If you’re after a shortcut to feeling festive this winter, we have a few ideas: Christmas markets, mulled wine, mistletoe, music and (if you have good core strength and a handle on your fear of falling) a spin around an ice rink. The great news is that Europe is home to a lot of magical ice skating destinations, from rinks nestled inside Christmas markets to those sat in the shadow of pretty city landmarks.
But if you’re not sure where to practise your crossovers, there’s no need to get your skates in a twist. Handily, ferry operator DFDS have ranked the 10 most popular artificial outdoor rinks in Europe right now, so all you have to do is wrap up warm and go.
The ice rink at London’s Winter Wonderland comes out on top. The skating spot, which is in the city’s Hyde Park, is surrounded by market stalls, bars, fairground rides and twinkling lights.
Budapest’s Városligeti Műjégpálya is the second most popular ice rink in Europe, thanks to its lovely scenery (with views of Vajdahunyad Castle), while the picturesque ice rink at Strasbourg Christmas Market in the UNESCO-listed old town comes in at number three. The rest of the top 10 is below.
The most popular ice skating rinks in Europe this winter
- Winter Wonderland, London
- Városligeti Műjégpálya, Budapest
- Strasbourg Christmas Market, Strasbourg
- Ice*Amsterdam, Amsterdam
- Skate at Somerset House, London
- Neptune Fountain Ice Rink, Berlin
- Ice Magic, Munich
- Ice World, Vienna
- Ice Park, Helsinki
- Hampton Court Palace, London
If you take your ice skating seriously, DFDS also ranked Europe’s most popular natural ice rinks. More adventurous skaters could try heading to Austria’s Lake Weissensee, Europe’s largest and most popular natural ice rink, frozen Lake Saint Moritz in Switzerland or the beautiful Lake Bled in Slovenia which can look like a postcard-perfect rink when it freezes over in winter (though it is worth noting that it’s not always safe to skate on).
Fancy something less athletic to get you in the holiday spirit? Here’s your ultimate guide to Christmas 2024.
Did you see a direct sleeper train between Italy and Sicily is launching this Christmas?
Plus: Your guide to the 14 best winter destinations in Europe.
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