Explore Europe’s most desirable winter cities - and the exceptional homes within them

As the weather turns crisp, it ushers in one of the most magical moments to explore Europe’s great cities, whether you’re seeking Christmas-card scenes of snow-dusted rooftops and quaint festive markets, or heading south for a mild weather escape.

In an increasingly mobile world, Europe’s urban centres continue to captivate. Beyond their global connectivity and thriving business environments, they offer a depth of history, culture and lifestyle found nowhere else. According to Knight Frank’s European Lifestyle Report 2025, cities are now the top choice for relocation, with movers prioritising access to high-quality healthcare, leading international schools and excellent transport links. For many, these advantages make Europe’s most desirable destinations appealing not just for seasonal escapes, but as vibrant, year-round places to call home.

We journey to five of Europe’s most spectacular cities to experience during the winter months, along with a selection of cosy and luxurious properties that might just tempt you to stay longer.

6 bedroom apartment for sale in Avenidas Novas, Lisbon. Guide price €3,490,000

Lisbon

Lisbon topped the list of preferred European cities in the report, and while this coastal capital shines bright in summer, the winter months reveal a calmer, more intimate side. As tourist numbers dwindle and the weather softens, the city eases into the festive season: lights illuminate the Praça do Comércio, Christmas markets fill Rossio square, and it becomes the ideal time to settle in with hearty Portuguese stews and seasonal favourites such as bolo-rei (King’s Cake).

This expansive six-bedroom apartment in the elegant, contemporary district of Avenidas Novas is perfectly positioned to take advantage of the city’s business and leisure offerings. Featuring an advanced home automation system and every modern convenience, the property also provides residents with a 24-hour concierge and security service, as well as access to a private rooftop.

4 bedroom apartment for sale in Milan, Lombardy Guide price €4,400,000

Milan

Milan is especially enchanting during the holiday season, when the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Piazza Duomo burst into life with elaborate decorations. The months ahead promise to be even more memorable, as the city prepares to co-host the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, an event already generating a palpable sense of excitement.

Set in the heart of Milan’s Quadrilatero del Silenzio, this four-bedroom apartment is surrounded by refined cafés, boutiques, museums, and leafy green spaces, just moments away from Parco Palestro, Corso Venezia, and Piazza San Babila. Situated within the prestigious Palazzo Civita - an elegant 1930s building designed by Gigiotti Zanini and one of the finest expressions of Milanese Rationalism - this light-filled residence blends contemporary luxury with original period details throughout.

5 bedroom townhouse for sale in 4th District, Vienna, Austria. Guide price €9,900,000

Vienna

For a beautiful winter backdrop, with the real possibility of snow, Vienna offers a rich cultural escape. The crisp weather provides the perfect excuse to explore the city’s grand palaces and world-class museums. Throughout the season, Vienna’s most beautiful squares and palace grounds, including the grand Rathausplatz and the atmospheric Belvedere Palace, are transformed into iconic Christmas markets filled with the aromas of toasted almonds, mulled wine and other festive treats.

Positioned near to the Belvedere Palace in the upscale 4th district is this five-bedroom townhouse, reflecting the architectural elegance for which Vienna is renowned. Offering 644 sq m of living space spread across three floors within a tranquil, secluded courtyard building, the residence includes a private elevator to ensure discretion and convenience. The home’s refined design is matched by generous outdoor space, featuring two large terraces, a front garden, and an additional private garden within the courtyard.

Corsier, Genève, Switzerland. Guide price CHF 3,980,000

Geneva

With the majestic Alps, crowned by Mont Blanc and the Jura Mountains, providing a dramatic winter backdrop, Geneva becomes especially captivating during the colder months. The cobbled streets of the Old Town take on an atmospheric charm, lined with inviting fine-dining and traditional restaurants, independent boutiques and art galleries. Along the Quai du Mont-Blanc, the city’s main Christmas market unfolds in a stunning lakeside setting.

Just up the shores of Lake Geneva, with convenient access to the city, lies Coia, a luxurious collection of villas situated only 200 metres from the marina at Corsier-Port, an ideal location for sailing enthusiasts. Developed by frey architectes fas, the project is a masterclass in modern, sustainable design. Each villa is built using eco-responsible materials and equipment, incorporating the latest innovations in sustainable technology to create contemporary living spaces that are both refined and environmentally conscious.

2 bedroom duplex for sale in Paris 16, Île-De-France. Price on application

Paris

‘The City of Light’ takes on a new meaning during the festive season, as Paris comes alive with bustling markets and dazzling illuminations stretching along the Champs-Élysées and across to Place Vendôme and Avenue Montaigne. Visitors can take advantage of shorter queues at the city’s world-renowned cultural landmarks, or indulge in a traditional bûche de Noël (Yule log cake), with an abundance of exceptional pâtisseries to choose from.

Parisian living rarely comes better located than this extraordinary residence, which has a direct view of the iconic Arc de Triomphe. This 150 sq m duplex apartment has been meticulously renovated, with full-height windows and Versailles parquet flooring enhancing its sense of grandeur and timeless elegance.