best places to visit in the world during winter

31 Winter Vacation Ideas for 2023: From Snowy Wonderlands to Faraway Beaches

By Caitlin Morton and Matt Ortile

Sponsored by Visit US Virgin Islands

Whenever cold weather swings around, our travel daydreams tend to fluctuate between two very different types of winter vacation ideas: snowy wonderlands and tropical beaches . Some days, we envision a ski vacation or trip to a snow-covered European village , and other days we start planning our next beach trip while scorning the sub-zero temperatures. Repeat that cycle about 50 times, and that pretty much sums up what our lives look like from December through March every year.

If you experience these dueling pangs of wanderlust, then you’re in luck—we’ve rounded up 31 of the best winter vacation ideas, listed in alphabetical order and divided equally between cold- and warm-weather destinations, for you to dream about—and to plan—visiting ASAP. Because who says you have to choose just one?

There are winter wonderlands, and then there is Antarctica. Lately, it seems everyone is going to the seventh continent , and the appeal isn’t hard to figure out: There are the otherworldly landscapes, the fearless and adorable penguins, and the opportunity to see one of humanity’s final frontiers. But tourism has an impact, positive or negative, wherever travelers go, and it’s important to learn more about how to take care of our planet as we bask in its glory.

There’s no better place to escape the winter cold than right on the equator, where perennial favorite destination Singapore sits. Inclement weather won’t stop you from visiting the city-state’s many hawker centers , museums , boutiques , and night markets . This city in a garden is a perfect way to relieve your eyes of the winter grays and give them some verdant life.

Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

If the famous beaches of Rio are getting too crowded for you, head 220 miles off Brazil’s northeastern coast to the breathtaking archipelago of Fernando de Noronha—voted one of the world’s best islands in our latest Readers’ Choice Awards. Here you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, trek lush trails, and watch the moon rise over the ocean.

Whistler Blackcomb, Canada

In recent years, Whistler has become a beloved spot for high-quality ski and snowboard hills. With 8,171 acres of skiable terrain, there’s easily enough ground to keep you on new trails throughout the six-month regular season. Runs offer a wide range of difficulty levels, making this the perfect place for beginners, adrenaline junkies, and everyone in between .

US Virgin Islands

Sitting pretty in the middle of the Caribbean, the US Virgin Islands consist of three islands: the bustling island of St. Thomas, where you’ll find the capital city Charlotte Amalie; the easy-going St. John, where Virgin Islands National Park takes up much of the area; and the largest of the three, St. Croix, with plenty of spots for scuba diving and historical towns. Dreaming of all three? Ferries and island hoppers make visiting each island easy and accessible, and US citizens can visit without a passport .

You’ve probably been on a layover in Abu Dhabi before, but now’s the time to make an actual visit. The history and luxury of the city are as inviting as ever , especially with pleasant temperatures from December to March. For the aviation geeks out there, the emirate’s new Midfield Terminal, now called Terminal A, will finally open this November, expanding passenger and cargo capacity in the Middle Eastern hub. Expect new lounges, retail stores, restaurants, and more, as one can naturally expect from the UAE’s capital.

Icy and mysterious Greenland is one of the most naturally beautiful places on earth. The world’s biggest non-continental island is so much more than glaciers (but yes, the glaciers are spectacular). Think magnificent fjords, colorful villages, and fields of sheep. Throw in some northern lights appearances, and you have yourself one unbeatable winter destination .

Boracay, Philippines

Consistently voted one of the best islands in Asia in our Readers’ Choice Awards, Boracay is a perennial favorite of locals and tourists alike. The idyllic white sand beaches were so popular with visitors that, at one point, the authorities had to prohibit tourism for a while to let the land and community rehabilitate. But now it’s back in business, ready to welcome those looking to relax and unwind , or party the night away—or both.

Dolomites, Italy

If the Alps is the destination for glitzy ski towns, then consider the Dolomites its chiller, cozier cousin . Also known as “the Pale Mountains,” its powdery slopes can be accessed via the 86-mile Great Dolomites Road, one of the world’s most beautiful alpine drives, offering beautiful views of Italy ’s best wintery landscapes.

From December to March, South Africa’s safari circuit takes a back seat to Africa’s most cosmopolitan city, thanks to prime weather conditions. During the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, Cape Town ’s restaurant, hotel, and nightlife scenes are at their best. Plus, it’s the growing season in South Africa’s winelands , from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek to Swartland, all of which are just a short road trip away.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai in Thailand is surrounded by misty mountains, golden temples, and verdant rice terraces—all with a climate that rarely dips below 60 degrees. During the city’s Flower Festival, held annually on the first weekend of February, every street in the old city is covered in flowers and plants for three days.

Finnish Lapland

Imagine the most idyllic winter scene you can dream up, and Finnish Lapland will absolutely deliver. There aren’t many places where you can visit Santa Claus, take a reindeer sleigh ride, or sleep under the Northern Lights in a bubble sled—but Lapland lets you do all three.

It may seem counterintuitive to fly to an island for the cool weather, it’s exactly that brisk and fresh feeling that’ll enchant you in the Azores , an archipelago in the middle of the North Atlantic. All that lush greenery and pleasant chill will let you discover a new kind of sweater weather. And it’s just a five-hour flight from the US.

Yellowstone National Park

No matter the season, Yellowstone is always a good idea. Famous sites at the oldest of all US national parks (established in 1872) include the Old Faithful geyser and the Grand Prismatic Spring, but truly, every single acre of the park is worth seeing in person. Visiting in the winter is a good way to avoid the summer crowds; you'll be greeting by landscapes filled with steam from the thermal features.

When you visit the birthplace of hygge (the Danish concept of “coziness”), you better believe your winter vacation is going to be aces. That feeling can be found throughout Copenhagen , from pastry shops to inviting hotels .

Zakynthos, Greece

All Greek islands seem to be framed by that killer shade of emerald blue, but there’s something about the white sand beaches and brilliant waters at Navagio Bay in Zakynthos that will make your heart skip a beat. Maybe it’s the secluded location (it’s sheltered on either side by soaring cliffs) that keeps its aquamarine waters so perfect and pure—basically the exact opposite of winter grays.

Salzburg, Austria

Classic Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, sits divided by the Salzach River: Its pedestrian Old City lines the left bank, and the (slightly) newer side is on the right. For a hotel stay involving gingerbread cookies, fluffy beds, and views of falling snow, look no further than Hotel Goldener Hirsch .

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

While often thought of as a side trip from Cancún, Isla Mujeres is a destination in its own right. The main beach of Playa Norte is made of crushed coral, has warm shallow waters, and is much quieter than the beaches across the bay. Scuba enthusiasts should take note: The island is home to the largest concentration of whale sharks on the planet.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

This Teton-ringed valley is a true winter wonderland. Of course, it helps if you want to spend most of your time skiing— Jackson Hole is known for its 3,000 acres of both accessible backcountry terrain and challenging vertical slopes. But even if you don’t want to hit the powder, you can still indulge in après-ski diversions in both Teton Village and the town of Jackson. And let’s face it: Any excuse to cozy up in Caldera House is valid.

Luxor, Egypt

We haven’t invented time travel just yet, so the best you can do is visit one of the oldest cities in the world . Have you been to Luxor, home of Egypt’s most iconic destinations like the imposing Colossi of Memnon and the Valley of the Kings, where you can visit the tomb of King Tutankhamun. Granted, wintertime is peak season in Egypt; the cooler weather attracts more tourists, but it’s worth braving the crowds to avoid bursting into flames.

Nevis (of the nation of St. Kitts and Nevis) is a Caribbean island with gentle slopes rising to the peak of its dormant volcano. It’s more low-key thanits sister island, and known for its historic inns. If you’re looking for a luxury hotel, stay at the Four Seasons Resort Nevis for easy access to Pinney’s Beach, a favorite for both families with kids, and travelers seeking a calm respite.

Roatán, Honduras

The most developed of the Bay Islands, Roatán is mainly known as a diver’s paradise . Almost all of its 31-mile coastline is lined with biodiverse coral reefs, home to colorful fish, dolphins, and West Indian manatees. Even better? You can visit Roatán on one of Virgin Voyages’ Caribbean cruises , which counts the Honduran island among its many port stops.

New Zealand

Thanks to new direct flights directly from the US mainland to cities like Auckland and Christchurch, heading to New Zealand is easier than ever. It’s a year-round destination, but Kiwi summer from December to February offers a nice change of season for those visiting from the Northern Hemisphere. Try Maori cuisine with a gourmet twist in Wellington , or slow-cooked New Zealand lamb in Sichuan sauce in Auckland .

Srinagar, India

To experience a winter wonderland on the Indian subcontinent, head to Srinagar, the most populous city in the Kashmir Valley. Thanks to cool new hotel openings and developing infrastructure in the region that make visiting much easier than ever before, Srinagar was on our international list of 23 Best Places to Go in 2023 . To keep warm, indulge in a multicourse wazwan feast and wash it all down with piping hot cups of kahwa, Kashmiri saffron tea.

San Diego, California

Welcome to the unofficial Christmas (merchandise) capital of the United States, where two megastores selling Christmas decorations draw holiday enthusiasts to San Diego year-round. Perhaps it’s the dissonance between the classic wintery aesthetics and the eternally sunny climes that make Southern California a perfect winter vacation idea, but who’s going to say no to pristine beaches and easy-luxury hotels any day of the year?

Hokkaido, Japan

The Japanese island of Hokkaido is blessed with myriad geological beauties (think volcanoes, national parks, and lakes)—most are even more stunning in winter. For example, the ethereal Shirogane Blue Pond wears ice beautifully, with its towering trees and azure waters coated in glimmering frost. Looking to ski? The slopes of Niseko are among the finest in the world.

Canary Islands, Spain

It’s not quite hot enough to swim off the white sand beaches of Spain ’s Canary Islands in the winter, but to make up for it, there are fewer crowds, ever-impressive views, and off-season prices on this cluster of volcanic isles. For what it’s worth, the island of Gran Canaria, just off northwestern Africa, is said to have the best climate in the world.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt, surrounded by some of the Alps’ tallest peaks, has 223 miles of runs in four huge ski areas —some at an altitude of over 10,000 feet, meaning snow here lingers for a very long season. This enchanting Alpine village lies at the foot of the Matterhorn, Switzerland ’s most famous mountain, and has plenty of modern touches, like its state-of-the-art lift system and swanky après-ski diversions.

Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Just off the coast of Queensland, Australia , you’ll find these 74 islands in the crystalline waters of the South Pacific. Fly into Hamilton Island, the largest of the archipelago; take to the sea on a yacht (warmer waters in Southern Hemisphere summer means whale watching season); explore the Great Barrier Reef , and learn about the traditional indigenous owners of the land, the Ngaro Aboriginal people .

Park City, Utah

The ski capital of Park City (and home to the Sundance Film Festival) is on our list of Best Places to Go in the US this year, with its iconic resorts like Montage Deer Valley , the Stein Eriksen Lodge , and the St. Regis Deer Valley offering comfy and chic digs for winter sports enthusiasts and those who love them. To see “The Greatest Snow on Earth” (the state of Utah itself has trademarked the phrase), swing by anytime between December and March.

New York City

Not many cities can compare to New York City during the holidays. Already experienced those classic traditions like the lighting of the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center , the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes , ice skating in Central Park , or The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center? Follow our guide to make a few unexpected ones of your own.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

20 most beautiful winter destinations in the world

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• top-places-more-beautiful-in-winter

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Greg Dickinson

updated 06.05.2024

Find the world's most beautiful winter destinations and swap staying at home for exploring. The coldest season seems to make many places shine their brightest, so take a look at 20 of the beautiful winter trips we recommend you try.

• 1. Chicago is one of the USA's beautiful winter destinations

2. Tallinn in Estonia

3. plitvice lakes national park, croatia, 4. jigokudani monkey park, japan, 5. banff national park in canada, 6. hallstatt in austria, 7. richmond park, uk, 8. gobi desert in mongolia, 9. bruges in belgium, 10. schloss neuschwanstein, germany, 11. trakai castle, lithuania, 12. high atlas mountains in morocco, 13. queenstown, new zealand, 14. yellowstone national park, usa, 15. lapland, finland, 16. prague, czech republic, 17. harbin in northeast china, 18. lake bled, slovenia, 19. new york city, usa, 20. pamir mountains, tajikistan, travel ideas for germany, created by local experts.

9 days  / from 2263 USD

A self drive exploration of UNESCO Sites in Southern Germany

Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites across different German states. This self drive trip allows you to design your own days with recommendations stated for each day.

7 days  / from 2905 USD

Explore Berlin and Potsdam in depth

The German capital Berlin has plenty to offer: from historical sites to world-class museums and a vibrant nightlife. Enjoy this private tour to explore a wide range of activities in Berlin and Potsdam, including several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

8 days  / from 1501 USD

Explore Northern Germany on Your Own

From Bremen to Stralsund - Northern Germany offers plenty of gems to explore. With well-developed public transportation links, this itinerary is suited for everyone wanting to explore on their own - getting lost on the cobble-stoned streets of many UNESCO World Heritage Highlights.

1. Chicago is one of the USA's beautiful winter destinations

Check out the wintery city of Chicago and you might be surprised at how well the windy city swaps breezes for snow in the coldest months of the year. January and February are coldest of all and if you're lucky and it's a particularly harsh winter, you may even see Lake Michigan frozen over. But to keep cosy, stay at Warwick Allerton in Downtown.

Tallinn in Estonia comes with extra winter enchantment thanks to its medieval old town being blanketed in snow. Pay particular attention to the frosty, fortified Toompea or Raekoja Plats and always make a point of visiting the city's pretty town hall. If you want to enjoy Tallin's winter charm first hand, think about staying at Rija Old Town Hotel .

Tallinn is one of the most beautiful winter destinations in Estonia © Shutterstock

Plitvice , the most visited national park in Croatia , is famous for 16 interconnected lakes, spectacular cascades and hordes of summer tourists. But visit in winter and not only can you see the waterfalls dramatically frozen, there's a high chance of having the park almost all to yourself. If you'd like a little company, why not take a Plitvice Lakes tour from Split?

Frozen Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia © Another Sun Photography/Shutterstock

The famous bathing snow monkeys at Jigokudani natural hot springs in Japan are actually Japanese Macaques and according to experts, they bathe in winter to stay warm and reduce stress levels. To join the red-faced macaques at Jigokudany and relax into the soothing, hot spring experience, consider a stay at Hotel Omodaka .

Related articles from the blog

Banff National Park is astonishing in winter when the waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are at their crystal clearest. Banff is also home to the Valley of the Ten Peaks, so you've remarkable views of snow capped mountains to look forward to here as well, and for an in-depth Banff experience, a guided tour of the lakes is another winter treat.

More ideas for your Canadian winter holiday can be found in our guide to the best things to do in Canada .

Moraine Lake and Valley of the Ten Peaks in Banff National Park © Shutterstock

The tiny lakeside village of Hallstatt in Austria is extra pretty in winter so you should visit to admire the sweet Alpine architecture and dramatic, snowy Salzburg Mountain . But don't rush away, fascinating World Heritage Hallstatt is also home to the world's oldest salt mines and has lots of charming places to stay, like Lakeview Apartments .

You should visit London parks in winter for their sense of peace, undeniable beauty and wide open spaces. At 2,500 acres, Richmond Park is the biggest London park and has an atmosphere that feels almost rural, not least of all because herds of wild deer still make their home here. Come in the very depths of winter and there's even a chance of snow, which only adds to the serenity.

Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Have a look at some sample itineraries. All Tailor Made Trips can be modified together with your local expert, then booked for a stress-free holiday. Click 'Modify this itinerary' to contact a local expert.

Wild deer in Richmond Park the largest park in London © Marco Scocco/Shutterstock

In your quest for winter beauty, head to the Gobi Desert in Mongolia on 6 and 7 March because those are the dates of the 1000 Camel Festival at Dalanzadgad. This annual event is known for camel polo matches and races, but is perhaps most famous of all for its Camel beauty pageants. For an inside look at this less travelled area, take a semi-Gobi desert camel tour with local guides.

The Gobi Desert Mongolia in winter © Shutterstock

See Bruges in winter for cobbled streets, charming architecture and frozen canals, chocolatiers, cosy hotels and quaint restaurants. Make time to tour a few of the 470 local castles and then simply relax, as beautiful Bruges is almost tourist-free in January and February. If you want extra atmosphere, stay at Martin's Brugge in the old town.

Bruges is one of the most beautiful winter destinations in Europe © Shutterstock

Winter really suits Germany , and if you need proof, just take a look at Bavaria and snow covered Schloss Neuschwanstein . This is the Schloss which inspired Disney's Cinderella Castle and it looks even more like a fairy tale in frosty weather.

You'll find it above Hohenschwangau village in Southwest Bavaria, and if you want to stay nearby, Schlossrestaurant Neuschwanstein is very close indeed. For more winter inspiration see 10 reasons why Saxony in Germany should be on your travel list .

Schloss Neuschwanstein in Germany, the original Cinderella Castle © Shutterstock

Head to Lithuania in winter to see Trakai Castle sitting on its own islet, surrounded by a frozen lake, just west of Vilnius. The castle dates back to the 1400s and comes with dramatic turrets and a drawbridge, which only makes it all the more enchanting. If you're tempted to take a winter break in Lithuania, stay at Old Town Trio in Vilnius.

For winter sun and snow, head to Morocco between November and April when it's a tourist-light time of year in the snowy High Atlas Mountains . There's low-crowd skiing at Oukaimeden , technical climbers get to test their skills on Mount Toubkal and you can enjoy both the peace and weather with a stay at Aurochar Oukaimeden .

Oukaimeden ski resort in the High Atlas mountains, Morocco © Novie Charleen Magne/Shutterstock

Visit New Zealand from May to September and make for the city of Queenstown . This is a fun place to be year round, but it really shines in winter and its astonishing views of The Remarkables mountain range are worth a visit alone. The nearby Coronet Peak range also offers some of New Zealand's best skiing , so if you want to ski and see Queenstown think about staying at Coronet Peak's Swiss-Bel Resort .

View of The Remarkables in winter, Queenstown, New Zealand © Shutterstock

Wildlife in Yellowstone is very evident winter when snow on the high ground of this vast, volcanic National Park forces bison migrate to lower grazing areas. You might also spot bears, wolves or elk and, if you're very lucky, sightings of pronghorn antelope are most common in winter. But, for the most rewarding wildlife watching, you should take a winter tour of Yellowstone and Grand Teton with local guides.

Spot winter wildlife in Yellowstone National Park, USA © Shutterstock

To see Northern Lights in Finland head to Lapland as the long, dark winters make this eerily beautiful part of Europe an Aurora Borealis hotspot. For the best sightings, visit between January and March or, better still, stay in Rovaniemi and go Northern Light hunting with local guides.

Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland during winter © Shutterstock

Prague does winter beautifully so wrap up warm and go wandering around the atmospheric old town, which looks its loveliest dusted with snow. Don't forget to make a pit stop to try Klobása barbecued sausage washed down with svařené víno mulled wine or to fully immerse, stay at Old Prague Hotel in the historic centre.

Looking for more options? You'll find them in our guide to the best places to stay in Prague .

Christmassy snow covered Prague in winter © Shutterstock

Journey to Harbin in northeast China during January when winter temperatures of -20°C during inspires great art at the world's largest Ice and snow sculpture festival. This annual event now attracts global participants and the vast ice designs are nothing short of incredible. Go see, then find out more on private tour of Harbin with local guides.

Sculpture at the Harbin Ice festival in northeast China © Andy Poole/Shutterstock

See romantic Lake Bled in in the Upper Carniolan region of Northwest Slovenia during winter when it's surrounded by snow covered mountains. There's a lovely circular walk you can take round the lake which gives you a great view of Bled Island and its pretty church tower. If you feel like more exploring Čarman House is one of the cosiest places to stay.

Church of the Assumption, Lake Bled, Slovenia © Shutterstock

New York City does winter well, as freezing weather is often countered by brilliant blue skies and heavy winter snow prettifies the city. There's also Christmas shopping to look forward to, not to mention skating in Central Park with a Manhattan skyline view. So think about staying at the heart of everything in Sonder I Chambers .

The dramatic Pamir Mountains are at their loveliest in winter and you'll find them in Tajikistan in Central Asia . Deserted during the coldest months of the year, they're snow-covered, rugged and only explored by the most intrepid travellers, however, they're still stunning to look at and a private day tour to Karakul Lake doesn't demand too much courage.

Beautiful view of Karakul lake in Pamir in Tajikistan © NOWAK LUKASZ/Shutterstock

Inspired to take a winter trip? Take a look at our pick of the best winter sun destinations around the world . And if you are a fan of winter sports, find the best skiing and snowboarding destinations on our list of top ski resorts .

• New Zealand
• Inspiration
• Czech Republic

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Find even more inspiration here

Ready to travel and discover germany, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Winter Vacations

10 Best Warm Places to Travel to This Winter

Escape the chill in these warm-weather destinations.

Sure, the winter months have their perks – skiing, sledding, snowman building, and of course the holidays. But the cold! Oh, the cold. It digs deep under your skin, straight to your bones, chilling everything from your toes to your chattering teeth. Fortunately, several year-round, warm-weather destinations can offer a much-needed respite from the frigid air.

From island getaways to sizzling cities, here are 10 of the best warm places to visit this winter.

Ambergris Caye, Belize 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

With direct flights from several U.S. cities (including New York, Chicago, Houston, Atlanta, and Miami), getting to the Central American nation of Belize is easier than you think. The country's interior is filled with lush, verdant landscapes home to monkeys and even a few rare jaguars, but the real star is the coast. To experience the white-sand beaches at their best, make your way to Ambergris Caye. Belize's largest island is known for its water sports, including diving and snorkeling around the nearby Belize Barrier Reef. For a luxe visit, book a few nights at Alaia Belize , which not only provides easy access to the beach, but also has a swimming pool suspended six stories above the main access corridor, with portholes in the bottom that offer aerial views of the property.

Mexico City 

Jorge Castro/Travel + Leisure

Though winter in CDMX won't have the tropical heat you might expect from Mexico — temperatures tend to top out in the low 70s this time of year — it still provides a balmy alternative to snowy U.S. locales. The capital is flush with cultural attractions , including first-rate museums (like the stunning Museo Frida Kahlo ), incredible shopping at both high-end stores and local markets, and some of the best restaurants in the world (we're looking at you, Pujol ). Make Las Alcobas your home base. The luxury hotel offers lavish guest rooms and a tranquil spa in which to relax after a day of urban exploration.

Key West, Florida

Key West is a true delight in the winter months, as the average high temperature never really falls below 75 degrees. It's the perfect place for fruity cocktails on the sand, sunset strolls down lively shopping streets, and slice after slice of tangy Key lime pie. Make the most of your time here by booking a stay at the historic Casa Marina Key West , which recently underwent an extensive renovation. Through the hotel, you can book local food tours, golf outings, and sailboat cruises, or you can simply sit by the pool and soak in the Florida Keys sun.

Rangiroa, French Polynesia

Though more than a hundred islands comprise French Polynesia , just a handful (think Bora Bora and Moorea) get most of the attention. If you prefer somewhere a little less crowded, try the quiet, sparsely developed atoll of Rangiroa. Located about an hour's flight from Tahiti, it has pristine beaches and a massive lagoon brimming with sea life. Book the Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa , which boasts stunning overwater bungalows and villas with private plunge pools.

Panama Highlands

Panama is another destination with splendid coastlines, but its interior shouldn't be overlooked, especially for a winter vacation. Temperatures in the country's highlands sit in the 60s and 70s year round, creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Visitor-favorite activities here include bird-watching and, for more adventurous types, criss-crossing the verdant mountains via the famous hanging bridges of Boquete. The region also has a stellar coffee scene worth exploring. Book a stay at The Haven , an adults-only wellness hotel that'll help you get on a coffee tour as soon as you land.

