Paris Joins London, Amsterdam, Rome, Milan, Madrid, Lisbon, Berlin, and More as Top Affordable Winter Getaways for 2025

Published on November 29, 2025

Paris, long celebrated for its timeless beauty and romantic allure, now stands alongside London, Amsterdam, Rome, Milan, Madrid, Lisbon, and Berlin as one of the most affordable winter destinations for 2025. With round-trip flights to these iconic cities available for under €200, travelers can explore Europe’s best offerings without stretching their budgets. Whether you’re drawn to the festive charm of Paris’ holiday lights, the vibrant energy of Madrid’s winter streets, or the historic wonders of Rome, these cities provide an unbeatable combination of low-cost flights and memorable experiences. For those seeking a winter getaway before the busy holiday season kicks into full gear, these European cities offer both value and unforgettable charm.

A recent analysis of flight prices for travel between December 5th and December 8th, 2025, shows that Milan offers the best value, with average round-trip fares as low as €87. Madrid, another top European destination, comes in second with an average ticket price of €98. London, famous for its iconic landmarks and cultural significance, ranks third, with round-trip flights averaging €125. These destinations stand out for offering a mix of affordability and the charm of winter holiday experiences, making them ideal for those looking to travel without overspending.

Top Affordable European Destinations for the December Bridge

For those seeking an affordable winter getaway, several cities in Europe offer excellent value this December. The study, which compared flight prices from April 1st to October 31st for trips planned in early December 2025, reveals a list of the most affordable destinations for the December bridge. Here’s a look at the top ten cities offering great deals on round-trip flights:

1. Milan (Italy): €87 (on average for round-trip tickets)
2. Madrid (Spain): €98
3. London (United Kingdom): €125
4. Lisbon (Portugal): €129
5. Rome (Italy): €159
6. Paris (France): €159
7. Brussels (Belgium): €160
8. Berlin (Germany): €172
9. Amsterdam (Netherlands): €181
10. Vienna (Austria): €193

Milan’s exceptionally low round-trip fares make it the top choice for budget-conscious travelers, but Madrid and London also offer very affordable flight prices. Milan, with its stylish architecture, rich art scene, and vibrant cuisine, is an attractive option, while Madrid’s energetic atmosphere, historical landmarks, and world-renowned museums are sure to captivate visitors. London, with its mix of history, theater, and culture, offers something for everyone.

Other cities like Lisbon, Rome, and Paris are also available at reasonable prices for those looking to experience Europe’s winter magic. Lisbon, with its scenic views, historic neighborhoods, and delicious seafood, offers a fantastic escape with an average round-trip fare of €129. Rome and Paris, both iconic for their beauty, art, and cuisine, come in at €159 for round-trip flights, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a blend of culture and romance at an affordable price.

Winter Getaway Opportunities on a Budget

The December bridge presents an ideal opportunity for those wishing to travel before the holiday rush. With several European destinations offering round-trip flights for under €200, this is a prime moment to plan a winter vacation without breaking the bank. Milan, Madrid, and London provide the most budget-friendly options, but other cities, like Paris and Vienna, are not far behind.

Paris and London are particularly appealing due to significant price reductions compared to last year. Flights to Paris have dropped by 20%, while London fares are 19% cheaper, making these two cities excellent choices for cost-conscious travelers. Moreover, hotel stays in these cities are also relatively affordable, with average nightly rates of €106 in Paris and €107 in London, allowing visitors to enjoy their stay without worrying about sky-high accommodation costs. For those interested in experiencing Christmas markets and festive atmospheres, cities like Budapest, Basel, and Prague provide a magical winter experience, even though flights to these destinations are slightly higher, ranging from €206 to €268 for round-trip tickets.

Beyond Europe: Affordable Long-Haul Travel

For those wishing to travel outside of Europe, the study also examines long-haul destinations, which offer good value for travelers who want to explore new continents. New York tops the list for the most affordable long-distance flight from Europe, with average round-trip fares of €450. Latin America also presents some enticing options, with flights to Bogotá, Colombia, averaging €862, and Lima, Peru, at €894.

Although long-haul flights are generally more expensive than European trips, New York, Bogotá, and Lima stand out for their affordable fares compared to other international destinations. New York is a favorite destination for its diverse culture, shopping, Broadway shows, and historical landmarks. For those seeking adventure and rich cultural experiences, Bogotá and Lima provide a unique chance to explore South America, offering vibrant local cultures, historical sites, and exceptional cuisine.

With round-trip flights to these cities available for under €200, Paris and other major European destinations offer budget-friendly winter escapes packed with festive charm and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re planning a quick winter escape to a European city or venturing further afield, there are numerous affordable travel options for the December bridge in 2025. Milan, Madrid, and London offer excellent value, with flight prices significantly lower than last year. Other cities like Paris, Vienna, and Berlin also present fantastic deals for those seeking a budget-friendly winter getaway. For those ready to explore beyond Europe, New York, Bogotá, and Lima offer an exciting mix of cultural experiences at reasonable prices. With so many affordable destinations available, now is the perfect time to book your winter holiday and enjoy a memorable trip without overspending.