Winter transforms the world into a snowy wonderland, from snug little towns with chalets and log cabins to fascinating igloos under the stars. It's a season that wraps everything in a unique beauty, offering crisp, refreshing air and skies that turn pink and orange at sunset.
If you love bundling up and stepping out into the frosty air, or if you're dreaming of a snowy paradise, you're in for a treat. We've gathered a list of destinations that turn winter into an adventure, full of memories waiting to be made. Ready? Let’s dive into the world of winter wonders.
THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
Amidst the rolling mists and rugged terrains, the Scottish Highlands beckon with their mystical Loch Ness and the sprawling expanse of Cairngorms National Park, the UK's largest.
Venture through the aged castles or stay at the historic Fife Arms in Braemar, known for hosting the spirited Highland Games, encapsulating the essence of Scottish tradition and natural beauty.
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SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA
Seoul wraps winter in its vibrant embrace, offering cozy refuge with steaming bowls of budae jjigae amidst a backdrop of glistening palaces and modern splendor.
The city's heart beats with cultural richness, inviting you to step into a Joseon-era fantasy, fueled by the global phenomenon of South Korean TV and cinema.
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DUBLIN, IRELAND
Dublin, a mosaic of history and modernity, offers a unique winter charm with its Gothic cathedrals and avant-garde art scenes. A journey to the blustery Cliffs of Moher complements the warm welcomes of city pubs, where the storied Guinness Storehouse awaits to unfold the legacy of Ireland's beloved brew.
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
Copenhagen, where fairy tales blend with cutting-edge design, invites you to explore its cozy nooks against the backdrop of a wintry port city.
Home to world-renowned culinary spots and the enchanting mermaid, it's a place where Nordic tradition toasts the winter chill, offering a refuge of warmth and style.
KENNEBUNKPORT, MAINE
Kennebunkport, Maine, remains a beloved escape year-round, its winter charm accentuated by snow-dusted lanes and a serene coastline.
Beyond the lobster season, its quaint shops and local fare invite exploration, making it a picturesque haven for those seeking a quintessential New England winter.
ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND
St. Moritz, a blend of luxury and tradition, offers more than just world-class skiing. From polo on frozen lakes to exclusive après-ski experiences, this alpine resort town combines old-world charm with contemporary delights, making it a dream destination for those seeking both adventure and pampering in a stunning mountain setting.
BOLU, TURKEY
Nestled between Istanbul and Ankara, Bolu is a winter paradise offering a blend of cultural heritage and outdoor activities.
With Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort as your base, explore historic mosques, museums, and the breathtaking landscapes of Kartalkaya, making it an ideal retreat for sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
SOUTH TYROL, ITALY
South Tyrol, with its dramatic Dolomite peaks and Alpine charm, is a haven for those seeking solitude and rejuvenation.
The region's crisp air and stunning vistas are best experienced from the luxurious Forestis, a sanctuary that promises not just relaxation but a deep connection with nature at nearly 6,000 feet above sea level.
ANDERMATT, SWITZERLAND
Andermatt, once a quiet village, has transformed into a luxurious alpine destination without losing its charm.
Beyond its expansive ski routes, the village boasts Michelin-starred dining, a world-class golf course, and five-star accommodations, making it a perfect blend of rustic beauty and modern luxury.
BURLINGTON, VERMONT
Burlington is a picturesque winter escape where holiday lights twinkle and snow-capped mountains call.
Located by Lake Champlain, this vibrant town offers outdoor ice skating, charming markets, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it an idyllic setting for those looking to indulge in the season's magic.
HALLSTATT, AUSTRIA
Hallstatt, a storybook village nestled between mountains and water, is enchanting in winter.
Renowned for its scenic beauty and historic charm, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a serene getaway, offering postcard views and a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Austrian Alps.
GREENLAND
Experience the extreme in Greenland, where remote Arctic villages and breathtaking landscapes offer an adventure like no other.