If you're seeking an African safari this winter without the crowds of a classic destination like Kenya, try the less-traveled terrain of Namibia . This nation on Africa's southwest coast offers seclusion, otherworldly landscapes, and near-guaranteed warm weather. It's also the perfect place to see animals like lions, elephants, leopards, and rhinos in their natural environment. There are several outfitters in the area, but Natural Selection is top-notch. It has numerous camps to choose from, including the famed Shipwreck Lodge on the Skeleton Coast.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

If you want to mix some time under the sun with some cultural enrichment, look no further than San Juan. The capital of Puerto Rico has long stretches of white-sand beaches, plus historical attractions like the Castillo San Felipe del Morro. Visitors will also find lots of delicious spots to eat (make reservations at Cocina Abierta ). In San Juan, it's best to go boutique, so check into the O:LV Fifty Five hotel, which features a rooftop bar and pool offering the best views in town.

When the first cold snap hits, book your flight to Dubai. This desert oasis offers not just warm weather but a mind-boggling array of things to do, from swimming in the Persian Gulf to shopping at some of the world's most luxurious stores and dining at multiple Michelin-starred restaurants. (Don't forget to visit the tallest building in the world while you're here, via an elevator that travels at an ear-popping 30 feet per second.) Try Atlantis, The Palm for your overnight stays — it's a veritable playground for those looking to indulge in the finer things in life.

Winter happens to be the best time to visit Bangkok . The weather is balmy year-round thanks to Thailand's tropical location, but the winter months offer slightly more comfortable temperatures, with highs rarely exceeding 90 degrees.

To get the most out of this massive city, it's best to book a lengthy visit or get a guide — there are tons of tour options on sites like Airbnb Experiences that focus on food, culture, and photography. Don't miss out on the city's canals, either, which you can tour on a long-tail boat. Make your home base the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok , a long-running honoree in Travel + Leisure 's World's Best Awards.

The Bahamas

Sometimes, you just need to get away and not think about a single thing. And that's exactly what you can do in the Bahamas, an island chain that's just a three-hour flight from New York City. There are a number of beautiful destinations to see here, and many of the archipelago's inhabited islands are home to all-inclusive resorts that are ideal for families, couples, and even solo travelers.

Related Articles

OUTSIDE FESTIVAL JUNE 1-2

Don't miss Thundercat + Fleet Foxes, adventure films, experiences, and more!

GET TICKETS

The 25 Best Winter Trips in the World

Surfing in Baja. Summit-to-sea skiing in Alaska. Hiking in Death Valley. There’s no shortage of epic adventures to be had in winter. We’ve rounded up our favorite trips to make sure you get your fill of thrills.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Whether you’re craving snow or sun, we’ve got you covered. We scoured North America, the Caribbean, and Mexico to come up with close-to-home destinations brimming with fun for any type of traveler—from slopeside lodging to vintage Airstreams to timeless backcountry huts. Enjoy.

Explore the Caribbean Island That Time Forgot

Bequia is the destination for people who are tired of the same old beach vacation. First off, it’s an island few have heard of and most people mispronounce (bek-way, if you really want to know). There are just 5,000 people that live on the seven-square-mile spit of land, and the locals treat visitors as if they’re hosting a family friend. They’ll drive you around in the back of their pickup, take you to the island’s ramshackle turtle nursery, or chat with you about life on the only island in the Caribbean that still has an aboriginal whale hunt each year. The volcanic island has just a handful of hotels, the newest of which is the Liming Bequia (from $550), an upscale resort that feels more like staying at a family compound than a five-star retreat, thanks to its size—just nine villas, currently—and the island’s overall small-town vibe. During the day, hike Bequia’s highest peak for a bird’s eye view of the stunning Princess Margaret Beach (named after the royal when she visited in the 1950s), or charter a boat for the 30-minute ride to the private island of Mustique, where you can swim with turtles and snag lunch at Basil’s Bar, a Caribbean cult favorite lunch spot. But the allure of Bequia is just being there, relishing in the warm blue waters and that end-of-the-world feel that comes from a place that’s closer to Venezuela than Puerto Rico and gets hit with the occasional dust cloud drifting over from the Sahara. It feels adventurous, even if you do just veg out on the beach. —Ryan Krogh

Hike to a Lodge on California’s Coast

If you like the idea of backpacking to a beautiful, remote place to spend the night, but you don’t love the notion of sleeping on the ground, let us introduce you to West Point Inn (from $100), a rustic backcountry hotel with seven rooms and six cabins on a ridge atop California’s Mount Tamalpais, less than an hour north of San Francisco. To get to the inn, you’ll hike or bike two miles from Mount Tamalpais State Park , near the town of Mill Valley, on a path once used by a historic scenic railway. It’s just far enough to feel like you’ve earned a good night’s sleep, but not so far that you can’t bring the kids. The hotel, which was built in 1904 as a restaurant and pitstop for the railroad, has the charm of a backcountry hut but a few more amenities — think plush quilts and running water. You’ll still need to bring your own sheets and food and share a bathroom down the hall. But from the main porch you can enjoy unparalleled views of the Marin Headlands and the East Bay, as well as occasional sightings of the Golden Gate Bridge through the fog. In the winter, temperatures are still comfortable for daytime hiking and inn availability is much easier to snag. —Megan Michelson

Ski Summit to Sea in Alaska

When your ski lodge floats, it’s easy to escape the crowds and access untouched terrain. From February through May, Remarkable Adventures uses a 58-foot boat from Babkin Charters as its base for five- and seven-day trips exploring the deep fjords and towering peaks of Alaska’s Prince William Sound . Leg-burning descents are punctuated with incredible wildlife experiences, like spotting breaching orcas as you carve from summit to sea. Zodiacs ferry guides, guests, and gear ashore, and a stable maritime snowpack means it’s possible to drop into 40-degree slopes and bag runs ranging from 1,200 to 1,500 vertical feet. Last season, Warren Miller joined to film a segment for Winter Starts Now , premiering October 20. (Warren Miller Entertainment is part of Outside Inc., the same company that owns Outside .) “It’s true exploration,” says Remarkable Adventures founder and AMGA-certified ski guide Nick D’Alessio. “Most of this stuff has never been skied before.” It’s not just about the gnar, though. There’s plenty of lower-angle terrain for relaxed days, and on down days guests can ski the shoreline in search of otters, fish, or kayak. And unlike a hut trip, you won’t be roughing it. Après sessions might involve bacon-wrapped dates and beers around a beach bonfire. Plus, a chef keeps guests fueled with huevos rancheros in the morning and halibut tacos and just-baked cookies in the evenings. Starting at $4,000 per person for up to five people, including guide and meals. —Jen Murphy

Camp at a Colorado Backcountry Ski Area

Bluebird Backcountry is a no-frills ski area that opened in 2020 on private land outside of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. This isn’t your typical ski resort—you’ve got to earn your turns here. In lieu of crowded lift lines and fancy lodges, you’ll get guided backcountry outings, avalanche courses, pre-set skin tracks, warming huts, and a limited number of guests on the mountain each day. Twelve new trails are opening this winter, offering more than 1,200 acres of avalanche-managed terrain. Last winter, Bluebird began allowing camping two miles down the road from the base area in a designated zone known as Camp Bluebird . It’s a fun, communal spot to park your van alongside other backcountry skiers and riders. A season pass (from $249) includes five nights of free camping. Otherwise, day tickets start at $50 (reservations required) and an overnight campsite is $25 per vehicle. This is what skiing was like in the 70s. —M.M.

Go by Boat to a Barrier Island in Florida

Cayo Costa State Park is one of Florida’s largest and most stunning undeveloped barrier islands. The only way to get there is by boat or kayak. Captiva Cruises runs a ferry service (from $45) from Captiva Island to and from Cayo Costa. Or, for the experienced sea kayaker, it’s about a seven-mile paddle from island to island along the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail . Pitch a tent or book a cabin from the state park’s campground (from $22)—winter temperatures here are ideal for camping, plus the mosquitoes are less prevalent. Collect shells from the nine miles of unspoiled beaches, spot sea turtles nesting, or fish for redfish, snook, and trout. Bikes and kayaks are available to rent from the camp store, and the island has six miles of hiking trails. Don’t miss Manatee Hole, a lagoon that’s full of the lovable marine mammals year-round, and paddling 20-minutes to dinner at Cabbage Key , on a namesake island, where the bar’s walls are lined with 60 years’ worth of dollar bills from previous customers. —M.M.  

Explore Yellowstone National Park

America’s oldest (established in 1872) and arguably most spectacular national park celebrates its 150 th anniversary this winter. Yellowstone is pure magic in the snow, with all the steam from its bizarre geothermal features and far fewer people. In early November, most of the park’s roads close, leaving the pristine landscape to the elk and bison—and to cross-country skiers and snowshoers. Select roads re-open in mid-December to snowmobiles and snow coaches, providing unique access to Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and other iconic park sites, as well as enabling outfitters to run winter wildlife tours and photo safaris to capture sightings of bison, elk, and wolves. One historic in-park lodge remains open in winter: Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel (from $264), which is celebrating its 85th anniversary this year. The hotel completed a major renovation of its guest rooms and public spaces in late 2019, but staying here in the winter still feels like going back in time. —Jayme Moye  

Drink Craft Whiskey in Vermont

At the newly renovated Mountain Inn Killington (from $169; Ikon passholders get a discount on rooms), at the base of Killington Resort , the Killington Distillery is located just off the lobby. What does this mean? Well, for one, maple cask bourbon whiskey after a day on the slopes. In addition to tasty cocktails—try the maple old-fashioned or the spiked elderflower lemonade—the distillery also has pub fare perfect for the end of a big ski day, like truffle fries and flatbreads loaded with Cabot cheddar and fried onions. It’s the first so-called distillery hotel in New England, but you’ll find similar properties elsewhere, like Cantilever , near Minnesota’s Voyageurs National Park , the Distillery Inn in Marble, Colorado, and the Lodge at Blue Sky , near Park City, Utah, where High West Distillery shares the grounds. Wherever they may be located, this is a trend we can definitely get behind. —M.M.

Ride Your Gravel Bike in the Desert

Need a break from the cold? Head just north of the Mexican border to the small town of Patagonia, Arizona, a place Velo News calls the “new gravel mecca.” Mid-winter, temperatures can be in the 60s, which is perfect for riding. Your home base for the weekend is the Gravel House (from $320), a vacation rental property run by a crew of endurance cyclists. The compound has a straw bale home that fits six comfortably, in addition to a quaint wooden studio that sleeps two. A fire pit and a fruit orchard with apples and peach trees are just outside the front door, and downtown Patagonia is a short walk away. Come for the Spirit World 100-mile gravel race , which takes place in early November, or sign up for the Gravel House’s guided gravel rides or wine tours by bike all winter long. Not into gravel riding? You can hike, trail run, or mountain bike a section of the 800-mile Arizona Trail , which passes through town. Patagonia is also only an hour from Tucson, which makes for an easy detour. —M.M.

Heli-ski in British Columbia

British Columbia’s namesake mountain range is home to the world’s largest heli-skiing outfitter, Canadian Mountain Holidays (CMH), whose founder Hans Gmoser is widely credited with inventing the sport in the 1960s. This winter, CMH adds a 12 th destination to its powder portfolio: 495,000 acres in the subrange known as the Purcells. Certified local guides will lead small groups of six skiers down high-alpine bowls and glaciers, and, at lower elevations, through some of the best tree-skiing in the region. CMH Purcell is the only CMH heli-skiing operation to offer short trips of one, two, or three days, and is the first without a backcountry lodge. Instead, guests stay in the nearby adventure hub of Golden, a three-hour drive from Calgary. The town just so happens to have its own world-class skiing, at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Don’t miss dinner at 7,700 feet on top of a mountain at Eagles Eye Restaurant , or lunch at Bacchus Books & Café , serving healthy, homemade fare made by Katie Mitzel, a local backcountry cookbook celebrity. —Jayme Moye

Hike in Big Bend National Park, Texas

Winter temperatures in Big Bend National Park , in the far West corner of Texas, are mild, topping out at around 70 degrees in January and February. Which means you can check off the park’s longer trails—like the ten-mile round trip hike to 7,825-foot Emory Peak, the highest summit in the Chisos Mountains—in a far more comfortable climate than midsummer’s scorching 90-degree temps. Nighttime temperatures can get below freezing, so pack accordingly. Plus, there’s excellent stargazing at this International Dark Sky Park come winter. For a place to stay, there’s camping in the park (from $16), as well as the Chisos Mountain Lodge (from $166), which is in the heart of Big Bend. Or stay closer to the gateway town of Terlingua at Willow House (from $335), a low-key modernist retreat that manages to combine ascetic indulgence with dramatic views of the Chisos Mountains in the distance. —M.M.

Sleep in a Yurt in Oregon

Anthony Lakes is the coolest ski area you’ve never heard of. This eastern Oregon gem—five hours from Portland or three from Boise, Idaho—is low key and family friendly. Tickets cost just $45 a day and kids six and under and those over 70 ski free. The best part? It’s only open Thursdays through Sundays, so if you show up on a Thursday morning after a midweek storm, you’ll get three days’ worth of powder piled up. The place isn’t huge—just one triple chair, a rope tow, and 1,100 skiable acres—but the base area is at 7,100 feet in elevation, the highest in Oregon, making cold, dry snow all but guaranteed. The ski area rents out two fully stocked wintertime yurts (from $200) a quarter mile from the main lodge that you can post up in overnight. Book a yurt and you’ll get half-priced lift tickets, making this possibly the most affordable slopeside ski trip in America. —M.M.

Relive the Olympic Spirit in Lake Placid, New York

In 1980, Lake Placid was transformed into the center of the winter sports world, when the tiny village of 2,500 got upgrades to host the Olympics, including new hotels and a brand-new sports arena. The town has been mostly stuck in an Adirondack-style time-capsule ever since, but the last few years have ushered in a series of well-deserved changes. This winter sees the re-opening of Main Street’s Grand Adirondack Lodge (rates have yet to be announced) after a dramatic renovation of the 92-room hotel. The wood-and-stone lodge first opened in 1927. Today it resides in the heart of the village, across the street from Mirror Lake, which in winter transforms into an ice-skating loop and rinks for pick-up hockey games. From the lodge’s rooftop bar, you can see the runs at Whiteface Mountain , a burly resort with New England’s highest vertical, at 3,430 feet. Lake Placid is the gateway to Adirondack Park—which is home to some 3,000 freshwater lakes, rivers, streams—but the village truly comes alive in the snow. There’s an abundance of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails, with the nine miles of professional-groomed tracks at the Nordic Center at Whiteface Club and Resort being the most popular. There’s also dog sledding nearby and even a 30-foot-high toboggan chute that spits you out onto Mirror Lake. Before your adventure, fuel up at the recently opened Cocoa and Dough, Co. , a delightful mashup of donut shop, hot dog stand, and cocoa shop, with graffiti-covered walls. Get the Campfire, a donut covered in Marshmallow Fluff, crushed golden grahams, chocolate kiss, chocolate drizzle. The shop is perhaps the most delicious example of how the town is transforming into a hipper resort destination while still managing to keep all of its winter charm. —R.K.

Hike Death Valley National Park in California

Death Valley ’s punishing 120-degree summer daytime temperatures mellow out to a pleasant 70 degrees in winter, making it an ideal hiking and camping destination. As the largest national park in the lower 48, at 3.4 million acres, there’s plenty of room to roam. Choose from nearly 100 hiking routes leading through an astounding diversity of landscapes, including multi-colored badlands, rock cathedrals, sand dunes, canyons, gulches, and even waterfalls. One day, you’re trekking across the otherworldly salt flats of Badwater Basin, the lowest point of elevation in the U.S. (282 feet below sea level), and the next, climbing the Telescope Peak Trail to the area’s highest point at 11,049-feet. You can camp anywhere within the park, but for toilets and basic amenities choose from nine designated sites . Bring cold weather gear and apparel for hiking at elevation and the evenings, when temperatures dip into the 30s. —Jayme Moye

Fat-bike and XC ski in Wisconsin

There’s a good reason that North America’s largest cross-country ski marathon is held in the Northwoods of Wisconsin every year. Besides the 100-plus miles of the American Birkebeiner Trail System (available for public use all winter), you’ll find another 100 miles of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails maintained by local groups like the North End Ski Club . There’s also 50 miles of dedicated, groomed fat bike trails courtesy of the Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association . And don’t forget about the other 600 miles of snowmobile trails that traverse the region’s rolling hills and hardwood forests maintained by the Sawyer County Snowmobile and ATV Alliance —the self-proclaimed world’s largest single owner of trail grooming equipment. Stay at the north end of the Birkie Trail, in Cable, at Telemark Vacation Condos (from$119). Or at the south end, in Hayward, at Flat Creek Lodge  (from$110). Rent skis, snowshoes, and fat bikes at New Moon Ski and Bike or Riverbrook Bike and Ski.   Leave it to Wisconsinites to find so much to do in the snow and cold. —Jayme Moye

Splurge on a Cool New Hotel in Sedona, Arizona

The Ambiente (from $1,500), due to open mid-December in Sedona, Arizona, is being billed as one of North America’s first landscape hotels. What does that mean exactly? It’s basically a property that blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. See Norway’s Juvet Landscape Hotel or Spain’s Vivood Landscape Hotel for reference. Ambiente continues on admirably in the tradition of those properties. Perched on the edge of Coconino National Forest , it’s made up of 40 stilted guest atriums, which are constructed of sustainable materials meant to match or reflect the red rock desert around it. Nearby Sedona has year-round hiking, winter temperatures in the 60s, and mountain biking on world-class trails. You can practice yoga outdoors or search for the hidden energy centers known as vortexes that Sedona is famous for. Whether or not you find them, you’re sure to come home re-energized. —M.M.

Backcountry Ski to a Hut Near Lake Tahoe

Slated to open in late December, Frog Lake Huts (from $225) consist of three architect-designed backcountry huts located on Castle Peak, a popular backcountry ski zone on Donner Summit, near Truckee, California. Built in a European style, the cabins have cozy bunks, gas stoves, flush toilets, and hot water. A communal cabin nearby has a kitchen, fireplace, and map room. The ski terrain in the area includes everything from steep, north-facing chutes to low-angle tree skiing through old-growth red fir. The land around Frog Lake used to be privately owned and was closed to the public for years, but in June 2020, the Truckee Donner Land Trust and its partners purchased it in a historic $15 million deal and opened the area for public recreation. To get here, you’ll ski tour, snowshoe, or splitboard some three miles and 1,500 vertical feet from the Castle Peak trailhead parking area on Interstate 80. Your effort will be more than rewarded. —M.M.

Search for Hidden Shrines on Aspen Mountain

For decades, skiers have been discretely and anonymously creating hidden shrines, made from mementos like photos and personal possessions, amongst the snow-covered glades of Aspen’s four ski areas. David Wood, who wrote a guidebook called Sanctuaries in the Snow that’s dedicated to finding the shrines, estimates that these eclectic memorials started appearing on the mountain in the 1970s, with over 150 of them scattered across Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Aspen Highlands today. Tucked away in the trees are tributes to the Beatles, 9/11 victims, David Bowie, and Jerry Garcia. There are memorials to local skiers, like John Nicoletta, who died in a freeskiing competition in 2008. There’s a shrine to the Smurfs and to Snoopy. The shrines differ in size and style, but most contain photos, notes, and artifacts. You won’t find them all, but if you’re skiing or riding Aspen Snowmass , it sure is fun to look for them in between powder turns. —M.M.  

Relax at a New Eco Lodge in Todos Santos

An hour north of Cabo San Lucas on the west coast of Baja , Mexico, the small village of Todos Santos feels like a little slice of paradise. The town has a throwback bohemian vibe, full of artists’ galleries, farm-to-table restaurants, and nearby surf breaks. Plus, there’s a new hotel worth the trip itself: Paradero (from $550), which opened in February 2021, has 35 suites situated across five bucolic acres of former farmland. The adults-only hotel offers tours of local farms, morning yoga, guided sunset bike rides and hikes, and taco tours of Todos Santos. Afterward, relax with a massage at the hotel spa or enjoy a shaman-guided temazcal , a traditional Mayan ceremony held inside a mud hut that acts as a sweat lodge. —M.M.

Chill at an Ice Festival in Michigan

Come winter, the sandstone cliffs in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore along Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula transform into sizable ice sculptures, tempting people from all over the U.S. to come for cave openings dripping with giant icicles, massive frozen waterfalls, and towering ice pillars. Not surprisingly, Pictured Rocks is the site of Michigan Ice Fest , held for climbers every February. Visitors can watch from the sidelines or get in on the action with free classes and demos (no experience required). New for 2022, Black Diamond is offering a class called ‘Introduction to Ice for People of Color,’ and pro athlete and guide Will Gadd is coming down from Canada to teach ‘Avalanche Safety for Ice Climbers.’ Base yourself out of Munising, an outdoorsy lakeside village in Hiawatha National Forest , which has the most lodging options. Then make it a point to stop in at Muldoons or Miners (ideally both) for pasties, a traditional Cornish pastry that’s stuffed with expedition-quantities of meat and potatoes. It’s a Michigan thing. —Jayme Moye

Unwind in Colorado’s Most Relaxed Ski Town

It’s hard to beat Breckenridge for Rocky Mountain ski town culture and vibe. The quintessential Colorado resort celebrates its 60 th anniversary this season, with festivities starting opening day, November 12th, and a new chairlift on Peak 7. Resort staff have dubbed the new high-speed quad the Freedom SuperChair, and expect it to better balance the flow of skiers moving from Peak 6 to 7. For off-piste enthusiasts, Breck (as locals call it) is home to the backcountry experts and educators of Colorado Adventure Guides , and the Summit Huts Association recently added a new mountain hut, Sisters Cabin , just outside of town on the slopes of Bald Mountain. Tin Plate, an upscale pizza joint located in a 138-year-old mining cabin in Breck’s historic District, is the hottest new restaurant. Stay at Gravity Haus (from $249), a boutique hotel in the heart of downtown. If you fly to Colorado on United (Breck is a two-hour drive from the Denver airport), you can now skip the rental car—the airline is partnering with Landline to shuttle visitors on a luxury bus between Denver International Airport and the resort. —Jayme Moye

Treat Yourself at Big Sky’s Newest Luxury Lodge

Montana’s Big Sky Resort is known for its massive terrain. With runs like the Big, a 1,400-vertical foot couloir that requires checking in with ski patrol and wearing an avalanche beacon to descend, the resort is the birthplace of the triple black diamond difficulty rating. Starting this winter, it’s also the home of big luxury. Montage Big Sky (from $1,395) is set to open in mid-December, with the most luxe (and most expensive) guest rooms, suites, and residences in town. The lodge has six restaurants, a spa, a fitness center, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and hot tubs, and a recreation room with a four-lane bowling alley, not to mention ski-in, ski-out access to the resort. Meanwhile, on the mountain, Big Sky debuts North America’s fastest six-person chairlift this winter. Swift Current 6 —complete with heated seats, individual headrests and footrests, and a protective weatherproof bubble—will replace the existing Swift Current Quad, cutting the 12-minute ride time in half. The new upgrades are quickly transforming one of America’s largest resorts into one of its best. —Jayme Moye  

Check Out Puerto Rico’s Farmhouse Retreat

Vieques, a sleepy island off the east coast of Puerto Rico, is home to a farmhouse-style bed and breakfast tucked into the forested hillsides. The theme at La Finca Victoria (from $169) is rejuvenation, with an Ayurvedic Wellness Center and 12 luxe guest suites, each uniquely decorated by Puerto Rican owner-designer Sylvia de Marco. Stays include a vegetarian poolside breakfast, yoga classes, and all-you-can-eat fruit from the garden. The tiny island remains mostly undeveloped, and the attraction here is the wilderness: its 18,000-acre National Wildlife Refuge is the largest in the Caribbean, with some of its most pristine beaches—some with bright white sand, others with sparkling black. Elegant, gentle Paso Fino horses brought by the Spanish roam free throughout the island. But its biggest draw is Puerto Mosquito , or Mosquito Bay, the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. Several local outfitters offer nighttime tours of the glowing water by kayak. Ideally, time your trip with the new moon, when the night sky is darkest. —Jayme Moye

