from the churches in the towns below make you feel like you’re stepping back in time.
My favorite towns in the alps are in the Wilder Kaiser area. I absolutely love the towns of Zöll, Ellmau, Going, and Kitzbuehel.
If you’re wanting a warmer spot and lower prices for your European travels in winter then Italy is a great choice. The famous lake is perfect for wine lovers and those that want to get away from the crowds. Take a boat ride out on the water or visit nearby towns like Bellagio and Varenna. There’s also an incredible light show that occurs from mid December to January 6.
5. Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Germany
Rothenburg is a fully walled in city dating back to the 12th century. If you’re wanting the true romantic experience of traditional Christmas markets in Germany than look no further. Colorful buildings topped with snow are a real life fairy-tale setting. Here you’ll find the German Christmas market museum so you can learn all about the traditions of this world famous tradition. Check out my full guide to Rothenburg here.
The home of Dracula is the perfect place for winter or Halloween vibes. You’ll find surprisingly picturesque countrysides and incredible true stories of Vlad the Impaler, aka Dracula. Be on the look out for hidden gems in these pretty cities such as catching a traditional Romanian wedding. There are castles galore as well as some of the best food I’ve had. Plus it’s very inexpensive, the people are wonderful, and the history interesting.
I recommend visiting Sibiu, Sighişoara, and Braşov for true Romanian traditions and a beautiful surroundings. This underrated country is full of winding streets, stunning architecture, and delightful natural beauty making it worth the visit.
7. Iceland
The shoulder season in Iceland is amazing. A bit chillier, but so much more room to roam. Your chances of seeing the Northern Lights are much better in the winter (and fall). You’ll fly into Reyjavik but PLEASE, please make sure you get out of town and explore the diverse landscape Iceland has to offer. The crowd-free waterfalls
Take a break from the cold and jump in a warm geothermal pool. And there’s more than just the Blue Lagoon! Check out Hotpot Iceland to find out where a Hotpot is (a thermal spa or pool) near you.
I recommend heading there in early winter to be able to enjoy as much of the landscape as possible.
Yes, you can of course visit Amsterdam, but consider heading to the cheery town of Maastricht. As one of the oldest cities in Holland you’ll find a vibrant city with medieval architecture and historic cobblestone streets. I recommend taking a walking tour and warming up at a pub or over some divine waffles. “Pinky” is one of the best waffles I’ve had in my life! Located on the Southern tip of The Netherlands you can easily pop over to Liege, Belgium for some French cuisine.
9. London, England
I know what you’re thinking: that it will be freezing and miserable. But London isn’t really known for having particularly great weather. And London DECKS out its holidays like none other. Oxford Street is a feast for the eyes. There are string lights on every corner, bows as big as cars on shops, and you can skate in front of one of the prettiest buildings in the world. It’s fantastic. There’s even a Christmas market happening in Hyde Park.
Prague is a beautiful city no matter the season, but winter brings out some of the best in this city. A light dusting of snow covers the Old Town Square and the traditional Christmas markets make for the perfect backdrop. There are multiple markets throughout the city so you can go hopping from shop to shop for handmade goods and eat hot and delicious trdelinks.
I know, I know, another place in Switzerland? Yes. It truly is just that pretty. This impressive but small city is full of intimate cafes with soft lighting and delectable food. The covered bridge is the oldest in the world and stretches over the lake. Flanked by snow-capped mountains, filled with medieval architecture, and a beautiful lake setting, this peaceful town is wonderful when you’re all bundled up.
Lucerne lends itself as a great getaway for those that want to relax or explore.
I had such a hard time narrowing down cities in Switzerland for Winter, but if you’re looking for one more, check out Bern!
The Danish have a whole word and really, lifestyle, for the feeling of coziness: hygge. There’s no better place to warm up by the fireside with a nice glass of red and a sheepskin throw as you chat over the weather. You can also get your fill of delicious seafood at Torvehallerne or gaze at the colorful buildings on the docks of Nyhavn. Copenhagen even takes it a step further and offers a winter culture month, Wondercool, which occurs in February and includes concerts in unusual venues, art shows, and culinary events.
