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Christmas and New Year’s Eve are times when many families seek cozy places to spend their holidays, preferring a magical atmosphere with snow and mountains. In this article, we will explore how to choose accommodation for a winter getaway, from budget-friendly options to luxurious chalets, and provide websites for searching across Europe, including a detailed review of popular resorts in each country.
Why is Winter Holidaying in Europe So Popular?
Europe is famous for its picturesque winter landscapes, snow-covered mountains, and Christmas traditions. Some of the most popular regions for holidays include:
- The Alps — France, Switzerland, Italy, and Austria.
- Scandinavia — Sweden, Norway, Finland.
- Central Europe — Germany, Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia.
- The Baltics and Eastern Europe — Latvia, Estonia, Ukraine.
Criteria for Choosing Accommodation
Before selecting your accommodation, consider these key factors:
- Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend.
- Number of Guests: Families or large groups may require different options.
- Type of Accommodation: Apartments, houses, or chalets.
- Accessibility to Infrastructure: Proximity to ski resorts, shops, Christmas markets.
Where to Search for Accommodation?
Below are some websites where you can find a range of options:
Budget Options
- Airbnb ( www.airbnb.com)
- Ideal for apartments or small cottages.
- Average cost: €500–€800 per week.
- Booking.com ( www.booking.com)
- A wide selection of budget accommodation.
- Example: Apartments in the Tatras (Poland) from €350 per week.
- Hostelworld ( www.hostelworld.com)
- Great for budget stays, especially for couples or solo travelers.
Mid-Range Options
- HomeAway ( www.homeaway.com)
- Cottages in the Alps, Carpathians, and Scandinavia.
- Example: Chalet in Austria from €1,200 per week.
- Novasol ( www.novasol.com)
- Villas and cottages in popular holiday zones across Europe.
- Example: House in Norway from €800 per week.
Luxury Options
- Luxury Retreats ( www.luxuryretreats.com)
- Luxurious chalets and villas with personalized services.
- Example: Villa in the Swiss Alps from €10,000 per week.
- Le Collectionist ( www.lecollectionist.com)
- Offers elite properties in Europe’s top holiday destinations.
- Example: Cottage in the French Alps for €15,000–€20,000 per week.
Overview of Popular Resorts by Country
France (The Alps)
The French Alps are a perfect choice for winter holidays. Ski resorts like Courchevel, Chamonix, and Megève offer excellent slopes for all levels.
- Budget: Apartments €600–€800/week.
- Mid-Range: Chalets €1,200–€2,000/week.
- Luxury: Cottages with Mont Blanc views €10,000+.
- Highlights: Well-developed infrastructure, Christmas markets, hot springs.
Austria
The Austrian Alps feature picturesque villages and world-class ski resorts like Kitzbühel, Ischgl, and Mayrhofen.
- Budget: Houses €500–€700.
- Mid-Range: Chalets €1,500–€2,500.
- Luxury: Villas with jacuzzis €12,000+.
- Highlights: Excellent slopes, family programs, cozy cafes.
Scandinavia
Northern countries attract tourists with the unique atmosphere of polar nights, northern lights, and winter nature.
- Sweden: Forest cottages from €700, ski resorts in Åre.
- Norway: Fjord-view cottages from €1,500.
- Finland: Log cabins, Lapland from €800.
- Highlights: Saunas in every house, husky safaris, ice fishing.
Central Europe
The mountain regions of Czech Republic, Poland, and Slovakia offer affordable holidays with quality services.
- Czech Republic: Resorts in Špindlerův Mlýn, Jáchymov, prices from €400.
- Poland: Tatras, Zakopane, accommodations from €350.
- Slovakia: High Tatras, apartments from €300.
- Highlights: Budget-friendly options, thermal baths, cultural attractions.
Budget Planning
For a family with two children for one week:
- Budget Option: €1,000–€1,500 (accommodation, food, transport).
- Mid-Range: €2,500–€4,000.
- Luxury Holiday: €10,000+.
Additional costs:
- Ski Pass: €200–€400/person.
- Meals: €50–€100/day.
- Transfers: €200–€500.
Conclusion
Winter holidays in Europe can be accessible for any family with proper planning. Use the suggested websites to find accommodation that fits your budget and enjoy the festive atmosphere amidst snow-covered mountains!
