Winter often takes a backseat to summer when it comes to vacation plans, but more and more travelers are discovering its quiet magic. Recent reports show a rise in winter getaways, as more people trade crowded beaches for snow, stars, and festive cities.
Winter holidays offer unique experiences you can’t get in summer: the Northern Lights, snowy ski villages, steaming hot springs, and wildlife encounters under crisp skies.
In this Remitly guide, you will find a mix of destinations for every budget, plus practical advice to get the most out of your holiday (and enjoy the winter weather). Read on to discover our 15 top places to go, plus travel tips like how to stay warm, best times to book, and strategies for making the most of your winter vacations.
Why travel in winter?
Winter destinations have their own magic. Snow-covered landscapes turn everyday scenes into festive storybook settings. Seasonal activities and winter holiday treats abound: skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, dog sledding, hot springs, and thermal baths.
There are practical upsides too. Outside of peak holiday weeks, you can find lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds than in summer. That often means quieter attractions, easier dining reservations, and a more authentic local vibe.
If you’re worried about cold temperatures and inclement weather, think of it this way: comfort is a gear problem, not a destination problem. With solid layers, waterproof outerwear, and warm footwear, you can stay outside longer and enjoy the winter conditions. And when you do head indoors, hot drinks, soups, saunas, and fireside lounges all add to the experience.
Snowy mountain retreats
If you love the rush of the crisp mountain air and the promise of snowy adventures, these winter getaways offer thrilling alpine experiences.
Swiss Alps, Switzerland
Discover iconic alpine scenery, skiing, snowboarding, winter hiking, fondue dinners, and scenic rail rides. Highlights include car-free villages like Zermatt and breathtaking trains such as the Glacier Express.
The best time to enjoy this winter wonderland is from late December to March, when you’ll get the best snow. January, in particular, offers good conditions plus slightly lower prices than the festive period.
Keep in mind that Switzerland can be very expensive on the whole. You can save money with regional guest passes, half-board hotel deals, and by lunching at mountain bakeries rather than sit-down restaurants.
Banff, Canadian Rockies, Canada
Set amid dramatic peaks and frozen lakes, Banff and Lake Louise combine the wild beauty of Canada’s national parks with resort comforts. Your holiday here might include skiing at Norquay, skating on Lake Louise under breathtaking peaks, and relaxing in hot springs.
The park is at its best between December and March. Mid-January to early February is reliable for ice skating and deep snow, and you’ll avoid the crowds of the Christmas holidays. If you’re on a budget, look for multi-day lift tickets and park-friendly hotel packages, and consider mid-week stays for better rates.
Hokkaido, Japan
Japan’s northernmost island is a paradise for snow lovers. Legendary powder, soothing onsen hot springs, and hearty winter cuisine make it a unique and memorable destination.
Resorts like Niseko and Rusutsu are well set up for visitors looking for the perfect slopes. If you’re not a skier, you can enjoy the natural scenery, sample delicious ramen in Sapporo, and visit the February Snow Festival.
You’ll find the best snowfall in late December to February. It’s a good idea to book early for accommodation during prime weeks, and check out shuttle passes to save money on transportation.
Northern Lights adventures
Across the Arctic, travelers chase this dazzling natural spectacle through snowy, remote landscapes under star-filled skies.
Iceland
With easy flight connections and dramatic winter scenery, Iceland offers an accessible destination for Northern Lights viewing. Black-sand beaches dusted with snow, waterfalls rimmed with ice, and geothermal lagoons create a surreal backdrop. Don’t miss visiting the unique natural landmarks, including the Golden Circle and the South Coast.
The best time to see the aurora borealis is from late September to March, when clear, cold nights offer ideal viewing conditions. When budgeting for your trip, keep in mind that food and fuel can be pricey. You can save money by staying in guesthouses, using self-drive itineraries, and eating supermarket lunches.
Tromsø and Northern Norway
Set among picture-perfect fjords and mountains, Tromsø is a lively city that blends urban charm with easy access to nature. Known for its high auroral activity, it’s a perfect base for Northern Lights cruises, dog sledding or reindeer experiences. Check out the cable car for city and fjord views at twilight, and enjoy the quirky cafés and museums in town.
The Northern Lights season lasts from November to March, when the darkest months deliver the best chances of viewing, though weather can be variable. If you’re traveling on a budget, consider apartment hotels with kitchens where you can cook your own meals, and look for combo tour discounts.
Interior Alaska, USA
Alaska’s vast wilderness offers enormous skies and strong aurora displays, with Fairbanks as an easy hub. You can spend your evenings at lodges dedicated to aurora viewing, and your days enjoying ice art, snowmobiling and hot springs.
