Traveling during the winter months is a great idea if you’re looking to save money as well as beat the crowds. Sure, the weather is a bit colder but there are plenty of beautiful destinations to visit that each offer something special to discover. Whether it’s skiing, dog sledding, chasing the Northern Lights, wandering Christmas markets or simply cozying up by a big fireplace – the possibilities for winter activities are endless. To help give you some inspiration, I’ve created a list of “10 Beautiful Winter Travel Destinations” that should definitely be on your bucket list this year. I’ve also included a selection of activities that you can enjoy and recommendations on where to stay for each location.
Lapland, Finland
Lapland, Finland is easily one of my favorite winter travel destinations. Whether it’s watching the northern lights, snowmobiling across the snowy landscape, taking a ride on a sled led by a team of reindeer or visiting Santa’s workshop, the activities in Finland are endless. I highly recommend staying in a glass igloo so that you can watch the northern lights without ever having to leave the comfort of your own bed. It’s an experience you won’t ever forget!
Where to stay
- Kaukslauttanen Arctic Resort
- Kemi Seaside Glass Villas
- Golden Crown Levin Iglut
- Levi Ice Hotel
- Arctic Treehouse Hotel
What to do
- Go snowmobiling
- Take a sled tour led by reindeer
- Go dogsledding
- Visit Oulanka National Park
- Take a Northern Lights Tour
- Visit Santa’s Village
Lofoten Islands, Norway
No matter the season, the Lofoten Islands in Norway are always a beautiful destination to visit. However, I prefer to visit in the winter because of the chances of seeing the Northern Lights. While small and remote, the tiny red fishing cabins that dot the coast line here amongst the towering fjords will surely take your breath away.
Where to stay
What to do
- Visit the iconic fishing village of Hamnøy
- Learn to surf at Unstad Arctic Surf Camp
- Watch the Northern Lights at Skagsanden Beach
- Snowshoe to Mount Ryten for Incredible Views
- Hike to Kvalvika Beach
- Chase the Northern Lights on a guided tour
Banff, Canada
If skiing or snowboarding is your thing, then Banff is the perfect winter destination for you. Regarded as one of the best ski destinations in the world, Banff is filled with endless winter sports opportunities that you can partake in all while being surrounded by the beautiful backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. Even if you’re not into skiing, there’s plenty of other activities and natural scenery to explore to keep you busy during your stay here.
Where to stay
- Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
- Moose Hotel and Suites
- Rimrock Resort Hotel
- Mount Royal Hotel
- Fairmont Banff Springs
What to do
- Go ice skating at the famous Lake Louise
- Ski the beautiful slopes of Banff at one of three ski resorts in the area
- Relax at world famous hot springs
- Go dog sledding
- Explore the frozen waterfalls of Johnston Canyon
- Drive the scenic Icefields Parkway
Prague, Czech Republic
Photo via Practical Wanderlust
The winter months are an ideal time to visit the beautiful capital city of Prague because the city becomes quieter and more peaceful after the summer crowds leave. This also a great time to visit because accommodations become much more affordable, meaning you can snag a 4* hotel in the center of the city for a mere 40-50 Euro a night. Whether it’s exploring the Christmas markets that stay open past New Years with a steaming cup of glühwein or taking in breathtaking views of Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, Prague has something to offer everyone.
Where to stay
- Miss Sophie’s Hotel
- Design Hotel Naruda
- Golden Star
- Grandior Hotel Prague
- The Nicholas Hotel Residence
- K + K Hotel Fenix
What to do
- Visit the iconic Prague Castle
- Wander the Christmas markets
- Walk across Charles Bridge
- Explore the charming streets of the Vršovice Neighborhood
- Go ice skating in the Prague’s Old Town
- Take a tour of a local brewery
Chamonix, France
Photo via Alex Strohl
Filled with majestic winter landscapes and beautiful ski slopes located in the heart of the French Alps is the charming village of Chamonix. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking to master the slopes on skis or cozy up next to a fireplace in a Victorian chalet. It’s also incredibly close to both Switzerland and Italy in case you’re looking to extend your trip and taste more of Europe.
