With heatwaves pummeling countries across Europe this summer, it is not surprising many people have chosen to vacation in the cooler months.

Searches for winter holidays have been soaring and an analysis by Europe ferry operator DFDS has found those that are the top trending for 2024/25 in Europe.

Travel researchers looked at 229 towns and cities across Europe, examining the change in Google searches between July 2023 and July 2024 compared to the previous two years to identify spikes in interest.

The research finds that two Austrian cities rank among the top three most up-and-coming destinations holidaymakers are looking to visit in winter. Tromsø in Norway ranks second.

Salzburg Is The Trendiest European Destination This Winter

Searches for winter vacations in the Austrian city of Salzburg increased by 135% this year, according to DFDS.

With its backdrop of snow-capped Alps, Salzburg is a renowned natural alpine beauty. It also has plenty for the history buff with a UNESCO-listed old town and the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress on a rocky outcrop above the city.

As the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is steeped in musical heritage, with classical concerts and performances regularly held in its historic venues.

Over Christmas, the city transforms into a twinkling winter wonderland, where visitors can stroll through its cobbled streets, visit traditional Christmas markets and get snug in its cozy cafés.

Tromsø Is One Of The Most Popular Places To Vacation This Winter

The Norwegian city of Tromsø has also seen an uptick in holiday searches. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’, this city is renowned for its clear night skies and frequent Northern Lights displays.

Tromsø’s culture reflects a blend of indigenous Sami traditions and contemporary Scandinavian life, visible in its museums, cuisine and winter festivals.

In winter, visitors can enjoy a range of seasonal activities, from dog sledding to whale watching, set against a backdrop of striking natural scenery.

Visit Vienna In Winter For Legendary Christmas Markets

Austria’s capital is a majestic city with its grand imperial architecture, world-class museums and coffeehouses.

Vienna’s cultural scene comes particularly alive in the winter, when visitors can enjoy classical concerts and festive Christmas markets that line its squares.

There are long-standing musical traditions each holiday season, such as the New Year’s Concert and the Viennese waltz.

Take A Winter Vacation In Lanzarote For Off-Season Sun

Lanzarote’s year-round pleasant weather and dramatic natural scenery persuade plenty of holidaymakers to consider swapping winter chills for island breezes.

The island’s cultural attractions, such as César Manrique’s architectural works and the white-washed towns of Teguise and Yaiza, can be enjoyed relatively crowd-free over winter compared to the busy summer season.

Visit Krakow For Warming Winter Foods

In winter, Krakow’s Main Square hosts one of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets where visitors can enjoy local delicacies like pierogi (stuffed dumplings) and mulled wine.

Notable attractions such as Wawel Castle and St Mary’s Basilica are especially striking in winter. With its blend of historic architecture, festive events and vibrant street life, Krakow has been gaining popularity as a winter holiday destination.