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Winter, for many, invokes images of snowy landscapes, warm and toasty fireplaces, and cosy nights. However, if you are an adventurer and traveller, winter months open up unique vacation opportunities to witness snowfall and indulge in snow adventures. With so many different places to visit in winter in the world, there are several opportunities and unique experiences on your next vacation. Whether you want to witness the beautiful Northern Lights or explore nature trails on a hike, there’s something for every tourist.
10 Places To Visit In Winter In The World
From witnessing glaciers to snowfall and the Northern lights, there’s a treasure of places to visit in winter in the world waiting to be explored.
1. Switzerland
Switzerland, the quintessential winter wonderland, stands out with its majestic snow-capped mountains and charming ski resorts. You can start your trip with iconic destinations like St. Moritz and Zermatt, renowned for their luxurious accommodations and world-class skiing infrastructure. If your winter trip falls around Christmas time, head to one of the many charming Christmas markets, adorned with twinkling lights and offering local treats in Zurich and Basel. You can also hike snow trekking to witness majestic peaks like Matterhorn or book a scenic train journey on Glacier Express.
Temperature: -5°C to 2°C
Top Tourist Attractions: St. Moritz, Zermatt, Jungfraujoch (highest railway station in Europe), Matterhorn (iconic peak), Zurich, and Basel
Top Experiences: Skiing/snowboarding, Glacier Express train journey, Exploring Christmas markets, and Trying local winter delicacies
Ideal Duration: 7 – 10 days
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In The World In January To Escape The Winter Blues
2. Finland
Another one of the best places to visit in winter in the world is Finland. Often known as the land of Santa Claus and the Northern Lights, winter transforms the country into a wonderland. Visit Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, and meet the jolly man himself. You can also stop to witness the Northern Lights, a natural spectacle that will leave you spellbound. Another unique experience is staying in a glass igloo, offering views of the night sky from the accommodation.
Temperature: 10°C to -2°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Rovaniemi (Santa Claus Village), Arctic Circle, Lake Inari, Levi Ski Resort, and Glass igloos
Top Experiences: Northern Lights viewing tour, Visiting Santa Claus Village, Ice fishing, and Trying a traditional Finnish sauna
Ideal Duration: 5 – 7 days
3. Canada
Canada offers a wide range of winter experiences, catering to the interests of varying tourists. You can start your trip by exploring the staple Canadian Rockies, perfect for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months. Winter in Canada also celebrates multiple festivals like the Quebec Winter Carnival, known for its ice sculptures and snow activities. You can also try ice skating across the frozen lakes or canals or witness Niagara Falls frozen in mist. Depending on your travel duration, explore nearby cities like Ontario, Toronto and Vancouver for a better experience.
Temperature: 10°C to 0°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Canadian Rockies (Banff National Park, Jasper National Park), Niagara Falls, and Quebec City
Top Experiences: Skiing/snowboarding, Attending a winter festival (Quebec Winter Carnival, IceFest in Winnipeg), Ice skating on frozen lakes or canals, and Visiting Niagara Falls
Ideal Duration: 10 – 14 days
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In The World In August For Your Autumn Escape
4. Norway
Photo: Stein Egil Liland / Pexels
Another one of the best places to visit in winter is Norway. More commonly known as the land of fjords and Vikings, Norway is covered in snow during the peak winters. Majestic fjords like Geirangerfjord are cloaked in snow. However, the highlight of your visit during the winter months comes from witnessing the mesmerising Northern Lights across the Arctic Sky. You can take a scenic train ride on the Flam Railway or set out on wilderness exploration to witness the rich biodiversity of the country.
Temperature: 0°C to 2°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Geirangerfjord, Lofoten Islands, Flam Railway, andTromsø
Top Experiences: Northern Lights viewing tour, Dog sledging, Flam Railway journey, Exploring charming coastal towns, and Trying Norwegian winter specialities
Ideal Duration: 7 – 10 days
5. Austria
Photo: Brian de Karma / Pexels
Austria, a country synonymous with Christmas carols and cosy ski chalets, is one of the good places to visit in winter. The true charm of Austria during the winters lies in exploring the charming villages of Zell am See and Lech where the views of the snow-capped mountains will leave you speechless. You can ski along the world-class slopes in renowned resorts like Kitzbühel and Ischgl. Also, don’t forget to explore the Christmas markets with twinkling lights and offering local delicacies during December.
