The festive sound of blades gliding on ice and the cheerful buzz of crowds enjoying hot chocolate are quintessential elements of a British Christmas. While the UK boasts its own famous rinks, new research has crowned a spectacular venue in Paris as the continent's most desired seasonal ice-skating destination.
The Reigning Champion: Grand Palais de Glaces
According to an analysis by European ferry operator DFDS, the Grand Palais de Glaces in Paris has seen a staggering 83 per cent year-on-year increase in online searches. The study examined 75 ice rinks across Europe, comparing average Google search volumes from December to February, and the French rink emerged as the clear winner.
Housed beneath the iconic glass dome of the Grand Palais museum, this rink holds the title of the largest temporary indoor ice rink in the world, covering a massive 2,700 m². Skaters can enjoy this magical setting from December 13 to January 7, with extended evening sessions allowing for romantic skating under the stars until 2am.
For UK travellers, a trip to this winter wonder is conveniently short. A flight from London to Paris takes just around one hour and 20 minutes, making a weekend getaway perfectly feasible.
Europe's Other Top Winter Destinations
The DFDS ranking also highlighted other highly-searched ice rinks across Europe, showcasing a variety of stunning locations for winter sports enthusiasts.
Securing second place was Vienna Ice World in Austria. This impressive venue is spread across 10,000 m² over two levels and is one of the biggest open-air artificial ice rinks globally. It experienced a 32 per cent rise in search interest. Open from January until March at the City Hall Square, it features the unique Sky Rink, a terrace with a 150-metre long ramp.
In third place was the Ice Rink at Heumarkt in Cologne, Germany. Nestled within the charming Heinzels Wintermärchen Christmas market, this picturesque rink saw a 16 per cent increaseNovember 24 to January 4.
Completing the top five were Matadero Madrid Ice Rink in Spain, with an eight per cent search increase, and the Old Town Ice Rink in Tallinn, Estonia, which saw a seven per cent rise.
London's Popular Outdoor Rinks
The research also shed light on the most popular outdoor rinks in Europe, with a famous London spot taking the top honour. Skate at Somerset House in London ranked first, attracting a remarkable 195,700 Google searches during the winter period. The rink is open to the public from November 12 to January 11.
Another beloved London attraction, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, secured the second position in the outdoor rink category, followed by the previously mentioned Vienna Ice World.
This data confirms that the tradition of ice skating remains a powerful draw for Brits and Europeans alike, offering a mix of historic grandeur, festive markets, and pure winter fun.
