Winter transformed how I think about “settling down.” After exploring snowy destinations across the globe, I discovered places that made me want to embrace the cold instead of escaping it. Take Banff, where I watched locals grab morning coffee and hit the slopes before work, living that winter wonderland life I thought only existed in movies.
From charming mountain towns to the best places in winter climates where you can actually afford a fireplace, I’ve found spots that make the cold months magical instead of miserable. Whether you’re dreaming of writing your next novel from a snow-covered cabin or want a place where skiing to the grocery store is totally normal, these locations will change how you think about winter living forever.
Top Places to Live in Winter
Looking for the coolest places to live in winter? Enjoy mild weather and stunning scenery in Funchal, Madeira, embrace the snowy wonderland of Banff, Alberta, Canada, experience the charming winter vibes of Burlington, Vermont, USA, or escape to the warm beaches of Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Whether you prefer snow or sunshine, here are the top winter destinations to consider.
- Best for Tropical Winter: Funchal, Madeira
- Best for Winter Sports: Banff, Alberta, Canada
- Best for Cozy Vibes: Burlington, Vermont, USA
- Best for Beach Escapes: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- Best for Northern Lights: Tromsø, Norway
- Best for Adventure Seekers: Queenstown, New Zealand
- Best for Alpine Charm: Chamonix, France
- Best for Luxury Skiing: Aspen, Colorado, USA
- Best for Snow Festivals: Hokkaido, Japan
- Best for Santa’s Hometown: Rovaniemi, Finland
- Best for Thermal Baths: Budapest, Hungary
- Best for Christmas Markets: Nuremberg, Germany
1. Funchal, Madeira
Winter in Funchal feels like cheating the seasons. While much of Europe shivers, this Portuguese island basks in mild temperatures averaging around 65°F (18°C). Picture yourself sipping Madeira wine on a sunlit terrace, exploring botanical gardens in full bloom, or strolling along the Lido Promenade with endless Atlantic views.
Funchal isn’t just about the weather—it’s a blend of history, culture, and adventure. Wander the Old Town’s cobbled streets lined with colorful azulejo tiles, or ride the Monte cable car for panoramic city views. And if you’re up for an adrenaline rush, try tobogganing down the steep streets in a wicker sled, a tradition dating back to the 19th century.
With affordable living costs, fresh seafood, and a lively expat scene, Funchal is easily one of the best places to escape the cold while still enjoying the best of Europe.
2. Banff, Alberta, Canada
Banff in the heart of the Canadian Rockies is winter at its finest. Towering snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes, and crisp mountain air set the scene for an unforgettable season. The town itself is lively even in the coldest months, with Banff Avenue lined with boutique shops, cozy cafés, and restaurants serving up hearty Canadian comfort food.
Outdoor enthusiasts are spoiled for choice. Skiers and snowboarders can take on world-class slopes at Sunshine Village, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay, while those who prefer a slower pace can explore scenic snowshoe trails or take in the views from the Banff Gondola. The steaming Banff Upper Hot Springs provide the perfect retreat after a day in the snow.
With a strong community feel, stunning scenery, and endless winter activities, Banff isn’t just a vacation destination—it’s one of the best places to call home in the colder months.
- Read Next: 12 Enchanting Spots in Alberta
- Read More: 12 Most Breathtaking Places in Canada
3. Burlington, Vermont, USA
Winter in Burlington feels like stepping into a snow globe. Sitting on the shores of Lake Champlain, this charming New England city blends natural beauty with small-town warmth. Winter afternoons on Church Street Marketplace bring a cozy, storybook atmosphere, with twinkling lights and festive storefronts adding to the charm.
For outdoor lovers, Bolton Valley and Stowe Mountain offer top-tier skiing and snowboarding just a short drive away. Prefer a slower pace? Go snowshoeing in the Ethan Allen Homestead or take in the breathtaking lake views with a warm drink in hand. Even in the coldest months, Burlington runs smoothly—its public transport is reliable, and snow removal is impressively efficient.
With its mix of winter fun, vibrant community, and strong infrastructure, Burlington isn’t just a great place to visit—it’s one of the best places to live in the winter if you want that classic snowy charm without sacrificing convenience.
4. Playa del Carmen, Mexico
If winter makes you crave sunshine instead of snow, Playa del Carmen is the perfect escape. Nestled along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, this coastal city offers warm weather, stunning beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle—all without the high price tags of other tropical destinations.
The cost of living here is surprisingly affordable, from beachfront rentals to delicious street tacos that cost less than your morning coffee back home. Digital nomads and expats flock to Playa for its reliable internet and vibrant community. Co-working spaces like Nest and Bunker also make working remotely a breeze.
But the real highlight? Endless outdoor adventures. Spend your days snorkeling in cenotes, exploring Mayan ruins in Tulum, or simply unwinding on the beach. With year-round sunshine and a welcoming vibe, Playa del Carmen isn’t just a winter getaway, but a place where winter feels like an endless summer.
✈️ My #1 Tip for Cheap Flights:
If you’re not using Going, you’re probably overpaying for flights. I’ve scored roundtrips to Europe for under $300 - and I never would’ve found them on Google Flights.