Crash at Utah’s Most Memorable New Lodging

Utah’s latest backcountry lodging option is located on 20 acres within Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , making for an ideal—and memorable—basecamp for exploring must-sees like Lower Calf Creek Falls and the slot canyon hike at Spooky Gulch. Yonder Escalante (from $195) is meant to be an experience as much as a place to stay. It consists of 22 tiny-home style A-frame cabins, 10 vintage Airstreams tricked out as guest suites, and 67 RV sites. The 1960s nostalgia continues with an outdoor movie screen (the site is a former drive-in theater) and a small fleet of classic cars for rent to attend screenings. A 24-hour general store that sells beer, spa-like bath houses with indoor and outdoor showers, and a swimming pool and hot tub complete the desert retreat. Winter temps generally hit a high of 50 degrees, so the hot tub is still inviting in the depths of January. Yonder Escalante’s surrounding mesas and million-star night skies make it feel as if you’re in the middle of nowhere, but it’s just two miles from the galleries, cafes, and boutiques of of Escalante. (The property is closed from around Thanksgiving until January 17th. All accommodations are heated and have their own fire pit.) —Jayme Moye

Surf and Chill Out in SoCal

Come winter, California’s mild weather and palm-dotted ocean scenery is hard to beat. This year, a pair of high-end hotels opened on San Diego’s northern coastline at Oceanside Beach. O’side, as it’s known locally, has it all—the laid-back SoCal vibe, the oceanside breweries, the historic wooden pier, and, in the winter, whale watching. It’s also a hotbed of surf culture with a four-mile long coastline and the California Surf Museum. Choose the Seabird Resort (from $349) for its grand coastal architecture and farm-to-table restaurant, or stay at Mission Pacific Hotel (from $349) for spectacular sunsets from its rooftop bar (the food’s great, too). Both hotels feature original artwork curated by the Oceanside Museum of Art and complimentary beach butler service while relaxing in the sun. For surfing lessons, go to North County Surf Academy to work with Duran Barr, a second-generation pro surfer from Oceanside. —Jayme Moye

Celebrate Snow in Quebec

Twenty years ago this winter, some hard-bitten skiers got the idea to traverse Quebec’s Gaspé Peninsula, a tongue of soaring mountains and quiet forests south of the St. Lawrence River—and with that one of Canada’s most lively and colorful cross-country ski events was born. Today La Traversée de la Gaspésie, as the adventure is called in French, isn’t an actual crossing of the 12,000-square-mile peninsula so much as a week of day-tripping forays that take you deep into Quebec’s vibrant winter culture. (There’s also a summer version on bikes.) This year’s edition, which runs February 19–26 (entrance fees start at $1,300, which includes lodging), kicks off with line dancing in your muck boots at the Gîte du Mont Albert , a cozy four-star hotel located in the heart of 309-square-mile Gaspésie National Park . You’ll spend the next four days in the park skiing or snowshoeing 15 to 22 miles a day on trails that slip through the 4,000-foot Chic Choc Mountains. After that it’s off by bus to the coastal town of Gaspé on the Gulf of St. Lawrence for three more days of exploring trails in the remote 94-square-mile Forillon National Park . The  COVID-19 pandemic has thrown some traditions like village home-stays into disarray, but the entire field of roughly 275 skiers often eat dinners together in churches or halls large enough to house them all. Either way, expect to find musicians singing on the trails, impromptu dance parties in warming huts, and treats like the caribou—a classic Quebecois cocktail with whiskey, wine, and maple syrup—waiting for you at the end of the day. Bring your warmest clothes and learn the Quebecois word “frette.” That’s dialect for weather that’s colder than cold. —Tim Neville

• North America
• Snow Sports
• United States

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Where to go in winter, according to 8 travel writers

From the golden shores of Egypt to small-town Massachusetts, these are the best destinations to visit this winter – as chosen by globetrotting travel writers

Baby, it’s cold outside! And inside, for that matter. Winter is settling in, but that doesn’t mean travel has to go on hold – in fact, this is one of the best times of the year to hit the road. And if you’re looking for some winter destination  inspiration, look no further.

We went to some of our favourite travel writers who have published books this year, and asked them  about the one place they love to visit in winter. The resulting list celebrates the destinations that shine in the colder months – whether they’re winter-sun spots offering an escape from the cold, or places to embrace the season’s chilly delights.

So don’t wait till summer to get out there. Grab your snow boots (or your swimsuit) and explore the best winter destinations on earth.

RECOMMENDED:

🎄  The best places to travel in December ❄️ The best places to travel in January 💙 The best places to travel in February 🎁 The best places to go for Christmas 🎆 The best places to celebrate New Year

An email you’ll actually love

The world’s best winter destinations

West Bali, Indonesia

Chosen by Mark Eveleigh

‘ Overcrowded, overdeveloped and over-exploited, or the most beautiful island in the world? There’s a Balinese belief that everything – good and bad, life and death, beauty and ugliness – is in a state of perpetual balance. Sometimes two apparent opposites can be true at the same time.

‘In 25 years as a travel journalist I’ve lived in many parts of Asia, Latin America and Africa. But there’s a good reason why, these days, I choose to make the four-hour drive from Bali ’s airport, leaving the crowds behind and heading out to the island’s “wild west”.  Often, when I’m heading to my local pointbreak to surf with Balinese friends, I still gasp at the unbelievable beauty of dawn in West Bali. The bronze rays of the sun glinting on flooded terraces. The neon patchwork of young rice plants. Foamy waves rushing up a black volcanic beach. 

‘I was raised in  England  so it’s not surprising that I’d choose tropical climes for a winter destination. Things are changing rapidly here but, for the moment at least, I still believe that Bali deserves its reputation as the world’s most beautiful island.’

Mark Eveleigh is a novelist and travel writer. His book  ‘Kopi Dulu: Caffeine-Fuelled Travels through Indonesia’   was published by Penguin Random House SEA in August 2022.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Chosen by Shafik Meghji

‘The Salar de Uyuni – the world’s biggest salt flat – is an otherworldly landscape. Roughly the size of Jamaica , this ancient lake bed sits on a high Andean plateau in south-west Bolivia, more than 11,000 feet above sea level. It is a pancake-flat, dazzlingly white expanse dotted with islands of giant cacti, flanked by soaring mountains and volcanoes, and home to and rabbit-like vizcachas and vast reserves of valuable lithium.

‘Over the last 18 years, I’ve been drawn back repeatedly to this starkly beautiful wilderness. My favourite time to visit is during Bolivia’s rainy summer season, from November to April. That’s when large tracts of the Salar de Uyuni flood, creating a mind-bending mirror-like effect. Travelling here at this time of year can be a little challenging, but it’s an unforgettable experience.’

Shafik Meghji is a journalist, travel writer and author of ‘Crossed off the Map: Travels in Bolivia’ .

Capri and Sardinia, Italy

Chosen by Giancarlo Ascari and Pia Valentinis

Giancarlo Ascari: ‘ Winter is the best season to visit the island of Capri, in the Bay of Naples . The flow of tourists who flock to it during the rest of the year decreases and you can discover a place with an incredible history. Here Tiberius spent his last years, governing the Roman Empire with signals of light sent from his villa towards the continent. In Capri have lived hermits, theosophists, industrialists like Alfred Krupp, writers like Graham Greene and Pablo Neruda, famous doctors like Axel Munthe. It is easy and fascinating to find their traces, to recognise the places they have told. The nature is beautiful, the views are gorgeous, the taxis are old American open cars from the ’50s. And in winter, if you are lucky (or unlucky), the rough sea will block the navigation of the ferries for a few days – so you will stay in Capri longer than expected.’

Pia Valentinis: ‘I prefer the sea in winter, when the light is less dazzling, the water reflects dark clouds and there are no people around. In Sardinia , the beach of Cagliari – the Poetto – extends for seven miles: perfect for long walks. Looking up, you can see seabirds such as Eurasian plovers, black-winged stilts, red, white and grey herons. On the shoreline you can collect the objects that the sea brings in during storm surges, such as shells and bottles with messages inside. And you can always find a bar open for some prawn pasta or a glass of wine, best sipped gazing towards the horizon.’

‘Bridges of the World ’  by Giancarlo Ascari and Pia Valentinis is published by OH Editions .

Pittsfield, Massachusetts

Chosen by Mark Vanhoenacker

‘Winter is my favourite season. I love both the cold and all the delights – hot chocolate, roaring fires – of coming in from it. And I love how snow can silence and transform a place I thought I knew.

‘For a reliably snowy break in a major metropolis, head to Montréal . For a smaller and less well-known destination, however, I recommend Pittsfield, my hometown in the Berkshire Hills of rural western Massachusetts . This small city plays an outsized role in “ Imagine a City” , my memoir and travelogue in which I document my small-town dreams of becoming an airline pilot, and my journeys as an adult to some of the largest metropolises on Earth.  No matter how far I fly, my heart remains in Pittsfield.

‘For visitors, Pittsfield and its environs offer friendly, inexpensive and nearly queue-free alpine skiing (indeed, several Olympians first learned on its slopes). The Berkshires also have dozens of ponds and lakes for skating and informal hockey matches, and endless fields and forest trails for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. Stand still for a (chilly) moment or two, and perhaps you’ll spot the striking swoop of a blood-red cardinal over the snowbound world, a vision that embodied the beauty of North American winters to my Belgian-born father.

‘The Berkshires pair outdoor pursuits with world-class museums such as the Clark Art Institute and the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art . My favourite indoor destination, however, is Arrowhead , Herman Melville’s farm in Pittsfield. Stand by the hearth of the author of “Moby-Dick” and marvel at the harpoon repurposed as a poker, then gaze from the windows of Melville’s study up to Mount Greylock, the loftiest peak in Massachusetts, whose contours and midwinter complexion are said to have suggested a white whale. Then head to Dottie’s Coffee Lounge on North Street in downtown Pittsfield for some of the tastiest hot chocolate I know.’

Mark Vanhoenacker flies the Boeing 787 Dreamliner for British Airways. He is the author of ‘Imagine a City: A Pilot Sees the World’ and ‘Skyfaring: A Journey with a Pilot ’ .

Dahab, Egypt

Chosen by Rebecca Lowe

‘Dahab means “gold” in Arabic, although the precise origin of the name is unclear. Some believe it comes from the Bedouin phrase for “time is golden”, al waqt min thahab , while others say it derives from the ancient gold washed down the mountains by seasonal rains, or the drifts of sand deposited by floodwaters into the bay.

‘Having spent many a happy winter bathing in the turquoise waters of this deliciously mellow fishing-village-turned-diving-mecca, I wonder if there could be other interpretations too: the sizzling grouper and red snapper fish bronzed to perfection on beachside barbecues; the sparkling carafes of ‘Moon Blush’ scuppering your early-morning scuba dive; the distant peaks of the Arabian Peninsula gilded amber by the rising sun.

‘One kind of gold Dahab has long struggled to hold onto, however, is the kind you carry in your pocket. Since a violent insurgency emerged in northern Sinai a decade ago, foreign holidaymakers have largely stayed away, causing lasting damage to local trade. But Dahab lies in the south, two hundred miles from danger, and could not feel more sheltered or safe. It is a truly magical place – and it needs our custom to survive.’

Rebecca Lowe, author of ‘The Slow Road to Tehran ’ , is a freelance journalist and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society who specialises in the Middle East.

Chosen by Richard Hammond

‘Back in 2010, I travelled from London by train to the German port of Rostock, and then by ferry up the Baltic Sea to Estonia, where Europe meets the east. Tourism to this beautiful, tech-savvy country has evolved much over the past decade. Food is the big draw: earlier this year Michelin published its first guide to the country, featuring over 30 restaurants. (Põhjaka Manor in Mäeküla and Fotografiska in Tallin were awarded the Michelin Green Star for sustainability.)

‘Winter is a great time to make the most of the country’s alternative winter sports among the clean air of its abundant forests, from snowshoeing and ice-skating to kick-sledding, bog swimming and canoeing: one-fifth of Estonian landscape is covered by bogs, some of which date back over 10,000 years. Brave a dip in icy water followed by the traditional smoke sauna of Old Võromaa at Moosa (recognised as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage of the world) and don’t miss the Christmas Market in the Old Town Square of the medieval capital, Tallinn – the Green Capital of Europe in 2023.’

Richard Hammond is a writer, videographer and founder of GreenTraveller.co.uk . His book ‘The Green Traveller: Conscious adventure that doesn't cost the earth ’   was published by Pavilion in 2022.

Puerto Iguazú, Argentina

Chosen by Micheal Webster

‘If it’s midwinter in the UK , it must be midsummer in Argentina . I dream of going back to Puerto Iguazú, right in the north of that huge country.

‘Spectacular! That one word sums up the Iguazú waterfalls. I make sure to arrive early and catch the first train up to the Devil’s Throat. Black capuchin monkeys scurry alongside and I glimpse a toucan flying overhead. Gazing in awe at the immensity of the waters that have travelled thousands of kilometres through Amazonia to reach this very spot, I watch as they thunder down the narrow gorge.

‘Back in town, I visit the Hummingbird Garden run by Leandro and his mum. The hummers, a rainbow of dazzling colours, flit by my ears. Then it’s off for a walk in the jungle. My favourite spot is the Surucua Reserve, where I hike along forest trails surrounded by blue morpho butterflies, shrieking parrots and exotic orchids.’

Michael Webster is a conservationist, birdwatcher, filmmaker and author of  ‘The Condor’s Feather ’ ,  a wildlife-inspired travel memoir about a drama-packed journey along the spine of the Andes.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out Worldwide

• All Time Out Locations
• North America
• South America
• South Pacific

15 of the World's Most Stunning Winter Destinations

By editorial staff | feb 15, 2016.

While some might feel ready to flee the cold this time of year, others want to embrace it. Here are some truly beautiful places that become even more stunning once winter rolls around.

1. WHITEFISH, MONTANA, USA  

This quaint ski town is perfect when you really want to get away from it all. With bustling shops and a ski resort situated on Big Mountain, there’s plenty to do and see. At the right vantage point, you can enjoy some scenic views of the mountain reflected in their state lake. But the real pull is their annual winter festival, which features the lesser-known sport of joring. In it, a horse and rider pull a skier along an 800-foot-long horseshoe-shaped course while the skier pulls off jumps and swerves around slalom gates.

2. LAKE TAHOE, CALIFORNIA, USA

Lake Tahoe is beautiful year-round, but its gorgeous landscape really peaks in the winter. Besides offering over a dozen ski resorts, the city also has hot springs, beautiful vistas, and a vibrant night life. Visitors can enjoy skiing, nature hikes, and bird-watching, among other wintery activities. Lake Tahoe gets about 125 inches of snow a year, so if all else fails, you can always consider making a snowman.

3. GULLFOSS, ICELAND  

You can find the Gullfoss waterfall in southwest Iceland in the canyon of the Hvítá river, which is fed by Langjökull, the second largest glacier in Iceland. While beautiful in the summer, it’s even more impressive when it partly freezes over in the wintertime. The waters turn vibrant shades of blue and turquoise, while the rocks gather ice and snow. The water falls about 100 feet down in two stages and is surrounded by nearly 200 feet of canyon wall. While there’s not much else to do in the area besides gawk at the waterfalls, most visitors find that it’s well worth the trip to revel in the untouched natural beauty.

4. SVALBARD, NORWAY

Situated between the 74th and the 81st parallel, you can’t get much higher than this little mining town. It’s one of the northernmost inhabited areas in the world, making it a prime location to catch the Northern Lights. Because of its location, the town also experiences something called Polar Night, which takes places between  mid-November and the end of January: the sun never rises during this time and the lightest the sky gets is a bright blue twilight. This lack of sunlight only increases your chances of spotting the aurora borealis. Even if you don’t catch it (it’s notoriously difficult to predict when it will occur), between the large mountains nearby and the polar bears that inhabit the surrounding area, there’s still plenty to see.

5. LAKE BLED, SLOVENIA

This picturesque body of water can be found in the Julian Alps in northwestern Slovenia. The lake surrounds Bled Island, which houses several buildings, including a church that hosts a good number of weddings each year. In fact, it’s considered good luck for the groom to carry his wife up the 99 steps of the church’s tower to ring the bell at the top. During winter, the lake turns a frosty blue and reflects the surrounding snowy mountains on its surface. Visitors to the area can enjoy skiing, or visit the nearby Vintgar gorge, which is home to many waterfalls, pools, and caves.

6. MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK, KENTUCKY, USA

Mammoth Cave is the longest known cave system in the world. Situated in the heart of Kentucky, the intricate system serves as a warm refuge as the ground above begins to freeze. The park offers a variety of tours through the caves, and tourism slows down in the winter, which means you can get a look at this geologic wonder in a group much smaller than the one you’d be stuck with the rest of the year.

7. LAKE BAIKAL, RUSSIA  

Going to Russia in the winter is generally ill-advised. But some might be tempted to risk it just to enjoy the views of Lake Baikal, known as the “Sacred Sea” by the native peoples who inhabited the region. The word’s deepest freshwater lake is certainly an attraction any time of year, but in the winter, the body of water becomes a 12,200-square-mile ice rink. Dog-sled and snowmobiling tours are on offer, as are ice diving and rafting in the areas where the water hasn’t frozen over.

8. JIGOKUDANI MONKEY PARK, JAPAN

Located in Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, the Jigokudani Monkey Park gets heavy snowfall for about four months each year. Despite the cold, there are plenty of hot springs to warm up in. This not a well kept secret, especially if you’re a monkey: Snow monkeys are known to come to the valley in the winter and take a dip during the day. Besides watching monkeys kick back, visitors can also check out the steam vents, which shoot hot steam into the air.

9. MIDWAY, UTAH, USA

The little town located just west of Heber City is a gorgeous place to be in the winter. There’s skiing, horse-drawn sleds, and plenty of gorgeous sights. Thanks to a geo-thermal caldera, there’s even year-round scuba diving in the 90-degree waters. But perhaps the biggest draw are the ice castles built annually by teams of artists. Visitors can explore the massive and intricate structures, constructed using 20 million pounds of ice.

10. HARBIN CITY, CHINA  

From January to February, the chilly Chinese city of Harbin celebrates the season with an ice festival. Guests can wander through (or climb aboard) massive ice structures like castles and slides. There’s also ice skating, dog sledding, lantern art, snow scuptures, and more attractions celebrating all things cold.

11. MATANUSKA GLACIER, ALASKA, USA

Ever wanted to touch a glacier? This impressive roadside glacier is just two and a half hours from Anchorage and sits right near the Glenn Highway. There are plenty of pull-offs on the highway to stop and snap pictures, or you can pay a fee to get up close. It’s the largest glacier accessible by car in the United States, stretching over 27 miles long and four miles wide, so it’s definitely worth the detour.

12. KIRKJUFELL, ICELAND  

Kirkjufell is a mountain that looks straight out of a fairytale. This unusually shaped mountain is pretty enough in the springtime, but becomes truly beautiful once it gets a layer of snow. It’s a favorite subject of nature photographers, but it’s even better when seen in real life. When you’re done, you can visit Grundarfjörður, a small town with a population of just 900 people.

13. PERITO MORENO GLACIER, ARGENTINA

This glacier is a popular tourist spot and with good reason. Located in the Los Glaciares National Park, it’s one of only three Patagonian glaciers that is currently growing. The large glacier is three miles wide and goes about 558 feet under water. At the northern end of the giant block of ice, there’s a glacier cave that tourists can explore. Some opt to take boat tours in order to get a good look at its deep blue ice.

14. ULUDAĞ, TURKEY

This mountain is a favorite for skiing and other winter sports. Visitors can take the Olympos Teleferik, a cable car ride that offers breathtaking views of the mountain and seashore. Each car can fit about 80 people, and features panoramic windows allowing guests to get a 360-degree view of the land below.

15. ABISKO, SWEDEN

Abisko is home to Nordic wildlife (read: lots of reindeer!), a vibrant national park, and best of all, frequent appearances of the aurora borealis. Locals and tourists alike enjoy dog sledding, ice fishing, and telemark skiing—traditional downhill skiing using cross-country skis.

Ten great winter holiday ideas in Europe

Nov 6, 2023 • 5 min read

It's impossible not to hopelessly fall in love with some parts of Europe in winter © I love takeing photos and i think that is a really great opportunity for me to share them / Getty Images

Here are 10 suggestions for quintessentially European things to see and do in the colder months.

Winter comes in many guises in Europe . In the polar north there’s serious snow, the northern lights and weeks without sun. Around the mild Mediterranean, you’ll find lingering warmth well into the season. And in the center of Europe: cozy cafe culture and halls decked with Christmas spirit.

It’s an inspiring time to visit grand cities, charming villages and cultural sites. With fewer queues, you can fit more into your itinerary, and off-season prices make European accommodation wallet-friendly in November, December, January and February. Using Europe’s train network you can explore countries at your leisure, and it’s easier to meet locals outside the often-frenetic summer tourist season. 

1. Drink glühwein at Christmas markets in Germany or Austria

December sees these romantic historic markets pop up all over Germany , Austria and other Central European nations. Expect cute stalls selling everything from gingerbread to sleigh bells, and plenty of good cheer, toasted with a glass of warming glühwein .

Top tip: Famous markets in Cologne , Vienna and Munich draw the tourist crowds, but seeking out ones in smaller towns is rewarding.

2. Warm up at one of Budapest’s famous thermal bathhouses

Couples skating hand-in-hand, breath cloudy in the frosty air – there’s nowhere better for it than the enormous outdoor ice rink in Budapest’s picturesque central park, Városligeti Műjégpálya . Feeling chilly afterward? Hungary’s capital is famous for its ornate thermal baths .

Top tip: At night seek out a ‘ ruin pub ’– an atmospheric drinking venue artfully housed in a once-abandoned building.

3. Witness the northern lights in Abisko, Sweden

Located almost as far north as you can get in Europe on a train,  Abisko in Lapland is for lovers of serious winter. The sun doesn’t rise for several weeks in December and January, but that darkness makes it one of the world’s best places to view the majestic aurora borealis (northern lights). Other attractions include cross-country skiing along national park trails and husky mushing.

Top tip: Stop off at nearby Kiruna to see the famous Swedish Icehotel .

4. Steel-gray skies set the mood in Transylvania, Romania

You can’t visit Dracula’s lair on a sunny day with lambs bleating in the fields, right? You want steel-gray skies, bare trees and a smattering of snow. Braşov and Sighişoara , two hours apart by rail, are gorgeous medieval towns with various connections to Vlad Ţepeş, the historical Dracula, though it’s doubtful he ever set foot in his so-called castle.

Top tip: Bram Stoker never visited Romania , so don’t expect many parallels with the book or films.

5. Bask in the sunshine in Andalucía, Spain

Some parts of Andalucía are further south than the African coast, so expect mild temperatures in winter . Accommodation is cheap and crowds are smaller at standout attractions like Granada’s Alhambra and Seville’s cathedral . Plus, tapas and nightlife in the cities are as enticing as ever.

Top tip: Head to the Sierra Nevada near Granada if you want snowsport action.

6. Have the best sites in Athens (almost) to yourself

It’s a real downer trying to Photoshop 500 people out of your would-be-prizewinning Parthenon photo, but during the winter in Athens , it’s not an issue. All summer stresses – crowding, tourist pricing, intense heat, queues, air pollution – more or less disappear. The average temperature during the winter is around 13ºC (55ºF). It’s the best time to explore the country’s ancient heritage and experience local culture.

Top tip: By all means do some island-hopping, but most accommodations close in winter.

7. Hit the slopes at Jasná, Slovakia’s best ski resort

Slovakia offers high-quality skiing at affordable prices . Accommodation and food are reasonable too, and there’s a friendliness that’s missing from some of the snootier Alpine slopes. Jasná is the best Slovakian resort, with long descents flanked by snow-laden spruce trees, set in the ruggedly lovely Tatras Mountains.

