Winter is the best time to explore destinations showcasing the beauty of the season through snow-covered landscapes, cultural traditions, and unique activities.
Be it chasing the aurora or strolling down festive streets, here is a list of 10 beautiful global attractions for winter travel, along with their reasons for being so special.
1. Lapland, Finland
Located in the Arctic Circle, Lapland indeed is the ultimate winter wonderland.
Sights: Be amazed at the brilliant Northern Lights, ride through snowing forests on a reindeer or husky sled, and visit the fairytale Village in Rovaniemi. It will feel like stepping into a holidays tale.
Cost: Reindeer safaris start at $120 USD; Northern Lights tours range from $150-$200 USD.
Why Special: Besides the ethereal dance of the auroras, Lapland is also home to a very special Sami culture and traditions. The options to stay in igloos or snow hotels make for an unforgettable experience.
2. Banff National Park, Canada
Nestled deep within the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers an exhilarating romantic getaway tailored for the adventure-loving couple and nature enthusiast.
Highlands: Ski or snowboard down slopes, soak in the natural hot springs, and explore snow-covered trails perfect for hiking or snowshoeing.
Price: Day skiing passes are US$150; hot spring entry is US$10.
Why It's Special: Banff is one of the most scenic winter destinations in the world, with its brilliant turquoise lakes juxtaposed against towering peaks. Adding to that is the cozy alpine charm of the town.
3. Hallstatt, Austria
The picture-perfect village of Hallstatt exudes old-world charm, most especially in winter. Here are some highlights: Take a leisurely walk around serene Hallstätter See Lake, visit the world-famous Hallstatt Salt Mines, and enjoy ice-skating amidst the Austrian Alps. Salt Mine tours: 40 USD; from 15 USD for ice-skating.
atha : Hallstatt is considered one of the prettiest villages in Europe. During winter, when the snow clings to its rooftops and the surroundings become silent and still, it resembles a fairytale from the books.
4. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto changes into an ethereal, tranquil land during winter and presents a combination of culture and serenity.
Highlights: Marvel at snow-dusted shrines like Fushimi Inari and the Golden Pavilion, walk through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and warm up with bowls of authentic Japanese ramen.
Cost: Temple entrance fees range from $5-$10 USD.
Why It's Special: Winter in Kyoto means fewer tourists, allowing you to soak in the beauty of Japan's cultural heritage and breathtaking seasonal landscapes in peace.
5. Tromsø, Norway
Above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is an absolute dream for winter travelers. Highlights Dog sledding excursions, whale watching, or take in the incredible Aurora Borealis from one of the top viewpoints in the world. Cost Dog sledding starts at $200 USD; whale tours cost $150 USD.
Why It's Special: Tromsø offers a rare combination of Arctic wilderness and lively city life, complete with museums, historic architecture, and vibrant nightlife even during the polar night.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague becomes an even magical cityscape when winter turns the corner, with its Gothic buildings in a blanket of snow.
Highlights: Mulled at one of several markets, Prague Castle, romantic walk across Charles Bridge.
Price: market snacks, $3-$10 USD; entry into a castle, $15 USD.
Why It's Special: The festive atmosphere in Prague has no equal, since its illuminated streets, its giant alp tree at Old Town Square, and the medieval charm are making travelers flock to this part of the world.
Top 10 Winter Destinations To Visit
Ryan Shirley
7. Queenstown, New Zealand
While most of the Northern Hemisphere is well into winter, Queenstown boasts mild weather and adrenaline-pumping activities.
Lake cruises: Bungee jumping beverage tastings from nearby vineyards.
USD 50 for cruises and up to USD 100 for tours.
Why It's Unique: Surrounded by dramatic mountains, Queenstown is ideal for those who want adventures and beautiful landscapes without the chill of winter.
8. Reykjavík, Iceland
The capital of Iceland serves as an excellent conduit for exploring the cold, wintry outdoors during winter.
Highlights: Soak in the geothermal Blue Lagoon and explore geysers and waterfalls via Golden Circle tours, or venture into mesmerizing ice caves.
Cost: Blue Lagoon tickets start at about $50 USD; ice cave tours are closer to $200 USD.
Why It's Special: Reykjavík reinforces modern Nordic culture in conjunction with access to otherworldly natural wonders. It stands out among the unique winter destinations in the world.
9. Bavarian Alps, Germany
The Bavarian Alps represent the archetypal European winter escape.
Highlights: Tour the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, try traditional German markets, or have a go at snowshoeing and sledding.
Cost: Castle tours $15 USD; Snowshoe rentals from $20 USD
Why It's Special: From picture-postcard alpine villages to warming Bavarian cuisine and historic cultural hotspots, this is a region for unwinding and activity combined.
10. New York City, USA
There's no city in the world quite like New York City when it takes on winter.
Highlights: Ice skate at Rockefeller Center, visit the New Year's Eve ball drop in Times Square, and shop along Fifth Avenue's iconic holiday displays.
Price: Skating at Rockefeller Center begins at $40 USD, and holiday window walking tours are free.
Why it is special: NYC's vibrant energy, coupled with holiday festivities and dazzling decorations, makes it one of the 'must-see' destinations for winter travelers.
A Lykkers' Take
Winter travels to Lykkers mean embracing new experiences-from soaking into Reykjavik's Blue Lagoon, marveling at Kyoto's tranquil temples, to sledding in Lapland. Have you been to any of these magical destinations? If not, which ones top your list?
