21 best winter vacations in the world

Looking for an escape this winter? Whether you want to sun yourself or really commit to the cold, there are dozens of great destinations for this time of year. Read on for our guide to the best winter vacations.

1. Edinburgh

There are few places that capture the vibe of the holiday season as well as the Scottish capital. Offering world class culture, in-city hikes, and countless cosy pubs to spend the evening in, Edinburgh really is one of the best winter vacations. While the run up to Christmas is one of the best times to visit, there’s still plenty of fun and excitement to be had in this charming city in January and February.

@contikitravel There are SO many to choose from. But these are the BEST trips to do in December ❄️☀️ #december #decembertravel #norway #thailandtravel #germany #southafrica #contiki #travel #ski #austria ♬ original sound – Contiki | Travel Together

2. Hallstatt

Austria isn’t short of great winter getaways, and Hallstatt is among the most highly rated. While it doesn’t feature on our Ski Austria tour, that’s due to time constraints, because the small town is blessed with scenery so stunning it has been recognised by UNESCO.

Despite its compact size, Hallstatt is packed full of family friendly things to do, as well as great bars and restaurants for the adults. One of the best winter destinations in Europe, it’s right in the heart of the Alps, home to some of the best ski resorts in Europe.

3. Bonn

Nothing says winter season like a Christmas market, and this German city has one of the best in Europe. Plus, if you’re a fan of sweet treats, you’re in luck: not only is Bonn the birthplace of Haribo, but is also a short trip from Cologne, where you can go to the world-famous Chocolate Museum and learn all about the world’s favourite sweet treat, and visit their world famous market too, which features on our German Christmas Markets tour.

4. Agadir

Not everyone is a fan of the winter months, and if you’re looking for a sunny escape few destinations rival Agadir. The Moroccan coastal city is nestled at the foothills of the Atlas mountains and delivers warm weather throughout the year, as well as a healthy dose of culture and delicious local eats. One of the best winter vacations if you prefer chasing the sun to layering up, and is also great for the wallet thanks to Morocco being less expensive than nearby Europe.

5. London

If you’ve ever wanted to go ice skating in front of a medieval castle, check out bustling holiday markets, or drink enough mulled wine to fill a tanker, then London is for you. The English capital comes alive in winter, especially in the run up to Christmas. Add in quirky boutique hotels, world class museums and art galleries, and a culinary scene that offers the best of the globe, and it’s easy to see why the ancient city is such a beloved winter destination.

6. Québec City

Colonial architecture, hearty local dishes, and a big dose of winter wonderland magic: Québec City is one of the best winter vacations. Canada is generally one of the best countries to visit during winter as you know public services and amenities will run even during the worst of the cold snaps. Ideal for a Christmas vacation.

7. Whistler

Whether you’re into cross-country skiing, the traditional downhill kind, or just enjoying a warm Baileys during the après, then Whistler is the winter destination for you. Located in B.C, Canada, the world-famous mountain resort is known for its incredible slopes and unbeatable mountain views. After all, we wouldn’t put it on our beloved Ski Canada trip if it wasn’t one of the best winter vacations!

8. Lapland

Sparse yet filled with a dramatic beauty, this northern Finnish region is known for its incredible landscapes, as well as being the professed home of Father Christmas. If you’re not a Christmas person, a visit during winter is still worth it as you’ll be able to see firsthand the unique culture of the Indigenous Sámi people. When it comes to winter travel, there are few more iconic destinations.

9. Harbin

The combination of powdery snow and Slavic architecture make this northeastern city stand out from the rest of China. Visit during the winter period and you’ll have a glut of activities to enjoy, like a visit to the China Snow Town or Harbin Ice and Snow Festival. A unique winter vacation.

10. Queenstown

New Zealand isn’t necessarily the most easily accessible country for a lot of the world, but a trip here in winter is worth the trek. And few places show off its cold-weather charms quite like Queenstown. The city is famous for its adrenaline-fuelled activities, and when the snow hits that means there’s plenty of opportunities for skiing, boarding, and everything in between. Remember, though: as it’s in the southern hemisphere, winter runs from May to August.

11. Bergen

The gateway to Norway’s famous fjords, Bergen is a dream winter destination if you want to be awed by nature’s beauty. Add in some astoundingly good Christmas markets, cosy bars, and great food, and you have one of the best winter vacations you could ask for.

12. Madeira

Another option for those who would rather bask in the sun than get out their big coats and woollen scarves. The Portuguese island is closer to Africa than mainland Europe, and its climate reflects this proximity to the equator. So, if you prefer beautiful beaches over soft snow drifts, it’s a great option.