Top tip: Flights from the US direct to Slovakia can be pricey, so don’t make this your entry point to Europe.

8. Expect snow flurries and fairytales in Copenhagen, Denmark

For a fairytale European winter, it’s hard to beat the home of Hans Christian Andersen . Forget the over-hyped Little Mermaid and head to the city’s cozy bars and cafes to watch snow flurrying outside. In the heart of town, the 19th-century Tivoli amusement park is a romantic, kitsch delight around Christmastime, with heartwarming illuminations and body-warming mugs of glögg (mulled wine).

Top tip: Noma may have closed but Copenhagen still has an incredible restaurant scene. Go for broke at Alchemist , widely considered one of the world's best restaurants. (Book three months in advance and set aside 4–6 hours.)

9. Visit the unofficial home of Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, Finland

Fistfuls of Christmas clichés characterize Rovaniemi , the ‘official’ terrestrial residence of Santa Claus. Everyone’s favorite bearded man hangs out in an atmospheric Arctic Circle grotto, and it’s free to visit him (but photos are another story). Snow and reindeer add festive spirit, while the Arktikum Museum gives insights into life at these latitudes.

Top tip: Finnish thermometers have more numbers below 32°F (0°C) than above, so pack serious winter clothing.

10. Be seduced by the incredible Carnival in Venice

Hauntingly beautiful and rather weird, Venice’s Carnival in February is a European highlight. Elaborate costumes and spooky masks bring the canal city’s colorful history to life. Costumed dances are pricey affairs, but you can have a ball enjoying the free events with a mask bought on the street – just be prepared for epic crowding.

Top tip: Book accommodation well ahead. Day-tripping in and out on a train will considerably lower costs.

This article was first published Sep 19, 2019 and updated Nov 6, 2023.

Explore related stories

Festivals & Events

Mar 13, 2024 • 6 min read

From Montréal to Montserrat, if you can't make it to Ireland, these St Patrick's Day parties are the next best thing.

Mar 9, 2024 • 5 min read

Nov 22, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 17, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 15, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 1, 2023 • 15 min read

Sep 25, 2023 • 8 min read

Jul 10, 2023 • 6 min read

Jul 3, 2023 • 6 min read

May 26, 2023 • 5 min read

• Work With Us

29 Epic Winter Vacation Ideas to Escape the Cold

Written by Becca

Updated on May 13th, 2024

The best places to travel this winter that we’ve listed all have ideal weather for escaping northern cold winters, longer days and dry seasons. Let’s heat up with these favorite winter vacation destinations to get some winter sun!

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Best Winter Vacation Ideas

• Miami & South Florida
• Canary Islands, Spain
• Tel Aviv, Israel
• Cartagena & Santa Marta, Colombia
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Chile’s Coastline
• West coast of Ecuador
• The Yucatan Peninsula & Tulum, Mexico
• El Salvador
• The Philippines
• Indonesia’s Many Islands
• Sri Lanka’s Southeast and West Coasts
• Southern & Southwestern India
• Hong Kong & Macau
• Cabarete & the North Coast of the Dominican Republic
• Zambia & Victoria Falls
• South Africa

Are you looking for the best places to travel this winter? Every year, we search for warm places to visit in December, January and February so that we can get some sun.

Traveling in the coldest winter months gives us something to look forward to, while the days get shorter. This is important for our emotional well-being, and our mental health!

The best places to travel this winter all have ideal weather for escaping northern cold winters, longer days and dry seasons. Check out my favorite winter destinations below, from the US, Europe and the Middle East, to Central and South America, Southeast Asia and South Asia.

Let’s heat up with these favorite winter vacation destinations!

I did a bunch of research lately because I wanted to know the definitive answers for the absolute warmest places in the US to take a trip to during the coldest winter months. My research led to some so-so answers (Phoenix, some parts of southern Texas, San Diego and Los Angeles, and New Orleans), but the two top answers were clear.

Miami & South Florida

Probably the best and easiest US destination with warm weather in winter time is Miami, which hands-down has the hottest climate of anywhere in the contiguous USA during the coldest months of January and February.

I’ve been to Miami in both November and December and can vouch for the fact that this is the city where the heat is on (thanks, Will Smith) even when there are blizzards up north, coating places like NYC with snow and ice.

In doing my own research to find the hottest places in the US that are ideal for winter getaways, Miami tops the climate charts at 74-75 degrees F as daily highs in Jan. and Feb.

A few of my favorite things to do in Miami are taking photos at the Wynwood art walls, eating Cuban food on Calle Ocho in Little Havana and doing my own self-guided art deco architecture walk in Miami Beach.

Hawaii will always be known for being America’s favorite vacation dreamland. It’s one of the warmest places to go in the US during December, January and February. In fact, from November to March, Hawaii is 75-80 degrees (on average, as it varies by islands and their southern or western sides).

Winter is the perfect time to escape the cold and get out to Hawaii. On the north shore of Oahu, waves get crazy big in the winter! This is great for adventurous surfers and spectators alike. Catch the surfing world cup (the Vans Pipe Masters) in December at Ehukai Beach (Banzai Pipeline). In Honolulu, the waves on the south side of the island are super chill and relaxing in the winter.

Next, the days being shorter in December means you don’t have to wake up as early to catch a gorgeous Hawaiian sunrise (try Haleakala on Maui).

You can even enjoy temperatures of around 65 degrees at night in most of Hawaii during December, January and February after the sun goes down (which, in December, is around 5:45pm; compare this to 4:30 pm on a lot of the East Coast!). Also, no passport needed!

Check out these lovely photos of Hawaii in the winter, taken by my sibling Emma Siegel .

Remember to be a conscious and respectful traveler in Hawaii. It’s particularly important in regard to understanding the Hawaiian political history of colonization and militarization by the United State,s and the impact that tourists and gentrification have had on displacing native Hawaiians. Consider recent natural disasters as well, like the wildfires in Maui: make sure to be conscious and respectful of the impact on local communities this winter.

Europe (EU) & Middle East

We have tried for many years to find the warmest places for winter in all of Europe and the Middle East. Here’s what we found and where we’ve gone.

Canary Islands, Spain

Until recently, we did not know where the Canary Islands were, but as it turns out, we’ve now been there twice, both in winter and in summer. Travel to the Canary Islands during winter will give you the warmest destination possible within the EU, and we know this because we researched the topic in depth.

What we learned is that the south and east sides of Tenerife like at El Teide National Park and Gran Canaria get the most sun. These regions of the Canary Islands are warmest year-round.

In winter, check out the Maspalomas Dunes of Gran Canaria and the southern beaches of Tenerife to get your tan on and to see spectacular and unique volcanic scenery.

The Canary Islands are also a great destination for couples, as it’s helpful to rent a car and road trip around these islands. Super romantic, for adventurers!

Stars are one of my favorite things to shoot. If you’re interested in learning how I took this photo, check out our article about night photography .

Tel Aviv, Israel

You may not have pictured Israel as a winter beach destination, but if you go to Tel Aviv between December and February, you can enjoy sunny days with highs in the mid 70s and get some beach time.

Israel is a fantastic cultural destination with so much to see, all in compact distances. Escape the winter cold at the Dead Sea, where temperatures year round are in the 70s and 80s, and you can take a dip and float in the saltiest body of water on earth.

The cost of travel in Israel is a bit like traveling in Europe, so we recommend traveling with a friend or significant other with whom you can share a private room.

If you travel solo and are looking for a great hostel dorm experience, check out a stay with Abraham Hostels .

Note that the rest of Israel has tendencies to get a bit cool during winter, and Jerusalem can even see snow.

Tel Aviv, though, stays consistently in the 70s through much of winter, making it a great escape for European tourists and Israeli natives alike, along with travelers from around the world coming to see the gorgeous Mediterranean beach culture.

Are you ready to take your trip?

Check out some of the things we pack to inspire you for your trip!

South America

South America (mostly all of it) gets its summer when the northern hemisphere experiences winter. This is technically true for South America south of the Equator, but luckily, countries like Colombia are warm all year round (save for elevated areas with high altitudes!).

Cartagena & Santa Marta, Colombia

You can usually find a cheap flight to Cartagena from various US cities if you choose to travel in January and February. If you only have time off in December, don’t worry!

Looking for new proven ways to save money on flights and airfare? The easy solution is to sign up for Going , the leading way to find flight deals and mistake fares, directly to your inbox. Use HALFHALF20 to get 20% off!

Cartagena is a super affordable destination for travelers and it’s hot all year round. Temperatures are never lower than 85 F during daytime and 75 F at night, and with the humidity, it always feels warmer.

Cartagena and its nearby tropical island archipelagos have beautiful pristine beaches, lots of sun all winter long (dry season begins in February) and is an ideal winter vacation for couples, where a private room in a hostel will cost between $40 and $75 USD.

Staying in a hotel will cost between $100 and $200 USD in the mid-range, and there’s a lot of value here!

Santa Marta is an even more affordable destination because you can somewhat escape the tourist prices in Cartagena that cater to foreigners from all over the world. Santa Marta is a bit more laid back and authentic in its historic colonial center.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Argentina’s seasons are flipped with those north of the equator, so during December through February, the country enjoys its summer. Between these months, Buenos Aires, the capital city, gets highs in the 80s and lows in the high 60s at night.

Sounds beautiful to us, and it was (when we went)! Buenos Aires is a lively city teeming with culture and history.

We love the Buenos Aires outdoor cafe scene , the colors in La Boca, the tango dancing and the incredible architecture. Oh, and don’t forget the awesome nightlife scene. Argentina is surely a winter vacation idea for escaping the cold. Leave your coat at home!

Chile’s Coastline

Chile is a skinny country that will have its summer when the US and Canada have their coldest winter weather. Santiago, the capital city, has a daily average high temperature of 86 degrees F in January. Valparaiso, which has a Mediterranean climate, will have warm temperatures in the mid-70s during Jan-Feb.

The northern third of Chile has a “mild desert climate,” giving beaches like Viña del Mar high temperatures around 80 degrees in the warmest months.

West coast of Ecuador

Ecuador, a country that looks small on a map, lies at the Equator! Yes, Ecuador has warm places to travel all winter long.

Beware, though, because not every city in Ecuador is steamy hot. In fact, Ecuador is famous for packing all four seasons and countless types of climate regions into a single country that is about twice the size of Florida.

To get the warmest destinations in Ecuador, keep your travels to hug the Pacific coast, rather than venturing inland to areas that will quickly rise in elevation. For example, the capital city of Quito is several thousand meters above sea level and has an annual climate of a temperate Andean 66-68 degrees F on average, all year.

For the hottest places in Ecuador, check out Guayaquil, Playa Puerto Lopez, Mompiche and Montañita, a beach village popular with travelers.

Central America

Central America is known for being tropical, close to the US and Canada, and a fantastic place to plan your winter travel!

In fact, for many years (and still to this date), I focused on having a winter getaway to Central America specifically. During these travels, I took trips to Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama and the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, from November to March (with most of those trips in January and February).

See what these awesome and mostly tropical winter destinations are all about, here.

The Yucatan Peninsula & Tulum, Mexico

One of our favorite winter weekend getaways from NYC is the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.

You can also save money traveling this winter by flying into Cancun from major US cities and then hopping a bus immediately to less touristy cities like Valladolid or Merida .

Even if you want to go to a different part of the Yucatan like Merida, Isla Holbox or Playa del Carmen, take that nonstop flight from any international airport and you can get on an easy ADO bus to your destination when you land.

We loved exploring the cenotes outside Tulum by bicycle and seeing the clear water, which is so warm it feels like a bath. We also liked day trips like Uxmal , the Mayan ruins site outside Merida. Both are great options for seeing culture.

Our favorite part of traveling in Mexico might be the tacos, so get your stomach ready for some great flavors. Temperatures are always around the mid-80s during winter months of December to February, and nights are rarely lower than the mid-60s.

Having taken my glorious winter trip to Guatemala in January, I’ll vouch for the T-shirt-friendly weather that had me wearing a shirt and shorts visiting the enchanting Mayan ruins of Tikal and the incredible natural landscape at Semuc Champey.

Winter is Guatemala’s dry season, so you can unabashedly enjoy dry weather, sunny days, temperatures in the 80s. I recommend a stay in Antigua , as most travelers often opt for! During winter, you can soak up Vitamin D in the 74-77 degree air at any of Antigua’s rooftop cafes and coffee shops , which is a total treat.

I’ve also been to Guatemala in April, and that was nice, too! A city like Antigua is a great choice of a destination for all year round. Having been there both in winter and spring, I can say it’s an excellent escape from the snow and blizzards at home in the US. Check out my full guide for day trips from Antigua for some more travel inspiration.

I had an awesome time in Panama, one of my favoriate budget-friendly destinations in December! I spent time in all three parts of the Panamanian trifecta: in the mountains, at Boquete, at the beach, in Bocas del Toro and in the city in Panama City and Casco Viejo (the most beautiful historic quarter).

I was surely wearing a summer dress and a tank top and shorts at the beacn in Bocas, and while walking around Panama City, visiting the Panama Canal, in winter. Temperatures remain in the mid-80s or high 70s for December, January and February, and there’s a slight breeze.

At coasta locations like Bocas del Toro on the Carribean side, temperatures are 84-86 degrees year round, in fact! Nights may see the mid-60s, so bring a light coat and one pair of pants.

If you want to stay away from cold temperatures completely during your winter getaway, then stay away from the altitudes in Panama. The week before Christmas, I climbed the tallest volcano in Panama (Volcan Baru) and at the top, it was absolutely freezing! As we descended, though, it was sweaty all the way down in the sun.

Nicaragua is a fun place to go, and judging by the killer temperatures I had there in April (mid-90s… too hot!), I’d advise visiting this lovely Central American nation between November and March.

The best time to visit Nicaragua is indeed during winter, as the dry period falls between December and April. It’ll be wettest, with storms brewing in the Gulf of Mexico, during May to November, so conveniently, this is the less desirable time to go.

For winter climate averages, December to February is coolest, which provides some respite for those extreme high temps I experienced during my (potentially badly planned) trip in April. If I could do it again, I’d go to Nicaragua in December, January or February, especially as a break from the coldest temperatures at home.

For what to see in Nicaragua, check out a few of my favorite destinations: San Juan del Sur, Granada and Leon. I was charmed by the west coast Pacific sunsets and by the colorful vibrant personalities of these historic and colonial cities.

I took my trip to Costa Rica smack in the middle of December and it was bathing suit weather the whole time (on the coast). If you are looking for cooler temperatures (AKA a way to not lose your mind in your sweat), stick to the inland areas for ecotourism like Arenal and Monteverde.

If you do want to get your suntan on and go hiking in a bathing suit, check out year-round hot areas like Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo and Parque Nacional Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast.

Beware of the Costa Rica humidity: this is not a place to smooth out the frizz in your hair!

El Salvador

El Salvador is somewhere I’d really like to go during winter because of its tropical location on the west side of the Central American region. With beaches for surfing and the Ruta de las Flores hiking, it seems like a varied destination for winter travel that’ll be warmer than your home city this time of year.

Between November and March, El Salvador has its winter, but strangely, temperatures peak in April. This being said, in the months leading up to April (January-February-March), daily temperatures are in the 80s and the nights can be nice and cool in the mid-60s.

El Salvador’s tropical climate has its rainy season from around May to August, so by heading there during winter as a vacation destination, you’ll be experiencing the country in its driest period.

Belize has some of the best temperatures for a winter vacation: I don’t Belize you! (Ha ha)

Incredibly, Belize in winter (December to February) won’t make you sweat so much that you’ll want to escape to A/C: no, no, quite the contrary. The winter temperatures in this Caribbean and Central American destination hover in the 70s for much of the winter due to weather patterns in the Gulf of Mexico.

This being said, gorgeous destinations in Belize like Caye Caulker, San Ignacio, Tobacco Caye and the Great Blue Hole will have some of their driest weather between December, January, February and March.

Belize is a pretty adventurous travel destination , so go see for yourself!

Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a big place, full of amazing places to see. Lots of Southeast Asia will be hot during the northern hemisphere winter, but not all of them . Read on to see the hottest places in Southeast Asia during winter.

When talking about Vietnam as a winter destination, we have to be a little bit careful: Vietnam is a L O O O N G country, much like California is a long (tall?) state, and temperatures are very different at the top (near China) and the bottom (tropical, near the Gulf of Thailand).

I have been to Vietnam twice in winter (January to be exact, and twice!) and have spent time in the north, central regions and the south. If you really want the “sweat your face off in Southeast Asia experience,” you’ll stick to the south.

The north isn’t all too “cold” in winter, though. Hanoi, the capital city, will be 68-70 in winter. I was able to wear a sundress on some days, and just took a jean jacket with me in my backpack for the day.

Go to central Vietnam in winter, though, and Hoi An (one of my favorite destinations!) will give you daytime highs of 77-79. In thes outh, Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) is even warmer, with daytime highs anywhere between the mid 80s to potentially low 90s in December, January and February. No sweater needed!

Having spent a month in Vietnam in Hanoi, I can surely tell you how cool of a country it is. If you have the time (two weeks, or three), it’s great to explore of all the gorgeous scenery and culture inside Vietnam. The food is some of my favorite in all my travels, and that says a LOT.

Here is a photo I took during winter in Hoi An.

Thailand may seem like an obvious choice for a destination to beat the winter blues, but my advice is to consider that only the southern half of Thailand is going to truly be insanely hot during the winter months of December through March.

Take it from me: having been to Thailand three times during winter, I have sweated my face off in the islands like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, and I have frozen my feet off while trekking in the hills outside Chiang Mai in January, with lows of 44 F and no heat!

Given this, my immediate recommendation for visiting Thailand in winter is to fly into Bangkok, warm up at the beaches that are closer to the Bangkok region like Pattaya, and then, if you have five to ten days for your itinerary, head down to the islands via train or flight, hitting Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and Koh Phi Phi. If you’re so inclined, spend some time on the famed beaches of Phuket to see what that’s all about.

I personally love the north of Thailand, and spent time up there in winter (January to be precise). Temperatures in Chiang Mai may be as high as 88-91 during January and February, and 84 in December. Nights will be down in the high 50s because of the dryness in the air. If you want to avoid the chilly weather of the mountains, stay at lower altitudes, because mountain treks will have nights in the 40s.

I have only taken a trip to Cambodia once, but it was in January-February, so I have a pretty good handle on the temperatures in Colombia in the “coldest” of the Northern Hemisphere winter months.

A winter in much of Cambodia is daily temperatures in the 80s and 90s, and nights in the 60s or 70s. It is quite beautiful. I remember getting so hot seeing the temples of Angkor Wat that my friends and I needed a siesta break in the middle of the day to beat the heat with cold drinks and resting.

If you want a sure way of finding hot weather and sun, head to Cambodia’s south coast to visit its famous coastline that has had tons of development in the last decade. The most famous destinations are Sihanoukville and the surrounding beaches.

Don’t worry, though, if you’re not a beachgoer, cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap (along with the boat ride from one to the other) will keep your skin glowing with the tropical warmth. Nights are rarely cool enough to require a layer on top of a T-shirt, and sunny days during the winter dry season will keep rain away.

Remember that Cambodia requires a travel visa for foreigners. See more about tourist visas in our guide to figuring out if you need a visa to travel .

The Philippines

Can you tell already that I love traveling in winter to escape the cold? I’ve been to the Philippines not once, but twice, over Christmas, and can vouch that this is a HOT place to travel in.

January is the coolest month in the Philippines, but that doesn’t say much for a country that often has average highs at 90 degrees F most of the year. Destinations like Boracay have tropical climates that let temperatures, even in January and February, settle at 86 degrees F.

Dry season is from December to April or May, so by planning your travels for January, February or March, you’ll avoid typhoons completely and experience fewer rains than other times of year.

View this post on Instagram

Malaysia comes in two halves, and both are warm in winter! This country located right above the Equator is tropical and a lot of fun to travel in!

I’ve been to Malaysia twice, spending time in Kuala Lumpur and Penang (my favorite). In December, January and February, Penang will have highs between 88 and 90 degrees, and Kuala Lumpur will be much the same, at 89-91. With nights in the 70s in both, and for basically the entire year, this such a nice winter getaway!

Also, if anything … go for the food. Malaysian food is incredible. Just look at this photo of my bowl of cold cendol (a sweet soupy and icey dessert to keep you cool in the heat, with jellies and a ton of coconut milk). YUM!

Would you have ever thought of a winter trip to Singapore? It’s a good idea for escaping winter and getting your fill of a tropical getaway! In December through February, Singapore days will be about 88 degrees and nights are only 76!

If you saw Crazy Rich Asians (the movie), you probably saw the scenes of eating in the hawker market. This is one of the best things to do in Singapore, and it’s a Singapore tradition to visit all the stalls to see what you want to eat, and then sweat while digging in!

What I like about Singapore is how clean it is. During my trip, I took the Singapore metro (MRT), visited Chinatown, went to rooftop bars with my friend who lived there at the time and tried LOTS of amazing food! I also liked Little India, as the city has such a mix of cultures.

The driest winter month is February, so that would be a great time to go and enjoy the warm temperatures.

Indonesia’s Many Islands

Indonesia is an island nation that has a tropical climate that keeps its temperatures warm all year (save for some elevated areas with high altitudes that would be inland). You’ve likely heard about Bali by now, and Bali makes a great destination for winter time, but did you know that Indonesia has other places to visit that are great ideas for escaping winter?

Visit Jakarta, Surabaya, Lombok and Medan, and don’t underestimate the beauty in the Gili Islands, West Java and South Sumatra. Beware that the hottest month in Indonesia is actually October, so traveling in the months that follow mean very warm days in the 80s.

Lots of South Asia will be hot during winter, so it is a great region to travel and explore in December, January, February and March.

Sri Lanka’s Southeast and West Coasts

Sri Lanka is a tropical island located south of India. It is a lovely place to plan a one-week or two-week winter getaway, and temperatures remain tropical all winter long due to its location close to the Equator and in the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lanka does in fact have some elevated areas in its center, which will get chilly due to altitude at any time of year. For keeping your trip completely warm and hot, stick to the coasts, visiting Colombo, Galle Fort and the east coast beaches for surfing.

Southern & Southwestern India

The hottest places in India in winter are going to be the west and southern coast (think Mumbai-Maharashtra and Kochi-Kerala) and the southeastern provinces like Tamil Nadu.

Take Chennai, for example, on India’s east coast, which will have winter temperatures ranging from the high 80s to real feels of 90s during the daytime, even in February. And Goa, India’s famed beachgoer paradise on the mid-west coast, with temperatures in the mid-80s and an ocean temperature of around 82 degrees F. Sounds like bathwater.

India is also one of the most affordable places to travel in , and you’ll see when you get there that there is a huge bang for your buck.

While not entirely tropical, there are a few exciting travel destinations in East Asia that are warmer than others. Let’s see which ones make the cut for the warmest places in East Asia during winter.

Hong Kong & Macau

Although it’s far from North America and from Europe, Hong Kong is a worthwhile place to spend a winter getaway and it never disappoints.

Most North American and European citizens do not need a visa to get to Hong Kong, so you can show up when you want! For Hong Kong, a city with a scorching summer reaching the 90s and with humid, wet weather, winter months present an amazing time to visit.

Your escapes from the heat are getting on a junk boat and walking around at night .

Hong Kong winter, between December and February, is the driest time of year, so you’ll avoid all types of monsoons and storms. Humidity dies down, and days are comfortable in the 70s, with nights in the mid-to-high 60s.

Check out the various hikes that are ideal for the dry winter months, and of course explore the incredible urban jungles of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Make sure to check out all of the hidden photo spots in Hong Kong as well!

If you’re interested in visiting Macau (also spelled “Macao”), note that it has largely the same warm climate pattern as Hong Kong, being only an hour away by ferry. Macau has an incredible mix of east and west because of its Portuguese colonial roots. You can see this European history, meshed with that of China, apparent in the unique Macanese cuisine and architecture of Macau.

