Winter is one of my favorite times to travel. Picture snow-dusted villages straight out of a fairytale, frozen lakes that sparkle like glass, and cities aglow with twinkling lights. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland, wandering through Christmas markets in Germany, or sipping hot cocoa in a Swiss mountain chalet, winter transforms the world into something magical.
From epic adventures to cozy escapes, these 12 winter destinations will make you fall in love with the season all over again. I’ve also included some tropical locations to this list, in case snow isn’t your thing. Let’s explore them all!
The Best Places to Visit in Winter
Eager to explore the most stunning winter destinations? From the cozy streets of Copenhagen to the sunny beaches of Honolulu, winter offers a world of variety. Keep scrolling to uncover the breathtaking landscapes that come alive in this season.
Interested in vibrant cities with rich culture? Or maybe you’re after a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature? No matter what you’re in the mood for, winter has a place that fits the bill. Here are the best winter vacation areas you’ll want to add to your winter travel list:
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen in winter feels like a living postcard. Twinkling fairy lights, cozy cafés, and snow-dusted streets make the Danish capital impossibly charming. Embrace hygge by warming up with hot chocolate in Nyhavn or browsing holiday markets at Tivoli Gardens, which transforms into a winter wonderland through early January.
Even after the holidays, the city glows with candlelit windows and that soft Scandinavian calm. I spent an entire afternoon wandering through Tivoli Gardens with snow gently falling, sipping mulled wine and feeling like I was inside a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale. It’s one of the coziest places on Earth to be cold.
- Read next: Incredible Things to Do in Copenhagen
- You may also like: Most Beautiful Places in Denmark
2. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin sparkles with warmth and wit in winter. Snow is rare, but festive cheer runs deep. Stroll through Grafton Street lit up with Christmas lights, pop into a cozy pub for live music and a pint, or explore historic sites like Dublin Castle and Trinity College Library.
January brings fewer crowds, cheaper stays, and just the right amount of mist to make the city feel like an old poem come to life. I found myself in a traditional pub on a quiet January evening, listening to spontaneous traditional music while rain tapped gently against the windows…pure Irish magic.
- Read next: Epic Places to Visit in Ireland
3. Greenland
For serious winter magic, Greenland delivers a full-on Arctic fantasy. Visit between November and March to witness the Northern Lights dancing across a sky untouched by light pollution. Explore iceberg-studded fjords, ride a dog sled across snowy tundra, and experience Greenlandic culture in remote villages like Ilulissat.
It’s raw, wild, and unlike anywhere else. If you’ve ever wanted to feel small—in the best way—this is the place. I stood on the frozen Arctic Ocean watching the aurora borealis paint the sky in impossible greens and purples, feeling more connected to the universe than I ever thought possible.
- Read next: Spectacular Spots in the Arctic Circle
4. Hallstatt, Austria
Few places look more storybook-perfect than Hallstatt in winter. Nestled between a lake and snowcapped peaks, this Austrian village feels frozen in time…literally. The colorful alpine houses blanketed in snow, the peaceful lake reflections, and the quiet charm of wandering the car-free village all add to the dreaminess.
Visit nearby Dachstein Ice Cave or simply cozy up by a fireplace with views of the mountains. I woke up in a lakeside guesthouse to find the entire village reflected perfectly in the still water, with snow-covered mountains creating the most picture-perfect scene I’ve ever witnessed. It’s a winter fairytale come true.
- Read next: Breathtaking Places in Austria
- You may also like: Hallstatt Bucket List
5. Honolulu, Hawaii
Want winter without the cold? Honolulu offers warm breezes, beach sunsets, and tropical vibes – no parka required. While most of the world bundles up, you can be surfing at Waikiki Beach, hiking to the summit of Diamond Head, or sipping Mai Tais under palm trees. December through February is also peak whale-watching season.
Honolulu proves that winter magic doesn’t always need snow…it just needs aloha. I watched humpback whales breach just offshore while lounging on Waikiki Beach in December, realizing that winter paradise doesn’t require a single snowflake.
