Where to Travel in Winter: 6 of the Best Snowy Vacations in the World We’re Loving Right Now

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Winter snowy vacations aren’t just about snow-covered sceneries or those après-ski fun we always picture. Sometimes—they’re about celebrating the winter holidays with loved ones during Christmas and New Year in a place that feels like a refreshing break from the everyday routine. Whether it’s soaking in the pre-holiday festive vibes, enjoying drinks by the fire, or chasing the Northern Lights, you wouldn’t need more searches to get ideas on where to travel in winter this year. Because we’ve got everything from thrilling ski runs and dog sledding rides to cozy wintertime vibes to tick off your winter travel bucket list without dealing with the peak-season crowds or fully booked spots. Here are the best winter vacations (with snow) in the world—our editors are loving them right now.

Blime Tip:

Surviving some of the winter destinations mentioned might be tougher than it looks! Harsh weather, freezing temperatures, and unexpected conditions may quickly ruin your trip if you’re not well-prepared.

Make sure to do a quick search on the weather and other practical aspects. This includes: weather patterns, local rules, modes of transportation, travel insurance, availability of activities, and accommodation.

Always have backup plans for your itinerary and activities.

Make sure you pack winter travel essentials like insulated jackets, waterproof insulated boots, filtered water bottles, neck warmers, and thermal gloves to keep yourself warm and safe throughout your trip.

Blime Map: Our Top 6 Editorial Favorite Snowy Vacations Around The World

1. Zermatt, Switzerland
   
   
2. Lapland, Finland
   
   
3. Tromsø, Norway
   
   
4. Cappadocia, Turkey
   
   
5. Banff, Canada
   
   
6. Kyoto, Japan

1. Zermatt, Switzerland

When you think of winter snowy vacations: we think of Switzerland! And what makes Switzerland awesome? It’s the incredible Swiss Alps, which is home to the ultimate ski hotspot—Zermatt. Skiing on snow-covered mountain slopes is among those activities we often imagine doing when we think of winter vacations with snow. This European nation is no doubt a dream destination for many snow and ski lovers across the world. If you’d like to experience something unforgettable and worthwhile, try scenic train rides by taking trains like The Gornergrat Cogwheel Train and Glacier Express in Zermatt, Switzerland. You can plan a journey from Zermatt to St Moritz.

Winter Highlights: 

• Adventurous Winter Activities: Zermatt is undoubtedly one of the best skiing destinations in Europe. In addition to skiing, hiking, and snowboarding are also popular activities among tourists.
  
  
• Traditional cuisines: Raclette, Fondue, Tarte aux Champignons, Swiss Chocolate, Luxemburgerli macaroons, and Swiss wine are enough to steal your heart.

2. Lapland, Finland

Have you ever dreamt of Ice Skating on a frozen lake? Or maybe going to a secret ice-fishing spot? Do you want to meet Santa in Rovaniemi before Christmas? If yes, pack your winter travel essentials and gear up for the Lapland fun! The happiest country in the world, Finland, attracts millions of tourists each year due to its unique culture, outdoor activities, and wild beauty, and visiting the Lapland region is one of the best ways to soak it all in. Snow-capped fells such as Ylläs and Levi, frozen lakes, Northern Lights, and the local Sámi culture are some of the standout aspects that make this place our favorite winter vacation spot with snow on this list. The Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is a popular attraction where you can meet Santa virtually any time of the year (though availability may vary).

Winter Highlights:

• Northern Lights: You can catch the Northern Lights (also known as The Aurora Borealis) in Lapland for up to 200 nights a year, depending on the weather.
  
  
• Santa Claus Village: Visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Lapland to meet Santa, available virtually all year round.
  
  
• Reindeer and Husky Rides: Experience reindeer sledding, a traditional part of Sámi culture, or enjoy an exciting husky ride through snowy forests (both are must-tries in Lapland)! 
  
  
• Unique Accommodation: Spending your vacation inside a five-star hotel room? Boring! Rather, get immersed in nature by sleeping in ice hotels like this Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos in Rovaniemi.

3. Tromsø, Norway 

The “Capital of the Arctic” is much more than seeing winter views, exploring dense Arctic wildlife, and meeting Sámi culture. From feeding a herd of reindeer and doing husky sledding to watching whales on a boat safari, you’ll have many activities and things to do in winter here. The cool thing about Tromsø is its northern lights and Polar nights where the sun barely rises above the horizon. It’s interesting that you just get a few hours of daylight during this time. Winter in Tromsø normally starts early, typically in late October or November, and lasts until March or early April. 

Winter Highlights: 

• Aurora Borealis: Tromsø is among the best places to see the stunning Northern Lights.
  
  
• Winter Activities: Try dog sledding, snowmobiling, skiing, hiking, and snowshoeing.
  
  
• Water Activities: Watch whales on a boat and enjoy winter fishing.
  
