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Paris, France
Start your trip in the City of Light — winter means fewer crowds at the Eiffel Tower and Louvre. Stroll through Le Marais and warm up with a croque-monsieur and vin chaud at a classic bistro. Don't miss the magical Christmas markets along the Champs-Élysées if traveling in December.
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Strasbourg, France
A perfect stop on the way east, Strasbourg straddles the French-German border and hosts one of Europe's most famous Christmas markets. Wander the cobblestone lanes of La Petite France and try a warm tarte flambée. It's a quick train ride from Paris and a great cultural bridge between West and Central Europe.
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Zurich, Switzerland
Switzerland's largest city is stunning in winter with snow-dusted Alps as a backdrop. Walk along the Limmat River, explore the Old Town (Altstadt), and indulge in world-class Swiss chocolate and fondue. Zurich is an easy train connection between Strasbourg and Innsbruck.
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Innsbruck, Austria
Nestled in the heart of the Alps, Innsbruck is a breathtaking winter destination with ski resorts just minutes from the city center. Visit the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl) and enjoy a hearty Tyrolean meal of Kaiserschmarrn or Wiener Schnitzel. It's a natural stop between Switzerland and Salzburg.
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Salzburg, Austria
Mozart's birthplace is absolutely enchanting in winter, with the Hohensalzburg Fortress looming over a snow-covered baroque old town. Explore Getreidegasse, visit the Mozart Birthplace Museum, and sip Glühwein at the charming Christmas markets. The city also makes a great base for day trips into the Salzkammergut lake district.
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Vienna, Austria
Austria's imperial capital dazzles in winter with grand coffee houses, world-class museums, and opulent Habsburg palaces like Schönbrunn and the Hofburg. Catch a concert or opera performance and warm up with a Melange coffee and Sachertorte at Café Sacher. Vienna's Christmas markets are among the finest in Europe.
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Prague, Czech Republic