Travel Tips

Best Places to Visit in Winter: Top Destinations for Every Traveler (2025)

October 15, 2025

10 min read

For me, traveling in winter offers something that other seasons can't match. Whether I want to see snow-covered peaks, escape to tropical beaches, or experience festive holiday markets, I know the winter months are full of unique travel opportunities. From December through February, destinations around the globe transform—some blanketed in snow, others basking in perfect sunshine, all offering experiences you simply can't find during other times of the year.

One of the things I’ve learned is to search where to go based on what kind of travel I’m seeking. And with Going, finding affordable flights to the perfect winter destinations becomes effortless. Going members save an average of 40–50% on international flights, making dream winter getaways more accessible than ever.

Key takeaways

Winter vacations span snowy mountain adventures, warm beach escapes, and unique cultural experiences across the globe. In the US, destinations like Jackson Hole and Vermont offer world-class skiing beyond the crowded resorts, while New Orleans and San Diego provide mild winter weather perfect for exploring. Internationally, hidden gems like Québec City and Lapland deliver authentic winter magic, while Southern Hemisphere destinations like Mendoza and São Paulo offer summer experiences during the winter months in the north.

For US snow adventures:

Aspen, Colorado: Experience luxury mountain resort culture with four ski areas, upscale dining, and winter cultural events in a historic mining town.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Discover challenging terrain for advanced skiers, dramatic Teton mountain views, and authentic Western charm with slightly fewer crowds than major resorts.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada: Enjoy multiple ski resorts around a stunning alpine lake, with gambling and entertainment options on the Nevada side.
Vermont (Stowe & Killington): Explore classic New England skiing with charming villages, local maple syrup, and affordable prices compared to Western resorts.
Park City, Utah: Access three resorts on one lift ticket, enjoy historic Main Street, and experience the lightest, driest snow outside Japan.

For international winter experiences:

Reykjavík, Iceland: Chase the Northern Lights, explore ice caves, and soak in geothermal hot springs while experiencing dramatic Arctic landscapes.
Chamonix, France: Challenge yourself with legendary off-piste skiing beneath Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak, in a historic mountaineering town.
Tokyo, Japan: Discover urban winter magic with illumination festivals, incredible food, and easy access to nearby ski resorts and hot springs.
Québec City, Canada: Step into Europe vibes without crossing the Atlantic, with cobblestone streets, French cuisine, and North America's only walled city.
Lapland, Finland: Experience the ultimate Arctic adventure with the Northern Lights, reindeer encounters, and stays in glass igloos in the Arctic Circle.

For warm winter escapes:

San Diego, California: Enjoy 65–70°F weather year-round, with beaches, craft breweries, and outdoor activities without the summer crowds.
Sydney, Australia: Visit during Australian summer for beach culture, outdoor festivals, and warm weather while the Northern Hemisphere freezes.
Mendoza, Argentina: Explore South America's wine country during peak harvest season, with Andes mountain views and adventure activities.
São Paulo, Brazil: Experience South American summer energy with world-class culture, dining, and proximity to beaches and rainforests.

Top winter destinations in the United States

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen combines world-class skiing with cultural sophistication that’s rare in American mountain towns. Four separate mountains (Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk) offer terrain for every skill level, while its downtown provides art galleries, high-end shopping, and restaurants that rival major cities. Winter here means more than skiing—expect film festivals, classical music performances, and X Games competitions.

Main attractions: Four ski mountains, historic downtown, Aspen Art Museum, X Games (January), Wheeler Opera House, Ajax Tavern après-ski
Budget: $$$$$ (Luxury)
Best for: Couples, luxury travelers, advanced skiers
Nearest airport: Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE), Denver (DEN)
Average Going deal: $173 roundtrip

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole delivers authentic Western mountain culture with some of North America's most challenging terrain. The dramatic Teton Range creates a spectacular backdrop for skiing, while the town of Jackson maintains its frontier character with wooden sidewalks and local saloons. Plus, wildlife enthusiasts can spot elk, bison, and moose in nearby Grand Teton and Yellowstone parks.

