Husky sledding and northern lights: the perfect European city for a majestic winter vacation is named

In winter, many people want to feel the atmosphere of a real fairy tale. Since childhood, Christmas and New Year have been associated with snow. However, the climate is changing nowadays, and snow-covered streets during the holidays are rather an exception to the rule.

Experts have named the best cities for winter vacations. DFDS experts analyzed 164 European destinations to determine the best option for a holiday vacation.

Ålesund is a port city and in western Norway. It is an important tourist center and the largest fishing harbor in Norway.

Ålesund has topped the list of the best hidden gems in Europe for winter vacations. Tourists can enjoy husky sledding and even see the northern lights.

The city is located north of the mouth of the Stor Fjord and is spread over several islands: Nørvøya, Aspøy, Heissa, and Oksnøya, which are connected by bridges.

The climate here is cool and maritime. The warmest month is August with an average temperature of 14°C, and the coldest month is January (about 2°C).

According to legend, a settlement appeared here in the IX century, and the status of the city of Ålesund was granted in 1848. However, almost no ancient architecture has been preserved, as a terrible fire occurred in 1904, after which several dozen small houses and several expeditionary warehouses along the pier barely survived. The city was rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style.

Five best European cities for a snowy winter vacation:

Ålesund, Norway

• The average number of days it snows in winter is 59.

Kristiansand, Norway

• The average number of days of snowfall in winter is 37.

Jurmala, Latvia

• The average number of days of snowfall in winter is 40.

Kosice, Slovakia

• The average number of days of snowfall in winter is 33.

Freiburg, Germany

• The average number of days it snows in winter is 25.

Researchers have also observed snowfall on December 25 for the past 23 years, and Kiruna, Sweden, is the best place for a snow vacation with a 70 percent chance of snow on Christmas Day. The remote town in Sweden is known for its stunning Arctic landscapes and iconic ice hotel.

Lillehammer in Norway took second place (65% chance of snow), followed by Turku in Finland (57% chance of snow).

Five best cities for a snowy Christmas

Kiruna, Sweden

• The probability of snow on Christmas is 70%.

Lillehammer, Norway

• The probability of snow on Christmas is 65%.

Turku, Finland

• The probability of snow on Christmas Day is 57%.

Tallinn, Estonia.

• The probability of snow on Christmas Day is 57%.

Innsbruck, Austria

• The probability of snow on Christmas is 52%.

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