  
• Norwegian Cuisine: Relish fresh seafood, waffles, brown cheese, and traditional lutefisk.

4. Cappadocia, Turkey

Imagine standing on a rocky desert with a dusting of snow on your head! That’s how Cappadocia might feel during winter! Cappadocia is not only a perfect honeymoon destination for couples, but it’s also a worthwhile place for families as well. Winter months from December to February can get bitterly cold in Cappadocia. But if this destination has long been on your favorite travel bucket list and you’ve always struggled with the budget, winter may be the perfect time to experience it finally. During this time, you may find fewer crowds and cheaper or affordable pricing on accommodations, guided tours, and activities compared to the busy peak season. You can still enjoy the hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys at sunrise beauty. And the fun doesn’t stop there—Cappadocia has so much to offer, from enjoying horseback riding to exploring the fairy chimneys, ancient monasteries, and the Open Air Museum.

Winter Highlights:

• Hot Air Balloon Rides: Float over the city in a hot air balloon and soak in the sunrise view.
  
  
• Cave Hotels: If Norway and Finland have ice hotels, then Turkey has cave hotels. Cave hotels, carved into the ancient rock formations, bear another proof of Turkey’s magical beauty. 
  
  
• Underground Cities: Shocked? Told you Turkey is unique. If cave hotels can exist, then why not underground cities? Discovering these underground towns can be a perfect winter exploration. 
  
  
• Turkish Delicacies: Köfte (meatballs), Falafel, Lahmacun (Turkish pizza), Sis kebab (skewers), Mantı, Doner kebab, Baklava, Ayran (yogurt drink), Turkish coffee, and the list goes on and on.

5. Banff, Canada

Canadian Rockies, towering mountains, glacial lakes, frozen waterfalls, and winding canyons—Canada’s winter charm is unmatched. This North American nation is a winter wonderland, especially the mountain town of Banff. The diversity of landforms in this area makes Banff one of our editorial team’s favorite destinations for a snowy winter vacation in the world. The place offers you the grand combo of scenic beauty, adventure, and tranquility. But one thing that truly sets this destination apart is the chance to spot wildlife, even in the frosty months. 

So, whether you’re up for nature, snowy adventures, or just want to have a simple yet fun winter vacation with snow, Banff is a place to go. Aside from strolling along Banff town’s streets, which is itself an activity you should try here, you can explore more options such as the Canyon Icewalk, snowboarding on freshly groomed runs, and ice skating on a frozen lake as well as spend quality time in ski resorts like Lake Louise, Banff Sunshine, and Mount Norquay.

Winter Highlights: 

• Winter Adventures: Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snowshoeing, dog sledding, hiking, ice skating, rock climbing, and mountaineering are some of the popular things to do in Banff in winter. 
  
  
• Winter Wildlife: Spot common and rare animals like elk, mule deer, wolves, bighorn sheep, moose, and more. Just remember to stay safe and explore with a knowledgeable guide.
  
  
• Diversified Landforms: You can witness many iconic landforms in Banff, including Frozen Lake Louise, the Canadian Rockies, Johnston Canyon, and frozen waterfalls are some examples. 

6. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto might seem underrated when we say ‘best snowy vacations in the world.’ But if you’re someone who would love to spend winter in a beautiful place that is calm, cold, and doesn’t ruin your trip with heavy snowfall, then Kyoto is a destination to consider. Even though snowfall is rare here, you may catch snow two to four times each winter, usually between early December and mid-March, and it may satisfy your snowy vibes.

The peaceful Buddhist temples, lovely shrines dusted with snow, winter illuminations, elegant gardens, and bathing culture—there are just so many reasons to fall in love with the winter beauty of Kyoto! If you’re into UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you’ll love Kinkaku-ji and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. And if you’re into the foodie side, you’ll admire Kyoto’s winter cuisine—like oden, hot tofu dishes or “yudofu,” mizutaki (chicken hot pot), and delicate wagashi (wa-gashi).

Winter Highlights: 

• Weather: In Kyoto, winters are usually longer than summers, lasting about 3.4 months from early December to mid-March.  During this time, it’s pretty chilly, with daily high temperatures usually remaining below 54°F (12°C). January is the coldest month, with typical lows around 33°F (0.56°C) and highs reaching about 46°F (8°C), as reported by WeatherSpark.com.
  
  
• Snow-capped Temples in Winter: Kyoto’s temples like Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera are must-visit spots in a light dusting of snow (though you’ll have to be lucky as snowfall is weather-dependent).
  
  
• Peaceful Gardens: Kyoto’s Japanese Zen gardens, such as Ryoan-ji and Ginkaku-ji provide a calming atmosphere, especially during the quieter winter months.
  
  
• Winter Festivals: You can experience Japanese culture with seasonal festivals such as the Yamashina Gishi Festival(a parade honoring samurai), Tōka Ebisu(a Japanese New Year’s festival for prosperity), and Hatsumode(the first shrine visit of the New Year).