There’s something truly special about winter in Austria. The crisp mountain air, snow-dusted rooftops, twinkling lights, and the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine floating through the air. It all feels like stepping into a Christmas card.

From the grand palaces of Vienna to the cozy lakeside villages of the Salzkammergut, Austria transforms into a winter wonderland of Christmas markets every December. Whether you’re hunting for handcrafted ornaments, sipping hot Glühwein, or listening to live carolers in the town square, the spirit of the holidays comes alive here like nowhere else.

Tucked between the glassy waters of Lake Hallstatt and the towering Dachstein Alps, the tiny Austrian village of Hallstatt looks like it was plucked straight from the pages of a storybook. Colorful alpine homes cling to steep hillsides, swans glide across the lake, and church steeples reflect perfectly in the still water.

It’s no wonder Hallstatt is often called one of the most beautiful villages in the world, and once you arrive, you’ll understand why.

When it comes to European destinations that effortlessly blend breathtaking scenery, timeless charm, and rich cultural history, Austria stands in a league of its own. From snow-capped Alpine peaks to elegant coffee houses and fairytale villages straight out of a postcard, Austria offers something for every traveler—whether you’re chasing adventure, romance, or a little bit of both. Here are 10 reasons Austria should absolutely be on your European bucket list (and why you’ll fall head over heels the moment you arrive).

Planning a ski trip with kids can be magical… think snowy mountain views, hot chocolate breaks, and the thrill of watching your little ones learn something new. But if you’ve ever tried packing for a ski vacation as a family, you know it can also be a bit overwhelming. Between bulky gear, unpredictable weather, and kids who always seem to lose a glove, it’s easy to feel stressed before you even hit the slopes. That’s why I put together this Kids Ski Gear Essentials Guide. With the right gear and a few packing hacks, you can feel confident knowing your kids will stay warm, safe, and happy on the mountain. From base layers to hand warmers, here’s everything you need to make your family ski trip a success.

There’s nothing like Europe in winter: festive markets, twinkling lights, historic castles, and snow-dusted streets. As a travel advisor, I’ve planned countless European trips, from couples anniversary celebrations to multi-family group trips, and I’ve seen firsthand how the right itinerary can turn a vacation into a magical, stress-free experience.

When winter rolls around, many travelers picture cozy cabins, twinkling holiday markets, or powdery ski slopes. With winter just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about what to check off (or add to!) your bucket list to round out the year. Whether you’re chasing Northern Lights, sipping mulled wine in Europe, or escaping the cold for a tropical beach, I’m here to share some inspiration to get started.