While our sightseeing options aren’t very limited by the onset of winter, the reason that tourism slows to a trickle during winter around the world is that we feel like our options are somehow limited by the cold weather, as if the summer heat were any better. Here are a few activities that thrive in winter and drive cold-weather tourism in Europe.

Foter

CC BY-NC-SA / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA

Outdoor Ice Skating

Depending on where you’re from ice skating might be something you can only experience at a commercial ice rink, but ice skating is an activity far better enjoyed out-of-doors. Northern and Central Europe regularly see sustained temperatures well below freezing during winter that leaves fairly thick sheets of ice covering local lakes and ponds. Get out onto the ice and play hockey, play a game of tag, or try to set a new land speed record. Do make sure you know about how to properly test ice before you set foot on a lake. An easy way to find a good spot is to find an area that other people are already using.

laffy4k / Foter / CC BY

Open-Air Christmas Markets

The traditional German Christmas market or “Weihnachtsmarkt” originated sometime around the 14^th century in north-eastern Germany and has been spreading ever since to the point where it isn’t just German anymore. They can be found all over Europe from the UK to Romania and down to Spain, though if you’re looking for mulled wine and bratwurst at a market in Spain you’re likely to be disappointed. Don’t let that deter you though since wherever this tradition has gone it’s brought out the flavor of the local community, making them slightly different but pretty much equally awesome everywhere you go. If you do happen to be in Germany you can enjoy delicious Christmas goodies like lebkuchen, roasted nuts, egg nog, and mulled wine while perusing stalls full of goodies and knick-knacks like hand-crafted ornaments or nut-crackers.

Al_HikesAZ / Foter / CC BY-NC

Skiing

If you’re anywhere near the Alps in winter it would be simply ridiculous not to hit the slopes. The mountains are dotted with ski-resorts and their freshly groomed runs on all sides. If speed isn’t your thing, you’re not near the mountains, and you really miss summer backpacking trips you can quench your thirst for adventure with a cross-country skiing trip.

Shopping and Nightlife                 

Shopping both for souvenirs and other goods is excellent during the winter. Because tourism slows significantly early on in the year you can expect reduced prices and less crowding in shops and on the street. Conversely the nightlife in the cities is alive all year around. Whether you enjoy dancing the night away at a nightclub or a retro swing dancing hall you’ll definitely find something to suit your fancy.

Author: Meghan Pierce has a passion for cultural studies and an insatiable appetite for travel. Her dream is to be a full-time travel writer; she currently writes for G Adventures, Arctic travel specialists.