Winter is a magical time when the world transforms into a wonderland of snow and festive cheer. For those seeking the perfect winter getaway, countless destinations across the globe offer unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to the serene beauty of the snow-capped mountains of Zermatt or the lively energy of New York City decked out for the holidays, our list of top winter destinations promises something special for every traveler.
If you are ready to embrace the winter chill, let’s dive into the ultimate winter getaway spots.
1. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt, Switzerland, is one of the top winter destinations in the world. Its car-free environment and high altitude of 5,315 ft. guarantee excellent snow quality, which creates a paradise for skiing enthusiasts.
During winter, skiing and snowboarding are the primary draws, with extensive and well-maintained pistes. The resort’s state-of-the-art infrastructure, including Europe’s highest cable car station, provides easy access to breathtaking views and thrilling slopes.
For those seeking non-skiing adventures, Zermatt offers scenic rides on the Glacier Express, which connects Zermatt to St. Moritz, and the Gornergrat Railway, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
When it comes to finding the best hotels in Zermatt, The Omnia offers a serene retreat perched on a rock in the center of Zermatt, featuring a wellness center with a mystical ambiance and bespoke treatments. Cervo Mountain Resort is renowned for its vibrant après-ski atmosphere, live music, cozy fireplaces offering a Mountain Ashram Spa, and diverse dining options, including a 100% vegetarian restaurant. The 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat, the highest hotel in the Swiss Alps, offers stunning views of the Matterhorn and the Milky Way, with modern Alpine-style rooms and an exclusive luxury tower suite.
2. Banff, Canada
Banff in the Canadian Rockies is one of the best places to visit in the winter. Skiing is a top activity, and three main resorts—Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay—offer some of the best slopes in North America.
For a more relaxed experience, take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain for stunning views, especially during the Nightrise event with its lights and projections. Ice skating on frozen Lake Louise or Vermilion Lakes is a must-do, as is snow tubing at Mt. Norquay. Don’t miss the chance to hike through the icy Johnston Canyon, drive along the scenic Icefields Parkway, or soak in the warm waters of Banff Upper Hot Springs to unwind after a day of exploring.
For accommodation, there are many excellent hotels in Banff. The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel offers luxury accommodations, a world-class spa, multiple dining options, and private ski and bike storage. The Rimrock Resort Hotel provides stunning mountain views, a full-service spa, and multiple dining options. Moose Hotel and Suites features two rooftop hot pools and an indoor pool and is conveniently located near downtown Banff.
3. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, Estonia, is one of the top winter holiday destinations, with enchanting medieval charm. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, turns into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, snow-covered rooftops, and festive decorations. The season’s highlight is the Tallinn Christmas Market, known for its traditional crafts and delicious treats like mulled wine and gingerbread. The market runs from November 22 to December 27.
In winter, you can explore the picturesque Old Town with its cobblestone streets and Gothic architecture, ice skating in the neighborhoods of Mustamäe and Nõmme, and enjoy breathtaking views from the Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform. Afterward, warm up in cozy cafes like Pierre Chocolaterie, famous for its rich hot chocolate, or experience traditional Estonian saunas to beat the cold.
Several top hotels in Estonia offer memorable stays in Tallinn. Hotel Telegraaf offers luxury, easy access to the Christmas Market, and a spa with an indoor pool and sauna. Nordic Hotel Forum provides city views and a wellness center with a sauna and hot tub. Hilton Tallinn Park Hotel is close to the city center and features spacious rooms with panoramic views, a full-service spa, and an indoor pool.
4. Lapland, Finland
Lapland, Finland, is one of the best places to visit in winter due to its enchanting snowy landscapes and unique Arctic experiences. You can experience the magic at Santa Claus Village, where you can enjoy reindeer sleigh rides and thrilling dog sledding adventures.
Oy Levi Ski Resort is perfect for snowmobiling, ice fishing, and winter sports. Meanwhile, Kakslauttanen offers a unique stay in glass igloos and husky safaris. Seeing the Northern Lights, particularly in the “aurora zone,” is a major draw, as Lapland provides one of the best viewing spots in the world.
Unique attractions include the Kemi Snow Castle and the Lainio Snow Village, which showcase stunning snow architecture. Swimming in the Arctic with a flotation suit on the Sampo Icebreaker tour is an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure.
5. Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt, Austria, is one of the top ten winter vacation destinations due to its picturesque, fairytale-like charm, enhanced by the snow-covered Dachstein Mountains and the serene Lake Hallstatt.
Unique attractions and activities in Hallstatt during winter include visiting the Central Square Marktplatz and experiencing the World Heritage Museum. The historic churches, particularly the 12th-century Catholic church and the Bone House, are must-sees because they provide a fascinating glimpse into the town’s ancient salt mining heritage and burial traditions.
Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing at the nearby Dachstein ski resort. The Altaussee Salt Mine, the largest in Austria, is also fascinating because it offers an intriguing insight into the region’s mining history from 1147 and features a subterranean lake.
For accommodations in Hallstatt, the Seehotel Grüner Baum offers panoramic views of Lake Hallstatt and a blend of traditional and modern decor. It features a fine dining experience and rooms with balconies overlooking the lake. The Hallstatt Hideaway is a luxurious mountain retreat with hot tubs, saunas, and designer rooms crafted from salvaged wood.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, Czech Republic, is a top winter destination as it transforms into a winter wonderland with fewer crowds. From November 30, 2024, to January 6, 2025, the Christmas markets in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are a must-see. You can sip mulled wine, savor local delicacies, and pick up unique handmade crafts.