The Caribbean Islands

The Caribbean will always be a good choice for American and Canadian travelers seeking some winter sun during the coldest months of the year.

What’s stopping you from an easy warm getaway to the Caribbean islands during December, January and February? Start planning with these winter escape ideas below.

Cabarete & the North Coast of the Dominican Republic

Punta Cana’s white beaches and turquoise seas are probably what you think of when you think of spending the worst of winter in the Dominican Republic.

It’s what we think of, too, but it isn’t how we wanted to experience a trip to this country that sits rather close to the continental US. We opted for a trip to explore the sights and beaches of Cabarete and the Dominican Republic North Coast instead.

The good news for this destination as your winter getaway is that it doesn’t come at the price of a 4- or 5-star resort. In fact, you can stay in budget accommodations that bring you close to nature and other backpackers. In Cabarete alone, there’s Ali’s Surf Camp (also known as Surf Camp Cabarete), a nearby hostel and a few Airbnbs.

We opted for a combination of both, between our travels that ranged from Puerto Plata to Rio San Juan, by comparing accommodation options .

For fun ways to get around, there are the local guaguas. These are sure to give you an authentic and semi-crowded Dominican transit experience. The great thing is that they cost between $1 to $2 USD per trip! It’s great value for your money, because other things like private taxi rides don’t come cheap.

There’s lots to do in surf paradises like Cabarete. For coffee lovers, you can visit the local cafe scene .

For the more adventurous type, you can check out some unusual and unique things to do in Sosua and Puerto Plata .

Temperatures range from 65F at night to 85F during the day (it can feel warmer in the sun, but cools down by sunset and it’s pretty temperate).

Given that Jamaica is located in the Caribbean and you’ll want to avoid all of hurricane season completely, visiting this island in the winter time is the best idea. From January to February, Jamaica will have temperatures in the 80s, and this is the “coolest” time of year to visit the tropical island.

What’s there to do in Jamaica? Aside from the well-known destinations of Montego Bay and Negril, there’s Ocho Rios, Kingston, Blue Lagoon and Pelican Bar.

It’s easy to get a flight to Jamaica from the US or Canada.

Africa is far for most travelers coming from North America and Europe, but it is worth the trip. Much of Africa remains warm throughout the year, which makes the African continent a great idea for traveling in November, December, January, February and March.

Zambia & Victoria Falls

Due to being in the southern hemisphere, Zambia, a country in southern Africa, has a subtropical climate that will get you an 87-degree (Fahrenheit) day at Victoria Falls (one of the seven greatest natural wonders of the world).

Pair a trip to Zambia with a trip to Namibia, Botswana or South Africa, and you’ll be able to have a two-week bender seeing the best of Africa during winter in outrageously warm weather.

If you do make it to Zambia, be sure to go for a river cruise on the Zambezi River, trying local brews and seeing hippos with your boat driver and guide.

South Africa

Beautiful South Africa is an excellent choice for a winter trip, as the country is in the Southern Hemisphere and will experience the height of its summer during December, January and February.

Catch a safari, see the beaches in Cape Town, visit wineries in Stellenbosch and hang out in Pretoria, all in temperatures like 80-85 degrees F during the day.

Looking to update your travel attire and gear for the winter? Visit our favorite travel gift ideas .

You may also like

Helpful Apps and Websites for Travel

Here are some new ideas for the best and most useful websites, apps, tools and services that make your life easier during travel. Our top travel apps are subscriptions, free services and crowd-sourced data apps that provide cool travel hacks.

20 Off-the-Beaten Path Travel Destination Ideas (Best Time to Go)

If you're like us, you're looking for the best new and alternative travel destinations for experienced and seasoned travelers. See our list of where to travel in 2024 for travelers who seek a challenge.

Booking.com vs Airbnb vs Hostelworld (Accommodation Booking Guide)

Travel accommodations are often a challenge to book. How can you choose a place to stay in a new city? We talk about our favorite ways to book where to stay.

How to Take a Flight with a Baby (32 Tips)

How should you take your first flight with an infant? These important tips and tricks will get you through flying on a plane with your baby so that everything goes to plan.

How to Get Your Baby a Passport (Guide for Parents)

How do you get your baby a passport? I break down the steps for applying for your child’s passport, from taking your baby’s passport photo to securing a passport appointment nearby.

36 Real Ways to Save Money While Traveling (Actionable Tips)

Here are our proven best ways to save money while traveling. When traveling on a budget, there are lots of ways to make your money last longer, even during inflation.

Halløj ! We’re Becca & Dan.

We created this blog to share some of the knowledge and experience that we have around travel , remote work , photography and beyond!

We're currently going grocery shopping.

Join the club

You’ll get emails with our latest articles, tips, advice and so much more! You won't find this content anywhere else!

This website may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Among other programs, Half Half Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

40 Vacation Places to Visit This Winter to Embrace the Chill

Ski spots, chalet towns, and igloos abound!

Bolu, Turkey

Located approximately halfway between Istanbul and Ankara, the mountainous Bolu Province of northern Turkey boasts some of the nation’s best sporting opportunities and cold-weather getaways. Visitors can explore the region’s historic mosques, museums, and national parks with Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain resort as their home base, ideally located in the ski hub of Kartalkaya.

South Tyrol, Italy

The Amalfi Coast, this is not! Tucked away at the border of Austria and Switzerland sits the northern Italian province of South Tyrol, a mountainous region that includes part of the Dolomites range. The best vantage point onto all of that wilderness has to be Forestis, a five-star hotel that's almost 6,000 feet above sea level. At that altitude, the crisp winter air actually restores energy by improving oxygen transportation throughout the body. Breathe deep!

Andermatt, Switzerland

While many visitors flock to the region for its famed Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis ski route, which spans more than 111 miles across mountains that climb up to almost 10,000 feet, Andermatt has more to offer than just its world-class slopes. Following a multibillion-dollar redevelopment over the past 15 years, the Alpine village is also home to multiple Michelin-starred restaurants, an 18-hole golf course, and five-star accommodations .

Burlington, Vermont

The holiday season is the most magical time of year in Vermont. Holiday lights sparkle along the open-air markets, snow-capped mountains beckon visitors to some of the state's best ski resorts, and small-town cheer fills the air. If you remain unconvinced, Burlington just so happens to sit on Lake Champlain, offering exceptional views, ice skating, and even ice hockey.

Hallstatt, Austria

Maybe most famous for allegedly inspiring the settings in Disney’s Frozen movies, Hallstatt, Austria, is a tiny Alpine village between Salzburg and Vienna. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s also a popular day trip destination thanks to its scenic lake views and charming Old Town.

What Greenland lacks in major urban centers, it more than makes up for in remote arctic villages, if that’s your thing! From dogsledding to hiking—and make sure you catch the northern lights!—Greenland is bound to whet the appetite of the most adventurous among us.

St. Louis, Missouri

Foodies will flock to STL for its diverse and budget-friendly restaurant scene, but there’s something for everyone in this Midwestern metropolis. Whether that’s simply selfies in front of the Gateway Arch or a night spent rink-side watching the local hockey team, the St. Louis Blues, is your call.

The Scottish Highlands

Whether you’re keen on a pilgrimage to Loch Ness or want to hike through Cairngorms National Park , the U.K.’s largest, the Scottish Highlands is a picturesque wintry destination. Make an itinerary of the local castles, or stay at the Fife Arms , a former Victorian coaching inn in the town of Braemar, where they host the Highland Games in September. LEARN MORE

Seoul, South Korea

The popularity of South Korean TV has surged in recent years thanks to Netflix— Squid Game, anyone? But even if you haven’t been making a bucket list of iconic locations to visit from your favorite shows, Seoul in the winter is a great place to cozy up with a spicy bowl of budae jjigae and drop in on a local palace museum to live out your Joseon-era fantasy. LEARN MORE

Dublin, Ireland

From its Gothic cathedrals to its contemporary art galleries, Dublin is steeped in culture. Plan a day trip to the blustery Atlantic coast to take in the view from the Cliffs of Moher, then make your way back to the city to unwind with a pint and a guided tour at the Guinness Storehouse.

Copenhagen, Denmark

This picturesque port city is famously home to a very well known mermaid, alongside some of the world’s best restaurants and museums—including stylist Colin King ’s personal favorite haunt, the Thorvaldsens Museum. Raise a glass to toast the chill, then check out some of the best in Nordic design .

Kennebunkport, Maine

There’s a reason why Kennebunkport is so popular regardless of the season. From the quaint coastline to the charming downtown shops, the picturesque town’s appeal lasts far beyond lobster rolls and beachcombing season.

St. Moritz, Switzerland

This luxury alpine resort town is more than just a ski destination. It's long history (it was the birthplace of Alpine tourism) gives the area its old-world charm, while the constantly evolving town is the perfect landing spot for a dream-like vacation. Think polo on the frozen lakes, skiing all the way into the night (2 a.m. ski-sesh, anyone?) and apres-ski amenities like no other.

Lyon, France

Lyon’s famous Festival of Lights is enough to make the trip to this lively French city, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Every winter, France celebrates Mother Mary with the Lyonnaise tradition where every house places candles on the outsides of their windows to create a unified glow across the city. Visitors can also expect light shows at Basilica of Fourvière and the Place des Terreaux , a worthy spectacle for travelers and natives alike.

Big Bear Lake, California

The small city of Big Bear Lake has largely become a popular travel destination during the winter, with the beloved Bear Mountain ski resort and family-friendly Snow Summit ski resort. Big Bear Lake Village—the commercial area of the ski town—is lined with local shops, boutiques, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to enjoy the snowy season and escape the cold in town’s cozy spots.

Condon, Montana

Condon, Montana is a worthwhile trip even if it starts and ends at Holland Peak Ranch . The dreamy retreat—comprised of three luxury residences and over 1,000 acres of scenic prairies—is an all-star spot, no matter the season. The quiet, unincorporated community of Condon is the perfect place to escape bustling life and take a moment to indulge in a cool, cozy respite.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Situated within Slovenia’s Julian Alps is Lake Bled, an idyllic body of water that surrounds the Bled Island. While picturesque year-round, it’s during the winter that the lake becomes a true spectacle, with skiing and other attractions include the Vintgar gorge, waterfalls, and caves.

Harbin City, China

Nicknamed the “Ice City,” Harbin, China is known for its long and cold winters (snow season can last almost half a year); a time when the city truly shines. Because of the prolonged colder weather, there are plenty of chilly activities to enjoy, from skiing at their famous Yabuli Ski Resort to attending the annual Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival , which lasts for an entire month.

Bergen, Norway

Stock up on Norwegian sweaters at the Oleana textile factory , fly up the Fløibanen funicular bullet railway for the best views of the city, then ski down one of the seven famous mountains. Or stay at sea level—or fjord level—and Instagram the adorable fishing town to your heart’s content.

Lake Tahoe, California

It’s a pretty trippy experience to land in sunny San Francisco, grab an In ’n Out burger, soak in the sun—and then drive headlong into a blizzard. But that’s what’s so magical about this spot, which is just under four hours from SFO. There’s something decidedly low-key about Tahoe—likely, the giant alpine namesake lake sends out soothing, unsnooty vibes.

Sean Santiago is ELLE Decor 's Deputy Editor, covering news, trends and talents in interior design, hospitality, travel, and luxury. He writes the So Courant! column for the magazine and elledecor.com.

The 15 Best Spas in New York City

15 of the Best Destination Spas to Visit Now

The Very Best Beaches in Greece

The Ultimate Milan Restaurant Guide

A Chic Person’s Guide to Shopping in Milan

The 11 Best Hotels in Milan to Book in 2024

The Best NYC Museums Where Kids Can Get in Free

20 Breathtaking Black Sand Beaches

12 Mind-Blowing Cave Hotels to Book Now

The Most Beautiful Walled Cities in Spain

The 35 Best Hotels in Paris

Best Places to Visit in Winter: 19 Wonderful Winter Destinations

Best places to visit in winter.

Ready to discover the best places in winter? Don’t miss these destinations. 

There are plenty of places that are great for visiting in winter. Whether you’d like to lay on a beach and sip a margarita or ski down a powdery slope — there’s a winter destination for everyone. 

Rovaniemi, Finland 

If you love ice and snow, then you’ll love exploring Rovaniemi . Why? Simply because it’s one of the top winter destinations in Europe. Sitting in northern Finland, Rovaniemi is the gateway to Finland’s famous winter wonderland – Lapland – the home of Santa Claus. 

Rovaniemi is the second-largest city in northern Finland, and its city centre is only 4 miles away from the Arctic Circle. 

It’s the perfect place to watch the gorgeous Northern lights, go on a husky ride, or even visit an ice hotel. And if you base yourself here around Christmas time, you’ll get to meet Santa or ride a reindeer sleigh and enjoy Christmas markets. 

Suggested Place to Stay: Apukka Resort

Iceland is a stunning country with the most majestic and contrasting landscapes. I’ll be honest with you; it does get rather frosty here. If you visit in winter, you’re looking at temperatures anywhere from 0°C and lower. 

But that should in no way deter you. This is the perfect time to visit Iceland’s famous geothermal hot springs , where you can spend hours warming up.

Plus, Iceland is one of the best places to travel to in winter because it’s home to the beautiful Northern Lights. It’s not all about the Northern Lights, though, as some of Iceland’s top landmarks include waterfalls, volcanoes, and more. 

Suggested Place to Stay: Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel

Tromso, Norway

The “Capital of the Arctic,” Tromso , is one of the best places to visit in the winter because there are a ton of Norway activities to look forward to.  While you may need to bring your thickest jacket to enjoy Tromso, it will be worth it. 

You can enjoy the best of a city break and the outdoors all in one location. During winter, you’ll experience the Northern Lights and discover why Norway markets itself as the “Land of the Midnight Sun” during its Polar Night Season. 

Enjoy dog sledding, tours of Norway’s famous fjords, and discover some of the arctic animals that call this cold area home with a cruise safari . 

Suggested Place to Stay: Tromso Lodge & Camping

Lofoten Islands, Norway 

Over the last few years, the stunning archipelago of the Lofoten Islands has caught the eyes of many adventure travellers who rate it as one of the world’s best places to visit in winter. 

While temperatures may drop below 1°C, there are still loads of fun things to do in Lofoten . Plus, its dramatic scenery makes it a photographer’s dream.

Enjoy a cruise of its majestic fjords , search for the Northern Lights on horseback, or snowshoe down some of its snow-capped mountains. 

If diving head-first into some adventurous activities isn’t for you, there are also a few museums and galleries to admire. And there are numerous cafes and restaurants for you to explore and enjoy Lofoten’s island food .

Suggested Place to Stay: Hattvika Lodge

St. Kitts & Nevis, Caribbean

Right, so now that I’ve gone through some of the coldest places on earth to visit in winter, let’s move to somewhere warm. 

If you’re looking to escape the rain, snow, and miserable grey skies, then St. Kitts and Nevis is one of the top places to go in the winter. This dual-island nation sits between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. It has perfect weather all year round, with temperatures of 25°C in winter. 

Apart from lying on the beaches, you can also enjoy the Carnival around Christmas, sailing and snorkelling tours , and historical tours of the islands. 

Suggested Place to Stay: Golden Rock Nevis  

Cape Town, South Africa

Contrary to popular belief, winter in Cape Town is not that bad. There might be days when it’s pretty cloudy and rainy, but Cape Town is quite an enjoyable winter travel destination. 

Cape Town is one of South Africa’s most picturesque destinations, with loads of exciting things to do . From visiting the 7th Wonder of Nature, Table Mountain, to surfing the waves of the city’s stunning beaches, there’s something for everyone. 

Oh, and let’s not forget, Cape Town is only a short drive away from the iconic Cape Winelands, where you can enjoy vineyard and winery tours with wine tasting and food pairings . I highly recommend Cape Town as one of the places to visit in the winter. 

Suggested Place to Stay: O’ Two Hotel

Trentino, Italy

Trentino sits in the Trentino-Alto Ridge in northern Italy. Home to valleys, woods, lakes, and rivers, it’s a nature lover’s paradise. And it’s right at the heart of the Italian Alps. 

So yes, you may have guessed it, it’s the perfect place to go skiing in winter. Winter in Trentino is unique. Crisp white snow covers the area, making it look like a winter wonderland. If you enjoy being in the cold, then you’ll enjoy Trento. 

After a long day of skiing or exploring the many historic sites around the area, you can enjoy a cooking class with a local and discover the culinary highlights of this region. 

Suggested Place to Stay: Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti

Key West, Florida USA 

If you’re based in the USA and looking to escape freezing winters, Key West, Florida, is the best place to visit in winter. 

Key West is part of the Florida Keys Archipelago, 90 miles away from Cuba. With perfect year-round weather, Key West sees temperatures ranging around 25°C.

That’s the perfect temperature for watersports, dolphin watching , or enjoying a sunset cruise. Regarding the best places to travel in the winter, you can’t go wrong with Key West. 

Suggested Place to Stay: Opal Key Resort & Marina

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

This list of the best winter sun destinations would not be complete without Rio de Janeiro. Winter in Rio sees little rainfall and warm temperatures of about 24°C.

This is quite an enjoyable time of the year, where you can swim in the warm waters of Ipanema or Copacabana Beach, but without the smouldering humidity of the summer.

The only downside about visiting Rio in winter is that around this time, it happens to be summer in the southern hemisphere, so it’s flooded with tourists on vacation.

Suggested Place to Stay: Windsor Marapendi Hotel

Lanzarote, Spain

Synonymous with lava fields, interesting rock formations, volcanoes, and stunning azure waters, Lanzarote is a top choice for many travellers running away from cold European winters. 

Lanzarote is the most eastern of the Canary Islands. Expect to find black and red earth, white and golden sand beaches, rolling mountains, and lush palm groves. 

Oh, and I must mention that the average weather stays around the 20°C mark, so you can work on your tan without worrying too much about sunburn. 

Suggested Place to Stay: H10 Rubicón Palace

Anguilla, Caribbean

If you’re looking for one of the coolest places to visit in winter, I recommend Anguilla. It often flies low on the list of many people’s radar, but this Caribbean island is worth visiting in winter. 

Anguilla’s perfect year-round weather means that it’s never really winter on the island. 

Temperatures hardly drop below 26°C, and the island barely sees any rainfall, even in the wettest months. That means you can enjoy sailing, snorkelling and other water activities. 

Suggested Place to Stay: Malliouhana, Auberge Resorts Collection

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is famous for its idyllic summers, but it’s one of the best cold places to visit in winter. 

Prague in winter is quite a special place. Snow-capped spires, cobblestone streets, and iconic Christmas markets in the Old Town await you this season. 

And yes, it is cold… but, the cool weather provides the perfect opportunity to savour delicious hot chocolate, mulled wine, and sugary pastries to keep you warm.

Suggested Place to Stay: The Julius Prague

Nagano, Japan

Another hidden travel gem, Nagano, is one of the best places to visit during the winter. 

Once the host city of the 1998 winter Olympics, Nagano has beautiful mountains, valleys, and numerous ski resorts that attract skiers from all over the world. 

Apart from its ski resorts, Nagano is also a cultural hub and boasts Buddhist temples, a castle, and a folklore museum where you can learn about ninjas. Yes, ninjas are, in fact, real.  

Suggested Place to Stay: The Prince Karuizawa

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thailand is hot, even in winter, so most people don’t consider it a country you would visit in winter. But Chiang Mai is one of the best places to go in the winter in southeast Asia. 

Winter in Chiang Mai means temperatures average around a manageable 29°C, as opposed to the unbearable 40°C mark in summer. This makes it great for enjoying many of Chiang Mai’s impressive temples and the Old City without worrying about heatstroke. 

Suggested Place to Stay: Phra Singh Village

Ottawa, Canada

Ottawa tops the list of the best places to visit in Canada in winter. Each year the city hosts a large winter festival where it comes to life with outdoor concerts and ice sculptures. 

The highlight of winter in Ottawa has to be the Rideau Canal ice rink. The Rideau Canal becomes the world’s largest ice rink, stretching 7.8 kilometres (4.8 miles) through downtown Ottawa. 

Suggested Place to Stay: Lord Elgin Hotel

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is a picturesque city near Austria’s border with Germany that looks like something straight out of a Disney film. Its backdrop is the stunning eastern Alps. Salzburg becomes even more idyllic in winter as snow falls upon the city and mountain tops.

In winter, the city centre becomes a hub of activity, with Christmas markets filling up every corner. This is a great time to go shopping and try some of the local food.

Suggested Place to Stay: Arte Hotel Salzburg

Lisbon, Portugal

For quite some time, Lisbon was somewhat underrated. Those days are long gone. 

Even so, there are many reasons why Lisbon should be on your winter travel list. Portugal’s hillside capital enjoys relatively moderate winters, with temperatures around 15°C. 

While the weather might not be ideal for going to the beach, there are still several cool things to do in Lisbon . Take this time to enjoy the city’s quietness by going on a food tour , visiting some of the city’s iconic sights, or enjoy the thriving street art scene. 

Suggested Place to Stay: Lisboa Carmo Hotel

The British Virgin Islands

Situated in the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands are some of the best places you can visit in winter. This volcanic archipelago has four main islands; the rest consist of over 60 smaller island chains. 

It’s quieter than some of its other Caribbean neighbours but has beautiful coral reefs, white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and lush rainforests. Winter in the Virgin Islands is a warm 29°C, and while there is a rainy day or two, it won’t be enough to ruin your holiday.

Suggested Place to Stay: Wyndham Tortola BVI Lambert Beach Resort

Valparaiso, Chile

Rightly called the “Jewel of the Pacific,” Valparaiso is definitely not one of those places that stand out as a winter sun destination, but it is rightly so. This coastal city along Chile ’s coast sits on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. 

Winter temperatures average around 22°C, with occasional showers. That shouldn’t deter you, though, as it’s still a lovely place to explore. 

Suggested Place to Stay: Hotel Winebox Valparaiso

Best Places to Travel in Winter: Practical Tips 

• Pack in layers, especially if you’re going to a European destination in winter. Bring along a warm raincoat , umbrella, and a pair of gloves. 
• Keep in mind that some resorts and attractions close in the winter months.
• Remember that winter days are shorter, so you won’t be able to do everything you want on your itinerary as you would in summer – unless you travel to the southern hemisphere. 

Best Winter Destinations: Map 

Best Winter Destinations: Read Next

• Why You Need to Visit… Rovaniemi
• Unmissable Things to do in Iceland
• Visiting Tromso in Winter
• Nevis: The Perfect Island Hideaway

Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

Where to Travel in 2024: Top Travel Destinations for Your Next Trip

Best Places to Travel in September | 23 Spectacular Destinations

The Ultimate Day Hiking Packing List: 15 Essentials to Take on Every Hike

Best Places to Visit in December | 25 Awesome Places to Travel

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

15 Winter Wonderland Destinations Around the World

Sharing is caring:

15 Beautiful Winter Wonderland Destinations

This post is all about the best winter wonderland destinations around the world.

Some people like to head to the beach or a tropical island in the winter, but I like to embrace the cold and the snow. If you’re looking for a snow winter getaway, consider the following places:

Related:  The Best Christmas Markets in Europe

1. Hallstatt, Austria

The small Austrian village of Hallstatt looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale. While it’s beautiful at any time of the year, winter in Hallstatt is simply magical with the snow-covered Alps surrounding the village creating a true winter wonderland.

2. Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City is a North American city with a distinct Old World European feel. Visit this Canadian city in the winter for a truly magical, snowy experience.

3. Lapland, Finland

Located right on the Arctic Circle, the Lapland region of Finland is the ultimate winter destination. You can experience traditional winter activities like dogsledding and snowmobiling, and then escape the cold in your own personal igloo.

4. Shirakawago, Japan

This small village in Japan is known for its winter light-ups, which draw visitors from around the world. Every winter on certain evenings, many of the farmhouses in the village turn all their lights on and illuminate their snow-covered roofs, creating a beautiful wintry scene that looks like something you might find inside a snow globe.