- Read next: Stunning & Affordable Places to Fly from Honolulu
- You may also like: Picture-Perfect Places in Hawaii
6. Kennebunkport, Maine
Kennebunkport is New England winter charm at its finest. From December’s Christmas Prelude festival to January’s peaceful snowfall, this coastal Maine town is straight out of a snow globe. Think sleigh rides, lobster traps strung with lights, and boutique inns with roaring fireplaces.
✈️ 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).
Stroll Dock Square, drink hot cocoa by the harbor, and take in the sea air. It’s crisp, quiet, and totally enchanting in winter. I took a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-covered streets while church bells chimed in the distance, feeling like I had stepped into a Currier and Ives painting.
- Read next: Bucket List-Worthy Places in Maine
7. The Maldives
The Maldives flips the winter script. While much of the world freezes, these Indian Ocean islands offer warm turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and overwater bungalows. December to February is dry season, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, and stargazing from your private deck.
It’s not traditional winter, but it’s pure magic for those who prefer swimsuits over snow boots. I floated in crystal-clear lagoon water at sunset, watching the sky turn brilliant orange while tropical fish swam beneath me. It’s definitely my favorite kind of winter escape!
8. Mt. Cayambe, Ecuador
For a truly unique winter destination, head to Mt. Cayambe…the only snow-capped mountain directly on the equator. Towering over Ecuador’s Andes, it blends tropical latitude with alpine climate. Adventurers can trek glaciers, visit Cayambe-Coca National Park, or explore nearby Otavalo Market for handmade goods.
Where else can you stand in snow one moment and soak in a thermal spring the next? I hiked through tropical vegetation in the morning and touched glacial ice in the afternoon, all while standing exactly on the equatorial line…a geographical marvel I never thought possible.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Ecuador
- You may also like: Enchanting Spots in the Andes Mountains
9. Paris, France
Paris in winter is pure romance. With the crowds gone, the Eiffel Tower twinkles a little brighter, cafés feel even cozier, and the smell of fresh pastries lingers longer in the crisp air. Ice skate in front of Hôtel de Ville, stroll the Seine under twinkling lights, or warm up in world-class museums like the Louvre.
Even in January, the City of Light lives up to its name. I spent a snowy afternoon in Montmartre, watching artists paint the Sacré-Cœur while warming my hands around a cup of chocolat chaud – Paris in winter felt more magical than any postcard could capture.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Places in France
10. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul shines in winter…literally. The city’s skyline and mountain backdrop often sparkle with fresh snow, while festive light festivals brighten up places like Cheonggyecheon Stream and Dongdaemun Design Plaza. Go ice skating at Seoul Plaza, explore ancient palaces in hanbok, or hit nearby ski resorts.
Korean winter snacks (like hotteok and tteokbokki) make exploring even cozier. It’s modern, magical, and full of contrast. I wandered through Gyeongbokgung Palace during a gentle snowfall, feeling like I was experiencing ancient Korea while the modern city hummed just beyond the palace walls.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Places in South Korea
- You may also like: Unique Places to Eat in Seoul
11. St. Lucia
Trade snow for palm trees in St. Lucia, where winter means sun-drenched beaches and Caribbean bliss. January is dry season…perfect for sailing, snorkeling, or lounging beneath the Pitons. Visit the Sulphur Springs, bathe in mineral mud, or unwind in a cliffside infinity pool.
The air smells like sea salt and tropical flowers, and everything feels calm, warm, and endlessly relaxing. I watched the sunset from between the iconic Pitons while sipping rum punch, realizing this was exactly what winter should feel like. Pure tropical bliss! It’s the tropical version of winter wonderland.
- Read next: Amazing Experiences in the Caribbean
12. St. Moritz, Switzerland
Winter luxury hits its peak in St. Moritz…the birthplace of alpine glamour. Nestled in the Swiss Alps, it’s a snowy playground for skiers, snowboarders, and snowshoers. But even non-skiers will love the frozen lakes, scenic train rides, and indulgent mountain lodges.
In February, the frozen lake hosts horse races and polo matches on ice. With sunshine, snow, and serious style, St. Moritz is winter magic turned up to 11. I watched polo players galloping across the frozen lake while snow-capped peaks gleamed in the background, feeling like I had discovered the most glamorous winter sport on Earth.
