You can cut the best winter travel places into three categories: sunny spots, snowy adventure wonderlands, and charming Christmas cities. Some might want to escape the bone-chilling cold slicing skin, while others might want to see what some of Europe’s renowned Christmas markets have on display. Or, perhaps the promise of snow and sweat might tempt those seeking adventures amid a sleek white canvas.
Travel options feel more abundant when winter plagues the northern hemisphere. The snowy season may even tempt you to carve footprints into a spot sitting low on your bucket list. For example, someone hoping for a sun-centred holiday with more to offer than digging their toes in sandy beaches may enjoy Rajasthan, India, where a fusion of culture, adventure, and warm days await. Travelling in winter grants the chance to break up the dreary, grey winter months with a meander to somewhere new and the beauty of it all? No matter what, a corner of the world will accommodate your dream winter vacation, whether you want snow escapades, sunbathing, or Hallmark-like holiday charm. Read on to find out the best places to travel this winter below!
The 10 Best Places to Travel this Winter Ranked
Rajasthan, India
#1 in Best Places to Travel this Winter
Discover the fortress and palaces towering across Rajasthan in pleasant, warm weather. You can visit this historic, majestic state year-round, but the mild temperatures will put your sightseeing at ease. One of winter’s best places to visit is Jaipur, a pink-tinged city that will undoubtedly fill your camera roll.
Favourite Tour in Rajasthan, India: Royal Rajasthan Sightseeing Tour
London, England
#2 in Best Places to Travel this Winter
Marvel at London’s holiday and winter charm when you visit in November or December. You can enjoy the Christmas markets, the stringed lights dazzling the city streets, and the cheerful, busy buzz of the holiday season. Visiting London in winter also allows you to excuse yourself to a cozy pub at any given moment—no matter the time of day.
Favourite Tour in England: 5-Day Cotswold Villages Walking Tour — you can check out London and then work off the hearty meals through walking adventure in the countryside.
Banff National Park, Canada
#3 in Best Places to Travel this Winter
Experience quintessential winter charm and get your sweat on via snowy escapades in Banff National Park. Nothing beats the ultimate snowy, homey vibes stretching along the Town of Banff, where pubs, restaurants, fudge shops, and various Canadian delicacies line the streets. Once you’ve explored the Town of Banff, the backcountry awaits. Discover the sweeping white scenery covering ski slopes in Sunshine Village, Mt. Norquay, and Lake Louise Ski Area.
Favourite Tour in Banff National Park, Canada: Backcountry Ski or Splitboard the Canadian Rockies — this tour is for more advanced skiers!
Bali, Indonesia
#4 in Best Places to Travel this Winter
Tired of shivering? Shred layers in Bali, where the tropical air and exciting landscape generate adventure (and relaxation). Do note that it is the rainy season during winter, but it only lasts briefly each day. Plus, the rain highlights the already-lush scenery to a deeper, vibrant green. Enjoy the sea, the lively culture, the food, and the various intrepid adventures across the island.
Favourite Tour in Bali, Indonesia: Bali and Komodo Islands Tour
Kluane National Park, Yukon
#5 in Best Places to Travel this Winter
We’re sorry, but we had to add another Canadian destination to our list of favourite places to travel in winter! If you aren’t into skiing, we recommend heading deep into the Canadian wilderness for the ultimate remote, snowy escapade. Go dog sledding, experience the Northern Lights, and strap on snowshoes for incredible on-foot explorations. It might be cold, but think of how good the hot drinks will feel in your cozy lodge at the end of the day!
Favourite Tour in Kluane National Park, Yukon: Winter in Yukon’s Kluane National Park
Aosta Valley, Italy
#6 in Best Places to Travel this Winter
The coolest thing about skiing in Italy’s Aosta Valley is that you can ski from Italy to Switzerland, thanks to the Cervinia-Zermatt connection. You can enjoy the blanket of snow by day and Italian cuisine and charm by night. Go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, or skiing in one of the many ski resorts or trails carved through Aosta Valley.
Favourite Tour in Aosta Valley, Italy: Monterosa Ski
Punta Gallinas, Colombia
#7 in Best Places to Travel this Winter
Sun, sand, and sea, what more could you ask for in winter? Punta Gullinas sits at South America’s most northerly point, marking it as one of the places at the end of the world. A visit here will have you revelling in a desert landscape, where epic wonders like the Taroa Dunes, which dip into the Caribbean Sea, create a memorable experience. Find a range of bays and beaches here!
Favourite Tour in Punta Gallinas, Colombia: The Caribbean Coast and Lost City
Dublin, Ireland
#8 in Best Places to Travel this Winter
Spend your holiday basking in Dublin’s winter magic! The city lights up with seasonal festivities, markets, and events. Travelling to Dublin in winter often means fewer crowds compared to summer due to the brisk weather. But, thankfully, hearty pub meals can combat any lingering chills.
Favourite Tour in Dublin, Ireland: South Ireland Drive & Hike Adventure
Antigua, Guatemala
#9 in Best Places to Travel this Winter
Mid-December kicks off the peak season in vibrant Antigua, Guatemala, when mild temperatures and dry weather create pleasant meandering conditions. Beat the winter blues by heading to one of the pink or white beaches to chill or snorkel! The clear water hues will send you into a mesmerizing state of bliss. Want to go exploring? You’ll also find epic adventures flanking Antigua, such as mountain biking, hiking, Volcano adventures, kayaking, to name a few.
Favourite Tour in: 5-Day Guatemala Multisport Tour
Patagonia, Argentina
#10 in Best Places to Travel this Winter
Patagonia ranks (at least to us) as one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, making it a must-visit for any adventurer. Travelling to Patagonia in December—and the surrounding months—calls for trips into the mesmerizing snow-capped mountainous setting, replete with glaciers, moody forests, and volcanoes. You’ll never grow bored in Patagonia. Just be sure to book your trip in advance, as this is a popular time to visit!
Favourite Tour in Patagonia, Argentina: Argentinian Andes Tours
Travel opportunities for other seasons
Can’t travel this winter? Plan ahead for amazing adventures during other seasons by sifting through our suggested destinations below:
Travel by Season:
Best Places to Travel in Spring
Best Places to Travel in Summer
Best Places to Travel in Autumn
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