As the Christmas season approaches, many travelers are searching for the perfect holiday destination. Winter travel for Armenians does not always mean heading to a cold place. Some prefer to escape the cold and bring back summer by heading to places like Dubai, Bali, or other exotic spots. However, others are drawn to the enchanting charm of winter magic. In this case, Europe offers a variety of destinations perfect for capturing the spirit of the season.
Traveling to Scandinavian countries like Finland and Sweden, along with the Baltic states, you will find snowy landscapes, festive lights, and cozy Christmas markets. For example, the Baltic States provide a more budget-friendly alternative to some of the more expensive winter destinations.
In this blog, we will consider some destinations worth visiting if you want to enjoy the winter vibes and a true winter wonderland.
Magic in Santa’s Homeland
Traveling to Finland, especially to the enchanting region of Lapland, offers an unforgettable winter experience. Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Armenia to Finland. So, Armenian travelers have to take connecting flights through cities like Vienna, Athens, or Paris.
Visiting Helsinki is of course interesting, but agree Lapland is a top destination especially when traveling with kids. Once in Lapland, a world of winter activities awaits. One must-see destination is Rovaniemi, the “official” hometown of Santa Claus. Here, families and travelers can visit Santa Claus Village, where Christmas magic is alive year-round. Imagine what a journey it is for your kids! This is all about must-do winter activities, including decorating gingerbread cookies.
Riding a snowmobile or reindeer sleigh or taking a husky sledding tour is truly magic. Besides, for those drawn to nature, Finnish Lapland offers some of the best Northern Lights views.
For a more exotic stay, you can choose a glass igloo or an ice hotel to fully enjoy the pristine beauty of the Arctic wilderness.
Sweden and Norway
Winter travel to Sweden and Norway offers a magical holiday experience. Sweden, in particular, comes alive during the Christmas season with festive traditions rooted in history. The charming Christmas markets, especially in cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg, feature handmade crafts, traditional foods, and glögg (Swedish mulled wine).
A special highlight is St. Lucia’s Day on December 13th, when cities and villages hold candlelit processions to honor the patron saint of light.
Norway, known for its breathtaking fjords and snow-capped mountains, also celebrates Christmas with unique Nordic traditions. Oslo and Bergen host vibrant Christmas markets where you can sample local food and traditional gingerbread. Many towns also offer “Jul” events, where locals dress in traditional costumes, bringing Norwegian Christmas folklore to life.
However, there are some points to consider. First, again there are no direct flights so you will have to travel with one or even more stops. Secondly, these countries are rather expensive, so it’s not a good idea if you want to book a budget-friendly holiday.
If you can afford a luxury cruise, an extraordinary way to ring in the New Year is aboard a cruise ship through Scandinavia’s iconic landscapes. Travelers can celebrate the arrival of the New Year while gliding past majestic fjords, decorated cities, and serene coastlines.
Winter Charm of Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia
Traveling to the Baltic states during the winter holidays is an excellent choice for those seeking European winter charm without the higher costs of Sweden and Norway.
Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania offer snowy landscapes, festive Christmas markets, and a cozy winter atmosphere that rivals their northern neighbors.
The medieval Old Town of Estonia is amazing with cobbled streets dusted in snow and a beautifully lit Christmas tree in the town square. The surrounding historic architecture only adds to the magical vibe. Tallinn is one of the most picturesque cities in Europe at any time of the year but it’s especially wonderful in winter.
A similar vibe is in Latvia’s capital, Riga which hosts a lively Christmas market in Dome Square, where visitors can enjoy live music and sample local foods. In Vilnius, the holiday markets are set against the backdrop of a UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. For a panoramic view of the city’s winter lights, the Vilnius Cathedral Bell Tower offers breathtaking scenes from above.
Winter Travel for Armenians: Visa and Travel Requirements
Both Scandinavian and Baltic countries are part of the Schengen Zone. This means Armenian citizens need a Schengen visa to visit any of these countries for tourism or short stays.
Determine the main destination if visiting multiple countries, as the visa should be applied for at the embassy or consulate of the primary destination (where you will spend the most time). There is a Lithuanian embassy in Yerevan providing visas to all Baltic countries.
As for the Scandinavian countries, visa procedures vary. You can get a short-stay Finland visa from the Embassy of Italy, a Sweden visa from the Embassy of Germany, and a Norway visa from the Embassy of France.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to travel to get that winter vibe is from late November to January. If you do not have plans to spend Christmas in Europe you can travel after New Year and enjoy snowy landscapes in less crowded cities. This will also be less expensive in terms of hotel bookings and flights.
When traveling to winter destinations, packing the right essentials is crucial for a comfortable journey. Start with warm clothes, including fleece jackets, and waterproof clothing. Do not forget gloves, a thermal hat, and a scarf to keep you warm.
Anyway, whatever country you choose, you had better apply to a reliable travel agency like Levon Travel. They can assist with bookings, visa requirements, and transit flights, ensuring you have a smooth experience.