There’s something about the light, misty mornings and crisp blue skies that give even the most familiar cities a magical quality during the winter holiday season. Grab a chunky-knit sweater, pull on a bobble hat and check out our top picks for a charmingly cool winter getaway.

London

There’s something unique about London in the winter. From the twinkling lights of the Southbank at dusk to snow-dusted mazes and the warmth of afternoon tea and evenings in the pub – the English capital comes alive over the holiday season.

The seasonal displays along the main shopping streets will give your getaway a festive glow. Get into the spirit of the season on the ice rink in the decorated courtyard of Somerset House for the chance to skate around the gorgeous 40-foot (12-meter) Christmas tree, or see the whole city lit up from a pod on the London Eye.

Catch a traditional caroling performance and modern festive arrangements at the Royal Albert Hall or drop into a more intimate service at Westminster Abbey. And don’t forget to fuel up at the pop-up food stalls all over the city during this time — Covent Garden and Borough Market’s offerings are two of our favorites!

Barcelona, Spain

In this coastal Spanish city, winter temperatures rarely drop to chilly levels and the sun-seeking crowds have dispersed to reveal a different city to the one enjoyed in the heat of summer.

Strolling around well-known attractions like Park Guell or the Sagrada Familia church becomes more pleasurable with fewer people. Local shoppers return to the Boqueria market, bringing with them the delightful authenticity that makes it a true foodie hotspot. The mystique and atmosphere of the Gothic Quarter is heightened in the fading sun of late afternoon — just add churros and hot chocolate to complete the experience.

If the temperature dips, then there’s no better place to warm up than in the Palau de la Musica Catalana, one of the most distinctive concert halls in the world. This art nouveau masterpiece in Ciutat Vella (Old City) district is a spectacular venue for holiday concerts, with its iconic stained-glass ceiling and stunning murals.

Head to the countryside for ample opportunity to try some of the best winter sports, like snowmobiling, glacier hiking, skiing or ice-caving. One big attraction in winter is the northern lights, which are best viewed between November and February. Marvel at the glowing green, white, pink and purple rays that soar across the dark skies in one of nature’s most incredible shows.

If you’re looking to add a little rest and flair to your stay, head to the Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton. It’s an idyllic base for year-round exploring and is within walking distance of such must-visit sights as Harpa Concert Hall. Best of all, this eclectic urban retreat features a traditional Icelandic bathhouse (complete with an original 19th-century stone wall).

One of the best winter activities that locals enjoy is the Wimpole Estate Illumination Trail. Set on a scenic National Trust property, the trail is a celebration of light, with lasers and elaborate sculptures, as well as festive soundscapes to complete the seasonal atmosphere.

Oh, and don’t forget to pick up any last-minute gifts at the quaint winter wonderland fair at Parker’s Piece common and enjoy a glass of mulled wine or seasonal snack while you browse.

In December, there’s also gluhwein, spectacular light displays and some of Germany’s most celebrated traditional holiday markets. The city boasts seven large markets, each with its own theme, and different things to buy, eat and see. One of the most popular is the Heinzels Wintermarchen, which has a woodland theme replete with gnomes and magical creatures, for a winter vibe akin to walking through a living fairy tale.

Winter is one of the best times to visit Cologne’s famous Chocolate Museum, where you can take a tour, enjoy samples and then drink a piping hot mug of hot chocolate in the riverside cafe as you watch the boats sail past.

So, grab your favorite winter layers and head for cooler climes to discover the charming streets and fascinating attractions in these delightfully festive winter wonderlands.

Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana in the United States. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guide books/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.