Where to stay
- Hôtel Le Refuge des Aiglons
- Hotel L’Heliopic Sweet And Spa
- Boutique Hotel Le Morgane
- Mercure Chamonix Les Bossons
- Terminale Neige Refuge du Montenvers
What to do
- Ski at Mont Blanc
- Witness an incredible view overlooking Chamonix Valley by taking the Aiguille du Midi cable car
- Take the famous little red train to see Mer de Glace
- Go cross-country skiing
- Try something new and go ice-climbing
Japan
Photo via Benjamin Everett
Winter is a great time to visit Japan because you can visit popular landmarks without the crowds and because it’s low season, flights and accommodation are more affordable. Japan has grown in popularity over the years amongst skiiers, with spots like Hokkaido boasting some of the best powder in the world. Besides skiing, one of the best things to do in the winter is visit the famous Japanese snow monkeys at Jigokudani Yaen Kōen (Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park) located near Nagano. You can easily visit here on a day trip from Tokyo but I recommend staying in the area for a few days to explore the surrounding area.
What to do
- Go skiing in Nagano or head north and experience the best powder in the world in Hokkaido
- Soak in an open air onsen
- Go ice skating in Tokyo
- Visit the famous Japanese snow monkeys at Jogokudani Snow Monkey Park
- Check out the annual Sapporo Snow Festival
- Visit the traditional village of Shirakawago which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Enjoy the winter illuminations that can be found throughout Tokyo – find the schedule here
Iceland
Photo via Jeff Sheldon
While most popular in the summer, Iceland is also an incredible destination to visit in the winter since the landscape changes completely. From black sand beaches and natural thermal baths to frozen waterfalls and valleys, there’s plenty of beautiful places to explore. And if you’re lucky and the weather is in your favor, you just might see the Northern Lights. It’s by far one of the most magical experiences that can be had while you’re here!
Where to stay
What to do
- Explore downtown Reykavik
- Visit the black sand beaches of Vík
- See the beauty of Kirkjufell
- Walk across a glacier or visit the famous volcano of Eyjafjallajökull on a guided tour
- Visit one of Iceland’s many waterfalls such as Skogafoss, Seljalandsfoss, or Godafoss
- Watch the Northern Lights dance above your head
- Take a dip and relax in the Blue Lagoon
Budapest, Hungary
Photo via Find Us Lost
Visiting Budapest in the winter is a magical time to experience the city and all that it has to offer. The winter months give way to panoramic views of the city dusted in a beautiful blanket of snow that will easily take your breath away. When the weather gets too chilly, it’s the perfect time to head to one of the many thermal bath houses located throughout the city to soak in the warm mineral-infused waters. In fact, the city is home to 118 thermal baths, which is more than anywhere else in the world.
Where to stay
- Corinthia Hotel Budapest
- New York Palace
- Baltazár Budapest Boutique Hotel
- Hotel Collect
- Stories Hotel
What to do
- Ice skate at Europe’s largest ice rink
- Visit one of the many Christmas markets across the city and sip Forralt bor (spiced, mulled wine) or try a traditional chimney cake
- Ride the Libegő chairlift to the highest point of Budapest
- Soak in one of Budpaest’s many thermal spas
- Admire the beauty of Budapest’s architecture by visiting St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Budapest Parliament Building, Matthias Church, Hungarian State Opera and Dohány Street Synagogue
- Sample Hungarian delicacies at Nagy Vásárcsarnok
- Grab a drink at a Budapest Ruin Pub
Hallstatt, Austria
Photo via Madeline Lu
Hallstatt, Austria is one of the most idyllic villages you’ll ever visit in Europe. Set on a hillside overlooking a beautiful blue lake with an incredible backdrop of the mountains lies the fairytale like village of Hallstatt. In the winter time Halstatt transforms into a winter wonderland and becomes even more enchanting for visitors. Stroll past the colorful shops and houses throughout the village with a glühwein in hand and admire the beautiful white swans that swim along the water’s edge.
