Norway Joins Sweden, Finland, Switzerland, Austria and More in Snowstorm Alert – Expert Tips to Embrace Europe’s Snowy Magic and Make Your Christmas and New Year Holiday Memorable

Published on December 22, 2025

Norway joins Sweden, Finland, Switzerland, Austria, and more in a snowstorm alert, warning travelers of heavy snow and icy conditions expected this Christmas and New Year. As winter weather tightens its grip on Europe, these destinations will experience snowstorms and freezing temperatures, making for a truly magical snowy holiday. While these winter wonderlands offer breathtaking landscapes, travelers must prepare for challenging conditions. However, with the right planning, you can still enjoy your holiday travels despite the snow. Expert tips will help you stay warm, safe, and make the most of your time in some of Europe’s most iconic snowy destinations. Whether you’re skiing in Austria or visiting Christmas markets in Switzerland, it’s important to be aware of the weather and take steps to ensure a smooth trip. Let this guide help you navigate snowy conditions and embrace Europe’s winter magic while creating lasting holiday memories.

Norway: Snowy Bliss in the Arctic

Snowfall Predictions

Norway is expected to experience deep snow, especially in the mountainous and inland regions. Northern Norway and the Arctic Circle will have consistent snowfall from early December through Christmas. Oslo and central Norway will see moderate snow by Christmas, with temperatures dropping to -6°C to 0°C.

What Travelers Should Do

Dress warmly and be prepared for icy roads and snowdrifts. Winter tyres are a must for those driving. Plan ahead for potential flight delays due to snowstorms.

Winter Events to Experience

Explore the northern lights, snowshoeing in Tromsø, and Christmas markets in Oslo and Bergen. Don’t miss a winter fjord cruise for a picturesque snowy landscape.

What Not to Miss

Skiing in Hemingford, dog sledding in Kirkenes, and a visit to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi.

Sweden: Lapland’s Winter Wonderland

Snowfall Predictions

Lapland in northern Sweden will have heavy snowfalls, making it a prime destination for snow lovers. Stockholm will see light snow, while Kiruna and the Abisko National Park will experience deep snow from December through February.

What Travelers Should Do

Bundle up in layered clothing, as temperatures can dip well below -10°C. If driving, expect icy roads and snowstorms, particularly in the north.

Winter Events to Experience

Celebrate Christmas with traditional Swedish markets. Visit the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, the world’s first ice hotel, and enjoy reindeer sledding.

What Not to Miss

The northern lights in Kiruna, Abisko’s Icehotel, and the world-famous Swedish Christmas buffet (Julbord).

Finland: Snow and Santa’s Land

Snowfall Predictions

Finland is one of the snowiest countries in Europe during the holiday season. Lapland will be covered in a blanket of snow, with temperatures as low as -20°C. Southern Finland will also see moderate snow by Christmas, especially in Helsinki and Tampere.

What Travelers Should Do

Prepare for extremely cold temperatures and make sure to have thermal wear. Winter tyres are essential if you plan to drive. Expect slippery streets and potential snowstorms.

Winter Events to Experience

Visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, where snow is guaranteed. Ice fishing, reindeer safaris, and snowmobile tours are highly recommended.

What Not to Miss

The Santa Claus Village, snowmobile safaris, and a visit to the Northern Lights in Lapland.

Austria: Alpine Magic Awaits

Snowfall Predictions

Austria’s Alps will be blanketed with heavy snow. Innsbruck and Salzburg will see light to moderate snow. Tyrol and Vorarlberg are expected to receive significant snow, making it perfect for ski lovers.

What Travelers Should Do

Dress warmly for outdoor activities. If skiing, check the Avalanche warnings and get updated on the snow report from local resorts.

Winter Events to Experience

Austria’s Christmas markets are legendary. Enjoy skating in Vienna’s city centre and attend the Vienna Opera’s Christmas performance.

What Not to Miss

Don’t miss skiing in Tyrol and Vorarlberg, Christmas markets in Vienna, and a visit to Hallstatt for its picturesque snow-covered views.

Switzerland: Winter Wonderland in the Alps

Snowfall Predictions

Switzerland’s Alps will see substantial snowfall in December, with Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Interlaken covered in snow. The lowlands, including Zurich and Geneva, will have moderate snow, but heavier snow will be found at higher elevations.

What Travelers Should Do

For snow lovers, skiing is a must. If driving, equip your vehicle with snow chains and check the road conditions for closures. Dress in thermal layers.

Winter Events to Experience

Visit the Zurich Christmas Market, enjoy an iconic Alpine train ride, and experience the Swiss National Park during its winter glory.

What Not to Miss

Skiing in Zermatt and St. Moritz, ice skating in Zurich, and the snowy scenery of the Bernese Oberland.

Czechia: Snowy Peaks Await

Snowfall Predictions

The Krkonoš Mountains in Czechia will have consistent snow during Christmas. Prague and Brno might see light snow, but expect heavier snow in the mountainous regions like Špindlerův Mlýn.

What Travelers Should Do

Expect slippery sidewalks in urban areas, so wear sturdy, waterproof boots. In the mountains, check snow conditions and resort updates.

Winter Events to Experience

Explore the Czech Christmas markets, and if you’re in the mountains, enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Krkonoš.

What Not to Miss

The Czech Christmas market in Prague, Krkonoš skiing, and snowy castles in Bohemia.

Poland and Slovakia: Snowy Heights

Snowfall Predictions

Tatras Mountains in Poland and Slovakia will have deep snow by Christmas. Zakopane in Poland will be covered with snow, making it a perfect destination for skiing and winter hikes.

