Europe in February often surprises travelers who assume everything will be cold and gray. While much of the continent is still in winter mode, it’s actually one of the best times to experience major cities and scenic areas without the crowds or high prices. From sunny Tenerife to romantic capitals like Paris and Rome, this is Europe at its most peaceful and affordable.
You’ll find cozy cafés, clear winter light that makes landmarks glow, and locals enjoying their cities at a slower pace. Whether you’re after culture, food, or just a few quiet days of sightseeing, February is the perfect time to rediscover Europe on your own terms.
Note: This article was updated last in October, 2025.
Europe's only February beach destination
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
- February avg high: 70F/21C
- February avg low: 59F/15C
- February avg precip: 1.4″/3.5cm
Tenerife is the only place in Europe where you can count on real beach weather in February. Located off the coast of Africa but part of Spain, it stays warm and sunny all winter while the rest of the continent is still in coats. The southern beaches around Playa de las Américas and Costa Adeje are the main draw — golden sand, clear skies, and a steady stream of sunshine that feels almost too good to be true for this time of year.
The island itself is far more varied than most people expect. Drive inland and you’ll find volcanic landscapes, pine forests, and Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, which often has snow on top while people sunbathe at the coast below. It’s also excellent value in February, with resorts competing for guests before the busy spring season.
I spent almost a month here, and while Tenerife isn’t exactly thrilling, it’s wonderfully relaxing. Most visitors are older Europeans chasing winter sun, so the vibe is peaceful rather than lively — think long lunches, sea walks, and sunsets that seem to last forever. For guaranteed warmth in Europe in February, Tenerife has no competition.
Hotel prices in February
- Good 3-star hotels in February from US$73 for two people
- Good 4-star hotels in February from US$155 for two people
11 Best Destinations in Europe for February 2026
February might still feel like winter across most of Europe, but it’s one of the most enjoyable months for travelers who prefer smaller crowds and lower prices. The major cities are quieter, hotels often offer off-season deals, and you can explore famous landmarks without waiting in long lines. From romantic capitals like Paris and Rome to southern favorites such as Málaga and Lisbon, these are the best European destinations for a February getaway — whether you’re chasing culture, food, or just a change of scenery.
Paris, France
- February avg high: 47F/8C
- February avg low: 40F/4C
- February avg precip: 1.8″/4.5cm
Paris is one of those cities that never really has an off-season, but February comes close — and that’s a good thing. The crowds are smaller, hotels are cheaper, and the city feels more local and authentic. The weather is cool and often gray, yet that only adds to the mood: cozy cafés, glowing brasseries, and evening strolls along the Seine when the lights reflect off the wet cobblestones. If you’ve ever wanted to experience Paris without the chaos of summer, this is the moment.
I’ve spent months here over the years, and it’s still one of my favorite cities in the world. You can start your day with a croissant and espresso, spend an afternoon in the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay, and end it watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle on the hour. Even if you’ve been before, Paris always finds a way to surprise you — a hidden passageway, a neighborhood café, or a quiet square you hadn’t noticed before.
Because it’s the low season, the city’s best experiences are often easier and cheaper to enjoy. River cruises on the Seine, hop-on hop-off bus tours, and even big attractions like the Arc de Triomphe are less crowded and more pleasant. For food lovers, art fans, or anyone who enjoys a great walk in a beautiful city, Paris in February is pure magic — just bring a good coat and an appetite.
Hotel prices in February
- Good 3-star hotels in February from US$85 for two people
- Good 4-star hotels in February from US$111 for two people
Rome, Italy
- February avg high: 57F/14C
- February avg low: 40F/4C
- February avg precip: 2.9″/7.3cm
Few cities impress first-time visitors quite like Rome. February brings cool but comfortable weather, smaller crowds, and just enough sunshine to enjoy the city’s open-air history without the summer heat. You can stroll through the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Piazza Navona without elbowing through tour groups — and that alone makes this one of the best times of year to visit.
Rome is a city that rewards wandering. Around every corner there’s a crumbling ruin, a Baroque fountain, or a trattoria serving pasta so good you’ll question everything you thought you knew about Italian food. I always look forward to visiting Rome — and, to be honest, I also look forward to leaving it. It’s exhilarating but intense, a whirlwind of energy, scooters, and espresso that never seems to slow down.