Their free version is great, but Premium is where the real magic happens. I recommend doing the 14-day free trial. And right now, you can get 25% off Premium or Elite with my code: JON25.
Seriously, it’s the best travel decision I’ve ever made (in 8+ years).
- Read Next: 21 Hidden Gems in Mexico
5. Tromsø, Norway
For those who embrace winter in all its glory, Tromsø is an Arctic paradise. Located above the Arctic Circle, this lively Norwegian city is one of the best places to witness the Northern Lights, with frequent displays from September to March.
Tromsø blends cosmopolitan energy with rugged wilderness. The city’s vibrant cultural scene includes the Tromsø International Film Festival and the Northern Lights Festival, offering music, art, and entertainment even during the darkest months. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy dog sledding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing in the surrounding mountains.
Despite its remote location, Tromsø is well-connected and modern, with excellent infrastructure, cozy cafés, and a welcoming community. And after a day of Arctic adventures, nothing beats warming up in a traditional Norwegian sauna or enjoying a steaming bowl of fish soup with a view of the fjords.
6. Queenstown, New Zealand
While the Northern Hemisphere braces for winter, Queenstown is soaking up the sunshine. Set against the backdrop of New Zealand’s South Island, this is where long summer days meet endless adventure. If swapping snow boots for hiking trails and glacier-fed lakes sounds like a dream, Queenstown is calling.
Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the world, offering hiking, bungee jumping, jet boating, and mountain biking throughout the season. If you prefer something more laid-back, enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu, explore the charming vineyards of Gibbston Valley, or relax in Onsen Hot Pools with a stunning alpine backdrop.
Despite its small size, Queenstown boasts world-class dining, boutique shopping, and a friendly, outdoorsy community. The town is also well-connected, with an international airport providing easy access to the rest of New Zealand and beyond. For a winter that feels like an endless summer, Queenstown is for you.
7. Chamonix, France
Few places capture the magic of winter quite like Chamonix, a legendary alpine town at the foot of Mont Blanc. With its dramatic mountain scenery, world-class skiing, and lively village atmosphere, it’s no wonder this is one of the most sought-after winter destinations in Europe.
Chamonix boasts some of the best skiing on the continent, from the challenging slopes of Les Grands Montets to the scenic runs of Brévent-Flégère. Non-skiers can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car for jaw-dropping panoramic views, explore the Mer de Glace glacier, or wander the town’s charming streets filled with cafés, boutiques, and gourmet restaurants.
After a day in the snow, unwind with classic Savoyard dishes like fondue and raclette or soak up the après-ski scene in lively mountain lodges. Whether you’re chasing adventure or alpine charm, Chamonix delivers an unforgettable winter experience.
- Read Next: 8 Cheapest Places to Fly to in France
8. Aspen, Colorado, USA
Aspen turns winter into an art form—pristine slopes, fireside cocktails, and a town that knows how to do cozy and classy at the same time. Tucked into the heart of the Rockies, this isn’t just a ski destination; it’s a winter lifestyle.
With four world-class resorts, skiers and snowboarders have endless trails to explore. But even if you’re not hitting the slopes, Aspen has plenty to offer. Downtown buzzes with boutique shops, après-ski lounges, and the historic Wheeler Opera House, where live performances bring warmth to snowy nights. The food scene is just as impressive, with everything from hearty mountain fare to Michelin-starred dining.
Aspen draws creatives, entrepreneurs, and adventure-seekers who want both inspiration and exhilaration. Whether you’re here for the snow, the culture, or the unbeatable views, Aspen has a way of making winter feel like home.
9. Hokkaido, Japan
Hokkaido transforms winter into a season of breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and endless adventure. Japan’s northernmost island is famous for its light, fluffy snow, making it a paradise for skiers and snowboarders at top resorts like Niseko and Furano. But there’s more to Hokkaido than just the slopes—it’s a place where winter feels like a storybook come to life.
The Sapporo Snow Festival fills the city with dazzling ice sculptures, while the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival glows with lantern-lit charm. After a day in the crisp mountain air, unwind in a steaming onsen or savor Hokkaido’s culinary gems, from buttery uni to piping hot miso ramen.
Despite its deep winters, Hokkaido is incredibly livable, with modern cities, efficient transport, and a relaxed pace of life. For those who love winter’s magic but want everyday comfort, Hokkaido offers the best of both worlds.
10. Rovaniemi, Finland
If winter had a capital, it would be Rovaniemi. This Arctic city in Finnish Lapland is straight out of a snow globe, with endless white landscapes, cozy wooden cabins, and the enchanting glow of the Northern Lights. Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, it captures the magic of the season like nowhere else.
Rovaniemi isn’t just about holiday charm—it’s a hub for winter adventure. Snowmobiling across frozen lakes, husky sledding through pristine forests, and cross-country skiing under the northern sky are just a few ways to embrace the season. The Arktikum Museum provides fascinating insights into Arctic life, while local Lappish restaurants serve reindeer dishes and warm cloudberry desserts.
Despite its remote setting, Rovaniemi offers modern infrastructure, reliable transportation, and a welcoming international community. For those who crave winter’s beauty with all the comforts of city life, this is the ultimate cold-weather retreat.