From dogsledding across frozen expanses to witnessing the majestic northern lights, Greenland is a dream for the bold and the adventurous, seeking the raw beauty of the natural world.
ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI
St. Louis bursts with cultural diversity and culinary delights, making it a treasure trove for foodies and explorers alike.
From iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch to the spirited games of the St. Louis Blues, this city offers a vibrant mix of experiences set against a backdrop of historic Midwestern charm.
LYON, FRANCE
Lyon lights up in winter with the Festival of Lights, a dazzling tribute to tradition and creativity.
This vibrant city, nestled in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, beckons with its historical architecture, culinary prowess, and the unified glow of thousands of candles illuminating the city, offering a mesmerizing experience for all who visit.
BIG BEAR LAKE, CALIFORNIA
Big Bear Lake transforms into a winter sanctuary, offering a serene escape with its snowy landscapes and cozy village vibes.
The town's ski resorts and charming boutiques provide endless entertainment, making it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy winter sports and relax in a picturesque setting.
CONDON, MONTANA
Condon is a hidden gem, offering a tranquil retreat at Holland Peak Ranch. Surrounded by pristine wilderness and luxury accommodations, it's a place where you can disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and peace of Montana's scenic landscapes.
LAKE BLED, SLOVENIA
Lake Bled, with its emerald waters and snow-capped Alpine backdrop, is a winter fairy tale come to life.
The island church and medieval castle add to its charm, making it a magical destination for those seeking romance, adventure, and stunning natural beauty in the heart of Slovenia.
ASPEN, COLORADO
Aspen is synonymous with winter luxury, offering an array of activities from skiing to sleigh rides against a backdrop of majestic mountains.
Its vibrant town, world-class dining, and exclusive events make it a premier destination for those seeking an upscale winter experience.
BIG SKY, MONTANA
Known for its vast, skiable terrain, Big Sky offers more than just skiing; it's a community dedicated to outdoor adventures and natural beauty.
Serving as the doorstep to Yellowstone, it offers an unparalleled mix of wild exploration and serene mountain lifestyle, making every visit a journey into the heart of wilderness and comfort.
CHAMONIX, FRENCH ALPS
Chamonix is a winter sports paradise set against the dramatic Mont Blanc.
Its blend of vibrant town life, historic charm, and access to some of the best ski slopes in the world make it a must-visit for anyone seeking the thrill of the Alps.
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. In Harbin, winter is not just a season; it's a grand spectacle.
Home to the renowned Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival, this city turns into a dazzling wonderland of ice sculptures and snow art, offering an unforgettable experience amidst its long, frosty winters.
JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING
Jackson Hole is a sanctuary for winter enthusiasts, where the grandeur of snow-covered landscapes meets luxury and adventure.
Renowned for its skiing, snowmobiling, and breathtaking vistas, it's a place where nature's beauty is on full display, making every visit a memorable adventure.
PARK CITY, UTAH
Park City, Utah’s two resorts—Deer Valley and Park City Mountain—give their visitors a combined 7,300 acres of snowy terrain to explore by ski or snowboard.
Park City, home to the Sundance Film Festival, is a hub for ski and snowboard aficionados, offering vast terrains across its two major resorts.
Beyond the slopes, it's a community rich in arts, fine dining, and unique experiences like bobsled rides and whiskey tasting at the world's only ski-in distillery.
PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
Prague's historic charm magnifies in winter, with its fairy-tale architecture dusted in snow. From enchanting Christmas markets to ice skating in historic squares, the city offers a captivating blend of tradition and festive joy, making it a picturesque setting for a winter getaway.
BERGEN, NORWAY
Bergen, framed by seven mountains, offers a postcard-worthy winter with its scenic fjords and vibrant harbor.
Whether you're exploring the city from the Fløibanen funicular or venturing into the mountains for skiing, Bergen's mix of natural beauty and cultural richness makes it an exceptional Norwegian destination.
LAKE TAHOE, CALIFORNIA
Lake Tahoe's unique allure lies in its stunning alpine lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks offering skiing, snowboarding, and scenic beauty.
