The 5 best cities for a ‘calmcation’ this winter
Calmcation & Slowcation in winter: Slowing down the world a little
The run-up to Christmas is officially the ‘season finale’ of the year: deadlines, organising family life, presents, social commitments – and somewhere in between, please try to manage a relaxed smile. And then, after the festive season, kick off the new year full of energy. Of course!
So it’s no wonder that the travel trends known as ‘Calmcation’ and ‘Slowcation’ are now booming. Because whilst you get caught up in the gift hunt, end-of-year stress and family commitments, a longing for something completely different grows: peace and quiet.
Slowing-down getaways are all the rage in winter because they fulfil three needs that become particularly pressing at this time of year:
- A break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life
- Closeness to nature, art, warmth and silence
- Simply letting the world slow down for 48–72 hours
Here are 5 tips that are perfect for your winter slowcation.
Five cities for a winter slowcation
They all have a Motel One and offer exactly what makes a ‘Calmcation’ so wonderful: peace and quiet, nature, art, walks – and a little seasonal ‘extra’ to boot.
Freiburg: A relaxing break in the Black Forest
Why is it so peaceful? The Black Forest, rolling hills, crisp winter air.
The typical atmosphere? Everything feels more relaxed than in big cities.
Things to do in Freiburg in winter
- A walk through the Schlossberg – ideal for unwinding and enjoying peaceful panoramic views.
- A visit to the Botanical Gardens – perfect for finding quiet corners.
- Hot chocolate in the little cafés of the Old Town
- A mini-spa break: the Keidel Therme isn’t far away and is a haven of tranquillity.
Lübeck: Calmcation with a Hanseatic spirit
Why ‘quiet’? Hanseatic charm meets the Baltic Sea. Lübeck is big enough to offer plenty of variety – and small enough not to be stressful.
The typical atmosphere? Brick Gothic architecture, quiet alleyways, the scent of marzipan in winter. It all feels like taking a deep, slow breath.
Things to do in Lübeck in winter
- Take a stroll through the Old Town island – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, wonderfully laid-back.
- Experience the harbour atmosphere without the tourist crowds.
- European Hanseatic Museum: impressive, peaceful, atmospheric.
- A little getaway to the seaside: Travemünde in winter is almost meditative.
Salzburg: A romantic getaway with the magic of the mountains
Why ‘quiet’? In winter, the city feels like a living Christmas fairy tale: Baroque alleyways, views of the castle, snow, musical history.
The typical atmosphere? Pure romance – but without the kitsch or the crowds.
Things to do in Salzburg in winter
- Take a walk to Hohensalzburg Fortress – panoramic views straight out of a film set.
- Explore the Mirabell Gardens and the Old Town in the soft winter light.
- Enjoy classical concerts and quiet museums.
- Hot drinks in charming coffee houses that feel like a blast from the past.
Edinburgh: Nature and Mysticism – Calmcation
Why ‘peaceful’? The city combines Celtic tranquillity with British composure. And it’s surrounded by nature – even right in the city centre.
The typical atmosphere? Mystical, crisp, steeped in history. Particularly atmospheric in winter.
Things to do in Edinburgh in winter
- Take a stroll through Holyrood Park and up to Arthur’s Seat – pure nature with views of the city.
- Explore the narrow streets of the Old Town – quiet, steeped in history, and in some corners eerie and mysterious.
- Enjoy cosy pubs with open fires and dimmed lighting.
- A moment under the stars: the winter air over Edinburgh is clear – and around Holyrood Park you get a surprisingly good view of the stars.
Amsterdam: Urban Calmcation
Why ‘calm’? Despite its global reputation as a vibrant metropolis, Amsterdam has a surprisingly tranquil side – thanks to its canals, residential neighbourhoods, parks and architecture that has a soothingly clear feel to it.
The typical atmosphere? The soft hum of bicycles, the muffled sound of flowing water, and the gentle colours of winter. An urban slow-motion feeling.
Things to do in Amsterdam in winter
- Strolls along the canals – the view of the water is like mental yoga.
- Soak up some art at the Rijksmuseum or the laid-back Van Gogh Museum.
- Discover little vintage cafés where time stands still.
- Winter walks in Vondelpark.
Why Motel One and Calmcation are such a good match
In winter, Motel One feels a bit like the ‘hot cocoa’ of hotels: solid, reliable, stylish – and not overly sweet.
- Central location = shorter journeys, more peace and quiet. You don’t need a car or a bus timetable – you just set off.
- Design & atmosphere. The lobbies are designed for a leisurely arrival: subdued lighting, warm colours, quiet corners.
- Concept: deliberately compact. No unnecessary frills, just the essentials done well.