Main attractions: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Grand Teton National Park, National Elk Refuge, Town Square with antler arches, Snake River scenic floats
Budget: $$$-$$$$ (Moderate to expensive)
Best for: Advanced skiers, couples, nature photographers
Nearest airport: Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)
Average Going deal: $262 roundtrip

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Lake Tahoe offers the best of both worlds: world-class skiing around an alpine lake and entertainment and dining options, not to mention Nevada casinos, just minutes away. Multiple resorts ring the lake, from family-friendly Heavenly to challenging Squaw Valley (now Palisades Tahoe), letting visitors ski different mountains throughout their stay. The lake itself, with its impossibly blue water surrounded by snow-covered peaks, creates one of winter's most stunning settings.

Main attractions: Multiple ski resorts (Heavenly, Palisades Tahoe, Northstar), Nevada casinos, Emerald Bay State Park, lake cruises, snowshoeing trails
Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range to moderate)
Best for: Families, groups of friends, couples
Nearest airport: Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), Sacramento (SMF)
Average Going deal: $163 roundtrip

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans transforms winter into a celebration season with mild weather perfect for exploring the French Quarter streets, Mardi Gras preparations beginning after New Year's, and festivals celebrating everything from jazz to food. Winter temperatures rarely dip below 50°F, making it comfortable to walk through historic neighborhoods, enjoy outdoor dining, and experience the city's legendary live music scene without summer's oppressive heat and humidity.

Main attractions: French Quarter, Bourbon Street, live music venues, Café Du Monde, Garden District, streetcar rides, Mardi Gras parades (February)
Budget: $$ (Mid-range)
Best for: Couples, friends, foodies, music lovers
Nearest airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
Average Going deal: $199 roundtrip

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone in winter becomes a different world, transformed by snow and accessible primarily by snowcoach or snowmobile. Fewer than 5% of annual visitors see the park in winter, meaning you'll have Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and views of roaming bison nearly to yourself (just be sure to keep a safe distance). The geothermal features create otherworldly scenes in winter, with steam rising against snowy backgrounds and ice formations around hot springs.

Main attractions: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, wildlife viewing (bison, elk, wolves), snowcoach tours, cross-country skiing, Mammoth Hot Springs
Budget: $$ (Mid-range)
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, solo travelers, couples
Nearest airport: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), Jackson Hole (JAC)
Average Going deal: $255 roundtrip

Related content: The Best National Parks in the United States

Vermont (Stowe and Killington)

Vermont epitomizes classic New England skiing with charming villages, historic inns, and mountains that feel more intimate than Western mega-resorts. Stowe offers upscale New England charm with excellent skiing on Mount Mansfield, while Killington provides the East Coast's largest ski area and longest season. Beyond skiing, Vermont delivers a distinct culture around its maple syrup, farm-to-table dining, and covered bridges dusted with snow.

Main attractions: Mount Mansfield skiing (Stowe), Killington Resort, charming villages, maple syrup experiences, covered bridges, Von Trapp Family Lodge
Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range to moderate)
Best for: Families, couples, intermediate skiers, East Coast travelers
Nearest airport: Burlington International Airport (BTV)
Average Going deal: $197 roundtrip

Park City, Utah

Park City offers exceptional value with three world-class resorts accessible on a single lift ticket—Park City Mountain, Deer Valley, and Woodward Park City. The historic Main Street, a former silver mining town, provides dining, shopping, and nightlife within walking distance of ski lifts. Utah's famous "Greatest Snow on Earth" delivers light, dry powder that rivals anything found worldwide, making even average snow days feel special.

