How to Travel Europe in Winter

Sicily In November

Europe is a popular destination and somewhere I would love to return to. I was there from August through mid December. I was in part of a travelling program in college. This article will provide travel tips, including hostels, trains, and planes. It will also include destinations for everyone looking for a winter trip.

Things You'll Need

• A winter jacket
• A hiking pack
• Day pack
• Passport
• Frommer's guide book
• Map of Europe

Instructions

1. One of the best ways to travel around Europe is with a rail pass. They are reasonably affordable, including packages that can cover unlimited travel from five days to two or three months. Planes are also an option, with several airlines offering rates comparable to Southwest in the US. As far as hostels go, you want them to be in the main districts, preferably chain businesses.

2. 

   If you like to ski, the Alps, whether in France or Switzerland are great. I suggest the following in France: Alpe d'Huez, Argentière, and Chamrousse. If you are more of a beginner, I suggest the Black Forest in Germany.

3. 

   For those seeking warmer climates, a few ideas come to mind. These also prove more affordable, as for many resorts it tends to be an off season. Southern locations on the Mediterranean are great, Barcelona, Southern France, or Sicily. The weather can be warm and the towns less crowded. In the case of Sicily, there are nice all inclusives on the coast, in little towns like Taoramina, where the water is still warm enough to swim in. Croatia also makes for a nice destination

4. 

   Lastly, European cities feature these wonderful "Christmas Markets" Here you can find everything from little trinkets to local foods. Popular locations include: Tubingen, Stuttgart, and Munich in Germany; Vienna(Austria), Prague(Czech), Budapest(Hungary, saw a Hollywood actor in coffee shop there two years ago), and Bratislava (Slovakia, although a little off the beaten path).

Tips & Warnings

• Leave enough room in your bags to bring things back.

• Take plenty of pictures

• Pack for all types of weather

• Have fun!

• Keep your passport, money, and other belongings safe.

• Travel with at least one other person.

Resources

• French Ski Resorts
• Taoramina, Sicily
• Budapest, Hungary