Hotels are reasonably priced in February, and even the top attractions are easier to enjoy. Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, climb the Spanish Steps, and watch the sun set over St. Peter’s dome — all without the suffocating crowds of summer. For anyone dreaming of classic Europe without chaos, Rome in February is hard to beat.
Hotel prices in February
- Good 3-star hotels in February from US$85 for two people
- Good 4-star hotels in February from US$97 for two people
London, England
- February avg high: 46F/8C
- February avg low: 37F/3C
- February avg precip: 1.4″/3.5cm
London may not be warm in February, but it’s one of the world’s great cities to visit any time of year — and this is when it’s far easier to enjoy. Hotel rates are lower, crowds are thinner, and there’s a cozy energy in the air as locals pack into pubs and cafés to escape the cold. The weather is mild by northern European standards, with misty mornings, occasional drizzle, and plenty of charm once you accept that sunshine is a bonus, not a guarantee.
I lived in London for about six months, and I still think it’s one of the best cities in the world for sightseeing. You can spend days exploring without spending much money at all — the British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, and most major museums are completely free. Walking is half the fun here, too: stroll along the South Bank, cross the bridges for river views, and wander a few blocks off the main tourist routes to find local cafés and quiet neighborhoods that feel worlds away from Piccadilly Circus.
February is also one of the best times to catch West End theatre tickets or afternoon tea deals that sell out in summer. It’s a city that rewards curiosity — and even when it’s gray and drizzly, London has an unmatched mix of history, culture, and personality that makes it a joy to explore.
Hotel prices in February
- Good 3-star hotels in February from US$72 for two people
- Good 4-star hotels in February from US$118 for two people
Barcelona, Spain
- February avg high: 58F/14C
- February avg low: 42F/6C
- February avg precip: 1.1″/2.8cm
Barcelona is one of Europe’s most exciting cities, and February is one of the few months when you can truly enjoy it without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. The weather is mild enough for comfortable sightseeing, and you’ll have much of the city’s famous architecture and waterfront to yourself. It’s the best time of year to see La Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter at an easy pace instead of shuffling shoulder-to-shoulder in the heat.
In recent years, Barcelona has gained a reputation for overtourism and locals who’ve grown weary of the constant influx of visitors. But in February, that tension melts away — hotels are cheaper, restaurant reservations are easy, and you can actually see how livable and welcoming the city really is. The blend of beach, culture, and cuisine makes it one of Europe’s most balanced destinations.
From the tapas bars of El Born to the seaside promenades along Barceloneta, the city has an energy that feels modern yet distinctly Catalan. Even in the cooler months, you’ll find locals dining outdoors under heaters and wandering late into the night. Barcelona in February shows off the best of itself — still vibrant, but calm enough to fall in love with all over again.
Hotel prices in February
- Good 3-star hotels in February from US$94 for two people
- Good 4-star hotels in February from US$115 for two people
Florence, Italy
- February avg high: 54F/12C
- February avg low: 37F/3C
- February avg precip: 3.7″/9.3cm
Florence is one of Europe’s great open-air museums — compact, walkable, and overflowing with Renaissance art and architecture. February brings cooler weather and fewer crowds, making it far easier to enjoy the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio without the long queues or heat of spring and summer. The light this time of year has a soft, golden quality that makes the city look even more timeless.
Hotels in Florence can vary wildly in price from one week to the next, even in the low season. Conferences and academic events sometimes cause sudden spikes, so it’s worth checking your dates carefully before booking. With a bit of flexibility, you can find excellent deals on central hotels that would cost twice as much later in the year.
While February isn’t outdoor café season, it’s a wonderful time to see the city at its most authentic. Locals reclaim the streets, trattorias are cozy rather than crowded, and it’s easy to imagine life here during the days of the Medici. Florence in February feels more like a living city and less like a museum — and that’s when it’s at its best.
Hotel prices in February
- Good 3-star hotels in February from US$106 for two people
- Good 4-star hotels in February from US$127 for two people
Athens, Greece
- February avg high: 56F/13C
- February avg low: 42F/6C
- February avg precip: 1.8″/4.5cm
Athens is one of Europe’s best winter city destinations, and February is an ideal time to explore it without the heat or crowds. The weather is mild, often in the 60s °F (around 17°C), and the ancient sites look especially dramatic under the soft winter light. You can wander through the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora almost in peace — a rare luxury compared with the summer crush.