5. Bergen, Norway

Bergen, Norway is a picturesque town with colorful wooden houses and beautiful snowy hills surrounding it. You can find great skiing nearby, or if you’d rather admire the snowy mountains from afar, you can take a cruise through the icy fjords.

6. Northern Lights, Iceland

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, and one of the most accessible. Winter is the best time to go because the nights are the longest so your chances of spotting this natural phenomenon are higher.

7. Prague, Czech Republic

One of the most beautiful winter wonderland destinations in Europe is the city of Prague. Few other places look quite as enchanting during the winter as this Czech city.

8. Segovia, Spain

Said to have inspired the Disney castles, the Alcázar of Segovia is a medieval fortress that looks like something straight out of a fairytale. It makes the perfect day trip from the nearby city of Segovia.

9. Tallinn, Estonia

This Baltic capital city is an underrated gem in Europe. With its charming Old Town and quaint cobblestone streets, it looks like a true fairytale during the snow-covered winter months.

10. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled is gorgeous all year round, but it looks most magical in the winter. There are plenty of outdoorsy winter activities you can take part in around here, including skiing, snowshoeing, and even ice skating on the lake when it freezes over!

11. Harbin, China

Harbin, China is home to the International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, the largest festival of its kind in the world. Every January, an elaborate ice village complete with ice lanterns is constructed for the month-long festival. The best time to visit is in the evening, when the ice city is illuminated by thousands of multicolored lights.

12. New York City, USA

New York is absolutely magical in the winter, will all kinds of decorations and celebrations during the Christmas season. Central Parks turns into a winter wonderland, with sledding at Pilgrim Hill and Cedar Hill and ice skating at the Wollman Rink.

13. Banff, Canada

Banff is a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the Canadian Rockies. For those who would rather stay warm, there are plenty of cozy ski lodges and natural hot springs to enjoy.

14. Neuschwanstein, Germany

This famous castle in the Bavaria region of Germany looks like something straight out of a fairytale. (It’s another one that is said to have inspired the Disney castles!) The castle looks most enchanting in the winter surrounded by a snow-covered landscape.

15. Dolomites, Italy

This mountainous region in northeastern Italy is beautiful any time of year, but its unique limestone peaks looks prettiest in the winter with a coating of white snow.

Which of these winter wonderland destinations would you most like to visit? Leave your comment below.

You might also like:

• 20 Magical Fairytale Towns in Europe You Need to Visit
• Best Places to Go for Halloween Around the World
• Awesome Warm Winter Getaways in the US

Save it to Pinterest:

About Denise Cruz

Denise is a marketing executive who escaped corporate to travel the world… twice. A Brazilian native living in the U.S., she’s lived in 4 countries and visited 35+ others. After side-hustling her way to financial independence, she curates solo destination guides, slow travel tips, and travel blogging advice on Wander Her Way. When she’s not on the road, you can find her in Miami with her dog Finnegan.

• Work With Me
• Outdoor Guides
• Cold Weather Guides
• Prepared Girls Guides
• US National Park Guides
• Diversifying the Outdoors
• Photography Guides
• Road Trip Guides
• Recommended Outdoor Travel Gear

Cold Weather Guides , Outdoors , Travel Resources

21 breathtaking winter wonderland places to visit (for outdoor lovers).

There is something so magical about a beautiful landscape covered in a blanket of snow. A whole new world of cold weather adventures opens up. These incredible winter wonderland places to visit include fairytale castles, frozen waterfalls, thrilling adventures, cozy cabins, and more. Whatever you are looking for in a snowy holiday destination, you’ll find it on this list.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. That means that if you purchase through a link, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more info, visit this page .

Munich & the Bavarian Alps, Germany

The dolomites, italy, alaska, usa, banff & lake louise, canada, minnesota, usa, nunavut, canada, vermont, usa, washington, usa, whistler, canada, antarctica: the ultimate winter wonderland, patagonia, argentina & chile, harbin, china, nagano & hokkaido, japan, queenstown, new zealand, best winter wonderland places to visit in the world, winter wonderland destinations in europe.

Europe is home to some of the most popular, and a few unexpected, snowy holiday destinations.

Austria in winter is definitely one of the most beautiful winter wonderland places to visit in the world! Thanks to the snowy winters, the numerous ski resorts and the many winter activities, this country is a real highlight for an unforgettable snowy vacation. Towns such as Tirol, Vorarlberg, Carinthia and Salzburg in western Austria, where the snow-covered mountains conjure up a true postcard scenario, are especially recommended in winter.

During a winter vacation, you can really experience a lot of amazing things. Austria is famous for skiing, but there are also numerous opportunities for tobogganing, cross-country skiing, ice skating or simply walking or snowshoeing in the snowy countryside. To warm up, it is then best to go to an après-ski bar, where from noon onwards the party already starts. For those who love the peace and quiet, however, warm up at one of the many thermal baths, and relax the tired legs.

Really nice in Austria are also the Christmas markets, which you can visit between the end of November and the end of December. For this, a trip to Vienna is recommended, where you can visit the most beautiful winter markets in Austria.

The best and snowiest time in Austria is from January to February. At this time you can expect cold temperatures, lots of snow but also often an almost kitschy blue skies.

By Martina of PlacesofJuma

Pro Tip: Wondering what to wear to stay warm outside in winter? Find tips in my Prepared Girl’s Guide to Winter Hikin g !

When it comes to winter wonderland travel destinations, Finland has to be near the top of the list! Head north to the Arctic region during the winter months for a chance to see the Aurora Borealis, breath in some of the most pure air in the entire world and experience the best of Finland’s winter outdoor activities.

Both Levi and Rovaniemi are popular snowy holiday destinations in the Arctic region of Finland. Levi is an adorable village that attracts downhill skiers, cross-country skiers, and snowmobilers in the winter months. Rovaniemi offers easy access to frozen waterfall hikes, ice climbing, and cross-country skiing. While there, be sure to stop in to Santa Claus’ Village, open year-round, to experience the magic of Christmas.

After a long day of winter fun, be sure to rejuvenate your body in a traditional Finnish sauna !

Munich and its surrounding mountains transform into a fairy wonderland in winter and offer a diverse range of activities.

In December, Munich is home to some of the best Christmas markets in the world. The most magical Christmas market in Munich is the medieval Christmas market and the Christmas village at the Residence Palace in the heart of the city.

Munich is a paradise for winter sports lovers.  Ice skating is an extremely popular winter activity in Munich. The most gorgeous ice skating rink in winter is found in the center of Munich at Karlsplatz next to stalls selling traditional German snacks and drinks.

How about outdoor swimming in winter when it’s snowing? In Munich, you can swim in the warm and steaming water of Dantebad. Also, in Munich, find the world’s largest spa, Therme Erding. Go and enjoy its sauna world, warm outdoor pools surrounded by snow, adventure pools, and a myriad of wellness activities.

From Munich, you can take a lot of fantastic day trips. Visit the most charming fairytale castles of the world, the Neuschwanstein Castle and the Linderhof Castle surrounded by majestic mountains, or explore the most enchanting and spellbinding medieval towns of Germany such as, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Regensburg and Nuremberg.

Last but not least, hit the road to the breathtakingly beautiful mountains of the Bavarian Alps. Some of the top things to do there are sledding on the longest toboggan run of Germany, Wallberg, skiing on the highest mountain of Germany, Zugspitze, and hiking on the stunning hiking trails of the Alps.

By Diana of The Globetrotting Detective

Winter’s low season is one of the best times to visit Iceland since there are less tourists and it is easier to find cheaper accommodation. Between November and March you can do plenty of winter activities such as exploring ice caves or admiring Northern Lights.

Go on a glacier hike to see beautiful ice tunnels as well as the unique hues and ice formations. Ice cave season is very short so don’t miss out on this awe-inspiring natural beauty. Stunning Iceland full of white snow looks like a winter wonderland.

Enjoying hot springs on a cold day is a great way to relax. Winter is also the best time to take photos in Iceland, due to incredible light. You can wake up at 10am and still be able to shoot amazing pictures, because the sun rises in Iceland around 11am.

Golden hour lasts all day and gives you the opportunity to capture beautiful waterfalls and many other attractions of Iceland in incredible winter scenery. It is worth mentioning that the weather is not as cold as it seems. You might find it a bit chilly when it is windy. Otherwise, exploring Iceland in winter is a great experience.

By Paulina of UK Everyday

There are few places in the world as beautiful in winter as Italy, yep that is right! Most travelers do not associate winter wonderland with Italy, which makes the Dolomites a relatively unspoiled place in Europe. Indulge in some typical winter activities such as cross-country skiing, snow shoeing, trekking, ski mountaineering and sometimes even ice skating on the lakes nestled deep in the Dolomites . If you are short on time make sure to head up to the fairytale lake of Lago di Carezza, it has ample parking and simply the best views of the entire region!

After a day exploring the region or scaling the slopes you will be able to dig into some delicious specialities from the region, a delectable mix of Italian and German cuisine. Specialities of the region include canederli (bread dumplings), kaiserschmarren (pancakes) and the ultimate comfort food, polento. Wash it down with a glass of good local wine or a heartwarming shot of schnapps.

Depending on the weather, the Dolomites can have their first snowfall as early as October and their last snowfall in April. The easiest way to get around the region is by renting a car, be aware that snow tires are mandatory from mid-November to mid-April. Additionally, you will need to bring snow chains with you in the car to make use when driving on roads that have been subject to heavy snowfall.

By Caroline of Veggie Wayfarer

Norway is a strong contender for the best winter destinations in the world! There’s something so magical about the rugged rock formations jutting up out of the dark blue water of the fjords, all covered in a dusting of snow and ice.

To enjoy the best of winter in Norway, head into the Arctic Circle. Fly into Tromsö to go dogsledding , whale watching, winter hiking, snowshoeing and more. The town is located on a small island surrounded by mountains. Take a ride up the cable car, also called Fjellheisen, for an epic view of Tromsö from above!

For a more unique experience, visit the Loföten Islands in winter . This archipelago along the western coast of Norway has some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. Visit tiny fishing villages, snow-covered beaches, and incredible winter hiking trails. After a long day of exploring the islands, relax in a quintessentially Norwegian cabin on stilts over the water. Don’t get too relaxed, though, because this is a great destination for photographing the Northern Lights .

The best time to visit Norway for these winter activities is from December through February, though the season varies depending on the weather.

Averaging around 28°F – 37°F in the winter months, Slovakia is an amazingly unique winter wonderland travel destination that’s often overlooked. This country provides an abundance of fun winter activities for those who enjoy escaping the crowds. It is also home to tons of stunning fairytale castles and UNESCO medieval towns that look even more dreamy covered in snow.

One of the best places to visit in Slovakia in the winter is the Tatras Mountains. There, you’ll find Tatranská Lomnica, the highest ski resort in the country. You can enjoy skiing and snowboarding to incredible winter wonderland views, and then relax in the many spa hotels in the area, such as the Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras.

Don’t leave Slovakia without seeing the stunning Bojnice Castle, considered by many as the most beautiful castle in Central Europe. You can see the beautiful Gothic, Renaissance, and Romanesque influences in its architecture. Its gorgeous facade looks even more magical when it’s covered in snow!

Other notable stops on a winter trip to Slovakia include the dreamy Orava Castle, the mystical Spiš Castle, and the UNESCO medieval town of Bardejov. Be sure to also stop by the city of Košice for the best local food and lively Christmas markets.

Visit in December to see the towns and cities of Slovakia lit up in splendid decorations. You can feel the festive spirit even in the mountain villages of the Tatras Mountains!

By Jiayi of The Diary of a Nomad

Sweden, located in northern Europe, has long and cold winters. The winter months include November through to March, however, it is great visiting during this time of the year for the beautiful scenery and landscape alone.

The big cities like Stockholm , Gothenburg, Malmo, Vasteras and Uppsala all offer lots of things to do, regardless of the time of year. However, some museums do close during winter and only reopen as summer approaches in June, so plan accordingly.

The Swedes love winter, especially when it snows, and many head to the beautiful countryside and lakes on weekends to enjoy winter sports such as skiing and ice skating. There are also many ski resorts where people can enjoy skiing down the slopes, cross-country skiing, tobogganing, or even go snowmobiling. Consider avoiding the ski fields during the annual school ‘sports holidays’ or ‘sportlov’ which are spread between weeks 7 and 10 as the slopes are busy and accommodation is expensive.

One of the most popular attractions in Sweden during the winter months are the ice hotels. These hotels are made of snow and ice, with everything inside made of ice too. The original Icehotel is located in the town of Jukkasjäarvi and each year the hotel is hand-sculpted into a one-of-a-kind version from massive ice blocks harvested from the river which runs beside it. When the spring comes, the hotel is then left to melt.

By Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels

Turkey is a well-known summer holiday destination but travelers who decide to explore this vast country in winter will be rewarded with incredible experiences. 

Start your journey by exploring Istanbul in winter . The major sights of the Hagia Sofia and Blue Mosque will be crowd-free during this season and if you are lucky enough to experience snowfall during your visit (usually in January and February), you’ll get some incredible photographs too. 

Those interested in winter sports activities should head to Bursa and Mount Uludağ, which is just 2.5 hours from Istanbul. It is Turkey’s first and largest ski resort and offers snowboarding, snow biking and sledging as well as skiing. Mount Uludağ also has the Bursa Telerefik – the longest cable car ride in the world. The views from the cable car alone are worth the trip even if you don’t want to ski! 

If you have more time on your hands, Central and Eastern Turkey are popular winter wonderland destinations that are well worth a visit. The fairy chimneys and old churches of Cappadocia are stunning at any time of year, but look extra special when covered in snow. A hot air balloon ride over the curious rock formations at Cappadocia is a must in winter. 

Train travel in Turkey is fantastic and one of the most popular routes in January and February is the Eastern Express (Doğu Expresi) between Ankara and Kars. This 25-hour train journey takes you through a winter wonderland of snowy vistas, towering mountains and gorgeous plateaus. This train journey has become so popular that there is now a separate tourist train for this route. Book in advance if you don’t want to be disappointed.

From Kars, you can visit stunning Lake Çıldır which is frozen solid for 9 months of the year. Locals from the nearby village of Taşbası offer horse sleigh rides on the lake plus a chance to see traditional ice fishing. Kars is also the jump-off point for exploring the ruins of the Armenian Kingdom of Ani with its numerous churches, chapels and mausoleums.

By Sasha of Mog and Dog Travels

Winter Wonderland Destinations in North America

Many of the best winter destinations in the world can be found in the diverse landscapes of the United States and Canada.

Alaska is breathtaking in any season, but especially in winter when the landscape transforms and you can explore without the crowds that come with the cruise ships in the warmer months.

Home to the annual Iditarod race, Alaska is one of the best places to go dog sledding in the world . Experience the thrill of gliding across the snow-covered landscape from inside or while driving the sled!

For another unique experience, hop on the Alaska Railway in Anchorage and head towards Spencer Glacier in Chugach National Forest. The train ride follows along the Old Seward Highway , with breathtaking views of Turnagain Arm with mountains in the distance. There are tour options to either snowmobile or hike to the glacier, whichever you prefer! From Anchorage, you can also do day trips to go winter hiking or snowshoeing at Flattop Mountain or Chugach State Park.

If you have your heart set on seeing the Northern Lights, Fairbanks is considered to have the most favorable conditions for them. However, it’s common to see them in the area surrounding Anchorage as well.

If you’re looking for snowy holiday destinations, then look no further than the Canadian Rockies, particularly Banff and Lake Louise in winter .

There are tons of amazing winter activities in Banff National Park from skiing, ice skating, curling, or even just exploring downtown Banff on foot. 

Ice and snow-related activities are best explored from late December to February. There are ice carving festivals that take place in Lake Louise during this time. 

Snowy weather, with festive celebrations, takes place from mid-November to January. The annual Christmas parade is in November in Banff town. You will also find seasonal menus and Christmas markets, where you can buy souvenirs. 

Enjoy ice skating at Lake Louise (with rental options), cross-country skiing or snowshoeing through gorgeous landscapes in winter. 

Not into skating or skiing? Enjoy a Sulphur Mountain gondola ride, and soak in the snowy mountain landscape views from above. There are special events that take place on the gondola summit and the bistro cafe, located onsite. Go on dog sledding tours through pristine wilderness areas, horseback riding across snow-covered trails…and much more! 

You can also book a romantic resort for your stay in Banff and Lake Louise and enjoy the cold weather from inside, with warm cocoa.

By Mayuri of Canada Crossroads

Minnesota may be an underdog on this list of winter wonderland places to visit, but there is no shortage of incredible winter activities to experience here!

The rugged north shore of Lake Superior offers endless frozen waterfalls, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, winter camping, and snowmobiling. Experience the beauty of the ice stacks, that looks like piles of diamonds, along the shore of Lake Superior. Plan your visit to one of the adorable harbor towns along the water, such as Two Harbors or Grand Marais .

Minnesota is home to two International Dark Sky parks, Voyageurs National Park and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA). These are epic places to visit for a glimpse of the Northern Lights in winter. Both Grand Marais and Ely are entry points into the BWCA.

Don’t miss the fat tire biking in Cuyuna in winter ! A popular mountain biking destination in the warmer months, the area has an endless network of fat tire biking trails for all skill levels and plenty of rentals available.

In the Minneapolis and St Paul area, you can chase frozen waterfalls , explore the cross-country ski trails , go winter hiking, and experience any number of winter events on frozen lakes!

Nunavut is Canada’s largest and most northern territory, falling just shy of the North Pole. In terms of cold destinations, you can’t get much colder than visiting Nunavut .

If visiting the capital city of Iqaluit, be sure to do a day of snowmobiling or dog sledding. While these activities are available in other winter destinations, such places will take you meandering through trees over groomed trails – in Nunavut, you’ll fly over the barren tundra or frozen sea ice, zipping around exposed cliffs and towards polynyas.

For winter activities, March and April are the best months to visit. The sea ice is still frozen and the tundra is blanketed in snow. Yet the temperatures are more comfortable (-10C as opposed to -30C) and the sun has returned, beaming 12 hours each day. The northern lights aren’t as prominent in March and April as they are between December to February, but it’s still common to see them in the wee hours of the morning.

For a taste of winter in the summer months, you can join a wildlife safari from May to August. Go kayaking near narwhal or beluga whales and search for polar bears on the horizon. By this time of year, the temperatures will have substantially warmed by arctic standards, but will still be a little chilly for non-arctic residents (0C to 10C). 

Regardless of the time of year or activity planned, ensure you pack plenty of warm clothing!

By Mikaela of Voyageur Tripper

With its snow-capped mountains and quaint villages, Vermont is a perfect winter destination. 

Snow sports abound in Vermont! There are 22 resorts in Vermont for downhill skiing and snowboarding. Enjoy the slopes of the big mountains such as Killington and Stratton or the family-owned hills like Cochran’s Ski Area. Don’t be surprised to learn you are shredding the same hills that were the training runs of past and present Olympians.

Cross-country skier‘s will find touring centers scattered across the state. Many towns offer free groomed cross country ski trails for all skiers.

The Green Mountains feature endless backcountry trails to explore by skiing or snowshoeing. The 300 mile long Catamount Trail runs the length of the state through prime wilderness.

Bring your microspikes or snowshoes for world class winter hiking. Camel’s Hump or Mount Mansfield are ambitious winter climbs. However, tons of easy hiking and snowshoeing trails wander past icy mountain streams and snow-shrouded fir trees.

Other popular winter activities include ice-skating, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and dog sledding.

After a day in the cold, visit one of Vermont’s picturesque villages with top-notch restaurants and perfect ambience. Don’t miss one of Vermont’s famous craft breweries for a great ending to your day.

Winter enthusiasts can enjoy snowy Vermont from December through March.

By Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Washington state, located in the very northwest corner of the contiguous United States, is a fantastic place to enjoy chilly weather, with incredible mountains to enjoy winter sports, epic beaches that are particularly dramatic in the wintertime, and countless cozy cabins in fairytale forests to snuggle up in. 

Consider heading to Winthrop, Washington, a charming town from the late 1800s gold rush that still retains many of its original boardwalks and Wild Western facades. This is an excellent jumping off point to explore the snowy North Cascades, which provide a stunning backdrop for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling. 

Want some variety of scenery? Head to Olympic National Park in the northwest corner of the state. Come winter, you’ll have your choice of snow-covered mountains at high elevations, in addition to the lush temperate rainforests, cascading waterfalls and craggy beaches the Pacific Northwest is known for. In fact, the park even offers some gorgeous hot springs you can hike to and enjoy! 

If you want to visit Washington at the height of its coziness, December can be a wonderful time. Leavenworth, a Bavarian-themed town tucked in the Northern Cascades, puts on quite a festive Christmas extravaganza every year. But you can enjoy snow in the state’s higher elevations, like in Mount Rainier National Park, well through June. If you come in the wintertime (November through March), be prepared for rainy skies, low hanging clouds, and fog. Remember, that this just adds to the state’s mysterious beauty!

By Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

Whistler, Canada is an easily accessible winter wonderland destination since it’s just two hours drive from Vancouver. Nestled in British Columbia’s mountains, it’s home to the world-famous Whistler Blackcomb ski resort, which has more terrain than any other ski hill in North America. It also hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics. Plan your visit between December and March for prime skiing.

But there is so much more to do in Whistler in winter than skiing and snowboarding. For a more laid-back outdoor adventure, try snowshoeing. Lost Lake Park near the center of town has a great trail network. Or head to nearby Whistler Olympic Park where you can snowshoe to the bottom of a frozen waterfall. Both have rentals on-site.

Don’t miss out on sightseeing. The cute pedestrian village is home to lots of great shopping and restaurants. Make sure you get a photo in front of the giant Olympic rings in the plaza. Or just stroll through the snow with a hot chocolate in hand. For the best views, ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. It connects the tops of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains and dangles 1430 heart-stopping feet above the valley floor.

You can also get out of the cold while learning about local culture with a visit to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Center. A local guide from the Squamish or Lil’wat Nation will welcome you with drums and song, then take you on a tour through the exhibits. You’ll learn more about the culture, history, and current practices of the Indigenous peoples who have lived in the Whistler area since time immemorial. 

By Taryn of Happiest Outdoors

Antarctica is quite possibly at the top of the list of best winter wonderland places to visit in the world. It is remote and mysterious, a place that few people will ever experience.

Aside from chartered flights, there are no scheduled flights into Antarctica. Getting there involves a multi-day journey by cruise ship the mainland of other continents. The easiest and most convenient route to get there involves flying into Buenos Aires, in Argentina, and then a second flight down to the town of Ushuaia. This is where you board the ship and embark on your journey to the elusive continent or Antarctica.

What is there to do in Antarctica? Disembark your ship to get up close and personal with penguins, paddle through the icy waters, go wildlife and whale watching, and even camp on the ice overnight!

While this is a remote travel experience, the ships are designed to make your long journey comfortable. Tour companies such as Hurtigruten have gyms, restaurants, saunas, classrooms and more to enjoy onboard.

Winter Wonderland Destinations in South America

Patagonia is an incredible region situated at the southern tip of the South American continent divided between Chile and Argentina. Due to its geographical location even in the middle of the summer, it’s quite chilly, especially in the extreme south.

Patagonia can be visited any season. The summer months are the peak season with many tourists and in winter it gets quiet so you can have the main attractions of the region all for yourself. Famous sights such as Perito Moreno, Mount Fitz Roy, or Torres del Paine can be visited all year round. Though some multi-day trekking routes might be closed in the winter, many day hikes in Torres del Paine and El Chalten stay open. The best months to visit Patagonia for hiking and camping are December, January, and February. Winter months June to September is a great time for skiing and snowboarding. The beautiful town of Bariloche in Argentinian Patagonia is one of the best places to enjoy winter sports.