Main attractions: Park City Mountain, Deer Valley Resort, historic Main Street, Sundance Film Festival (January), Olympic Park, Utah Olympic Oval
Budget: $$$-$$$$ (Moderate to expensive)
Best for: Ski enthusiasts, couples, film festival fans, families
Nearest airport: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Average Going deal: $177 roundtrip

Related content: The Best Small Towns in the USA

Best international winter destinations

Reykjavík, Iceland

Iceland's capital serves as a basecamp for winter adventures combining Northern Lights viewing, glacier exploration, and geothermal relaxation. Winter brings the best aurora viewing from September through March, while ice caves in Vatnajökull glacier become accessible. Winter temperatures remain surprisingly mild (25–35°F) thanks to the Gulf Stream, and the short daylight hours create magical twilight periods perfect for photography.

Main attractions: Northern Lights viewing, Blue Lagoon and other geothermal hot springs, Golden Circle (Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss), ice cave tours, glacier hiking
Budget: $$$-$$$$ (Moderate to expensive)
Best for: Adventure seekers, photographers, couples, Northern Lights chasers
Nearest airport: Keflavík International Airport (KEF)
Average Going deal: $493 roundtrip

Chamonix, France

Chamonix represents mountaineering history and skiing at the base of Mont Blanc, Western Europe's highest peak. This French alpine town attracts expert skiers seeking challenging off-piste terrain, steep couloirs (gulleys), and Europe's longest vertical descent. The valley offers multiple ski areas connected by free buses, while the town itself provides authentic French alpine culture with traditional restaurants and mountain guide heritage dating back centuries.

Main attractions: Mont Blanc views, Aiguille du Midi cable car, off-piste skiing, Mer de Glace glacier, mountaineering museum, authentic alpine villages
Budget: $$$-$$$$ (Moderate to expensive)
Best for: Advanced skiers, mountaineering enthusiasts, couples
Nearest airport: Geneva Airport (GVA)
Average Going deal: $530 roundtrip

Related content: Europe Travel Tips

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo delivers unexpected winter magic through elaborate illumination festivals that transform parks and shopping districts into glowing wonderlands from November through February. Winter means comfortable sightseeing temperatures, exceptional ramen and hot pot cuisine, and easy access to nearby ski resorts and hot spring towns. The city combines ultramodern urban culture with traditional temples, all without the overwhelming crowds of spring's cherry blossom season.

Main attractions: Winter illuminations, Senso-ji Temple, Shibuya Crossing, Tsukiji Outer Market, nearby hot springs (Hakone), ramen and hot pot cuisine
Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range to moderate)
Best for: Culture seekers, foodies, solo travelers, couples
Nearest airport: Narita International Airport (NRT), Haneda Airport (HND)
Average Going deal: $794 roundtrip

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Québec City, Canada

Québec City offers European-esque charm without crossing the Atlantic, with cobblestone streets, French cuisine, and 17th-century architecture within a fortified wall. Winter transforms the city into a frozen wonderland, hosting the famous Québec Winter Carnival in February with ice sculptures, snow slides, and outdoor festivities. The Château Frontenac, perched above the St. Lawrence River, creates one of winter's most photogenic settings.

Main attractions: Old Québec (UNESCO site), Château Frontenac, Winter Carnival (February), ice sculptures, French cuisine, Montmorency Falls
Budget: $$ (Mid-range)
Best for: Couples, history enthusiasts, families, Francophiles
Nearest airport: Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB)
Average Going deal: $275 roundtrip

Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Switzerland is considered the birthplace of alpine tourism, and its winter resorts still set global standards for skiing excellence and mountain hospitality. Iconic destinations like Zermatt (beneath the Matterhorn), St. Moritz (the original luxury resort), and Verbier (known for challenging terrain) offer reliable snow conditions, extensive lift systems, and charming villages. Swiss efficiency means trains run on time even in snowstorms, making navigation between resorts remarkably easy.

Main attractions: Zermatt and Matterhorn, St. Moritz luxury skiing, Jungfraujoch "Top of Europe," Swiss chocolate and fondue, scenic train rides
Budget: $$$$$ (Luxury)
Best for: Experienced skiers, luxury travelers, couples, train enthusiasts
Nearest airport: Zurich Airport (ZRH), Geneva Airport (GVA)
Average Going deal: $518 roundtrip

Lapland, Finland

Lapland delivers the ultimate experience north of the Arctic Circle, where winter means polar nights, Northern Lights, and the opportunity to learn from Sámi reindeer herders. Stay in glass igloos designed for aurora viewing, visit Santa Claus Village in the Arctic Circle, and experience husky sledding through snow-covered forests. This region offers winter activities impossible to find elsewhere—from ice fishing to staying in hotels built entirely from ice and snow.

