Wherever you go, MEININGER Hotels give you a comfy, social place to come back to: with shared kitchens, chill common areas, and modern rooms that make you feel right at home. And if you’ve got an ESNcard, you’ll even get 10% off, making your winter adventure that little bit sweeter.
You’ve had your Euro Summer, now it’s time for Euro Winter! The holiday season is approaching, and it’s the perfect excuse to discover Europe’s cities wrapped in festive lights, cosy cafés, and winter magic.
Whether you’re finishing up your semester abroad, planning a trip with Erasmus friends, or just looking for a new adventure, MEININGER offers the perfect stay. Here are the five top destinations for your Euro Winter.
Copenhagen
Winter in Copenhagen feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Candles and Christmas lights glow throughout the city. Old-world charm meets modern cool everywhere you go. Explore Tivoli Gardens’ winter wonderland (Nov 14 – Jan 4), wander through the Højbro Plads market, or warm up with Danish treats like æbleskiver and a cup of gløgg.
Copenhagen has more to offer beyond the holiday activities. Discover Nyhavn’s colourful harbour houses, Strøget’s boutiques, and café corners where you can perfect the art of hygge.
Where to stay: MEININGER Hotel Copenhagen: central, stylish, and social. Ideal for solo travellers and groups.
Berlin
Few cities celebrate the holiday season like Berlin. The city has dozens of markets to explore, each with its own unique vibe. From the traditional Charlottenburg Market, to the Scandi-style Lucia Market at Kulturbrauerei, and the urban vibe of Winter World at Potsdamer Platz.
Make sure to stay until New Year’s to experience Berlin’s iconic celebrations, with fireworks at Brandenburg Gate and parties across the city.
Where to stay: Choose from MEININGER’s hotels in Berlin, each close to transport and nightlife.
Lyon
Lyon shines during winter, literally. The Fête des Lumières (Dec 5–8) transforms the city into a glowing gallery of light art. Take a break from the installations to try some of the city's trendy bars or authentic restaurants. Lyon has much to offer as the gastronomic capital of France.
From November 21st to December 24th, the Place Carnot Christmas Market brings French flair with artisanal gifts and hot mulled wine.
Where to stay: MEININGER Hotel Lyon Centre Berthelot, close to the Rhône, the old town, and the festival’s main spots.
Amsterdam
The city sparkles along its canals and streets. Go ice skating at the Museumplein Ice Village (Dec 4–28) and Rembrandtplein’s ice rink or visit the Amsterdam Winter Paradise for indoor fun, concerts, and food markets.
Even when the markets wind down, the city’s canal views, brown cafés, and museums make it an ideal winter break spot. Don’t miss the Amsterdam Light Festival illuminating the canals through December and January, or the New Year’s celebrations along the Amstel.
Where to stay: MEININGER Amsterdam City West or MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam Amstel, perfect for easy access to the city centre, with shared spaces that make meeting other travellers a breeze.
Milan
Milan offers both festive and fashionable spirits during the holiday season. Visit the historic Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Fair (Dec 5–8) on the streets around Castello Sforzesco and the Duomo market that runs until early January. Villaggio delle Meraviglie (Nov 15 - Jan 6) is a favourite among travellers, with ice skating and rides in the Montanelli Gardens.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, the city comes alive with concerts in Piazza Duomo and fireworks. And of course, no trip to Milan is complete without espresso breaks, shopping, and people-watching.
Where to stay: MEININGER Milano Lambrate or MEININGER Milano Garibaldi, both modern, friendly, and perfect bases for exploring.
Make Your Euro Winter One to Remember
Whether you’re chasing lights in Lyon, skating in Amsterdam, or sipping hot chocolate in Copenhagen, MEININGER Hotels make it easy to enjoy it all. When you get back to the hotel after a long day of exploring, you’ll find plenty to do: play table football, board games, or just relax in the common area and meet other travellers. Rooms are comfortable and modern, and the shared kitchens and social spaces make it easy to cook, hang out, and feel at home. Gather your Erasmus friends and make the most of your Euro winter. Book your stay and get 10% off with your ESNcard.