What Travelers Should Do

Prepare for icy roads in mountain areas. If driving, use winter tyres and keep an eye on weather updates. Wear thermal clothing to handle the cold.

Winter Events to Experience

Both countries are famous for their Christmas markets. Enjoy skiing in Zakopane, and don’t miss a winter walk in Tatra National Park.

What Not to Miss

Skiing in Zakopane, Christmas markets, and the magical snowy mountain views in the Tatras.

Baltic States: Snowy Streets Await

Snowfall Predictions

Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania will experience light to moderate snow during Christmas. Coastal areas will have milder weather, but the inland regions are likely to see snow accumulation.

What Travelers Should Do

Expect icy roads and slippery sidewalks, especially in Riga and Tallinn. Dress in layers and wear waterproof footwear to stay warm.

Winter Events to Experience

Don’t miss the Christmas markets in Tallinn and Riga, and explore the snow-covered Old Towns.

What Not to Miss

The Riga Christmas market, snow-covered Old Towns, and winter walks in Vilnius.

Snow Photography Tips for Travelers

Winter landscapes are perfect for photography. Here’s how to capture the beauty of the snowy season:

• Best time for winter photos: Early mornings or sunsets when the light is soft.
• Snow photography tips: Expose for the snow and adjust white balance to avoid overexposed or cold tones.
• Protect your camera: Keep your camera batteries warm and avoid condensation when moving between indoor and outdoor environments.

Hidden Winter Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Snow Destinations in Europe

Europe is filled with well-known winter destinations, but there are many hidden gems where snow and Christmas magic await, yet the crowds remain smaller. These lesser-known spots offer authentic winter experiences and a more peaceful holiday. Here are some great underrated winter destinations:

• Norway: Lofoten Islands – Snow-capped peaks, picturesque fishing villages, and the midnight sun in winter.
• Sweden: Vemdalen – A smaller ski resort, ideal for families seeking a quieter Christmas.
• Finland: Koli National Park – Tranquil winter hiking with stunning snowy views.
• Austria: Zell am See – Known for its frozen lake, perfect for winter skating and sledging.
• Czechia: Český Krumlov – A magical fairy-tale town with snow-dusted rooftops and festive charm.
• Poland: Zakopane’s Tatra National Park offers remote winter beauty, with fewer crowds compared to major ski resorts.
• Slovakia: High Tatras offers both skiing and winter hiking far from the bustle of more famous spots.
• Baltic States: Sigulda in Latvia, offering a winter wonderland with castle ruins covered in snow.

These destinations are not just less crowded, they also offer a unique, quieter winter escape where you can immerse yourself in nature, take scenic winter walks, and discover local traditions.

Winter Travel Safety: Essential Tips for Snow and Ice Conditions

Snowy weather can bring beauty, but it also brings some challenges. Here are some safety tips for travelers who are unfamiliar with winter conditions or need extra help navigating snowy landscapes:

• Winter Driving Tips:
  • Always check road conditions before traveling in snowy areas. Look for closures or alerts on official national road websites.
  • Keep an emergency kit in the car, including extra warm clothes, flashlight, and snacks in case of delays.
  • Don’t forget snow chains, and practice how to install them before you need them.
  • Keep your car’s fuel tank full to avoid getting stuck in freezing temperatures.
• Dressing for the Snow:
  • Use the layering technique: First layer should be moisture-wicking (like merino wool), second layer for insulation (down or fleece), and outer layer should be windproof and waterproof.
  • Invest in snow boots that are both warm and waterproof.
  • Winter gloves with touch-screen compatibility will allow you to use your phone in cold weather without exposing your hands to the elements.
• Dealing with Frostbite and Hypothermia:
  • Keep your extremities covered—hands, feet, and head are most vulnerable.
  • Frostbite signs include numbness, pale or red skin, and stiffness. If any of these symptoms appear, get to warmth immediately and seek medical help.
• Snow Safety for Outdoor Activities:
  • If skiing or snowboarding, check the Avalanche Risk Report and use avalanche safety gear.
  • Stick to marked trails for safety, and make sure to have a map or GPS for navigating the snow-covered terrain.
  • If you’re going on a snow hike, tell someone your route and expected return time.

By preparing in advance, you’ll not only stay safe but also have a more relaxed and enjoyable holiday in Europe’s snowy destinations.

The Best Winter Activities for Non-Skiers

Not everyone loves skiing or snowboarding, but Europe’s snowy destinations offer plenty of other exciting winter activities for those looking to enjoy the cold in different ways. Here’s a list of activities beyond the slopes:

• Winter Hiking: Take a walk on snowshoes through swathes of snow-covered forest or along icy lakesides. Norway, Sweden, and Finland offer stunning winter hiking routes that are less crowded but just as beautiful as the ski resorts.
• Ice Fishing: A quintessentially Finnish winter experience, ice fishing on frozen lakes is a relaxing and rewarding activity. In countries like Finland and Poland, you can take part in guided ice fishing expeditions.
• Sleigh Rides: If you’re in Austria or Sweden, horse-drawn sleigh rides through the snow-covered countryside provide a classic winter experience. In Finland, you can even have reindeer sleigh rides in the Lapland wilderness.
• Christmas Markets: Winter markets are a highlight of the European holiday season. From Vienna’s Christmas Market to Riga’s old town market, there’s nothing like strolling through stalls filled with handmade crafts, glühwein (mulled wine), and roasted chestnuts under twinkling lights.
• Snowshoeing: Available in places like the Swiss Alps or Czechia’s Krkonoš Mountains, snowshoeing is a fantastic way to explore snow-covered forests and fields in a peaceful, relaxed manner.