Main attractions: Northern Lights, Santa Claus Village, glass igloo hotels, husky sledding, reindeer encounters, Arctic Circle crossing
Budget: $$$-$$$$ (Moderate to expensive)
Best for: Families, bucket-list travelers, couples, Northern Lights chasers
Nearest airport: Helsinki Airport (HEL)
Average Going deal: $483 roundtrip

Warm winter spots

Orlando, Florida

Orlando's warm winter weather (averaging 60–75°F) makes it ideal for exploring theme parks without summer's crushing heat and humidity. December through February brings lower humidity, comfortable temperatures for walking all day around parks, and special holiday events at Disney World and Universal Studios. Beyond theme parks, Orlando offers natural springs, kayaking, and outdoor activities year-round.

Main attractions: Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Kennedy Space Center, natural springs, International Drive entertainment
Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range to moderate)
Best for: Families, theme park enthusiasts, groups of friends
Nearest airport: Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Average Going deal: $157 roundtrip

San Diego, California

San Diego maintains near-perfect weather year-round, with winter temperatures around 65–70°F with minimal rainfall. The city's beaches, craft brewery scene, world-famous zoo, and Balboa Park cultural institutions make it ideal for winter escapes. Without summer crowds, winter visitors enjoy easier beach parking, shorter wait times at attractions, and lower accommodation prices.

Main attractions: Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, beaches (La Jolla, Pacific Beach), Gaslamp Quarter, craft breweries, USS Midway Museum
Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range to moderate)
Best for: Families, couples, beer enthusiasts, beach lovers
Nearest airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN)
Average Going deal: $191 roundtrip

Sydney, Australia

Sydney's summer coincides with the Northern Hemisphere winter, making December through February peak beach season over there. Bondi and Manly beaches fill with locals and tourists enjoying surf, sun, and the outdoors. The holiday season brings a festive atmosphere without snow—think beach barbecues, outdoor concerts, and New Year's Eve fireworks over Sydney Harbour.

Main attractions: Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Taronga Zoo, Manly Beach, New Year's Eve fireworks, coastal walks
Budget: $$$-$$$$ (Moderate to expensive)
Best for: Adventure seekers, couples, beach lovers, solo travelers
Nearest airport: Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD)
Average Going deal: $870 roundtrip

Maldives

The Maldives' dry season peaks during winter in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing perfect weather for overwater bungalow stays and world-class diving. Each resort occupies its own island, creating exclusive paradise experiences. While traditionally expensive, local islands have become more accessible for budget travelers, making Maldives luxury more attainable than ever.

Main attractions: Overwater bungalows, diving and snorkeling, swimming with manta rays and whale sharks, private island resorts, spa treatments
Budget: $$$$-$$$$$ (Expensive to luxury)
Best for: Honeymooners, couples, divers, luxury travelers
Nearest airport: Velana International Airport (MLE)
Average Going deal: $899 roundtrip

Caribbean Islands

Winter is the peak season for the Caribbean islands due to perfect weather and minimal hurricane risk. Each island offers a distinct character—Jamaica has reggae culture, St. Lucia features the dramatic Pitons, St. Barts offers luxury paired with extreme security, and Aruba is known for its happy, welcoming atmosphere. Warm temperatures, turquoise waters, and diverse island cultures make the Caribbean a winter favorite.

