Winter is a magical time of year, with snow-covered landscapes, cozy fireplaces, and festive celebrations. If you're looking for a winter getaway and you have a Schengen visa, you can explore some of the many fascinating destinations in Europe and beyond.
Here are some of the top winter destinations you can visit with your Schengen visa:
Bulgaria
- Skiing and snowboarding: Bulgaria boasts some of the finest ski resorts in Europe, including Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo. These resorts offer slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, from gentle beginner runs to exhilarating black diamond challenges.
- Spa culture and indoor attractions: Bulgaria is renowned for its delightful spa culture. Indulge in pampering massages, rejuvenating saunas, and soothing thermal baths. Explore the charming cities of Sofia, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo, where you'll find captivating historical landmarks, lively markets, and cosy cafes.
- Outdoor adventures: Beyond skiing, Bulgaria's winter landscape is perfect for snowshoeing, ice climbing, and snowmobiling. The Rila Mountains, the highest range in the Balkans, offer a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore Pirin National Park, a vast natural wonder with serene lakes, majestic mountains, and captivating waterfalls.
Georgia
- Extreme winter sports: Georgia is a haven for adrenaline junkies seeking extreme winter sports. Experience the thrill of heli-skiing in untouched powder and race through snowy trails on snowmobiles.
- Unforgettable snowshoeing treks: Embark on snowshoeing tours to discover hidden gems like Gergeti Trinity Church, Gveleti Waterfall, the village of Sno, and Sno Gorge. For those seeking a scenic winter retreat, explore Kazbegi, a picturesque townlet with stunning mountain landscapes.
- Catskiing paradise: Goderdzi Pass, a pristine snow-covered paradise, is a dream destination for cat skiing enthusiasts. Enjoy the exhilarating ascent to the starting point followed by a thrilling descent.
North Macedonia
- Untamed beauty and thermal waters: North Macedonia, a mountainous country with a rich cultural heritage, unveils its hidden beauty in winter.
- Mavrovo National Park and ski resort: Discover Mavrovo National Park, a vast expanse of mountains, forests, and lakes. Explore the renowned Mavrovo ski resort, offering 15.5 kilometres of slopes for skiing and snowboarding.
- Healing mineral water springs: In Debar, immerse yourself in the healing waters of thermal mineral springs, renowned for their remarkable curative properties.
- Sarplaninski Cup and winter season charm: Witness the thrill of the annual Sarplaninski Cup ski competition, bringing together the finest skiers from Macedonia and abroad. Experience the growing popularity of North Macedonia as a winter destination, with a notable increase in foreign tourists during the winter months.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
- World-class skiing: Embark on world-class skiing adventures at Vlasic, Bjelasnica, and Jahorina ski resorts, renowned for their diverse slopes catering to all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
- Snowshoeing adventures and Čvrsnica Mountain: Embark on snowshoeing adventures through pristine landscapes. Explore Čvrsnica Mountain, where snow-covered pine forests and frozen lakes create a breathtaking panorama.
- Frozen lake adventures: Witness the mesmerizing transformation of Lake Çıldır, Türkiye's second-largest lake, into a frozen wonderland. Embark on traditional sleigh rides, snowmobile rentals, or horse-sleigh trips across the frozen lake.
Türkiye
- A unique winter experience: Türkiye, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, offers a unique winter experience.
- Lake Çıldır and frozen lake adventures: Witness the mesmerizing transformation of Lake Çıldır, Türkiye's second-largest lake, into a frozen wonderland. Embark on traditional sleigh rides, snowmobile rentals, or horse-sleigh trips across the frozen lake.
- Uludağ Ski Centre and hammams: For a quick ski getaway from Istanbul, head to the Uludağ ski centre, offering 28 kilometres of slopes and 16 lifts for easy access. Warm up after a day in the cold by indulging in a traditional Turkish hammam, offering steam baths and a variety of spa treatments.