The scenery in Patagonia is truly spectacular: turquoise lakes, indigenous forest, snowy peaks, rugged fjords, impressive waterfalls, and massive glaciers. It’s a dream place for those who like the outdoors and real adventures. Patagonian wildlife is just as impressive as its landscape. Traveling in the region you can see pumas, condors, Huemul deer, guanacos, vicuñas, mountain cats, foxes, armadillos, and many other smaller mammals. 

By Alya of Stingy Nomads

Winter Wonderland Destinations in Asia

Looking for more cold weather vacation spots? Asia has some unexpected snowy holiday destinations to explore!

Harbin is a city in China’s far northwestern Heilongjiang Province, close to the border with Siberia. The province is home to China’s winter Olympic ski team and is the country’s premiere winter destination. 

Harbin is most famous for its annual snow and ice sculpture festival which has been running for 38 years! Each year, artists recreate famous cultural landmarks from around the globe, made entirely of ice.

The festival runs from late December to early March and is one of Harbin’s must-see attractions. Around November time the Songhua River freezes and itself turns into a winter playground with skiing, sledding, snowmobiling and more! 

Harbin was actually built by the Russian’s working on the Trans-Siberian railway, and as such is unique among Chinese cities for its Russian architecture. St Sophia Cathedral is one of the highlights, with its red bricked façade and towering onion domes.

After checking out the Cathedral, make your way onto Central Street which is lined by Russian bakeries. One of the local treats to try is the frozen hawthorn berry ice stick, covered in a sweet and sticky syrup! 

The ski resort at Yabuli makes a great day-trip from Harbin. Here you can hire skis or a snowboard and hit the slopes, take a sightseeing cable car, or enjoy a short hike through this winter wonderland! 

Temperatures in Harbin can drop as low as -35 Celsius, so warm clothing is a must when visiting. The city is easily reachable from Beijing by flight and bullet-train.

By Steve Rohan of thetripgoeson

With world class skiing, fascinating history, and cute snow monkeys to show you how to embrace onsen culture, Japan is an amazing winter destination.

Northern Japan offers some of the best powder skiing in the world – think dry and fluffy mounds of fresh snowfall just waiting for you to carve your way down the slopes. The Northern Alps average an incredible 10-18 metres of snow each season! There’s nothing like finishing a day of exertion on the slopes with a hearty bowl of ramen and a relaxing soak in one of the many onsens in the ski resorts.

If you’re not familiar with the onsen concept, they’re a natural hot spring that doubles up as a public baths and they’re one of the most wonderful things to experience on a visit to Japan. In winter they’re particularly magical – hot water creating clouds of steam in the icy air. You’ve just got to brave the snow on your way to the pools!

There’s one group who have no problem braving the cold to get their onsen fix, and that’s Japan’s famous snow monkeys. Native to the north, the Japanese Macaque has worked out that the best way to warm up is by taking over a network of hot pools for your own use. The best place to see them is at the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park in Nagano.

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, hosts an annual snow festival complete with incredible ice sculptures, light displays and plenty of the beer that the city is known for! Further south, consider a visit to Takayama , a fascinating Edo-period city that’s been faithfully preserved and hosts a sake festival every year. Plan your visit for February to coincide with the festivities!

By Cat of Cat’s Nine Lives

Winter Wonderland Destinations in Oceania

When thinking of activities at winter travel destinations, it’s no doubt skiing comes to mind. But where could you enjoy a winter break if skiing isn’t your thing?

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, winter in Queenstown is an absolute must to experience for any adventure lover – especially if you don’t plan on skiing!

The adrenalin capital of the country has so much to offer during the winter months, from bungee-jumping, paragliding and canyon swings to snow-shoeing, hot air balloon rides over the stunning scenery and an exciting luge run on a mountainside.

Don’t worry if you’re not an adrenaline junkie though, there are plenty of relaxing experiences too. Warm up by soaking in a hot spring overlooking a mountain landscape at Arthur’s Point, take a cable car up to the Skyline Lookout for panoramic views over the region, enjoy a leisurely cruise around Lake Wakatipu and even see kiwi birds up close at Kiwi Birdlife Park.

With a great dining and pub scene to rival larger cities, nightlife in Queenstown also packs a punch for visitors and locals alike. Everyone is out to have a good time, the fun atmosphere is hard to beat.

Queenstown during any winter month also makes a great base to undertake day trips to other gorgeous areas, such as the preserved colonial village of Arrowtown, breathtaking views over Lake Wanaka, kids will love Walter Peak Country Farm and even more outdoor activities to enjoy in Glenorchy.

If given the chance, an opportunity to stay in Queenstown during winter should not be passed up!

By Alyse of The Invisible Tourist 

Each season brings with it a whole new way to experience a place, and winter is no exception. Whether you prefer gliding through the forest behind a dog sled, fairytale castles covered in snow, or something in between, these winter wonderland travel destinations will leave you speechless.

Related content to read next:

What to Wear Hiking in Winter: A Prepared Girl’s Guide

11 Best Places to Go Dog Sledding in the World

Check out my Minnesota travel page for even more inspiration and tips!

Did you find this article helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media!

This Big Wild World

Hi! Welcome to This Big Wild World travel blog! I believe that there’s a sense of adventure inside of everyone, waiting to be discovered. From epic hikes around the world to adventures closer to my home in Minnesota, I’m here to help you discover what adventure means to you!

14 thoughts on “ 21 Breathtaking Winter Wonderland Places to Visit (for Outdoor Lovers!) ”

All great choices for your bucket list! I imagine Vermont is gorgeous in the fall too. Hope you make it to all of these someday!

Wow! There are so many incredible destinations on this list. Norway has always been on my bucket list and I really do wish I get to visit someday. I would love to visit Iceland in the winter and Vermont is on my list but for the fall season. I’m not a fan of the cold weather or the snow, but Alaska really does sound like an epic winter destination!

Thanks, Lasma! It was so hard to narrow down this list. I can imagine that Latvia is beautiful in winter. I hope to experience it someday!

Norway is one of my most favorite places I’ve visited. It’s truly stunning. Seeing the northern lights dance overhead is absolutely magical. I hope you experience it someday!

Yes, Turkey was a surprise add to the list! I also want to protect these winter wonderlands and the wildlife that relies on them. Once you visit (or live in) these destinations, you can truly appreciate the urgency of preserving them.

Ha ha, that’s my goal! To convince those who don’t love winter to give these destinations a try 😉

Thanks, Josy! I also hadn’t heard of Harbin China until researching this post – the ice sculptures are incredible! Agreed on Russia – I considered adding it to this list but given the current events I didn’t feel like it rose to the top of recommended places. Will of course re-evaluate and update the list in time!

Thanks, Kristen! Yep, Minnesota and Vermont definitely earned their spot on the list. I bet growing up in Vermont was incredible!

I was hoping to find my country (Latvia) on this list, but I get it… it’s more of a hidden gem! Scandinavia is my favorite when it comes to a winter wonderland! And the information on this article is so complete, well done!

What magical winter destinations! I would love to visit Norway and see the northern lights at some point. I bet that is such a cool experience!

So many amazing destinations. I didn’t expect Turkey to be on the list, but why not! I hope we continue to fight against climate change and get to keep all these beautiful winter wonderlands. The meaning of winter and proper snow coverage for many species, especially above the Arctic circle, is huge.

I hate cold weather and feel that anything under 70 degrees is wander-around-the-house-in-blankets weather (no one know how I survived in the east coast/up in WV mountains for a decade), butttt these places all look so gorgeous that I’d absolutely brave the cold just to visit! *-*

Great post Susan!

I found myself nodding my way through the list! These are all fabulous places for visiting a winter wonderland. I’d never heard of Harbin, China…but that ice sculpture festival sounds soooo cool! I guess Russia would be another fantastic winter adventure (if they stop invading Europe…)

You must be getting so excited for Antarctica.

Wow! What an incredible list. I’m glad to see Minnesota made the cut! Growing up we went to Vermont every winter so I can confirm that is indeed an incredible winter wonderland. Great roundup!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

13 Great Beaches for Winter Sun

Warm up this winter on some of the world’s best stretches of sand, from close-to-home shores to more exotic beach destinations around the globe..

• Copy Link copied

Benguerra Island, off the coast of Mozambique, is known for its white-sand beaches and abundant marine life, including dugongs, marlins, and dolphins.

Photo by Michelle Heimerman

As winter temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten, it’s natural to start craving warmer climes. Luckily, those in need of a vitamin D boost have their pick of a whole host of fantastic beach destinations that either remain blissfully warm and sunny year-round or are currently in the throes of a Southern Hemisphere summer. Here, 13 of the world’s beaches that are particularly lovely from December through February.

Benguerra Island

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

The second-largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, off the coast of Mozambique, Benguerra Island is part of a national marine reserve where you’ll regularly encounter tiger sharks, manta rays, humpback whales, and Africa’s last viable population of dugongs, cousins of manatees. The biodiversity is so rich—everywhere from its inland lakes and gently sloping sand dunes to its seagrass beds and coral reefs—that the archipelago has been called the Galápagos of the Indian Ocean.

Onshore, expect a laid-back vibe at resorts like Kisawa Sanctuary , which made it onto our 2022 Stay List of best new hotels in the world. The resort sits on hundreds of acres of beach and coastal forest and features bungalows constructed with local timber and decorated with 3D printing, a method also used to create artificial coral for reef restoration in the area. While it’s tempting to sit back and enjoy the powdery sand here, Kisawa also partners with the Bazaruto Center for Scientific Studies , a nonprofit that offers guests the chance to help with research projects like tagging sharks and marlins.

Sand volleyball is unsurprisingly a popular sport on Moreton Island, one of the biggest sand islands in the world.

Photo by Nicholas DeRenzo

Moreton Island

Queensland, Australia

Queensland is famed for its Great Barrier Reef, but right in Brisbane’s own backyard is an island destination that’s much more easily accessible and highly underrated: Moreton Island. Reachable by a 75-minute ferry ride from the city, it is the third-largest sand island in the world, a former whaling station that has been reimagined as an adventure destination and national park. It’s home to the highest coastal sand dune in the world, at more than 900 feet (sand-tobogganing down it is fun but not for the faint of heart), and ringed with beaches that are calm on the western side and surfable on the east.

By day, you can snorkel or “sea scooter” among the Tangalooma Wrecks, a collection of 15 sunken vessels that attract sea turtles, dugongs, and bottom-dwelling wobbegong sharks. By night, you can paddle over the wrecks in an illuminated kayak or wade out into the surf to hand-feed a habituated pod of wild dolphins. If you’re staying overnight at the Tangalooma Island Resort , stop into one of the beachside restaurants and look for Moreton Bay bugs, a species of slipper lobster that is a local favorite.

Rocky and rugged Punta Cometa is the southernmost point in the state of Oaxaca.

Courtesy of Ara CG on Unsplash

Oaxaca, Mexico

With beach-friendly temperatures all year, Mexico’s coast attracts its fair share of visitors in the winter. Avoid the crowds by going to the small coastal town of Mazunte, where three sandy beaches—Mermejita, Rinconcito, and San Agustinillo—are backed by thatched shacks selling seafood and cocktails.

This area is home to the National Mexican Turtle Center , where there’s an aquarium open to the public and baby turtles are released into the ocean. If you feel like getting active, hike out to the wild Punta Cometa headland for views back along the sand and a number of secluded coves. The rugged cape is Oaxaca’s southernmost point, and it’s a favorite place for watching migrating whales from clifftops or taking in the sunset.

Get two vacations in one at Manuel Antonio Beach, where the sands border a national park.

Photo by Shutterstock

Manuel Antonio Beach

Manuel Antonio Beach sits on the fringes of an eponymous protected forest, which is home to some of the country’s most exciting wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, armadillos, and toucans. White-sand beaches and rugged headlands butt up against crystal-blue waters, ideal for snorkeling and kayaking.

Don’t miss a sundowner at the nearby El Avión bar. It’s set inside an old Fairchild C-123 cargo plane 500 feet high in the hills beyond the beach, and it has the best views out across the forest toward the glittering coastline. It’s dry season in this part of Costa Rica from December through April—prime time for days lounging on the sands.

Hulopoʻe Beach is a favorite for its teeming tide pools and charismatic spinner dolphins.

Photo by Russell deJetley/Shutterstock

Hulopo ʻ e Beach

Lānaʻi, hawai‘i.

A perfect swimming beach on the southern coast of Lānaʻi , Hulopoʻe is a pretty patch of yellow sand backed by leafy vegetation and flanked by rocky outcrops. When the tide is out, you’ll often find small hermit crabs, sea stars, limpets, and tiny fish in the pools that form between the volcanic rocks onshore. (It’s a protected site, so you’re not allowed to take any natural souvenirs with you.)

Come December, the waves are ideal for surfing or bodyboarding and the weather is dry and warm. The nearby Four Seasons Resort is the place to go for lunch, with several restaurants, including a Nobu outpost and the poolside Malibu Farm, which overlooks the bay.

Situated north of Dubai, less-visited Ras Al Khaimah is home to several golden-sand beaches with shells.

Photo by Siarhei Tsesliuk/Shutterstock

Ras Al Khaimah

United arab emirates.

Skip the glitzy, expensive beaches of Dubai and head north to Ras Al Khaimah, a little-visited emirate that’s home to several beaches with golden sand and shells; it also has a slightly cooler climate than its neighbors, averaging 77 degrees throughout January.

You’ll find all-out luxury at the Waldorf Astoria , which has its own private beach. For something completely different, you can also camp on any of the public stretches of sand. For another kind of adventure, drive to the top of Jebel Jais, a mountain that spans the border of Ras Al Khaimah and Oman and includes the highest point in the United Arab Emirates. On a clear day, from up here in the Al Hajar mountains, you’ll often have views out to the Persian Gulf.

The beaches on Harbour Island get their pinkish hue from the shells of microscopic organisms called foraminifera.

Photo by Zoe Esteban/Shutterstock

Pink Sands Beach

The bahamas.

The sand at this beach on the eastern side of Harbour Island really is a striking pastel shade of pink, thanks to the remains of the foraminifera, microscopic organisms that wash up on the shore.

Temperatures in December and January average a comfortable 78 degrees, and the sand remains cool underfoot. Minimal rainfall at this time of year makes it perfect for long days spent sunbathing or partaking in more active pursuits, including horseback riding in the surf or snorkeling around nearby Man Island, which reveals an underwater world of octopuses and sea cucumbers.

An aerial view of Australia’s thriving Ningaloo Reef that’s ripe for snorkeling and diving

Photo by Darkydoors/Shutterstock

Ningaloo Reef

Western australia, australia.

It’s the height of summer in Australia from December through February, but the country’s west coast sees far fewer travelers gracing its shores than the east does. Ningaloo is the highlight of this wild coastline, with a thriving coral reef just offshore that’s ideal for diving and snorkeling.

Stay at the luxury campsite Sal Salis to the north, and spend your days lounging on the sand or out in the water. Don’t miss the opportunity to see turtle hatchlings wend their way into the surf from January through March. Farther inland, you can explore the Outback wilderness on guided walks.

The Kenyan coast is known for its traditional Swahili dhow sailboats, which fishermen use to navigate through the reefs.

Photo by Sarika Bansal

Diani Beach

Combine a winter sun-and-beach break with an unforgettable wildlife experience at Diani Beach . This slice of white sand, backed by palms and lapped by Indian Ocean waves, sees temperatures hover around the mid-80s throughout December and January. Adding to the picturesque setting are the camels strolling along the surf, the sand bars that emerge from the brilliant turquoise water at low tide, and the kitesurfers dotting the horizon.

Diani is also home to Colobus Conservation , where you can join a primate eco-tour to meet a habituated troop of vulnerable Angolan colobus monkeys as well as the cheeky Sykes’ and vervet monkeys that call these coastal forests home.

Elephant Rock, at the edge of a surfer-friendly cove, offers memorable views of the sunset over Arugam Bay.

Photo by Shanti Hesse/Shutterstock

Arugam Bay Beach

November through March is a great time to visit Sri Lanka , but it can get crowded. Arugam Bay, on the southeast coast, is a far cry from the busier resorts on this teardrop-shaped island’s west side, which are packed at this time of year.

With its chilled, hammock-swinging vibe, excellent beachfront restaurants (don’t pass up the fish curries at Ranga’s Beach Hut ), and superb surf, Arugam Bay is a wonderful place to get a taste of true Indian Ocean life. For true seclusion, visit Elephant Rock, a small outcrop at the edge of a cove that’s beloved by beginner surfers; there’s no road access here, so you’ll have to take a tuk-tuk and then either walk, wade, or scramble over the rocks. The sunset views are very much worth the effort.

Come nightfall, the waters off Vaadhoo Beach erupt in a bioluminescent display.

Courtesy of Hamman Mohamed on Unsplash

Vaadhoo Island

Raa atoll, maldives.

The Maldives is famous for its perfect beaches, all wispy white sands and light blue waters. But after the sun sets, some of the archipelago’s beaches take on a rather different look.

Vaadhoo Island is renowned for its nocturnal show of bioluminescent plankton, which means you can spend your days here enjoying the winter sun, sea, and sand and be mesmerized at night when the waves glow bright blue as they crash onto the shore. In these parts, that bioluminescent display is nicknamed the “Sea of Stars” for the way it mimics the brilliance of the night sky above.

Clearwater Beach offers access to the warm, calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Photo by Margaret.W/Shutterstock

Clearwater Beach

With highs regularly hitting 71 degrees in December and January, Clearwater Beach on Florida’s Gulf Coast offers all the sunshine and spectacularly white sand you could want, with the bonus of big-city vibes and lots of craft beer. More than 35 small-scale breweries in Clearwater and St. Petersburg make a fantastic ale trail .

Don’t miss a day out on the water spotting dolphins, or try your hand at deep-sea fishing. Sundowners are essential here: The westward-facing beach’s location on the Gulf of Mexico means that the fiery sunsets here are the stuff of dreams.

In the middle of Senegal’s Petite Côte, Saly is a wonderful destination for families.

La Petite Côte, Senegal

The 60-plus-mile-long stretch of white sand that makes up Senegal’s Petite Côte is blissfully quiet. Here, you’ll find small fishing towns and villages where Portuguese and French influences mix with the energetic West African culture, plus low-key holiday resorts popular with Europeans in the summer.

Saly is the center of the action, with plenty of beachfront hotels and resorts for all budgets ( Le Lamantin is exceptional). It’s an excellent destination for families, thanks to an abundance of water sports, as well as the fascinating Île de Fadiouth—a curious island made almost entirely of shells—just off the coast.

This article originally appeared online in November 2018; it was updated on December 11, 2023, to include current information.

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Where is hot in December? Our top 13 destinations

By Sarah James

As the cold takes firm hold of Europe , sun seeking generally requires a longer flight. True, there are spots closer to home with the good grace to linger around 20°C, but winter provides an excellent excuse for a far-flung getaway, when a powerful and prolonged dose of vitamin D is practically prescribed. Hot cities in Africa and Australia will come alive this month, as their summers finally arrive, while tropical islands and unsung corners of the world will hit their peak. See below for our edit of where is hot in December. For more travel inspiration, see our guide to the best winter sun destinations and the best holiday destinations in December .

Average December temperature : 26°C

The seven hour-flight from London to Dubai can just about be classed as medium-haul, while the time difference between the two is a jet-lag-free four hours – but this desert city in the Middle East feels worlds away from chilly England in December. Sure, there’s the glitzy side of Dubai – its mega-malls and skyscraping hotels are decked out in festive lights and ginormous trees for the season – but there’s a more laidback side to the city, too. Life’n One is a hidden yoga retreat for those hoping to end the year on a healthy note, while cultural hub Alserkal Avenue is a great place to escape the heat in arthouse cinemas and indie galleries.

Where to stay: Forget the glitz and glam, this cool new un-Dubai hotel is 25hours Hotel One Central , a hub for creatives, digital nomads, and those in the know. If you're here to venture to the pool and nothing more, Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort is a great option, especially for families. For a stay that’s unlike anything else in Dubai, book a room at the secluded five-room hotel and spa Al Faya Lodge an hour east of the city. See our edit of the best hotels in Dubai for more.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Average December temperature : 21°C

We called it ‘the surprisingly cool Canary island ’, but we weren’t talking about the weather. The fact that Lanzarote resides off Africa’s west coast means that even in December it’s still fairly sane to take a dip. Avoid the package hordes and head to fine, white-sand Papagayo Beach on the southern tip of the island, or try world-class surfing in north-west Famara. In fact, more surprises lie in store the further you stray from the tourist hotels. There’s the Jardín de Cactus in Guatiza, a surreal succulent amphitheatre; or starkly alluring Timanfaya National Park, a volcanic wilderness that starred in 1966 film One Million Years BC. And don’t forget Finca Malvasia , a seductive ranch-like retreat in the central wine region, owned by a pair of designers who swapped London for island life. After wintering in Lanzarote, you might just join them.

Where to stay: La Cabaña , a slick and earthy villa with a quote-mark-shaped swimming pool and views down to Puerto Calero. For more, check out our list of the best villas in Lanzarote .

Bali, Indonesia

Average December temperature : 27°C

It’s one of South-east Asia ’s winter-sun kingpins for good reason – tropical Bali ’s lush rainforest and white-sand beaches tick all the boxes when it comes to a warm-weather escape. Once-scrappy beach town Canggu draws Indonesia 's thriving digital-nomad crowd, along with blissed-out surfers, while artists’ village Ubud is a hub for those seeking a more spiritual getaway.

Where to stay: Teetering on a high clifftop overlooking the Indian Ocean on Bali’s southern coast, Six Senses Uluwatu is a wellness retreat that gets it just right. In Canggu, we like The Slow , a 12-room bolthole with an achingly cool cocktail of art, music and interior design. Riverside jungle hideout Capella Ubud feels like an African tented camp from the 19th century and makes an ideal base that avoids any desert-island clichés. If you're travelling in a group, Bali has some incredible villas and Airbnbs, like Laputa Villa which sleeps four and is widely known as "The Bamboo Castle in the Sky." For more, see our pick of the best Bali hotels .

Marrakech, Morocco

Average December temperature : 20°C

When winter is in full flow, don’t underestimate the power of a three-and-a-half-hour flight to another world. Yes, Marrakech is hectic, but a recent influx of design hotels – most of them reimagining glorious, red-brick riads – means there’s always somewhere more sedate to escape to. Alternatively, take up residence in a palace: La Mamounia , a grande dame of landscaped gardens, fountains, opulent tiles and velvets, is a card-carrying member of our best hotels in the world Gold List . Or book a stay at Royal Mansour , the city's most lavish hotel, which proves you needn’t plunge into the medina madness outside to get the best of Marrakech.

Where to stay: As we mentioned above there are no shortage of hotels in Marrakech . For a traditional riad stay, Riad Goloboy is a feast for the eyes (and Instagram) with kaleidoscopic walls and a gallery-worthy art collection.

Average December temperature : 24°C

The city’s year-round warm weather comes into its own in December, when the beach parties continue while other sun spots – we’re looking at you, California – pull on a sweater. For a calmer vibe, try the less-developed northern end of Miami Beach. It’s here that chef Thomas Keller serves elegant classics (oysters, steak tartare, lobster thermidor) at the landmark The Surf Club, among potted palms and white-coated waiters who evoke the spot’s history as the go-to of the 1950s jet set. Better yet, the recently extended, hacienda-style Four Seasons is here (Elizabeth Taylor and Wallis Simpson count among former guests). Refined might not be the word typically associated with Miami, but let this breath of fresh air change your mind.

Where to stay: Miami Beach Edition sits inside the skeleton of the Seville, one of the giant 1950s hotels, with nods to the past, a connection to the city's heritage and a bar with uninterrupted ocean views.

Bahamas, Caribbean

It’s peak season in the Bahamas , and while that will certainly keep the beaches busy, it also means perfect weather. Our tip: strike out for Harbour Island, a three-mile-long, mile-and-a-half-wide sliver of sensational, pink-sand stretches, where there are always enough sunbeds to go around. Make camp at its smartest hotel, Bahama House , a chic cottage with retro Palm Beach vibes, a sunken tiki bar and just 11 rooms. It’s part of Eleven Experience, an experiential-travel specialist, you can also take advantage of custom adventures such as diving in secret grottoes or swimming with swines on Pig Beach.