This is a city that balances ancient history with a thriving modern culture. Between sightseeing stops, you can enjoy long lunches at outdoor tavernas, explore the artsy Psyrri and Koukaki neighborhoods, or head up Lycabettus Hill for sweeping views over the rooftops. The food scene has evolved well beyond the classics — you’ll find innovative chefs and stylish wine bars alongside traditional souvlaki stands.
Athens in February feels more local, more affordable, and more relaxed. Hotels are inexpensive, the sunshine is reliable, and even the popular rooftop restaurants tend to have open tables. For travelers who like a mix of history, good weather, and a bit of edge, Athens is one of Europe’s best surprises this time of year.
Hotel prices in February
- Good 3-star hotels in February from US$68 for two people
- Good 4-star hotels in February from US$74 for two people
Madrid, Spain
- February avg high: 54F/12C
- February avg low: 39F/4C
- February avg precip: 1.4″/3.5cm
Madrid may not be warm in February, but it’s one of Europe’s most enjoyable big cities to visit this time of year. The skies are often blue, the air is crisp, and the tourist crowds are long gone. You can spend the day exploring world-class museums like the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza, then warm up with tapas and wine in a lively local bar without needing a reservation.
This is a city that thrives on good food, late nights, and a sense of style that feels effortless. Even in winter, locals fill outdoor terraces under heat lamps, and the atmosphere stays vibrant. It’s a perfect time to stroll through Retiro Park, wander the elegant Gran Vía, or catch a flamenco show before heading to dinner — which, of course, won’t start until after 9 p.m.
Hotel prices are often at their lowest in February, and the city’s central neighborhoods are walkable and full of character. Madrid may not have the beach weather of Spain’s southern coast, but for travelers who love art, food, and genuine local culture, it’s one of Europe’s most rewarding winter destinations.
Hotel prices in February
- Good 3-star hotels in February from US$65 for two people
- Good 4-star hotels in February from US$74 for two people
- February avg high: 61F/16C
- February avg low: 49F/9C
- February avg precip: 3.6″/9.0cm
- Good 3-star hotels in February from US$67 for two people
- Good 4-star hotels in February from US$81 for two people
- February avg high: 56F/16C
- February avg low: 43F/6C
- February avg precip: 2.4″/6.0cm
- Good 3-star hotels in February from US$68 for two people
- Good 4-star hotels in February from US$99 for two people
- February avg high: 64F/18C
- February avg low: 46F/8C
- February avg precip: 2.1″/5.3cm
- Good 3-star hotels in February from US$77 for two people
- Good 4-star hotels in February from US$104 for two people
- February avg high: 41F/5C
- February avg low: 27F/-3C
- February avg precip: 2.8″/7.0cm
- Good 3-star hotels in February from US$187 for two people
- Good 4-star hotels in February from US$249 for two people
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is one of Europe’s sunniest capitals, and in February it often feels like spring has already arrived. Afternoon highs usually reach the mid-60s °F (around 18°C), and you’ll find plenty of locals sitting outside at cafés along the Praça do Comércio or the waterfront. It’s one of the best times of year to enjoy the city’s hills and views without the summer crowds or blazing heat.
The charm of Lisbon lies in its blend of history and easygoing atmosphere. You can spend hours wandering the narrow streets of the Alfama and Bairro Alto districts, riding the famous yellow trams, and stopping for coffee and pastel de nata at every excuse. Even with its growing popularity, Lisbon still feels personal and affordable — small hotels and guesthouses offer good deals in February, and restaurants are relaxed rather than packed.
For a bit of adventure, it’s an easy day trip to Sintra, where colorful palaces sit in misty hills that seem straight out of a fairy tale. Lisbon’s mild winter weather and laid-back vibe make it one of Europe’s most pleasant February destinations, perfect for travelers who like their sunshine paired with old-world charm.
Hotel prices in February
Nice, France
Nice is the heart of France’s Riviera, and while February isn’t beach weather, it’s still an ideal time to enjoy this famously beautiful stretch of coast. The skies are often blue, daytime temperatures hover around 60°F (16°C), and the crowds that fill the Promenade des Anglais in summer are nowhere to be found. The city feels calm and elegant — a Mediterranean break with a softer, more local rhythm.