The Northern Lights are visible here for most of the year, from August to April, with peak viewing from November to March. Travel tip: It’s worth booking more than one night at an aurora viewing lodge, just in case the weather is cloudy.
Festive city breaks
From glittering markets to cozy cafés and cultural delights, winter city breaks capture the magic of the season.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna in winter offers elegant streets, classical music, coffeehouse culture, and brightly lit Christmas markets. Shop for ornaments in the markets, enjoy local pastries, visit the iconic Schönbrunn Palace, and take in a concert or opera.
Late November through December is the best time to visit the Christmas markets, though you’ll have to brave the crowds—January is quieter and often cheaper. If you want to save money, stay in hostels and look into public transport passes.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s fairy-tale charm is even better in winter, when its gothic spires and stone bridges shimmer in the soft light. The Old Town Square market brings festive color to the heart of the city, while an early stroll across Charles Bridge rewards you with peaceful views. Warm your belly with a hearty Czech meal after a day of sightseeing.
If you want to enjoy the city’s Christmas markets, visit in early to mid-December. If you prefer a less crowded time of year, it’s best to travel in January for the calm. Prague offers good value for money overall compared to many Western European cities.
London, United Kingdom
London sparkles in winter with its glowing seasonal lights, world-class museums, and beautiful ice skating rinks. Don’t miss the Southbank Winter Market, catch a West End show, and take advantage of free museum galleries.
Late November to early January offer the most festive scenes, with January sales bringing shopping deals and thinner crowds.
New York City, USA
You don’t have to go to another country to enjoy a winter holiday—New York City offers a festive buzz with decorated windows, enormous Christmas trees, and skating rinks. Don’t miss the city’s lively jazz clubs, cozy restaurants, and quirky neighborhoods.
To catch the holiday atmosphere, visit from late November through early January. New Year’s Eve is great fun in the Big Apple. If you prefer fewer crowds and better deals on hotels and shows, February is a better time for your winter vacation.
Essential winter holiday tips
Packing smart for cold weather
- Layer up: Start with a moisture-wicking base, add a warm fleece or wool mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof, windproof shell.
- Keep extremities warm: Choose insulated boots with good traction, plus a hat, neck gaiter, and lined gloves. Slip hand warmers into your pockets for long nights outdoors.
- Protect electronics: Cold weather drains batteries quickly. Keep devices inside your jacket, carry a power bank, and store documents in waterproof pouches.
- Save luggage space: Rent heavy gear like helmets or snowshoes at your destination rather than packing them.
Booking strategies and budget management
- If you’re traveling during the peak holiday season, book well in advance to save money. Off-peak periods offer better value and availability.
- Set price alerts for flights and look at mid-week departures.
- For mountains, bundle lift tickets and lodging. For cities, check museum passes, transit cards, and weekday hotel deals.
- Travel insurance matters more in winter as bad weather can delay flights or close roads.
- Make sure to compare exchange rates and transfer costs so your money goes further.
Staying healthy in cold weather
Shorter days invite a different rhythm. Plan two to three key activities each day and leave space for cafés, galleries, or spas between them. Don’t overdo it on outdoor time, as the cold weather can take a toll on your body. Stopping for a mug of hot chocolate and eating warm, nourishing meals will help keep your energy up.
If you’re traveling to a higher altitude destination, it’s important to take precautions against altitude sickness. These include ascending gradually, avoiding heavy exertion the first day, and watching for headaches or fatigue.
Start planning your perfect winter holiday today
Choosing a winter holiday offers rewards that summer travel rarely can: smaller crowds, better value outside peak weeks, and experiences that only happen when the air turns cold. Whether you seek snowy adventures, cozy festivities, or starlit skies, your perfect winter holiday could be just around the corner.
FAQs
What should I pack for winter holidays in cold climates?
Bring layers for inside and outside activities, insulated boots, a hat, gloves, and a neck gaiter.
When is the best time to book winter holidays for the best prices?
For value, look to mid-January and late February, when lodging and flights often drop. Set alerts, check mid-week travel, and compare bundled packages for ski areas or city passes.
Are winter holidays suitable for families with children?
Yes, there are a lot of family-friendly options. Choose destinations with short transfers, indoor activities, and family-friendly lodging.
How can I stay healthy during winter holidays?
Stay warm and dry, take vitamin D, and hydrate. If daylight affects your mood or energy, front-load activities during brighter hours and keep evenings relaxed.
What are the best winter holiday destinations for first-time winter travelers?
Start with places that have strong infrastructure and easy logistics: Vienna, Prague, London, New York City, or Banff, for example.