Depending on where you are, winter can turn a city into a bleak and inhospitable place or a fairy tale postcard. Cities that are lucky enough to be covered in snow during the cold season become something really special thanks to the charming local architecture, the stunning surroundings, or both. Next, in this article we present some of the most beautiful cities in the world in winter so that you are clear about where to take fairytale photos this Christmas.
The most beautiful cities in the world in winter
Innsbruck, Austria
Snow-covered peaked roofs and the surrounding stunning natural scenery draw cold-weather enthusiasts to Innsbruck, one of the most beautiful cities in the world in winter. In this Austrian city you can enjoy the dazzling Baroque architecture, endless ski slopes, fine dining restaurants or high-end shops in the old town . Do not forget to try the sacher cake, a typical chocolate cake of the country with which you will lick your fingers.
New York, USA
The storefronts and lights on Fifth Avenue, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, snow-covered Central Park , the many ice skating rinks , the carols blasting through town, the makeshift Santa Claus outside shopping malls ringing their bells … The Christmas spirit of the Big Apple has come to us through movies and series and it is undeniable that it has a special charm that makes New York one of the most beautiful cities in winter.
Bled, Slovenia
Bled is a charming little place situated on a huge lake in northwestern Slovenia. The lake surrounds Bled Island, which is home to several buildings. During winter, the lake turns an icy blue and reflects the surrounding snow-capped mountains on its surface . Visitors to the area can enjoy skiing or visit the nearby Vintgar Gorge, which is home to numerous waterfalls, pools and caves.
Kashmir, India
Located in the north of India, Kashmir is popularly known as “heaven on earth”. If you visit between December and February, Kashmir seems to be a magical land buried under a blanket of snow. There are many activities to enjoy in this area in winter, such as visiting the Dal Lake in Srinagar -which is a delight for the eyes as it freezes completely-, or a cable car ride through Gulmarg from which you will have an aerial view of the snowy valley.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
With the snow-covered Tofane mountain range in the background , this beautiful Italian town earned a reputation for being one of the most beautiful cities in the world in winter after hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics. In addition, its elegance earned it the presence of a well-off public, since it attracted artists such as Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn at the time .
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar is the capital and most populous city of Mongolia. On the outskirts is Bogd Khan, a mountain range of singular beauty that is located in the southern part and where you can do numerous winter activities such as sledding with dogs or snowboarding … But keep in mind that in the months of November to March, the temperature can drop to -35 ° C.
Lübeck, Germany
Known as the Christmas capital of northern Germany, Lübeck offers a backdrop of singular beauty for these dates. Covered in snow throughout the winter and famous for its castle and delicious marzipan, it also has one of the most famous Christmas markets in the country.
Saint Petersburg, Russia
The imperial beauty of Saint Petersburg reaches its maximum splendor in winter: the bridges over the almost frozen Neva River, the snow covering the colorful holly domes of the Church of the Savior, the majestic Winter Palace living up to its name more than at any time. of the year … Of course: bundle up well, because the temperature can drop to -22ºC .
St. Moritz, Switzerland
This dream city in the Swiss Alps begs to be explored especially in winter, when it is full of snow. The legendary alpine refuge offers a deep-rooted ski culture (it was the destination of the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympics), and attracts visitors with its glamorous surroundings.
Bariloche, Argentina
Bariloche is not only one of the most beautiful cities in winter, but it is also one of the ones that have the most to offer at this time: every year they celebrate the National Snow Festival, which lasts for a week and includes musical shows, contests, art displays and sporting events such as the Bajada de Torchas, where all the city’s ski teams descend the slope carrying lighted torches.
Megève, France
Megève is a ski destination in southeastern France , close to the Swiss and Italian borders. Although it is smaller than other French ski retreats, it is quaint and welcoming and has a certain je ne se quoi that grabs you. You can enjoy other winter pleasures like horse-drawn carriage rides and ice skating .
Harbin, China
Harbin is the coldest city in North China and one of the most beautiful cities in the world in winter. Its average temperature of -25ºC during these months provides an abundant and constant snow that allows the celebration of ice and snow festivals, in which castles, slides and ice sculptures are built that form a miniature city.
Malmö, Sweden
Design and 16th-century charm go hand in hand in this lively Swedish city across the Øresund Strait from Copenhagen, providing a peculiar beauty during the winter months. Admire the city’s world-class art and architecture , from futuristic buildings like the Turning Torso to contemporary art at Moderna Museet Malmo.
Prague, czech republic
Prague is famous for its rich history and enviable architecture . Known as the city of a hundred towers, it can be safely considered one of the most beautiful cities in winter: the picture of its multiple snow-covered roofs with the castle, the hills and the Vltava river in the background is of a unmatched beauty.
Nikko, Japan
During the colder months of the year, the city of Nikko is transformed into a UNESCO winter wonderland celebrating Japan’s rich history and culture . The Nikko Toshogu Shrine, eternal home of Tokugawa Ieyasu (the founder and first shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate who ruled Japan for almost 3 centuries) is the most famous attraction in the city. After exploring the elaborate architecture of its shrines and temples, you can warm up in one of the hot springs in the area , each with different colors, smells and healing properties.
