Top 5 European Winter Festivals

European Winter Festivals, our top 5:

For some, festival season doesn’t stop when Summer ends, so here’s our top 5 European winter festivals to check out!

Just because the days are shorter and the temperatures are lower doesn’t mean festival season has to stop, it just means camping outside likely won’t be part of the experience. So, if you’re looking for the best reasons to travel to Europe in the winter read our guide to the top 5 European winter festivals! After all, Europe is always in the mood to celebrate and there are tons of great festivals to check out.

 

Festival of Lights – Amsterdam

When: end of November – early January

Discover the magical side of the Dutch capital with its Festival of Lights. During the winter months, the romantic canals of the city are illuminated by the best Dutch and international light artists. We recommend following a planned route to enjoy the colourful projections on historic architecture, urban parks, and on the canals. It’s a great winter festival, and one that certainly brightens up the cold months.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam?

Our recommendation for the top hostel in Amsterdam is the famous Flying Pig Uptown. Located near Vondelpark and the Van Gogh Museum, it’s the perfect place to rest your head. Whether you’re looking to meet new people, party, or simply chill out, you’ll be more than satisfied staying at Flying Pig Uptown. And don’t leave booking to the last minute: this hostel is one of the most popular in Amsterdam, so be sure to book in lots of time!

Berlinale: Berlin International Film Festival – Berlin

When: February or early March

Calling all film buffs! Popularly known as La Berlinale, this is one of the most important film festivals in the world. When this film festival kicks off, Berlin turns into a mini Hollywood, showcasing some of the hottest talent in the industry. You can attend a variety of film showings, special presentations, and attend events all centred around the Seventh Art. The festival attracts film buffs from around the world and is truly an international event.

Where to Stay in Berlin?

Berlin is home to lots of different kinds of neighbourhoods, but our favourite is Friedrichshain in East Berlin. Book accommodation at Sunflower Hostel, minutes away from the Berlin Wall and tons of great Berlin clubs.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park – London

When: November – January

Few European cities celebrate Christmas and winter quite like London. Winter Wonderland is the most festive Christmas festival in the capital of the UK. It is free and offers something for everyone. The festival includes a huge amusement park, an ice skating rink, circus activities, ice statues, and more. It’s sure to get anyone in the Holiday spirit and is one of the top European winter festivals.

Where to Stay in London?

Looking for accommodation in London? For a great experience, check out St. Christopher’s London, with two locations to welcome you. You’ll love their friendly staff, incredible facilities, and amazing locations. Guests are also entitled to exclusive discounts at their restaurant and bar, so you really get bang for your buck at St. Christopher’s.

Inverfest – Madrid

When: late January – early February

Although it’s a relatively new festival, Inverfest has made an impression as a top European winter festival! Inverfest celebrates a mix of Spanish and International musicians and welcomes poets and artists in the Spanish capital. It’s been recognised as an emerging player in the scene, and is one winter festival you won’t want to miss. And typically, Madrid is a great place to escape the cold winter in Europe, so it’s a great festival to attend!

Where to Stay in Madrid?

Cats Hostel Madrid Sol are famous for being the best hosts in town. You should definitely check them out.

Let It Roll: Drum and Bass Festival – Prague

When: February

Let it Roll is the official name of this great winter festival, and gathers more than 25,000 attendees each year. It’s the smaller version of its sister summer festival of the same name. Let it Roll celebrates some of the best drum and bass artists in the world, and occurs every February. Winter in Prague is cold, but you won’t notice as you dance your ass off at this this festival.

Where to Stay in Prague?

Having a comfy and inviting place to call home while on vacation is important. It can make or break your trip. That’s why we recommend Czech Inn, located in Vinohrady, as your host for your stay in Prague. This gorgeous design hostel has an all you can eat breakfast Buffet, a bar with daily activities and a Happy Hour, comfortable social areas, and more. Did we mention check-out is at 12pm?

Carnivale – Venice

When: February

The Carnivale in Venice is one of the oldest festivals in Italy, dating back to the 12th century. This iconic and wold-famous festival is known for its elaborate masks and incredible participants’ costumes, usually unique pieces crafted just for that one particular occasion. Carnival in Venice takes more than two weeks and everywhere around town you will see people in historical or masked costumes. Make sure you join some of the events happening around town. You won’t regret it.

Where to stay in Venice?

If you’re going to the Carnivale in Venice Anda hostel is the place to stay. Make sure you visit their bar and join one of their free events.

Top European Winter Festivals

We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide to the top European winter festivals, and have found some great ways to keep yourself warm and festive in the cold months.

If you also need help planning your summer festival adventures, click here for a range of helpful tips, city guides, food guides, and more. And for all the latest news at Famous Hostels.

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