Looking for the Best Winter Europe itinerary? Planning your first winter trip to Europe is incredibly exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming when you want everything to be perfect. You’re probably dreaming of seeing it all from London’s glittering streets to Rome’s ancient wonders dusted with snow.
To help take away some of the stress, I’ve put together a magical 7-day winter European itinerary that captures the best of Europe’s most iconic cities. While nothing is set in stone (and you should absolutely customize it to your interests!), having a solid plan is the first step to an unforgettable European adventure.
This carefully crafted winter route ensures you’ll experience all the seasonal charm – think Christmas markets, and shorter tourist queues – while staying cozy and making the most of your time.
Just keep in mind that winter brings its own rhythm to European travel. Days are shorter (think sunset around 4 PM), and the weather can swing from crisp and sunny to snowy or rainy. Pack those warm layers and waterproof boots, and plan your outdoor activities for the daylight hours. Trust me – seeing these cities dressed in their winter finest makes it all worthwhile!
Winter European Trip Overview
Get ready to explore three of Europe’s most enchanting winter destinations, London, Paris, and Rome. These cities shine in winter with their excellent public transport, cozy indoor attractions, and festive atmosphere.
Your journey kicks off in London, followed by a scenic Eurostar ride to Paris (just 2 hours!), and ends with a short flight to Rome. The route is designed to minimize travel time and maximize your experience in each city.
I strongly recommend booking city-center hotels for this winter adventure. While they might cost a bit more, being close to major attractions saves precious daylight hours and gives you a warm refuge to return to throughout the day.
Table of Contents
Day-by-Day Winter European Itinerary
Ready to start your European tour itinerary? Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of your winter European adventure.
Day 1-2: London, UK
Day 1: Arrive in London
Morning
Start your European adventure in the heart of British history. Head to the Tower of London right when it opens (9 AM) to catch the opening ceremony and beat the crowds to the Crown Jewels. The morning light makes for stunning photos of the White Tower, and the Yeoman Warders’ tours are incredibly entertaining, even in winter.
Afternoon
After lunch at Côte St Katharine Docks, from the Tower, grab a cab to Abbey Westminster (a quick 16-minute ride) or take the District Line from Tower Hill to Westminster station. The Abbey and Houses of Parliament are right there, and you’ll want at least 2-3 hours to explore both these iconic landmarks properly.
Pro tip: The Abbey’s stained glass windows look particularly magical in the winter afternoon light.
Evening
Cap off your day with a sunset ride on the London Eye which will take around 15 minutes on a walk or book a cab which can take less than 10 minutes. Aim to book your ride for around 4 PM to catch the winter sunset and see the city lights come alive. From your pod, you’ll get stunning views of the buildings you explored earlier, now bathed in golden hour light.
As darkness falls, the South Bank Christmas Market comes alive with twinkling lights, mulled wine, and artisan stalls. It’s the perfect spot to grab dinner and soak in London’s festive atmosphere.
Day 2: Royal London Day
Morning
Begin your second day at the British Museum, opening at 10 AM. The museum’s Great Court provides a magnificent shelter from winter weather, and you won’t feel guilty about being indoors when surrounded by world treasures. Focus on the highlights like the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies – you could spend days here, but 2-3 hours gives you a good overview.
Afternoon
By early afternoon, head to Covent Garden which is a 13-minute walk from the Museum. The covered market hall is beautifully decorated for winter, and street performers continue their shows even in cold weather. Stroll through to Oxford Street, London’s shopping paradise, which sparkles with holiday decorations. If you’re visiting in December, the department store window displays are worth the trip alone.
Evening
For your final London evening, you have two fantastic options. Book a West End show for a warm, world-class theater experience, or venture into Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. This massive winter festival features ice skating, festive rides, and countless food stalls. If choosing Winter Wonderland, go early (around 4 PM) to enjoy some attractions before peak evening crowds.
Day 3-4: Paris, France
Day 3: Arrive in Paris
Morning
Start your day bright and early with a Eurostar train from London St. Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord (book the 8:01 AM train to arrive by 11:17 AM Paris time). Drop your bags at your hotel Hotel de Londres Eiffel and head straight to the Eiffel Tower.
Afternoon
Pro tip: Pre-book your Eiffel Tower tickets for around 1 PM. Winter crowds are smaller, but you’ll still save precious time. Take the elevator to the second floor – if it’s a clear day, splurge on the top level for spectacular views across Paris. The winter light makes for incredible photos, and you might even catch some snowflakes!
