Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn practically overflows with charm, thanks to its turreted castles and a lovely location on the Baltic Sea.

The city has one of the best-preserved historical centers in Europe, with many of its medieval churches and merchant houses falling under UNESCO protection.

Dublin, Ireland

Ireland’s capital is one of our favorite places to visit in winter—and not just because of all those cozy little pubs.

For the past nine years, the city has hosted the magical Smashing Times City of Dublin Parade, a festival that honors the Winter Solstice (December 21).

Zermatt, Switzerland

With its pyramid-like rock, the Matterhorn might be the world’s most iconic peak. Squeezed into a valley nearly at the base of that most memorable mountain, the town of Zermatt itself is no less striking, an expansive mountain village in Switzerland.

Hallstatt, Austria

On the western shore of Lake Hallstatt, the Austrian town that shares its name with the stunning alpine lake is a postcard come to life.  The lake itself covers over three square miles and, reaching depths over 400 feet, dazzles with its piercing blue color.

Mittenwald, Germany

No Bavarian mountain town is more classically Bavarian than Mittenwald.

Downtown, the Obermarkt district fills with snow and revelers who stroll between the famed St. Peter and Paul Church and chalets, restaurants, and pubs.

Alesund, Norway

Norway’s fjordland is a common dream vacation for Americans, and these photos of the waterside mountain town of Alesund make it clear why.  Its location embodies what makes coastal Norway a unique place: towns built at sea level surrounded by fjords, peaks, and inlets that offer views unlike any in the world.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

Italy’s Dolomites range contains some of the most irresistible ski areas in Europe, combining as they do slopes for every type of ski ability with stunning vistas, incredible cuisine, and a friendly mountain vibe.

Chamonix, France

Chamonix is well known for its fearsome peaks, and it attracts not just some of the most rugged and fearless athletes in France but also in the world.