Where to stay
What to do
- Soak in the beauty and charm of Hallstatt’s by strolling through town
- Take in the scenic views overlooking the church and lake from this iconic viewpoint
- Visit Hallstatt’s local cemetery, Ossuary, which also features amazing views
- Take a ferry across Lake Hallstatt
- Ride the cable car up 1000ft to the nearby Hallstatt salt mines and walk across the skywalk
- Go skiing at Dachstein West
- Try Kaiserschmarrn, one of the most famous dessert dishes of Austrian cuisine
Zermatt, Switzerland
Photo via @ckanani
No matter what season it is, visiting Zermatt, one of Switzerland’s most charming villages, is never a bad idea. However, the winter months are a particularly great time to visit because the mountains transform into a skiers paradise. In fact, it’s one of the few places in the world that you can ski internationally into Italy. Even if you’re not into skiing, there’s plenty of other winter activities to do as well. I suggest taking a stroll through town to admire the charming streets and buildings with the mighty Matterhorn in the distance.
Where to stay
- Cervo Mountain Boutique Resort
- Riffelhaus 1853
- 3100 Kulm Hotel Gornergrat
- Hotel Beau Rivage
- Alpenblick Superior
What to do
- Ski in one of the most beautiful resorts in the world
- Take the train up to Gornergrat and soak up the incredible views from 3100m
- Challenge your friends to a toboggan ride
- Go hiking or snowshoeing to explore more of the mountain
- Visit the famous black nose sheep in their barn – check out different tour options here
- Enjoy fondue, a classic Swiss dish that’s perfect to enjoy when it’s cold out
Winter Packing Ideas
Packing for winter travel can be tricky, especially if you’re not used to cold weather. Here are some of my go to winter wear options when it comes to packing for winter travel. These are guaranteed to keep you cosy and comfortable in even the coldest places.
Parkas
This is the number one thing I can’t live without during the winter time. They can be a bit pricy but are so worth it. I love mine from Woolrich and also this one from Canada Goose.
Fleece Jacket
If you have room, a lightweight fleece jacket is great to wear under parkas or on days when the weather is less chilly. I like this one and this one from Patagonia.
Layers
Layering is ideal for winter because you can easily take one off if you suddenly get too warm. I recommend this breathable Merino Wool top from Icebreaker.
Leggings
I always wear leggings under my snow pants to stay cozy and keep the warmth in. You can also wear these alone or even under jeans. I recommend these leggings from Icebreaker.
Sweaters
This also falls under the category of layering, but I always pack at least 2-3 sweaters. Sometimes I’ll even wear a turtle neck under another sweater if I know it’s going to be really cold out. I love the look of this Fjallraven sweater in particular, which is made from soft wool to keep you extra warm. This turtleneck from Everlane is also great for layering.
Waterproof, windproof Pants
If you’re planning on trekking in the snow or spending a lot of time in wet conditions then I recommend packing a pair of waterproof, wind resistant pants. I like these light weight ones from Marmot.
Warm Socks
This is a pretty obvious one, but one of the first places I get cold is my toes. If you’ve ever experienced frozen toes, you know just how painful it is. Skip the pain and check out these awesome wool socks that are perfect to wear under a pair of boots to trap the heat in.
Boots
There’s nothing worse than having wet feet which is why it’s important to have waterproof boots. I recommend these and these.
Beanie
It’s important to keep your ears properly covered when you’re out in the cold, which is why I love wearing beanies so much. Not only will they keep you warm, they’re also a fashionable accessory for the winter. I love this pompom beanie from Free People.
Scarf
A necessity for keeping your neck and face warm especially if it’s windy. I love these from & Other Stories which come in a variety of beautiful colors.
Gloves
I recommend bringing two pairs since I always seem to lose one while I’m outside. I usually bring one thick pair and one thin pair of mittens depending on the activities I’m going to be doing and how cold it is. These water resistant gloves from UGG are so cozy and lined with wool!
Shop my Winter Wardrobe
Do you have any other favorite winter destinations that I haven’t mentioned above or any helpful cold weather tips? Feel free to share them in the comments below.
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