Just a drive from San Francisco, it's a winter oasis that combines adventure with relaxation, providing a serene escape with breathtaking views.
BANFF, CANADA
Banff is a jewel in the Canadian Rockies, offering pristine wilderness, vibrant wildlife, and the turquoise splendor of Lake Louise.
Renowned for its outdoor activities and natural hot springs, it's a haven for those seeking to explore the great outdoors while basking in the tranquility of winter.
QUEBEC CITY, CANADA
Quebec City, with its French charm and historic architecture, becomes a winter fairy tale during the snowy months.
From the ambiance of Old Quebec to the grandeur of the Hôtel de Glace, it's a place where the spirit of winter is celebrated with warmth and grandiosity.
PATAGONIA, ARGENTINA
Venture into the heart of Patagonia for a winter unlike any other, where the snow-dusted Andes and the icy expanse of Los Glaciares National Park offer a silent, majestic beauty.
It's a destination for the daring, seeking to explore the vast wilderness and untouched landscapes.
REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND
Reykjavík, with its unique blend of cultural heritage and natural wonders, offers an enchanting winter experience.
From glacier hikes to the warmth of geothermal springs, it's a gateway to Iceland's otherworldly landscapes, perfect for those chasing the northern lights or exploring the saga of the Vikings.
MUNICH, GERMANY
Munich's charm shines in winter, with its festive Christmas markets and cozy beer halls. Immerse yourself in Bavarian culture and hospitality, enjoying traditional delicacies and exploring the city's historic sites, all while experiencing the joy and community spirit of the holiday season.
ALTA BADIA, ITALIAN ALPS
Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, Alta Badia offers a blend of exhilarating ski slopes and culinary excellence. It's a destination where the day's adventures on the snow lead to evenings of indulgence in South Tyrolean specialties, surrounded by the serene beauty of the mountains.
DULUTH, MINNESOTA
Duluth is a winter playground for the adventurous, offering everything from nordic skiing to ice climbing. Embrace the chilly outdoors before retreating to the warmth of local breweries and distilleries, making it a perfect mix of thrill and relaxation in the heart of winter.
NAGANO, JAPAN
Nagano, famous for its Zenko-ji Temple and as a host city for the Winter Olympics, offers a serene winter escape with its hot springs, ski resorts, and the unique sight of snow monkeys basking in warmth.
It's a blend of cultural richness and natural beauty, inviting exploration and relaxation.
FAIRBANKS, ALASKA
Experience the extreme in Fairbanks, a city where the northern lights illuminate winter's beauty. From dog sledding through silent forests to marveling at ice sculptures, it's a place of wonder and adventure, showcasing the stark, mesmerizing beauty of the Arctic.
You can also catch sight of the stunning Northern Lights in the town that saw its first snowfall in September this year.
KIRUNA, SWEDEN
Just outside Kiruna lies the Ice Hotel, a marvel of design and sustainability, rebuilt each winter from ice and snow. It's a unique experience, offering a stay in artfully crafted rooms that reflect the stark beauty of the Arctic, all under the magical glow of the aurora borealis.
SALZBURG, AUSTRIA
Salzburg, the city of Mozart and "The Sound of Music," enchants with its baroque architecture and musical heritage.
Winter adds a layer of magic, inviting visitors to explore its historic streets, festive markets, and the tranquil beauty of the surrounding Alps.
BAVARIA, GERMANY
Bavaria is a winter wonderland, offering a picturesque landscape filled with castles, mountains, and traditional villages.
Whether you're skiing in the Alps, soaking in thermal baths, or enjoying hearty Bavarian cuisine, it's a destination that embodies the spirit of winter joy and relaxation.
NEW PALTZ, NEW YORK
Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz offers a Victorian castle retreat amidst a winter landscape.
Activities range from snowshoeing to ice skating, complemented by the warmth of a grand stone fireplace and the luxury of spa treatments, making it a perfect escape for relaxation and adventure.