Evening
As evening approaches, make your way to the Seine for a dinner cruise (book for 7 PM). The city’s lights reflecting off the river create pure magic, and seeing Paris’s landmarks illuminated while enjoying French cuisine is an unforgettable experience. Most cruises last about 2.5 hours perfect for adjusting to Paris time.
Day 4: Artistic Paris Visits
Morning
Head to the Louvre when it opens at 9 AM. Winter mornings are perfect for museums, and you’ll find shorter queues even at this world-famous spot. Don’t try to see everything focus on the highlights like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory (about 3-4 hours is ideal).
Afternoon
After lunch, take a walk to see Notre-Dame Cathedral. While still under restoration, the exterior is impressive and the surrounding area is rich with history. From there, wander into the charming Marais district, where you’ll find cozy cafés perfect for warming up with hot chocolate and watching Parisian life go by.
Evening
End your Parisian adventure at the charming Christmas markets at Tuileries Garden, the city’s largest Christmas market. Set against the backdrop of the historic garden, the market comes alive at dusk with twinkling lights, carousel rides, and over 100 chalets selling artisanal goods. Warm up with vin chaud (mulled wine) while sampling traditional French winter treats. The Ferris wheel offers spectacular evening views of Paris’s illuminated skyline.
Day 5-7: Rome, Italy
Day 5: Arrive in Rome
Morning & Afternoon
Catch an early morning flight from Paris to Rome (around 2 hours). After checking into your hotel, head straight to the Colosseum, where winter means shorter queues and more comfortable temperatures for exploring. Pre-book your Colosseum tickets online, aiming for a 1 PM entry. The afternoon light creates stunning photo opportunities of the ancient amphitheater.
Evening
The Roman Forum is right next door, give yourself about 2 hours to wander through these fascinating ruins. As dusk approaches, make your way to the charming Trastevere neighborhood. Its narrow cobblestone streets, twinkling lights, and cozy trattorias create the perfect setting for your first Roman dinner.
Day 6: Vatican City
Morning
Start early at the Vatican Museums (book 9 AM tickets online). Winter mornings are ideal for exploring the museums and the magnificent Sistine Chapel without summer’s crushing crowds. Spend about 3 hours here to appreciate the highlights.
Afternoon
After lunch, explore St. Peter’s Basilica. Winter afternoons often feature beautiful light streaming through the dome.
Pro tip: The basilica is free to enter, but dress warmly as the interior can be cool.
Evening
In the evening, stroll to Piazza Navona, which transforms into a festive wonderland in winter. The baroque fountains, street artists, and surrounding cafes create a magical atmosphere as the sun sets over the eternal city.
Day 7: Classic Rome
Morning
Begin your final day at the Trevi Fountain when the morning light illuminates the water. Continue to the Spanish Steps, where you can warm up with Italian hot chocolate at the historic Caffè Greco nearby.
Afternoon
After lunch, visit the Pantheon – Rome’s best-preserved ancient monument. Winter rain makes the experience even more special as you watch it fall through the open oculus. Spend the afternoon exploring the boutiques along Via Condotti and Via del Corso.
Evening
For your farewell dinner, book a table at a traditional restaurant in the historic center. Try specialties like pasta alla carbonara or saltimbocca alla romana while reflecting on your winter journey through Europe’s most iconic cities.
Practical Tips
When following this European trip itinerary, Don’t let the “low season” label fool you – popular attractions still get busy in winter. Book your tickets online for the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Vatican Museums, and Colosseum at least a month ahead. Not only will you skip the lines, but you’ll often score better prices than buying on-site.
Pro tip: Book Vatican Museums for early morning and the Eiffel Tower for sunset to maximize your experience.
Winter packing needs to be strategic. Think layers, layers, layers! Start with thermal underlayers (merino wool is fantastic), add a warm sweater, and top with a waterproof coat that hits mid-thigh. Waterproof boots are absolutely essential – you’ll be walking on wet cobblestones and possibly through snow. Pack a couple of heat packs for extra chilly days, and don’t forget a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf.
Keep in mind that Europe essentially shuts down for certain dates. December 24-26 and December 31-January 1 are particularly tricky, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops either closed or operating on reduced hours. Always double-check opening times for your specific travel dates, and have backup plans for these days, like scenic walks or photography tours.