Where to stay: Pelican Bay Hotel . Inside, waterside rooms combine Caribbean cheerfulness with classic European style. Outside, white-sand beaches, lush boulevards and beautiful seascapes.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is always a good idea, but particularly in December, when the fledgling South African summer sets beaches and vineyards aglow. The mere sight of beautiful crowds bronzing against its theatrical, cragged mountain backdrop will banish the winter blues in one blow. And just when you thought the Mother City’s raw good looks, smart art and design scenes and world-class food couldn’t get more appealing, it only goes and adds a pair of super-hot hotels, too.

Where to stay: The Silo , which is ingeniously set inside a former grain elevator house at the top of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa on the Victoria and Albert Waterfront. Also on our Gold List, Ellerman House is an imposing Edwardian mansion with smashing views of the Atlantic and one of the country’s finest private-art collections.

Auckland, New Zealand

Average December temperature : 22°C

Just like that low-and-slow New Zealand drawl, Auckland is a big, beautiful city that’s seldom in a hurry. Perhaps that’s what happens when there’s nature everywhere – rainforest-covered hills here; the glittering Hauraki Gulf there. And the notion that the affable country is somehow behind the times is rebuffed by the likes of the Britomart complex, a series of waterfront heritage buildings turned boutiques and restaurants, and Iko Iko, a fabulous concept store with fans such as Emilia Wickstead. Add in a ferry trip to nearby Waiheke Island’s sandy beaches and vineyard wine tastings and be totally converted to the Kiwi lifestyle.

Where to stay: Hilton Auckland is über-trendy retro futurism in a gleaming wharf shed redeveloped to resemble a cruise-liner.

Caitlin Morton

Connor Sturges

María Casbas

Olivia Morelli

Merida, Yucatan Peninsula

Average December temperature : 31°C

Tulum , Cancún and Playa del Carmen are the seaside giants of the Yucatán in south-east Mexico , but head instead for the state capital of Mérida for the best of everything: Mayan ruins, a charming colonial town, dense jungle and – if you don’t mind a short drive – beaches, too. Best of all, there’s Chablé just outside the city, an astonishingly lush estate with a spa and private cenote, a restaurant led by renowned chef Jorge Vallejo, a tequila ‘library’, a sweat lodge and a local shaman. Plus it has 40 splashy, limestone-and-glass casitas, each one with its own terrace and pool.

Where to stay: Hacienda Xcanatun for marble mosaic and coral stone floors on the verandahs, exteriors are daubed in terracotta and cream, and rough-hewn rustic tables and hammocks hung between trees that give this 18th-century Italianate estate a lived-in feel.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Long the Shangri-La of feverish backpacker dreams, Koh Samui has grown up. Yes, its raison d’être remains pure pleasure – in the shade of three million coconut palms, and on its bone-white beaches – but the packaging is more Four Seasons, less ratty bungalow. Wellness has well and truly arrived here, with yoga studios, health retreats and even monk-led mentoring for those looking to make a real change. If, however, you just want a proper, idyllic tropical break, Panacea takes the cake. The former home of one of the world’s top hedge-fund managers, this sprawling hilltop estate features five enormous residences, 82ft swimming pools, a cinema, a nightclub – and even a Muay Thai boxing ring (tattooed instructor included).

Where to stay: Set high on a hill, Panacea has a mix of four-, five- or six-bedroom villas filled with tropical hardwoods, silk fabrics and petrified wood that’s over a million years old, plus there's a kids’ room, a private cinema, gambling den and nightclub. At COMO Point Yamu a 100-metre long white-tiled swimming pool shoots out towards the Andaman Sea. Tip-top service, zingy cuisine and a wondrous spa has made this Thai hotel a favourite with LGBTQ+ Thais and travellers.

No doubt, Havana is spectacular. But leaving Cuba ’s main drawcard to explore its steamy eastern mountains will bring you closer to a country that, in its isolation from modernity, has much to teach. In Baracoa, the mystical hangs like a heavy mist. The city, surrounded by the Cuchillas del Toa mountain range, is a world unto itself: streets infused with music, sleepy beaches and rivers and canyons where – yes, even here – you’ll stumble upon the odd thatched bar. At the very south of the island, Santiago de Cuba, with its palatial Spanish buildings by the sea, is set to be the next It destination, but for now remains thrillingly tourist-free.

Where to stay: Casa de Miriam y Sinai is a fantastic first-floor flat that is an oasis of calm and space, with three spacious rooms, one with a street-side balcony, are spotless and have top-drawer bathrooms.

Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne ’s erratic climate ensures it’ll never hold the beachy appeal of Sydney . But December’s summer temperatures are ideal for exploring the city’s beloved laneways: narrow passages packed with street art , galleries, restaurants and bars. It’s here that trends are set rather than followed; where a cup of coffee has both a caffeine kick and global acclaim. And in Australia ’s always dynamic second city, there’s never a shortage of new and miraculous places to explore. Currently it’s Di Stasio Città, Spring Street’s Brutalist Italian restaurant, where guests eat fabulous crab capellini in a concrete-bunker-like setting as video installations play across the walls.

Where to stay: Lindenderry at Red Hill , a silver-birch-lined drive leading to a white rural hideout, with comforting, pared-back style and a restaurant that uses the with best local produce.

Average December temperature : 30°C

There's a lot to love about Costa Rica. The awe-inspiring nature – two coastlines, Caribbean and Pacific, which have not only distinct landscapes but distinct vibes; rainforests; volcanoes; powerful waterfalls that crash into rivers. You can surf, raft or relax in natural hot springs, spot sloths, monkeys and thousands of species of birdlife. All of this, plus Costa Rica is consistently named one of the happiest countries in the world, as well as having a higher-than-average life expectancy. December to April are the best times to visit – you can expect dry, sunny days, perfect for exploring on your own terms.

Where to stay: Aguas Claras in Puerto Viejo, on the Caribbean coast has six cabanas and a handful of restaurants loved by locals. See our edit of the best Costa Rica hotels for more ideas.

7 Places Around the World to Visit in the Summer

I t's almost inappropriate not to make the most of summer's quiet stretches and skip off for a trip somewhere new. This is bona fide vacation season, after all. And while destinations with special summertime appeal abound, remember that our summer is winter in the Southern Hemisphere-a prime time to explore countries there, not just for the temperate climate, but also for the wild seasonal events.

Here are seven glorious places for a summer jaunt, each with a must-see reason to go right now.

1. Gstaad, Switzerland

Gstaad is an appealing destination in summertime (June through September), when the slopes are transformed into green hiking trails; try the Rinderberg panorama ridge trail or stroll around Lauenensee Lake. Come earlier in the day to avoid the crowds, and don't forget to pack a bathing suit for a chance to swim in the astonishingly clear waters.

There are major sporting events here in summer, too. There's the Hublot Polo Gold Cup from August 22 to 25, which takes place on the grounds of Gstaad airport, and the Swiss Open , which runs from July 13 to 21 this year; it was won by Argentinian Pedro Cachín last year.

Where to stay

• Book now: Gstaad Palace

This hotel helped establish this town as a jet-set getaway when it opened more than 100 years ago; it remains ground zero for glamor in 2024. Save some energy to party in the 1970s-style nightclub GreenGo.

How to get to Gstaad

The best international hub for Gstaad is Zurich, served by Swiss from Miami International Airport (MIA), Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) nonstop; the airport at Gstaad is mostly restricted to private jets. Road connections to the town are notoriously circuitous, so the best option is a train: It takes about three hours to pull into the small station downtown.

Spend a contemplative Juneteenth in Montgomery, Alabama, where the Equal Justice Initiative operates several world-class sites, all intended to spotlight the troubled racial history of the United States. EJI's National Memorial for Peace and Justice confronts the history of lynchings: Visitors walk through a forest of tombstones hanging from the ceiling, each representing a county where lynchings took place. The Legacy Museum nearby offers in-depth accounts of life as an enslaved person. The latest addition will be the 17-acre Freedom Monument Sculpture Park (set to open March 27), filled with 48 sculptures by more than two dozen artists, including Wangechi Mutu and Kehinde Wiley, as well as a monument to the millions emancipated at the end of the Civil War.

Combine that with a visit to Birmingham, an hour's drive or so away: The city has a vibrance epitomized by the reboot of the dead space under the interstate-a divider between racially distinct neighborhoods-now named CityWalk BHAM , an outdoor rec area with a skate park, roller rink, and pickleball courts.

Stay at Birmingham's The Painted Lady , slated to open in July. The 22-room spot, in the former automotive district, is inspired by the life and work of Louise Curtis Wooster, renowned as both a high-end brothel keeper and a devoted nurse during the cholera epidemic.

How to get to Alabama

Flying to Birmingham is the best option, with direct nonstop service to airports including Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) on American, Denver International Airport (DEN) on Southwest and United, and Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) on Delta.

3. Patagonia, Chile

Chile's southern tip in midwinter (June through August) is brutal at times-expect temps to remain consistently around freezing-but the reason to come to this rugged terrain now is that it's peak puma-spotting season. When the land is green and lush, the cats are more scattered, chasing their prey, guanacos, around wide swathes of land; as the snows carpet the higher altitudes here in winter, the guanacos are driven down to graze in smaller patches of greenery, bringing the pumas in high numbers to the same small spaces.

There are also more than 100 species of birds, including black and white condors and flamingos whose bright-bubblegum plumage seems cartoonish in the wild.

Even better, since visitor numbers crater in winter, there are fewer humans to scare the skittish cats: Chile's most popular national park, the approximately 700-square-mile Torres del Paine, is home to between 50 and 200 pumas.

• Book now: Awasi Patagonia

Awasi operates a 14-villa lodge in a private reserve right next to that national park. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer spectacular views.

How to get to Patagonia

Punta Arenas is the starting point for adventures in this part of Chile. Fly to the capital, Santiago de Chile, on LATAM from JFK or LAX, then connect on the same carrier's domestic service.

If you've never ventured into the Pacific region, consider Fiji as your first place to touch down. The country comprises about 300 islands, but the population is concentrated on two, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. The infrastructure is superb, whether you travel by air, road, or sea, and English is the lingua franca, which makes engaging with locals and learning more about the Indigenous culture much easier.

Hands down the best time to come is during July and August, when temperatures will be warm-usually steady in the upper 80s-and rain is minimal. Dive into the waters and you'll be startled at the quality and health of the soft coral. Rakiraki, off the main island of Viti Levu, is ideal for diving for both beginners and pros, while experts should beeline for Namena Island. It's surrounded by a horseshoe-shaped barrier reef that's home to more than 1,000 species of fish.

• Book now: Como Laucala

Indulge your inner Robinson Crusoe with a stay at this private island resort, which was the personal playground of Red Bull entrepreneur Dietrich Mateschitz, complete with its own vast farm, a water sports center, and a spa. Book the overwater villa, which has its own pool carved into the rock face, if you can.

How to get to Fiji

The local namesake airline has a near monopoly on service to the islands: Daily service runs from the capital, Nadi, to LAX, and there are flights six times weekly to SFO.

5. Okavango Delta, Botswana

The Okavango Delta in Botswana is the world's largest inland delta and the best place to experience an African water safari. Though July is technically the peak dry season, the water level here is at its highest; that's because it takes several months for the rains from the Angolan Highlands to trickle down and pool here on the plains. Of course, the delta is an easy place to score a full house on the so-called Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino (though an uptick in poaching has recently threatened the population of the latter).

Avoid motorboating around and instead opt for a mokoro , or traditional canoe, a puntlike vessel that allows you to drift in near silence through the reeds to spot jewel-colored insects, startled birds, and beautiful plants up close.

• Book now: Xigera

The luxury lodge in the heart of the Delta is known for a superb, signature suite: the Baobab Treehouse, a man-made tower festooned with metal branches, where you can spend the night out in the bush. The best place to sleep is alfresco on the roof, listening to the caws and roars in the darkness.

How to get to the Okavango Delta

The easiest intercontinental gateway to Botswana is Johannesburg in South Africa. Connect from there to the capital of Maun, and then you'll likely need to take a charter puddle jumper to most safari camps.

6. São Paulo, Brazil

June is Pride month, so where better to spend it than enjoying the largest Pride celebration in the world, which takes place in São Paulo-this year, from May 29 through June 2. The event-capping parade last year drew more than 3 million people. It's a nod to the city's status as one of the first in the Southern Hemisphere to introduce anti-discrimination laws expressly protecting people from discrimination on the grounds of sexuality, in 1997. The five-day event includes circuit parties thrown by Superfestas, a well-known local promoter, and a 15-hour marathon pool party, before concluding with the hours-long parade, which runs from Rua da Consolaçao to Praça Roosevelt.

• Book now: Rosewood São Paulo

The swanky, Philippe Starck–designed hotel right next to Consolaçao is a plush hideaway, with a rooftop pool and typically quirky interiors: The rooms are festooned with musical instruments, and the bathrooms are large enough for an armchair.

How to get to São Paulo

São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) has a dozen direct nonstop routes from the United States, including Orlando, Houston, and Chicago, on carriers such as LATAM and United.

7. St. Barths

St. Barths is a staple of the festive season, a place to celebrate Christmas in a dry-clean-only bikini. Pause for a moment, though, and opt for an alternative reason to visit this party-centric island.

More than half the land here is designated as a green zone, which means it can't be used for construction. This translates to huge swathes of hike-friendly land and surprisingly less-trafficked beaches. Le Colombier, for example, which is only accessible on foot, offers superb snorkeling off its white-sand beach (the mansion overlooking the bay, now largely unused, was built by David Rockefeller). The three-mile-long trail to Gouverneur Beach on the south side is more bracing but rewards you with a superb spot to take a dip-and don't worry about wetting that bikini, as this is one of the rare clothing-optional spots on the island.

• Book now: Eden Rock St. Barths

The OG luxury hotel here was carved out from the onetime home of pioneering aviator Rémy de Haenen, whose Hollywood connections helped establish its early cachet (Greta Garbo was one of his guests).

How to get to St. Barths

Nervous fliers, take note: The short, awkwardly situated runway at the airport on the island makes it viable for pro-level pilots only, and the descent can be nail-biting. If you'd like to sample it yourself, charter specialist Tradewind offers service from Anguilla, Antigua, St. Thomas, and San Juan in Puerto Rico. Otherwise, fly into St. Maarten and take the breezy, 45-minute ferry across.

Politics latest: Starmer denies being 'copycat Blair' as he unveils 'first steps' for Labour government

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has outlined the "first steps" his government would take should he become prime minister. Meanwhile, the current Tory administration has announced changes to sex education in schools.

Thursday 16 May 2024 13:21, UK

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

• 'No quick fixes to mess Tories have made', says Starmer
• 'I haven't scaled back ambition' | 'I'm no copycat Blair'
• Labour leader's six 'pledges': Economic growth | Cut NHS waiting lists | Border security  | Great British Energy | Anti-social behaviour crackdown | Recruit more teachers
• Nick Martin: Why Labour seems reluctant to promise too much
• PM asked why he 'hates pensioners'
• Minister announces changes to sex education in schools
• Exclusive: Almost 900 sexual offences committed by people on bail
• Live reporting by Ben Bloch   and (earlier)  Faye Brown

Rishi Sunak has told Loose Women that, despite not being able to be as present with his family as he would like, and the security risks he faces, it is "an enormous privilege" to be PM.

He was asked whether he would remain an MP if re-elected by his constituents but the Tories are voted out of government.

He replied: "Yes, of course I'm staying. I love being an MP. I love my constituents. I love my home in North Yorkshire - it's wonderful."

But he pivoted to saying he is focused on the general election and the "choice" voters will face.

Loose Women presenter Janet Street-Porter asked the prime minister: "Why do you hate pensioners?"

That was greeted with laughter from Rishi Sunak and a round of applause from the audience.

She said he has reduced national insurance, which pensioners don't pay, but frozen tax thresholds, meaning that the rise in state pension means that pensioners have to start paying tax very quickly if they earn extra money, leaving many "living in poverty".

The PM replied: "I care deeply about pensioners because I also believe in a country where if you work hard all your life, you should have the dignity and respect you deserve in retirement."

On what exactly the Tories are doing for pensioners, he pointed to the triple lock, introduced under the Cameron government, which is a government promise to raise state pensions every year by the level of average earnings, inflation or 2.5% - whichever is the highest.

He also said the winter fuel payment over this winter was doubled.

Next on Loose Women, Rishi Sunak was challenged on the broader issues facing the British people at the moment, such as the rise in crime, unsuitable housing, and NHS workers using foodbanks, for example.

Presenter Judi Love said to the PM that, despite his recent speeches, the question is "not what are you going to do, but when are you going to do something to make a change", particularly around poverty.

Mr Sunak said: "The most acute concern that people have is their financial security."

He said we have seen a "really tough time" through the pandemic and the war in Ukraine, and insisted the government has provided "support for people".

Presenter Kaye Adams tried to interject, saying there are four million children living in poverty, but the PM carried on, saying the government has "made sure our welfare system is working, benefits are being uprated".

Judi Love asked him how he can emotionally connect with people who are struggling when he hasn't lived the life they are living.

He pointed to the furlough scheme during the pandemic as an example of helping people when he was not affected by the problem.

By Nick Martin , people and politics correspondent

The promises are ambitious. The issues riddled with complexities. The stakes, high.

So it's perhaps no surprise that Sir Keir Starmer's speech was also peppered with caution.

His commitments, which include stabilising the economy, cutting NHS waiting times, setting up Great British Energy, cracking down on antisocial behaviour and recruiting 6,500 new teachers, form Labour's "mission" should they win the election.

But dig into the words and phrases of the policies, about the time it might take to achieve them, and you get a glimpse into a party that seems reluctant to promise too much for fear of not delivering enough.

Labour says these policies were a "bridge to longer-term plans" - no quick fixes here.

Sir Keir spoke of delivering them within the first term of parliament - that's five years.

And describing them as a "down payment on change" suggests something gradual, something that will need time.

And given Labour are so ahead in the polls, you'd think they would be more bullish.

So when Sir Keir talks of a "decade of national renewal", it's clear this is a party that's oddly desperate to play things down just a bit.

One big reason is that Labour wants to win an election, clearly.

But they'll also want to win a second, even a third.

And keeping a lid on the promises now might serve them well later down the line.

The prime minister has just appeared on ITV's Loose Women - and it was a slightly awkward start as he revealed he doesn't actually watch the show, but said it is "on occasion on at the back of the office".

They started by discussing the changes to relationship, health, and sex education (RHSE) education in schools (see previous post).

A key part of that is that no explicit material will be taught before the age of 13, but it is put to Rishi Sunak that half of children have viewed online pornography before age 13, and so it might be better for these issues to be discussed with trusted teachers.

The aim of the guidance, the PM said, is to "let kids be kids".

He said he's worried parents weren't being informed of what was being taught, and children were being exposed to things that were perhaps not age-appropriate.

Pushed on the substance of the question, Mr Sunak said the government is acting to make the internet a safer place for children.

Asked what he was taught at school by age 13, a distinctly uncomfortable PM said he "can't quite remember", but added that things are "very different now because of social media".

It was then put to him that children often have smartphones before secondary school, and he replied that it is the role of parents to ensure the access their kids have access to is properly managed, and suggested "parental controls" as an option.

When challenged, he said he only learned about tools that "my wife and I, personally, were not on top of" until he did the work as PM.

The education secretary has just given a statement in the House of Commons on changes to relationship, health, and sex education (RHSE) education in schools.

Here is what she said, as she said it (this post was updated live):

• Gillian Keegan says these follow "disturbing reports from parents of pupils being taught inappropriate content in schools, and requests from schools who wanted more clarity on when to teach certain topics";
• The aim is to make sure the content of lessons is "factual, appropriate, and that children have the capacity to fully understand everything they are being taught" - and that schools have "clarity";
• Three core values underpin the guidance - that parents know what is being taught, teachers set out facts, "not the agendas of campaign groups", and schools "should not teach about the contested issue of gender identity, including that gender is a spectrum";
• There will be guidance on age limits of when certain topics should be taught, with sex first being taught from year 5, when children are age nine;
• There will now be "complete openness" with parents so they know what is being taught;
• "The contested topic of gender identity" will not be taught to children of any age, while gender reassignment will be taught at an "appropriate age";
• There will be a "dedicated section on sexual harassment and sexual violence", and adapted to abusive behaviour that can take place online, such as misogynistic influences and stalking;
• Additionally, there will be clearer guidance on how "content on mental wellbeing relates to suicide prevention", and it will be taught from year 8;
• And there will be a new topic on personal safety, including laws on knives and knife crime and the "dangers of fire, roads, railways, and water".

 Some breaking news to bring you now - the first minister of Wales has sacked a junior minister after just weeks in the job.

In a statement, Vaughan Gething accused the member for Delyn, Hannah Blythyn, of leaking to the media.

He said he has "regrettably" concluded that he has "no alternative" but to sack her as a result.

Mr Gething praised "her leadership through the fire and rescue services review, outstanding work leading the LGBTQ+ Action Plan for Wales and invaluable work on the Social Partnership and Public Procurement (Wales) Act".

He went on to say that it is "of vital importance we are able to maintain confidence amongst government colleagues so that we work as one to focus on improving the lives of the people in Wales."

He added that there is a "route back for her to take up a government position again in future".

In a statement on X, Ms Blythyn said she is "deeply shocked and saddened" by the decision, saying: "I am clear and have been clear that I did not, nor have I ever leaked anything.

"Integrity is all in politics and I retain mine."

We've just had a response from the Conservative Party to Sir Keir Starmer's speech, and his launch of the "first steps" for government.

Richard Holden, the party chairman, said the speech was "devoid of any plan for Britain".

He labelled Sir Keir a "serial promise breaker who doesn't have the courage or conviction to stick to a single pledge he has ever made".

He accused the Labour leader of having laid out plans for "unfunded spending, higher taxes and amnesty for illegal migrants" that would "take Britain back to square one".

By contrast, Mr Holden said the Tories are "sticking with the plan to build a brighter future for British families", which involves reducing inflation, growing the economy, and creating a "fair immigration system".

After speeches from shadow cabinet ministers, Labour-supporting members of the public, and Sir Keir Starmer himself - that concludes Labour's big campaign event.

The Labour leader unveiled his six "first steps" for government, which are:

• Deliver economic stability  with tough spending rules to grow the economy, and "keep taxes, inflation, and mortgages as low as possible".
• Cut NHS waiting times  with 40,000 more appointments each week, during evenings and weekends - paid for by cracking down on tax avoidance and non-dom loopholes.
• Launch a  new Border Security Command  with "hundreds of new specialist investigators" and "use counter-terror powers to smash the criminal boat gangs".
• Set up  Great British Energy  - a publicly-owned clean power company, which Labour says will cut bills for good and boost energy security - paid for by a windfall tax on oil and gas giants.
• Crack down on antisocial behaviour  with more neighbourhood police paid for by "ending wasteful contracts", tough new penalties for offenders, and a new network of youth hubs.
• Recruit 6,500 new teachers  in key subjects to prepare children for life, work, and the future, paid for by ending tax breaks for private schools.

Scroll down to read more detail on the speeches - and Sir Keir's answers to questions from journalists on his plans.

Sir Keir Starmer's pitch centres on trust.

The six individual pledges announced today set out Labour's priorities.

But delivering on them will be key to building trust in politics, which a recent Sky News poll revealed was miserably low. 

Sir Keir described this as the first steps in a "mission".  Big, bold change, he said. 

But Labour seems to be making bold promises, while trying not to promise too much.

Sir Keir's refusal to put a number on how many extra NHS appointments he could deliver in the first few weeks of a Labour government, for example, goes to the heart of their fear to put numbers on things.

The potential problem is that Labour's pledges are broadly similar to the Conservative ones; migration, economy, health - the usual big election issues.

Voters will want to see clearly how the parties differ on these big issues.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free