Temperature: 0°C to 2°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Kitzbühel, Zell am See, Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Vienna
Top Experiences: Skiing/snowboarding, Exploring Christmas markets, and Attending a classical music concert in a historical setting
Ideal Duration: 7 – 10 days
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In The World In November For Unforgettable Adventures
6. Sweden
After Norway, another destination to visit in winter in the world, that’s known for its Viking history is Sweden. You can start your vacation exploring the capital city of Stockholm where the network of islands is the main attraction. Witness the beauty of ice sculpting at the annual Icehotel in Jukkasjarvi, a hotel entirely built from ice and snow. While there, embrace the local life by embracing the concept of “friluftsliv” (outdoor life) by going for a snowshoe hike. Also, explore the local cafes and traditional wooden cabins, showcasing the local craftsmanship.
Temperature: -5°C to 2°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Stockholm Archipelago, Icehotel, Gamla Stan, and Kiruna
Top Experiences: Icehotel visit, Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, Exploring Stockholm’s museums and historical sites, and Trying Swedish winter delicacies.
Ideal Duration: 5 – 7 days
7. Fiji
To escape the chilly winters, plan a visit to Fiji where you can embrace sunshine and tropical weather. You can immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of the crystal-clear turquoise waters where you can go for scuba diving and snorkelling experiences too. The beauty of the white sand beaches surrounded by swaying palm trees adds to the beauty and experience. You can also explore the local culture with kava ceremonies, and village visits. To appease the adventurer in you, hike through Bouma National Park.
Temperature: 23°C to 28°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Mamanuca Islands, Yasawa Islands, Great Astrolabe Reef, Fiji Museum, and Bouma National Park
Top Experiences: Scuba diving/snorkelling in coral reefs, Island hopping and exploring different beaches, Fijian cultural immersion, and Hiking in Bouma National Park
Ideal Duration: 7 – 10 days
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In The World In December
8. Japan
Photo: Evgeny Tchebotarev / Pexels
You can plan a trip to Japan if you want a blend of cultural immersion, entertainment and snowy landscapes. It is one of the best places to travel in winter to witness the beauty of the snow-covered temples and gardens. Don’t miss out on the ethereal beauty of “Yuki lanterns” (snow lanterns) illuminating winter festivals across the country. Also, the Japanese Alps, although underrated, are a great place to explore different winter activities and adventures like skiing, and snowboarding experiences.
Temperature: 2°C to 5°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Japanese Alps, Shirakawa-go, Jigokudani Monkey Park, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Top Experiences: Skiing/snowboarding, Visiting a winter festival (like the Sapporo Snow Festival), Onsen bathing
Ideal Duration: 10 – 14 days
9. South Korea
By the time winter arrives, South Korea’s bustling cities and serene mountains become a winter wonderland dusted with snow. The beauty of the Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul increases during the winter months. There are world-class ski resorts like PyeongChang and Yongpyong Resort, offering slopes for all skill levels. You can also try snowboarding, snow tubing, or even ice skating on a few frozen lakes around the country. Some of the popular festivals to attend during winter months are the Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival and the Sancheondaryeowon Ice Festival.
Temperature: 2°C to 5°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace, PyeongChang, Jeju Island, and Busan
Top Experiences: Skiing/snowboarding, Visiting a winter festival, Soaking in a jjimjilbang, and Exploring historical sites and palaces
Ideal Duration: 7 – 10 days
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Spring In The World To Witness Nature In Its Glory
10. Italy
Last on the list of places to see in winter in the world is Italy. With majestic mountains, historical cities and delectable food, Italy is one of the best places to visit in winter. You can start by witnessing the Dolomites, which transform into a snowy paradise. The Italian cities feature twinkling lights and Christmas markets, adding to its beauty. Ensure to explore historical sites like Rome’s Colosseum or Florence’s Duomo or sample the Christmas treats like panettone and sip on warm mulled wine.
Temperature: Temperature ranges from 0°C to 10°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Dolomites, Rome, Florence, Venice, and Lake Como.
Top Experiences: Skiing/snowboarding in the Dolomites, Exploring Christmas markets in historic cities, and Relaxing in thermal baths
Ideal Duration: 10 – 14 days
Winter, with its frosty landscapes and festive cheer, offers a unique travel experience to each traveller. As you narrow the list of places to visit in winter in the world, be sure to explore the options that best align with your travel experiences. You can simplify your booking experiences with TripXL and avail the best deals and discounts without any hassle.
Cover Photo: Tanathip Rattanatum / Pexels
