Winter is my favourite time of year for a city break. The cities are usually quieter, and you don’t get too hot walking around. Plus, if you go in December, you can catch the Christmas markets!
Because of the cold weather, you’ll need to get all wrapped up. However, you still want to look stylish as you’re wandering around, so I’ve put together my outfit essentials for a winter city break. Add these to your packing list!
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A warm jacket
The number one item on your list for a winter city break should be a warm yet stylish coat or a jacket. My coldest ever city break was when I visited Rome in January, and I was definitely glad I had my big coat with me!
Denim or leather jackets are a great choice, as they’re perfect for layering. Add a couple of pieces of knitwear underneath, and then you can take a layer off if you get too warm.
A long camel coat, a teddy coat, or a shacket (combination of shirt and jacket) would be my coat of choice for a city break. I’m in love with some of the coats and jackets from NA-KD.
They have an amazing choice, and I love their short jackets and teddy coats.
If you’re travelling with just hand luggage, you can wear your big coat to travel in to save space in your bag. You can also fit a cross-body bag underneath your coat if you’re trying to be sneaky.
Don’t forget to think about the rain too. I always check the weather forecast before I travel, but there’s a high chance you will end up with a bit of rain during your winter city break.
If your big coat isn’t suitable for rain, then think about taking a lightweight waterproof instead, which won’t take up too much room in your luggage.
A long padded coat is an excellent choice as it offers warmth and protection from the rain. I bought a gorgeous one from Next, which I wore on my drizzly city break in Wroclaw.
Comfortable boots
When it comes to footwear, comfort should be your number one consideration. After all, you’ll probably be doing at least your 10k steps each day while exploring the city.
Boots are a good choice as they’ll also keep your feet warm. They can also take you from exploring during the day to dining in the best restaurants at night.
My favourite boots on a city break are my Dr. Marten Leonore boots. They have the added benefit of being fur-lined inside to keep your feet extra toasty.
You also can’t go wrong with a pair of stylish Ugg boots. The short Uggs are really popular at the moment, and they also do a range of leather and snow boots.
I have learned the hard way to always take a pair of trainers with me on a city break. Sometimes boots can end up rubbing your feet if you do a lot of walking, so to be on the safe side, pack a comfy pair of trainers.
While we’re talking about shoes, we need to mention socks. If it’s going to be really cold where you’re going, you might want to pack extra socks so you can double up or bring a few thicker pairs.
Base layers
Remember your base layers when packing for a winter city break. Base layers keep you warm while being breathable too.
Plus, they’re versatile. You can wear them underneath your normal clothes during a city break and your hiking gear while out hiking. They’re a great investment piece.
I love the look of the Sweaty Betty ones, as they have a huge range of different designs. ACAI also have a range which I’ve worn everywhere from city breaks to hiking and even skiing.
If you don’t want to fork out for additional clothes, then just a pair of leggings and a long-sleeve top will do for extra layers. Primark does a pair of leggings that are fur lined for extra warmth.
Hat, scarf and gloves
A warm hat and gloves can really help to keep you extra warm as they stop the heat from escaping from your head and hands. They’re also easy to take off and pop in your bag if you get too warm while walking around or popping into a shop.
Try a stylish beanie, beret, or bobble hat to keep the heat in. Hats go absolutely everywhere with me in winter.
The key is to make sure you’re committed to a hat, as they do tend to mess up your hair!
An oversized statement scarf is a great way to look stylish while keeping warm. Try pastel tones and drape around your shoulders for an effortless look.
A pair of jeans
Jeans are super versatile, so they’re great for a winter city break outfit. They can be worn in the daytime with warm layers on top or dressed up for dinner or an evening out.
If it’s just a short flight or drive to your city break, you can also travel in jeans, and you won’t feel too uncomfortable.
I usually choose between skinny jeans and mom jeans, depending on what the other elements of my outfit are going to be. Mom jeans can usually fit a base layer or pair of leggings underneath too.
Jumpers
Of course, plenty of warm layers are needed on a winter city break, so bring plenty of jumpers. I love a hoodie layered under a camel coat or a knitted jumper for warmth.
Wear jumper dresses with leggings or fleece-lined tights for a casual but stylish look. If the weather is a bit in-between, you can opt for a knitted jumper underneath a padded gilet so that you can keep your core warm, but you don’t feel too stuffy around the arms.
Choose neutral colours for your knitwear so that you can mix and match them with the rest of your items. I love beiges, greys, and creams.
These are my winter city break outfit essentials – remember to pack yours when you travel this winter!
