Top 5 European Countries for Your Winter Escape

A winter holiday in Europe conjures up images of pristine snowy landscapes, fantastic winter activities, smaller queues, lower-costs and the romance of staying rugged up in your campervan rental with a warm drink. We’ve included some of the best countries in Europe for those winter wonderland feels and some cool things to see and do along the way.

First things first, consider these important safety tips when driving a motorhome in winter conditions.

• Check with your motorhome supplier about installing winter tyres and snow chains when driving in specific locations.

• Always drive to the conditions and speed limits.

• Daylight hours are shorter in winter, consider this to ensure you aren’t driving after dark.

• Check with campgrounds ahead of time to ensure they are open and have space.

Hungary

Couples skating hand-in-hand, cloudy puffs of frosty air - there’s nowhere better for it than the Hungarian capital of Budapest. Here, the picturesque central park Varosligeti Mujegpalya hosts an enormous outdoor rink, which is perfect for winter skating with the family. If you’re feeling chilly, head to Miskolctapolca for ornate thermal salt baths where you can warm up your bones and relax in the beautiful natural cave. At night, seek out a ‘ruin pub’ for cosy drinks. These atmospheric drinking venues have been artfully created in once-abandoned buildings.

Did we mention the Christmas markets? Roam the colourful markets at St. Stephen’s Square, with the St. Stephen’s Basilica as your backdrop. If you’re visiting before Christmas, watch the incredible 3D visual light show projected onto the Basilica. Hungary is a destination rich in heritage and culture, and we think it’s an extraordinary place to take a winter trip. Book your Hungary campervan and explore this immaculate winter wonderland at your own pace.

Germany

We’re living for Christmas markets during December, and these romantic, historic events pop up all over Germany. Rug up and wander past cute stalls selling everything from freshly made gingerbread to Christmas decorations while sipping on warming Gluhwein. Famous markets in Cologne and Munich draw the tourists, but you’ll find plenty of other markets in smaller towns.

Take the kids along to the skating rink at Heinzels Wintermarchen and Phantasialand, Germany’s equivalent to Disneyland in Cologne. Visit the stunning Cologne Cathedral, which is a truly magical sight during winter. The avid skiers can head to the gorgeous town of Garmisch located in the German Alps. It’s known for its skiing, ice skating and hiking. Enjoy the scenic cable car ride up to Germany’s highest peak, Zugspitze, for postcard views like no other. A winter holiday in Germany offers plenty of outdoor activities for motorhome travellers.

Italy

If you’re after an adventure-filled winter holiday, look no further than Italy. Those who are keen on winter sports should head to South Tyrol where you’ll find many large and small ski areas suited to families and skilled skiers. Why not try a snowshoeing tour through the immaculate snow-covered landscapes of the Dolomites?

City dwellers can’t beat Rome during the colder months, and with fewer crowds, it’s perfect for exploring before heading to the country in your motorhome rental. Have you seen the Colosseum lit up alongside the larger than life Christmas tree? Grandioso! For a hint of Mediterranean winter sun, drive out to the Amalfi Coast. During winter you’ll get a temperate climate and quieter beaches to enjoy without the crowds. We love the distinctive charm of Italy during winter.

Spain

Chase the winter sun to Spain where you’ll find gems like the Andalusian Coast which is said to have the warmest winters out of the whole of mainland Europe. Further south, discover the charm of Almeria. This medieval coastal city welcomes travellers with its underground galleries, a stunning cathedral, beautiful beaches and Renaissance influenced churches. Did you know: Almeria doesn’t have a recorded temperature below zero so it’s an ideal winter destination for those seeking a slightly warmer winter holiday.

The Granada and Sierra Nevada mountains offer an exciting variation for visitors looking to pack their trip with thrilling outdoor activities. If you’re visiting Barcelona, winter is when some of their best festivals take place. Dress up warm and wander around Fira de Santa where the streets surrounding the Avinguda de la Cathedral transform into a magical Christmas wonderland. Don’t forget your camera! If you’re visiting Spain during winter, you’re in for a real treat.

Romania

Enjoy the stunning winter landscapes Romania has to offer without being scorched by the hot sun. Expect temperatures of up to 10° Celcius, which is perfect for exploring the rich history, numerous cities and traditional villages around the country. Cold winters add an extra dimension to this small corner of Europe as powdery snow covers the pastures, farms and wooded areas. Drive to the Carpathian Mountains, which offers visitors plenty of opportunities to hike or snowshoe to small villages.

Visit the jaw-dropping Bran Castle, one of the most impressive spots in Romania and don’t miss Peles Castle. When surrounded by snow, it looks like it’s directly out of a Disney movie. You’ll love roaming around Brasov’s Old Town as the sparkling snow highlights the beauty of the buildings. And lastly, don’t leave without visiting Sibiu. If you need a romantic winter escape, this is the place with charming cobbled streets, medieval buildings and a tradition of embellishing the city with pretty festive lights. Explore everything Romania can offer with a cosy motorhome rental.

Cruising around in a campervan is such an exciting and rewarding way to travel for so many different reasons. Head to Europe during winter for quieter attractions, fewer crowds, impeccable landscapes and low-cost motorhome rentals. You’ll feel spoilt with ever-changing winter views. Start planning your winter holiday now and add one or more of these incredible destinations to your itinerary.