The big cities are full of bright lights and beautiful Christmas decor. But you can’t beat the natural and awe-inspiring beauty that is the Black Forest in Germany. It’s inspired fairy-tales and stories throughout the centuries. The vastness of the mountains and the dense evergreen trees make for a beautiful scene. There are winter activities such as skiing and hiking or you can go into the nearby town of Sasbachwalden for coffee and cake. From here you can visit nearby Heidelberg, Strasbourg, and Baden Baden.
It’s time to embrace the cold and head far north to the snowy wonderland of Rovaniemi. What better way to get into the holiday spirit than visiting the official home of Santa Claus? Located in the Arctic Circle this is one of the best places to go on a husky ride through a maze of evergreen and white. If you don’t mind the cold temperature then this is the best way to spend your winter holiday.
One of the most gorgeous places in all of Europe with the tallest mountain in Europe, too! Mont Blanc towers over the picturesque town of Chamonix The Alps are stunning, especially covered in snow. But the town of Chamonix is bursting with great french culture and cuisine. This is the perfect place to enjoy winter activities or cozy up by the fire!
Winter in Europe is like a snow globe come to life. The fantastical scenes of Christmas markets, the smells of roasted nuts, and the snow flocked chateaus make a dreamy scene. But the best part? Visiting Europe in winter time usually means you can find cheaper flights, accommodation, and less crowds.
Having many winters in Europe under my belt, I’ve selected my top 15 Winter destinations. I tried to narrow it down to 10, but there were just so many magical places that I had to include.
Whether you’re after the Christmas spirit, a charming, snowy landscape, or a frolic through a castle, this guide to the best places in Europe for the colder months has it all. From the best places to go for Christmas or if you’re wanting an escape this is the best of Europe.
Grab a hot drink and get ready for the best cities and places in Europe to spend winter in.
The Best Winter Destinations in Europe
Below you can find a map of all the places discussed in this post:
The falling snow was mesmerizing as I sat by the window, overlooking the quiet town below. Not a car in sight or a soul walking around – only skiers gliding down well worn paths. I was in Zermatt, Switzerland and the ever looming Matterhorn had yet to be seen. After days of not seeing this incredible mountain, the clouds finally parted, the snow lifted, and she stood proudly.
This beautiful and romantic city is one of the prettiest in Europe. It offers plenty of winter activities and is the perfect place to relax. I had one of my all time favorite stays in this charming place and I will remember it for years to come.
There is no city in the world that transforms into a Christmas wonderland quite like Strasbourg. Every single window and lane is decorated from nearly top to bottom with lights and even stuffed animals. It’s a gingerbread town come to life with the half-timbered houses and the lively Christmas markets, shopping, and the traditions of German Christmas markets spilling over from the nearby country. Check out my full guide for what to do in Strasbourg for Christmas. Since you’re in the area I suggest taking a short trip over to Baden Baden, Heidelberg, or The Black Forest in Germany for the traditional markets.
In the summer months you’ll find miles of green and the sound of bells on cows as they roam the wide open hills. But winter frosts the ground and makes everything feel like a wonderland. The rough peaks of the alps are truly an incredible sight and the tall steeples from the churches in the towns below make you feel like you’re stepping back in time.
My favorite towns in the alps are in the Wilder Kaiser area. I absolutely love the towns of Zöll, Ellmau, Going, and Kitzbuehel.
If you’re wanting a warmer spot and lower prices for your European travels in winter then Italy is a great choice. The famous lake is perfect for wine lovers and those that want to get away from the crowds. Take a boat ride out on the water or visit nearby towns like Bellagio and Varenna. There’s also an incredible light show that occurs from mid December to January 6.
5. Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Germany
Rothenburg is a fully walled in city dating back to the 12th century. If you’re wanting the true romantic experience of traditional Christmas markets in Germany than look no further. Colorful buildings topped with snow are a real life fairy-tale setting. Here you’ll find the German Christmas market museum so you can learn all about the traditions of this world famous tradition. Check out my full guide to Rothenburg here.
