In winter, it can be hard to pick a holiday destination – but there are some European cities that are even better in colder weather than they are in the sunshine. Located just a couple of hours away from London, this Belgian gem is perfect for a weekend trip.

Rest Less names Bruges as “one of the most popular destinations to visit in winter”, adding that it is “known for its traditional Christmas markets”. The picturesque Belgian city also hosts the Winter Glow festival. Rest Less also praises its “markets, seasonal experiences include ice skating, atmospheric light displays, pretty walking trails, cosy winter bars, and lots of festive shopping”.

The medieval city is known for its fairytale feel and picturesque cobbled streets. Its twinkling lights and historic buildings look even better coated with snow.

The city has also continually been named as one of the most walkable.

The city topped travel site Motel One’s list of the top 20 walkable cities in Europe, with a walking time of 30 minutes between 2.3km. 

The site considered how many of the top attractions you would see along the way and how long it would take.

One person who visited said on Tripadvisor: “Having visited Bruges in summer and over Christmas previously, I knew it was a town I liked.

“Our most recent visit was this autumn, and it looks beautiful at this time of year. The added bonus is that it is much quieter this time of year too.”

Another said: “Bruges isn’t simply a destination – it’s an enchantment, a living tapestry woven of flavours, colours, scents, and sounds. 

“It isn’t just a city you visit. It’s a city you inhale, a city you allow to seep into your skin until you feel part of its quiet magic.

“Every street in Bruges is a surprise. Turn left, and you stumble upon a museum with masterpieces staring back at you.

“Turn right, and there’s a café so charming you half expect a poet to be scribbling at the corner table.”

If you are looking for a place to visit this winter, Bruges could be the perfect city for you.