Alongside the summer, the winter and the holiday season tends to be one of the only times a year that we actually get to take a bit of a break. However, the majority of people don’t travel in the winter because it can be cold, it can be inconvenient, and they want to spend time with the family at home. However, for many that isn’t an option right now, so perhaps this would be the perfect year for a city break? If so, how do you make sure you’re having the best time possible?
Consider keeping it closer to Christmas
One of the big benefits of visiting some of the best cities in winter is that many of them are going to be getting ready for Christmas. This can mean colourful lights, Christmas markets (though there may be fewer this year) and a general buzz of warmth that adds some life even in the colder months of the year. As such, it might be worth making some Christmas plans and getting into the city closer to the holidays than not. Most cities tend to have plenty of seasonal attractions, such as ice skating rinks, shows, concerts, and more to enjoy when the season comes.
Take advantage of the tours
While not available in every city, you should take a look to see what kind of bus or driving tours might be near you in the city of your choice. Effectively, these can take a lot of the strain and stress out of finding the tourist hot spots that you might want to see. However, they’re even handier in the winter since they can keep you out of that cold and let you enjoy the city a little more at your own leisure. A lot of them will let you step out and stop at any point so you can better enjoy the highlights along the way, too.
Wrap up warm
When you’re packing for a winter vacation of any sort, you want to make sure that you’re dressing sensibly for the environment. On any given city break, you’re likely to be spending plenty of time walking around looking at the various attractions. To that end, you should ensure that you’re not freezing your boots off. Pack warmer clothes, especially mens winter coats, and bring a thermos with you so that you can pause and take a warm drink any time that you need it. Don’t forget to bring at least one pair of boots as well. City pathways tend to be better maintained in the winter, but that doesn’t mean that you’re completely safe from slipping and tripping hazards out there.
Get extra comfy with it
If you’re exploring the city in winter, you’re not only going to be dealing with the cold but also the fact that you’re more likely to be exhausted moving around in said cold. The worse weather tends to sap our energy and leave us exhausted a little more easily. For that reason, it’s important to be able to reach out an enjoy a little comfort on your way. For that reason, you might want to look at staying at a spa hotel instead of a regular one, or simply finding some other means to add a little extra creature comfort to your stay. Spoiling and pampering yourself after a day out there can be just what the body needs after a day of walking.
Know where to go shopping
Whether you’re looking to do a little present shopping while you’re out and about, or you simply want to bring back some souvenirs for yourself, it’s worth budgeting a little extra in the holiday funds simply to enjoy the seasonal shopping opportunities popping up all over the place. If you haven’t chosen a city to stay in yet, consider choosing one that’s well known for its shopping, and make sure you know a few good areas to explore. Given that Christmas is just around the corner (at least in early winter) you’re going to be able to find deals that simply would not be there at any other time of year. At the very least, it can nice to explore and enjoy the buzz while grabbing a cup of coffee in the city centre.
There’s nothing to stop you from having a fantastic time on a winter city break. You just need to make sure that you’re ready to find your fun where it’s open and to take care of yourself out there. With the tips above, you should hopefully be able to do that.