While the summer holiday season is the peak time to visit many of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe, many locations are ideal for wintertime travel as well. Whether you’re into skiing the slopes or sipping a cocktail on the beach in February – or just about any activity in between, Europe has something to offer you. Check out these five destinations for the perfect European winter getaway:

1. Zermatt, Switzerland

The resort town of Zermatt lies at the base of perhaps the most famous mountain in the world: The Matterhorn. Known as the largest all-around ski area in the world, the slopes of Zermatt cover an incredible 350 kilometers. Naturally, an array of fine restaurants and shopping opportunities await as well. While winter is the peak season for Zermatt, most would agree that this picture-perfect municipality in Switzerland is well-worth visiting at least once; especially if you’re a skiing enthusiast.

2. Heraklion, Crete

If you’re a history buff, there are few cities on earth that can match the ancient wonder of Heraklion. Explore the 4,000-year-old Palace of Knossos and 16th century Koules Fortress. After that, spend a day or two experiencing Heraklion’s harbor, the Old Town, and the Central Market shopping district. Best of all, the city’s southern latitude makes for temperatures that remain pleasant even in winter. A light jacket should be sufficient even in February and March.

3. Nice, France

Nice is a world-renowned Mediterranean tourist destination for summer holidaymakers, but summer doesn’t have to be the only time to visit. You can enjoy smaller crowds and cheaper hotel rates in the winter, and the weather will still be a pleasant 54°F/12°C on most days in February. That may be a little cool for the beach, but you can still enjoy the views from the Promenade des Anglais, the Roman ruins of Cimiez, and the many museums and historic buildings of this famous French city.

4. Venice, Italy

Venice is a dream destination for many would-be globetrotters, but it can be packed with tourists and expensive to visit during the summer. Instead, make it your winter destination. You can still enjoy a gondola ride on the canals, see St. Mark’s Basilica and St. Mark’s Square, and stop by the iconic Bridge of Sighs. As a bonus, a wintertime visit means you’ll avoid most of the mosquito problems Venice is plagued with during warmer weather.

5. Tromsø, Norway

There’s a very good reason to brave the ice and snow of northern Norway and visit Tromsø in the winter. This municipality is one of the best places in the world to see the famous aurora borealis, or northern lights. The short days and extreme northern latitude of Tromsø make for an ideal setting to view this natural wonder. And with a population of nearly 78,000, there are enough amenities for a truly enjoyable vacation. Plus, Tromsø’s location on the ice-free Norwegian Sea makes for temperatures that are surprisingly mild, nearly reaching the freezing mark most days in February and March.

Travel Insurance for European Trips

The right insurance coverage for your trip to Europe this winter depends on your priorities, where you’re coming from, and what your destination is.

If you’re traveling to any of the 27 Schengen nations in Europe and require a Schengen visa for entry, compliant Schengen visa travel insurance is mandatory. You will need to present your proof of insurance as part of the Schengen visa application process.

If your European trip does not require a Schengen visa, you should consider travel medical insurance. If you get sick or hurt while visiting a European destination, do not assume that you will be able to receive free treatment just because the country has socialized healthcare. As a foreign visitor, this is almost never the case, so you will need insurance coverage that is accepted in the destination country. Travel medical insurance is designed for international travel, and can cover new illnesses and injuries, emergency medical evacuation and other benefits that vary depending upon the plan you choose.

US residents who are primarily concerned with protecting their prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs should look into travel insurance. A travel insurance plan can cover you in instances such as trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel delay, and emergency medical treatment. 

Regardless of the best travel insurance for Europe to fit your needs, do make sure you have coverage before you go. The last thing you want is to spoil the perfect winter European vacation with unexpected expenses that take a toll on your bank account.