The home of Dracula is the perfect place for winter or Halloween vibes. You’ll find surprisingly picturesque countrysides and incredible true stories of Vlad the Impaler, aka Dracula. Be on the look out for hidden gems in these pretty cities such as catching a traditional Romanian wedding. There are castles galore as well as some of the best food I’ve had. Plus it’s very inexpensive, the people are wonderful, and the history interesting.
I recommend visiting Sibiu, Sighişoara, and Braşov for true Romanian traditions and a beautiful surroundings. This underrated country is full of winding streets, stunning architecture, and delightful natural beauty making it worth the visit.
7. Iceland
The shoulder season in Iceland is amazing. A bit chillier, but so much more room to roam. Your chances of seeing the Northern Lights are much better in the winter (and fall). You’ll fly into Reyjavik but PLEASE, please make sure you get out of town and explore the diverse landscape Iceland has to offer. The crowd-free waterfalls
Take a break from the cold and jump in a warm geothermal pool. And there’s more than just the Blue Lagoon! Check out Hotpot Iceland to find out where a Hotpot is (a thermal spa or pool) near you.
I recommend heading there in early winter to be able to enjoy as much of the landscape as possible.
Yes, you can of course visit Amsterdam, but consider heading to the cheery town of Maastricht. As one of the oldest cities in Holland you’ll find a vibrant city with medieval architecture and historic cobblestone streets. I recommend taking a walking tour and warming up at a pub or over some divine waffles. “Pinky” is one of the best waffles I’ve had in my life! Located on the Southern tip of The Netherlands you can easily pop over to Liege, Belgium for some French cuisine.
9. London, England
I know what you’re thinking: that it will be freezing and miserable. But London isn’t really known for having particularly great weather. And London DECKS out its holidays like none other. Oxford Street is a feast for the eyes. There are string lights on every corner, bows as big as cars on shops, and you can skate in front of one of the prettiest buildings in the world. It’s fantastic. There’s even a Christmas market happening in Hyde Park.
Prague is a beautiful city no matter the season, but winter brings out some of the best in this city. A light dusting of snow covers the Old Town Square and the traditional Christmas markets make for the perfect backdrop. There are multiple markets throughout the city so you can go hopping from shop to shop for handmade goods and eat hot and delicious trdelinks.
I know, I know, another place in Switzerland? Yes. It truly is just that pretty. This impressive but small city is full of intimate cafes with soft lighting and delectable food. The covered bridge is the oldest in the world and stretches over the lake. Flanked by snow-capped mountains, filled with medieval architecture, and a beautiful lake setting, this peaceful town is wonderful when you’re all bundled up.
Lucerne lends itself as a great getaway for those that want to relax or explore.
I had such a hard time narrowing down cities in Switzerland for Winter, but if you’re looking for one more, check out Bern!
The Danish have a whole word and really, lifestyle, for the feeling of coziness: hygge. There’s no better place to warm up by the fireside with a nice glass of red and a sheepskin throw as you chat over the weather. You can also get your fill of delicious seafood at Torvehallerne or gaze at the colorful buildings on the docks of Nyhavn. Copenhagen even takes it a step further and offers a winter culture month, Wondercool, which occurs in February and includes concerts in unusual venues, art shows, and culinary events.
The big cities are full of bright lights and beautiful Christmas decor. But you can’t beat the natural and awe-inspiring beauty that is the Black Forest in Germany. It’s inspired fairy-tales and stories throughout the centuries. The vastness of the mountains and the dense evergreen trees make for a beautiful scene. There are winter activities such as skiing and hiking or you can go into the nearby town of Sasbachwalden for coffee and cake. From here you can visit nearby Heidelberg, Strasbourg, and Baden Baden.
It’s time to embrace the cold and head far north to the snowy wonderland of Rovaniemi. What better way to get into the holiday spirit than visiting the official home of Santa Claus? Located in the Arctic Circle this is one of the best places to go on a husky ride through a maze of evergreen and white. If you don’t mind the cold temperature then this is the best way to spend your winter holiday.
One of the most gorgeous places in all of Europe with the tallest mountain in Europe, too! Mont Blanc towers over the picturesque town of Chamonix The Alps are stunning, especially covered in snow. But the town of Chamonix is bursting with great french culture and cuisine. This is the perfect place to enjoy winter activities or cozy up by the fire!
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