Hi All,
Hubby and I just got back from Istanbul, Turkey which we loved. We are now considering Europe this December (London, Paris, Rome, Switzerland, Berlin) but are weary because we have never experienced a European/snowy winter. Will it ruin the trip? December is convenient as I can easily take leave from work but we would be travelling halfway across the world so I don’t want it to be a waste. Any recommendations?
Re: Europe in Winter?
congrats on trotting the globe. :)
i think it won't be a total wash...you may have some good days and some bad days. it's quite cold there. the worst is when a storm hits and no one can forecast a storm so much ahead of time. you may want to consult the almanac to get some idea what the winter may be like this coming winter.
plan your trip but pay for it sometimes in October when you can get some idea how the weather trend is shaping.
good luck and Bon Voyage!
Re: Europe in Winter?
Last year Paris was dry, I mean no snow whatsoever but it is still cold. I don't know where you'll be coming from but I think it is manageable. Even if it snows, its not that bad and it will disappear quickly. Paris as a tourist city does not have off-season, people always come not matter what's the weather like.
Switzerland in winter, well it depends on personal preferences. In my view Switzerland should be visited in summer. Overall in Europe, it is the most expensive place to visit and if I'm going there then I should see the colorful Swiss alps and lakes.
I recently came from Berlin, its a nice city and doable in Winter. Most of the places to see and visit are closeby, you can also visit the Postdam (around 40 min train ride) for a day. I assume it will similar to Paris in winter.
Rome will be your best bet in winter. I also visited it recently, it's a marvelous city. I don't think it would snow there that much but it might be cold.
Don't have any idea about London, someone else may be can give you some hints.
Also try tripadvisor website for comments/reviews of the people who visited these places in winter. You will get better idea.
NOTE: Most of these cities also have Xmas markets and sales near Christmas. This means more fun, activities and shopping for ladies.
Re: Europe in Winter?
London weather can vary a lot, it's not easy at all to predict what it will be like in December.. Sometimes we get snow, but more often than not we don't.. Sometimes it rains and at other times it can feel surprisingly mild.. You'll still need a jacket but it may not be as cold as you imagine..
As mentioned above there are Xmas markets and the shops tend to be absolutely packed.. There's also "Winter Wonderland" (fair, ice-skating etc) so tourists love coming here in December.. Everything is lit up and the atmosphere is really nice..
Re: Europe in Winter?
Get ready for some extreme weather
It can rain anytime so be prepared for that