13. Burlington

If you’re a snow lover looking for the best American winter vacation, you want to be in the north of this vast country. And, few spots combine culture, outdoor pursuits, and winter wonders better than Burlington, Vermont. Here you can spend the day skiing on some top-notch slopes, then spend the evening exploring the city’s well regarded hospitality scene.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by New England Photography ? (@newengland_igers)

14. Tallinn

Tallinn looks like it was pulled out of a fairy tale, and this notion is only strengthened when you visit during the colder months. A stunning spot that’s even more gorgeous in winter, and well worth booking a flight to so that you can enjoy it in all its snowy glory.

15. Nagano

Japan’s highest regional capital is the perfect place to spend a winter in the Asian country. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for an exotic alternative to Europe’s slopes. Nagano also has plenty to offer those who prefer walking to skiing and boarding, with cultural attractions like the Snow Monkey Park, as well as hot springs to unwind in. And, of course, Japan’s unmatched culinary culture means plenty of dishes to gorge yourself on.

16. Copenhagen

Winter in Denmark seems brutal from the outside, but there are few cosier places in the colder months than the nation’s capital. Snow billows through the streets and settles on the ancient buildings, and many of the central lakes freeze over, meaning the chance to skate in the historic centre. Just make sure you’ve seen the locals have a go first before you start sliding around!

A beloved part of our Scandinavia trip, and a city we are sure you’ll love in the snow.

17. Bolu

Türkiye isn’t the first place people think of when you mention winter and snow, but this city in its mountainous north is one of the most underrated winter vacation spots in the world. White-capped mountains surround Bolu, and there’s skiing nearby that rivals some of the best ski resorts in Europe for runs.

18. Phuket

If wrapping up warm, roaring fires, and festive singalongs don’t do it for you, then there’s no better place to snag some winter sun than the Thai peninsula of Phuket. Undoubtedly one of the best winter vacations for people who prefer suntans to ski burns, and a huge reason people love our Thai Island Hopper West tour.

19. Mexico City

Mexico City is a cultural powerhouse that’s full of surprises of the best kind, and although it’s up in the mountains, the city remains bright and warm throughout the tail end of the year. Celebrating the Christmas period here is a whole other experience, and also gives you the chance to try some dishes that are specific to winter. It may not be the first place that pops into your head when you think of the best winter vacations, but that just means you’ll have more of this buzzing city to yourself.

Join our Mexican Fiesta trip at the end of the year and you’ll get to experience this all firsthand!

20. Lake Tahoe

Located at the California and Nevada border, this unique spot is known for gorgeous beaches and outstanding ski resorts, although in the winter the latter take centre stage. Add in some great hikes and plenty of festive spirit, and you have one of the best winter vacations in the States.

21. Patagonia

Rugged, wild, and unforgettable: a winter holiday to this region at the bottom of the world is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for most. As it’s in the southern hemisphere the seasons are reversed, but whether you come during northern winter or local winter you’re sure to have a magical experience traversing its many national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

22. New York City

The city that never sleeps keeps going through the festive period, and boy do they know how to celebrate. Famous public ice rinks, humungous trees that are attractions in themselves, and plenty of events in all five boroughs mean a New York Christmas is unlike any other.

23. Vail, Colorado

People can spend hours arguing about the best skiing and snowboarding in the continental U.S, but Vail will always be in the conversation. Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, this Colorado municipality punches way above its weight when it comes to tourism thanks to its unbeatable slopes. The winter sports industry is very well developed here, and there’s something for people of all skill levels.

24. Palm Springs, California

Combining cultural gems, iconic architecture, and a consistent desert heat, Palm Springs is undoubtedly one of the best winter sun destinations in the world. The city has always been known as a place to escape the cold, a reputation borne out by the fact its population grows in magnitudes as cold weather descends on the rest of the US.

What is the best country to visit in winter?

The best country to visit in winter depends on what you want to do. If you’re searching for sun, somewhere near the equator will work best for your needs, but you might prefer skiing, or drinking mulled wine in a cosy pub, in which case the options really are endless.

Where is the best winter destination in the USA?

If you’re searching for active winter activities, the mountainous areas of the USA like the Rockies are ideal. However, the northern states, especially in the northeast, are perfect for holiday-themed activities.

Where is the cheapest warm place to vacation in winter?

The cheapest warm place to vacation depends on where you’re flying from. In the US you might consider Florida or Southern California, or even Central American nations like Mexico. If you’re in Europe, then Morocco is a great place to catch some winter sun without breaking the bank.