As the air turns crisp and the nights get longer, some may be tempted to hibernate indoors. But there's a whole world of enchanting destinations waiting to be explored during the colder months, and these winter wonderlands promise not only breathtaking landscapes but also a myriad of activities to warm your heart.
Chicago, Illinois, USA
The Windy City transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with festive decorations and holiday markets galore. Go ice skating in the shadow of the city's iconic skyline, catch a Chicago Blackhawks hockey game and warm up in one of the city’s many cafes during the annual Hot Chocolate Festival.
Zagreb, Croatia
Croatia may be known as a summer destination, but it’s got lots to offer in the colder months too. December to February sees fewer tourists, giving you access to a magical holiday atmosphere without the crowds. Croatia's national parks, such as Plitvice Lakes and Krka, can be particularly beautiful in winter, and check out cities like Zagreb for some traditional Christmas markets.
Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt in winter is a magical and serene experience, combining natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural exploration, and a festive atmosphere. If you love fairy tale villages, ice capped mountains and dramatic landscapes, you won’t want to miss Hallstatt in the colder months.
Trakai Castle, Lithuania
Trakai Castle is situated on an island in Lake Galvė, which freezes during winter. Visitors can walk on the frozen lake, while the red-brick castle is dusted with fresh white snow. If you like your winters Baltic, it doesn’t get much colder than Lithuania.
High Atlas Mountains, North Africa
The Atlas Mountains span across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, so expect a diverse range of weather conditions in winter. Snow covers the peaks in a blanket of white, with popular destinations like Oukaimeden, the highest ski resort in Africa, offering a range of winter activities like snowboarding and skiing,
Lapland, Finland
If you love the magic of Christmas, Lapland has to be on your bucket list.
Chase the mesmerizing Northern Lights, embrace the thrill of a husky sleigh ride through snow-draped forests and visit Santa Claus in his magical village, before unwinding in your own cozy glass igloo.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled is a stunning destination year-round, but it really comes alive in the winter, with the snow-covered Alps creating tons of opportunities for snow sports enthusiasts. Winter also tends to be a quieter time at Lake Bled compared to the peak tourist season, making it ideal for those looking for a more peaceful and intimate experience.
New York City, New York, USA
The makers of Christmas movies have always known it - New York really is magical at this time of year. NYC is renowned for its extravagant holiday decorations, especially along iconic areas like Fifth Avenue and Rockefeller Center, and the iconic Times Square New Year's Eve celebration, with its famous ball drop, attracts people from around the world.
Park City, Utah, USA
The desert may not be your obvious choice for a winter getaway, but Utah’s Park City is becoming an increasingly popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. As well as excellent skiing and snowboarding, you can also try your hand at more unusual wintery activities like dog sledding and fat biking. The town also hosts the Sundance Film Festival in January, so if you’re a film buff looking for a chance to rub shoulders with the stars, make sure your name’s on the guest list!
Hokkaido, Japan
Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors. The island is famous for its powder snow, making it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts with excellent skiing and snowboarding, as well as relaxing hot springs and beautiful winter landscapes.
Wherever you’re going this winter, don’t forget to wrap up warm, check the local weather forecasts and make sure you’re connected. Check out our eSIM bundles before traveling.