This is the month of the Nice Carnival, one of Europe’s oldest and most colorful street festivals, which fills the city with parades, music, and elaborate floats. It’s a great reminder that the Côte d’Azur isn’t just a summer playground — it has personality and life year-round. Between events, you can stroll through the Old Town, browse local markets, or take a short train ride to Cannes or Monaco for easy day trips.
Hotels are far cheaper than in the warm months, and many restaurants run off-season specials. For travelers who want sunshine, French flavor, and sea views without the high-season prices, Nice is one of Europe’s best February surprises.
Hotel prices in February
Malaga, Spain
Málaga is one of Europe’s warmest mainland cities in February, often reaching the high 60s °F (around 20°C) under clear blue skies. While most of Europe is still bundled up, people here are having lunch outdoors and walking along the beach promenade. It’s an easy, low-stress destination — compact, sunny, and full of life even in midwinter.
The city has quietly transformed over the past decade from a transit point for Costa del Sol resorts into a cultural and culinary destination in its own right. The Picasso Museum, Pompidou Centre, and a lively tapas scene give it real depth beyond the beaches. Even the waterfront has been revamped, with palm-lined promenades, outdoor cafés, and rooftop bars that stay busy year-round.
Hotels are excellent value in February, and the mild weather makes it ideal for sightseeing day trips to Granada, Córdoba, or the mountain villages nearby. For travelers chasing a bit of genuine warmth without leaving Europe, Málaga might just be the perfect winter escape.
Hotel prices in February
Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken sits in the heart of the Swiss Alps, surrounded by snowcapped peaks and turquoise lakes that look almost unreal in winter sunlight. February is technically between seasons — the main ski resorts are busy, but the town itself is quieter, with hiking trails and lake paths that stay open and peaceful. Prices are lower than in summer, and the crisp alpine air makes even a short walk feel restorative.
This is one of those places that looks good in any weather. You can take the funicular up to Harder Kulm for sweeping views, ride the scenic trains that climb into the Bernese Alps, or just sip hot chocolate while watching paragliders drift over the valley. Interlaken feels like the Switzerland of storybooks — clean, calm, and almost impossibly scenic.
Just south of town lies the Lauterbrunnen Valley, which I’d argue is the most beautiful place in Europe — and maybe even the world. Sheer cliffs rise above meadows and waterfalls that stay partly frozen in February, and the tiny villages tucked into the valley look straight out of a fantasy film. Even in the quiet winter months, this area is worth a visit for anyone who loves mountains, photography, or simply being surrounded by natural beauty. Many people who decide they want to “visit Switzerland” really don’t know where they should go. If you want to see the most dramatic views of the Alps with the most charming towns and best winter infrastructure, you should head to the Interlaken area.
Hotel prices in February
Final Thoughts
February might not sound like the obvious time to visit Europe, but it’s one of the most rewarding months for smart travelers. Flights and hotels are cheaper, the crowds are gone, and many of the continent’s most famous cities feel surprisingly relaxed. Whether you’re walking along the Seine, exploring Roman ruins in sunshine, or enjoying a quiet Mediterranean lunch in Spain or Portugal, you’ll see a more authentic side of Europe this time of year.
It’s also the perfect month for off-season beauty — misty canals, snowcapped Alps, and historic streets that feel almost private. With a warm coat and a little curiosity, February in Europe can feel like a secret season — quieter, cozier, and every bit as memorable as the busy months ahead.
Hi, I am looking at a european city or a group of cities for my honeymoon. The places should be rich in culture, architecture and at the same time should also have some romantic destinations (may be beach, resort etc). I am planning to visit in february 3rd week.
Jay,
In February in Europe the beaches on the continent are all much too cold to spend any time. The only beach area that is warm enough in that area is the Canary Islands, and I mention Tenerife in the top of the article above. If you don’t need beaches then I’d go to Italy for sure, as it has everything you are looking for and has mild weather in February compared to the rest of Europe. Rome, Florence, and Venice are the Big 3 of Italy and they are all very worthwhile. -Roger
hi, we are planning our honeymoon in Feb 2019 to Europe, which is better option london-amsterdam-paris or prague-salzburg-vienna-budapest????