Travel insurance isn’t just nice to have in winter, it’s essential. Look for a policy that specifically covers weather-related disruptions. Winter storms can delay flights and trains, particularly in London and Paris, so having that safety net is worth every penny. Consider adding flexible booking options for your trains and flights too.
Transportation Tips
Booking Essentials
- Book your Eurostar (London-Paris) through eurostar.com at least 3-4 months ahead for the best deals.
- For flights (Paris-Rome), compare rates on Skyscanner or Google Flights. Airlines like Air France, EasyJet, and Ryanair often have competitive winter fares.
- Winter travel tip: Book afternoon flights to minimize weather-related delays.
Essential Apps To Download
To make navigating this Winter Europe itinerary for 7 days easier, here are the essential apps for each city:
London:
- Citymapper – Best for public transport routes
- TfL Go – Official Transport for London app for live updates
- FREE NOW – Popular taxi booking app
Paris:
- RATP – Official Paris metro app
- Uber – Works great in Paris
- BlaBlaCar – Useful for booking airport transfers
Rome:
- Moovit – Excellent for bus and metro routes
- MyTaxi/FREE NOW – Local taxi booking service
- Too Good To Go – Not transport, but great for finding discounted meals near you
Money-Saving Transport Tips
- Get an Oyster card in London (order online before you go!)
- Buy a carnet of 10 metro tickets in Paris (cheaper than single tickets)
- Consider the Roma Pass in Rome – which includes public transport and museum entries
Pro tip: Download these apps and set up accounts before you start your journey. Most work with your regular credit card, making getting around much easier when you arrive!
Average Daily Costs During European Visit (in EUR)
London
- Mid-range Hotel: €150-200
- Meals: €40-60
- Transport: €10-15
- Attractions: €25-30
Paris
- Mid-range Hotel: €140-180
- Meals: €35-50
- Transport: €8-12
- Attractions: €20-25
Rome
- Mid-range Hotel: €120-160
- Meals: €30-45
- Transport: €7-10
- Attractions: €20-25
5 Essential Money-Saving Tips for Your Winter Europe Trip
- Book accommodations in neighborhoods like London’s Southwark, Paris’s Le Marais, or Rome’s Monti – close enough to attractions but cheaper than tourist centers
- Get city passes: London Pass, Paris Museum Pass, or Roma Pass for the best value on attractions
- Eat big lunches (lunch menus are cheaper) and light dinners
- Free walking tours in each city (just tip your guide)
- Visit churches during mass times for free entry (except Westminster Abbey)
Worth the Splurge
- London: Evening theater show (€60-100)
- Paris: Seine dinner cruise (€70-90)
- Rome: Private guided tour of the Colosseum (€50-70)
- One exceptional dining experience in each city (€100-150 per person)
Things to Pack for Winter European Itinerary
To make the most of this best European itinerary in winter, here’s your essential clothing checklist:
Winter Clothing Essentials To Pack
- 2-3 thermal base layers (tops and bottoms)
- 3-4 warm sweaters or fleeces
- 1 waterproof winter coat (knee-length recommended)
- 2 pairs of warm, waterproof boots (one casual, one dressier)
- 4-5 pairs of warm socks (wool or thermal)
- 2 pairs of comfortable walking pants
- 1 dressier outfit for nice restaurants/shows
- Winter accessories:
- Warm scarf
- Gloves (touchscreen-compatible recommended)
- Warm hat or beanie
- Umbrella (compact but sturdy)
Travel Documents To Pack
When following this Winter European travel itinerary, make sure you have these essential travel documents:
- Passport (valid for 6+ months)
- Visa documentation (if required)
- Travel insurance papers
- Printed copies of all bookings
- International driver’s license (if planning to drive)
- Emergency contacts list
- Credit cards (inform your bank of travel plans)
Electronics and Adapters To Pack
- Universal power adapter (UK and EU plugs)
- Phone + charger
- Portable power bank
- Camera + charger
- European SIM card or international plan
Pro tip: Pack a small thermos, you can fill it with hot tea or coffee in the morning to keep warm while sightseeing!
Conclusion
And there you have it – your complete guide to experiencing the winter magic of London, Paris, and Rome! I’ve shared all my favorite tips and tricks to help you make the most of your European adventure, from booking smart to staying cozy.
Have any questions about winter travel in these cities? Or maybe some insider tips of your own to share? Drop them in the comments below. Happy travels, and enjoy the winter magic of Europe!