Venice
When winter comes, you may encounter rain and flooding in Venice's famous square. Because it's high water season. But since Venice is one of the most visited cities on the planet, the low season has become the only time of year when you can really find tranquility in La Serenissima. When the weather gets cooler, museums, churches, palaces and other fine sights don't see tourists coming together. Also, if you come during the carnival (pictured) in February or March, you will witness firsthand the unique mystery and captivating melody of this hedonistic tradition.
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Zermatt, Switzerland
For skiers and snowboarders, Zermatt sits at the top of the Matterhorn, rivaling the Toblerone candy bar, Switzerland's most iconic pyramid title. The highland terrain around Zermatt includes more than 360 km of downhill pistes that attract winter sports enthusiasts from all over the world. The resort town also has curling and skating rinks, toboggan rinks, cross-country skiing and snow-watching. Before you leave Zermatt, though, don't miss the lively après-ski scene.