Hitanshu,
If this is your first time to Europe I’d definitely recommend London, Paris, Amsterdam. Those three cities are all on my list of the “5 Great European cities to visit first” and you can read more about why on that link. Even if it’s not your first trip to Europe I’d probably recommend that London trip because in February those other cities will be just a bit gloomy. London, Amsterdam, and Paris are always lively, even when it’s chilly and gray out. The other cities would be cheaper and I’m a fan of all of them, but in winter I really think I’d do the London version. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger
We are considering Prague, Budapest and Vienna for our honeymoon and first visit to Europe in February 2019. Will it too gloomy and most things closed? Like river cruise.. Will we need snow shoes? Or will it be a cosy and unique experience for the beginning of our life together. Also we are vegetarians..
Deepak,
The weather in those cities will definitely be cold in February, and it’ll probably be below freezing most nights, but none of those cities tend to get much snow so normal shoes will be just fine. 🙂
I would imagine that a few things will be closed, but I just checked on the one-hour river cruise in Prague and they operate every day of the year. There are definitely cities in Europe that will be warmer in February, but if you want to visit those 3 cities and February is the time you have I think you’ll have a great time. They are all very large and busy capital cities where most of the attractions are indoors anyway. I think it will be fun and cozy as long as you research what you want to see in advance. Vienna, for example, is famous for its classical concerts and waltzes and cultural events, and the season for all of that is September through May, so it will all be going strong when you are there. As long as you bring the right clothes, you should have a wonderful honeymoon.
As for being vegetarians, you’ll have to do your research on that as well, but you’ll have plenty of options. That part of Europe is famous for its meat consumption and even vegetable dishes in most restaurants will probably have some animal fat in them. If you are strict you’ll want to search for restaurants that cater to the vegetarian crowds. There are dozens of them in each of those cities, including some new vegan restaurants. Tripadvisor now has a search function where you can tick a box that says “vegetarian friendly” and another one that says “vegan options”. Any restaurant that shows up in those searches is going to take it pretty seriously and should be reliable. At this point there are thousands of American and other European backpackers and tourists who are strict vegetarians, so restaurants that are also strict with it can stay pretty busy. And you’ll find Indian restaurants in all of those cities as well. Have a great trip. -Roger
Hello. I’m looking to take a trip in February. I grew up in LA but currently live in Chicago. I’m thinking either London and France or Italy and France. I want to visit more than one city. I’ll be traveling solo so I would prefer huge cities where I can meet other travelers. I’d like to be I. Europe at least 9 days. Thank you in advance!
Noelle,
I think either of your options would be great choices, even in February. The shortest visit to Italy that I recommend is 6 days, but 7 or 8 days is better. For London and Paris I’d stay a minimum of 3 nights and 4 nights is better because both are so large and packed with great sights.
So you could fly into London and spend 4 nights there and then take the Eurostar train to Paris for 4 nights. If you’ve got extra days to fill you could stay longer in either city and do one or more day trips such as Bath and Stone Henge in England or one of the wine regions in France, or even Avignon.
If you wanted to do the Italy option you could fly into Paris and spend 3 nights there and then fly to Venice (or nearby Treviso Airport) for about a 24-hour stay and then a train to Florence for 2 or 3 days and then a train to Rome for your final 3 days. As mentioned in the article above, Italy will have better weather in February, though it will be chilly in all of these places. If you are in the mood to rush around a bit then the Italy option is probably the better choice, but if you more like the idea of staying longer in each place the London option is probably best. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger
Hi Roger,
I am taking my daughter to Europe as a college grad gift, just her and I. She graduated in Dec, so we are looking at mid January, we have 9 days and would love to do two different countries. She has never been to London so I think that is a must, where else would you suggest in January, I know it will be cold…we are from LA 🙂 Any great ideas or suggestions would be amazing! I am going to meet her in Israel first (she is finishing a college trip) then we will travel together. Thanks so much!
Lauren,
That sounds like a wonderful trip. I grew up in LA also, so I know what you mean about not needing warm destinations when you leave home. 🙂
As you can see from the suggestions in the article above, pretty much all of Europe is either cold or very cold in February, so you’ll need to bundle up a bit no matter where you go. I’d say the obvious choice after London is Paris because it’s an amazing city and you can take the Eurostar train from London and be there in a bit over two hours. In 9 days you could do 3 days in 3 different cities. I don’t think I’d go anywhere else in France that time of year because it’s pretty dead for tourism outside of Paris. My next suggestion would be to then go from Paris to Amsterdam, which is only a bit over 3 hours by train. Amsterdam is beautiful any time of year and it’s very different from London and Paris. In winter I’m a fan of visiting large cities that have good public transportation, so those three would make an excellent combination. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger
OMG, Mine too… though in 2019 so am researching now Amanda. Let me know how it goes for you.