You can enjoy ice skating at popular rinks around the city, like Gutovka, Victory Square, and Letna Park. The Astronomical Clock, Prague Castle, and the Jewish Quarter are also top spots to visit—they’re among the oldest, largest ancient castles and best-preserved Jewish historical sites in Europe, respectively. Plus, a river cruise on the Vltava River, the longest in the country, gives you stunning views of the snow-covered cityscape.
For a place to stay in Prague, the Four Seasons Hotel Prague offers luxurious rooms with views of Prague Castle and the Vltava River, plus a spa and fine dining. The Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is set in a former monastery and features elegant rooms, a tranquil garden, and a renowned restaurant.
7. Harbin, China
Harbin, China, is a top winter destination renowned for its spectacular ice and snow sculptures and vibrant winter festivals attracting millions of tourists yearly. The highlight is the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival from early December to early March, featuring ice castles, sculptures, and winter activities such as ice slides and dog sledding. The festival’s stunning nighttime illuminations create a magical atmosphere that will not be missed.
Unique attractions in Harbin during winter include the Harbin Ice and Snow World, known for its colorful winter displays, Sun Island Scenic Resort, which offers winter activities like ice sculpture exhibits and snow sports, and the Saint Sophia Cathedral, which features stunning Russian architecture. Visitors can also enjoy skiing at the nearby Yabuli Ski Resort, the largest in the county, and experience traditional Chinese New Year celebrations with local performances and dumpling-making sessions. The Songhua River also offers winter swimming events for trained swimmers.
For accommodations in Harbin, the Shangri-La Hotel Harbin offers luxurious rooms with views of the Songhua River, a fitness center, and multiple dining options. The Sofitel Wanda Hotel Harbin combines Chinese and French elegance, featuring a spa and gourmet restaurants.
8. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled, Slovenia, is a top winter destination with a picturesque lake setting, surrounded by the Julian Alps and the Karawanks. Unique attractions and activities during winter include the Bled Castle, which offers breathtaking views of the snowy landscape and hosts festive winter decorations, medieval re-enactments, and jousting displays.
The Bled Island and its Church of the Assumption of Mary are also must-visits, accessible by traditional pletna boats or, if the lake freezes, by ice skating. The Bled Winter Fairytale Christmas market along the lakeside promenade is another highlight in December, featuring hundreds of stalls, Slovenian souvenirs, festive foods, and mulled wine. For outdoor enthusiasts, ice skating, skiing on Straža Bled, and snowshoeing at Pokljuka Plateau provide ample adventure.
For accommodations in Lake Bled, the Grand Hotel Toplice offers luxurious rooms with balconies overlooking the lake and a pool with thermal springs. The Hotel Vila Bled, a former presidential residence, features elegant rooms, a spa, and gourmet dining with stunning lake views. The Rikli Balance Hotel emphasizes wellness with its thermal water park, saunas, and panoramic views of Lake Bled.
9. Vienna, Austria
Vienna, Austria, is one of the best places to visit in the winter, thanks to its enchanting Christmas markets and snow-dusted baroque architecture. The city’s historical sites, like Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, look particularly stunning with a winter backdrop, making them perfect for exploring.
On November 29, 2024, you can visit the Christkindlmarkt, the city’s most popular Christmas market, packed with advent surprises, glowing hearts, and beautiful open-air ice skating rinks. Schönbrunn’s market is great for high-quality gifts and crafts. In contrast, the Belvedere market, a bit off the beaten path, is smaller and less crowded, where you can enjoy traditional Austrian treats like roasted chestnuts, hot mulled wine, and sausages. No visit is complete without experiencing Vienna’s café culture; a warm coffee and apple strudel is the perfect way to soak in the season.
For accommodations in Vienna, Hotel am Stephansplatz offers the convenience of an on-site café and bar. The Ritz-Carlton Vienna provides luxury with valet parking, coffee machines, and free Wi-Fi, and is close to the Musikverein and Vienna State Opera. Hotel Sacher Wien, famous for its Sachertorte chocolate cake, offers elegant rooms and has two renowned restaurants, Rote Bar and Grüne Bar.
10. New York City, USA
New York City is one of the cool places to visit in the winter in the U.S., known for its iconic Christmas markets at Bryant Park and Union Square, where you can find local crafts, local goods from farmers, and holiday treats. Don’t miss the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 29, 2024, experience the city’s holiday magic with ice skating at the rink, and see Broadway shows like MJ The Musical and The Great Gatsby.
The elaborate holiday window displays at Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy’s are visual delights for their stunning displays, luxurious interior designs, and seasonal decorations. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular from November 2024 to January 2025 is a must-see event featuring the world-famous Rockettes and several enchanting performances. Exploring snow-covered Central Park offers a picturesque setting for sledding or a horse-drawn carriage ride.
For accommodations in New York City, The Plaza Hotel provides luxurious rooms with views of Central Park and festive decor. The Ritz-Carlton New York offers a gastro lounge with a cozy ambiance, sauna, and 5-star accommodations. For a budget-friendly stay, consider Pod 51.
Takeaway
Winter offers a unique opportunity to explore breathtaking destinations tailored to diverse interests. Whether you’re hitting the slopes in Banff or enjoying festive Christmas markets in Tallinn, there’s a perfect winter getaway for every traveler. Zermatt and Banff offer world-class skiing for adventure seekers, while cities like Vienna and New York City enchant with their vibrant holiday celebrations. Choose a destination that aligns with your interests to ensure a memorable and fulfilling winter vacation.
Once you’ve chosen your winter destination, use OneAir for flights and hotels. Our AI technology finds exclusive, unpublished fares for premium flights and luxurious hotel stays at unbeatable prices. Sign up on OneAir for free to access these amazing deals and personalized services.
