Europe in wintertime is a revelation: less hassle, shorter lines, lower airfares. It’s good to be a contrarian, and travel when others huddle around home and hearth. You can save a bundle – and better savor the sojourn at the same time.

Purchase tickets no later than Monday, November 28 and fly Delta from Detroit to a trio of in-demand Eurodestinations. Fly out through December 16, or from December 25 through March 16, 2012. Wrap up your travel by June 15.

These rates are each way, require a seven-day advance purchase, and do not include taxes or fees. There are some city-specific minimum stay provisions.

- Detroit flights to Amsterdam are $449.
- Detroit flights to Frankfurt are $349.
- Detroit flights to London are $309.

KLM is selling cheap flights to a number of European cities. Book and buy by December 8, do a seven-day advance purchase, and be prepared to stay over a Sunday night. These fares are roundtrip, and include taxes as well as fees. You’ll be able to fly on them up until December 14.

- New York flights to Brussels are $690.
- New York flights to Amsterdam are $824.
- Miami flights to Madrid are $637.
- Chicago flights to Oslo are $739.
- Houston flights to Helsinki are $835.
- Boston flights to London are $682.

Among this Cheapflights reporter’s favorite wintertime European pursuits: A steamy hot mug of Belgian chocolate with cinnamon, and whipped cream – the kind that fogs your eyeglasses and fills your senses. Then there’s a boat ride along the Thames up to Greenwich. Best bundle up this time of year, or the cold will cut right through you. The advantage: the boats are lots less crowded. What’s your favorite wintertime treat?

Story by Jerry Chandler

(Image: wjklos)