Hi Amanda,
If you’re looking to spend your birthday in Europe, I would suggest Sicily (Italy) or Corsica (France). The article didn’t mention any of them but they are truly amazing in February. Also, Malaga, mentioned above, can be a great base to explore Andalucía (southern Portugal) on day trips, including Cordoba, Seville, Ronda and Alhambra. These places are amazing and the winters are very mild.
Ian,
Thank you. Those are good suggestions. Malta is another one I might add soon as well. -Roger
Hello, so we had planned to have my February birthday (this one ends in a zero …) in Anguilla. The villa owner had advised against due to Irma damage and very kindly returned our deposit. I’m looking for inspiration as to where to go instead! We live in sthn France so thought we might drive down to sthn Spain. Really did want to get some sun so wonder if you can suggest anywhere in europe (not Tenerife thanks!) that is easy to get to and a little warmer. many thanks, Amanda
Amanda,
Sorry to hear about your Anguilla holiday, but it’s good that you got your deposit back. On the other hand, out of the 25 or so major Caribbean islands, only about 6 or 7 received heavy damage, and all of the larger ones are not only intact but also hoping to keep their businesses going. I have a list of Caribbean destinations from cheapest to most expensive, and at the top I list the islands to avoid this coming season.
As for Europe, you won’t get warm weather anywhere on the continent in February. I understand why you might not want to go to the Canaries. As mentioned in the article, the Costa del Sol area around Malaga is the warmest area and at least you don’t have to bundle up so much. And Lisbon along with the Algarve is almost as warm that time of year.
The only other thing I can suggest is to have a scan of this list I made recently of the cheapest Europe all-inclusive destinations. Most are in Europe and some are nearby, including a few that actually have decent weather in February. Even if you don’t want to do an all-inclusive, at least that list might give you some other ideas. Aside from those, your best bet for a sunshine holiday in February would be either Mexico or nearby, or in Thailand. Sorry I couldn’t be of more help. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger
I have to disagree with Roger on this one. It is extremely easy to reach Northern Norway (Tromso) in the winter or at all times per year and many flights per day depart from Oslo. Tromso also has a great deal to offer beyond just the Northern Lights in February. Reindeer sledding, snowmobile safari, dog sledding, Sammi experiences – much more to do and see than in Iceland.
David,
Thank you for the respectful comment and I’m sure there are others out there who will agree for you. I don’t believe I mentioned Norway or Iceland in this article, but I do know that there is a booming subset of travelers who are looking for Northern Lights tourism and other cold-weather attractions. At the same time, the article above is for the vast majority of travelers who are trying to find non-extreme destinations in Europe if they are going in February. If I knew more about those winter activities I might start a new series about the best places to go to experience short days and sub-freezing temperatures while still having a good and adventurous time. Cheers. -Roger
Looking to visit European country in the month of feb along with viewing northern lights
Please suggest suitable options/itenary
Rohan,
As you probably know, the Northern Lights are best viewed (or often only viewed) in extreme northern places. If that is your primary goal then Iceland is probably your best choice. There are many specific Northern Lights tours that have become very popular and include all your transportation, lodging, and meals during the period when you are attempting to experience the lights.
Aside from Iceland, you can do similar things in northern Sweden, Norway, and even Finland. One challenge is that there isn’t much else to see or do during that period. There isn’t much daylight during winter in the extreme north, and it’s obviously quite cold as well. And getting to these extreme northern locations is also difficult because you have to book flights on tiny airlines that don’t fly very often.
My top suggestion would be to stop off in Iceland on your way to Europe for a few days and look into a Northern Lights tour like this one. Then I’d get back on a plane and head to one of the cities mentioned in the list above for the rest of your trip. If you are coming from the US or Canada you can usually get very good airfare deals with a stop in Iceland on the way there or back. Believe it or not, it’s much easier to get to Iceland for a quick stop than it is to reach northern Sweden or Norway in winter. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger