An ice rink that’s the largest in the world is one of the most popular in Europe – and is only a few hours from the UK. From festive city centres to scenic frozen lakes, ice skating remains one of Europe’s most beloved winter traditions.

As temperatures drop and winter festivities begin, searches for “ice rinks” peak each December – rising by 392% in the past three months alone. Now new research by European ferry operator DFDS has revealed the festive ice rinks experiencing the biggest demand this winter.

DFDS analysed 75  ice rinks across Europe, both natural and artificial, comparing average Google searches from December to February to reveal the most popular and fastest-emerging skating hotspots this season. Topping the list was Grand Palais de Glaces in Paris, France, with an 83% surge in searches. Situated beneath the Grand Palais’ iconic glass dome, the giant 2,700 m² indoor rink is the largest in the world. Open from December 13 to January 7, daylight illuminates the ice and showcases the building’s architecture.

The rink also offers extended evening sessions, allowing visitors to enjoy skating under the stars until 2am with light shows and DJ sets. There is food and drink available, including crepes, waffles and hot chocolate.

Adult tickets for the ice rink at the Grand Palais in Paris are £24 for the morning session, £28 for the afternoon, and £34 for the evening. For children aged three to 12, tickets are between £13 and £16. Children under three go free.

Those wanting to visit the Grand Palais de Glaces can get there on the Eurostar. The journey takes just over two hours from London, costing from £39 one way.

In second place is Ice World in Vienna, Austria. Located in front of City Hall, the rink is scheduled to open from January 22 to March 8. Spanning an impressive 10,000m² across two levels, it features the Sky Rink – a first-floor skating terrace connected by a 150-metre ramp for a truly unique experience. 

Taking third place is the ice rink at Heumarkt in Cologne, Germany. In the heart of the Old Town, in one of the Christmas markets, “Heinzels Wintermärchen”.

Scheduled to open from November 24 to January 4, the ice rink at Heumarkt offers a festive atmosphere, featuring decorative winter villages and traditional food stalls.