Main attractions: Stunning beaches, water sports, snorkeling and diving, rum distilleries, local cuisine, island hopping, tropical resorts
Budget: $$-$$$$ (Mid-range to expensive, varies by island)
Best for: Beach lovers, families, couples, cruise travelers
Nearest airport: Varies by island (MBJ for Jamaica, UVF for St. Lucia, SBH for St. Barts, AUA for Aruba)
Average Going deal: $321 roundtrip

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São Paulo, Brazil

São Paulo experiences summer during the Northern Hemisphere winter, bringing warm weather to South America's largest metropolis. This cultural powerhouse offers world-class museums, diverse dining reflecting immigrant influences, vibrant nightlife, and an arts scene rivaling any global city. Winter visits provide comfortable weather for exploring urban neighborhoods, plus easy access to coastal beaches and interior natural areas.

Main attractions: Paulista Avenue, MASP art museum, Ibirapuera Park, diverse cuisine, nightlife, street art, nearby beaches (Santos, Guarujá)
Budget: $$ (Mid-range)
Best for: Urban explorers, foodies, culture seekers, solo travelers
Nearest airport: São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport (GRU)
Average Going deal: $466 roundtrip

Mendoza, Argentina

Mendoza combines Andean mountain scenery with world-class wine country during the Southern Hemisphere summer. Winter months (December–February) bring perfect weather for vineyard tours, wine tasting, and outdoor dining among the Andes. Beyond wine, Mendoza offers hiking, white-water rafting, and proximity to Aconcagua, the Americas' highest peak.

Main attractions: Wine tours and tastings, Andes mountain views, Aconcagua (highest peak in the Americas), white-water rafting, outdoor dining, olive oil tours
Budget: $$ (Mid-range)
Best for: Wine enthusiasts, couples, adventure travelers, foodies
Nearest airport: Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (MDZ)
Average Going deal: $650 roundtrip

Winter sports and adventure destinations

Whistler, British Columbia

Whistler ranks among North America's premier ski resorts, combining impressive terrain with a pedestrian village and proximity to Vancouver. The resort offers 8,171 acres across two mountains connected by the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, plus diverse terrain from beginner-friendly, groomed runs to extreme alpine bowls. The village provides car-free convenience with restaurants, shops, and nightlife steps from your accommodation.

Main attractions: Whistler Blackcomb Resort, Peak 2 Peak Gondola, pedestrian village, Scandinave Spa, snowshoeing, après-ski scene
Budget: $$$-$$$$ (Moderate to expensive)
Best for: All ability levels, families, groups, après-ski enthusiasts
Nearest airport: Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
Average Going deal: $257 roundtrip

Banff National Park, Canada

Banff delivers Rocky Mountain majesty with turquoise frozen lakes, dramatic peaks, and three world-class ski resorts—Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, and Mt. Norquay—all within the park. The town of Banff provides mountain resort amenities, while the park itself offers winter wildlife viewing (elk often wander through town), ice skating on Lake Louise, and breathtaking scenery around every corner.

Main attractions: Lake Louise skiing and ice skating, Banff hot springs, frozen waterfalls, wildlife viewing, Johnston Canyon ice walk
Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range to moderate)
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, families, intermediate skiers
Nearest airport: Calgary International Airport (YYC)
Average Going deal: $289 roundtrip

Colorado Rockies

Colorado's Rocky Mountains host numerous world-class resorts beyond Aspen, including Vail (North America's largest single resort), Breckenridge (historic mining town turned ski destination), and Steamboat (famous for its “champagne powder,” known for being light, dry, and fluffy). The region benefits from its high elevation and dry climate, producing reliable snow conditions and sunny days. Multiple resorts within driving distance let visitors sample different mountains during one trip.

Main attractions: Vail ski resort, Breckenridge historic town, Steamboat Springs, multiple ski areas, champagne powder snow, Rocky Mountain scenery
Budget: $$$-$$$$ (Moderate to expensive)
Best for: Powder chasers, families, skiers of all ability levels, groups
Nearest airport: Denver International Airport (DEN)
Average Going deal: $165 roundtrip

Unique winter experiences

Winter festivals and celebrations

There are many celebrations around the world that make winter feel festive. Québec's Winter Carnival (February) features ice sculptures, canoe races on frozen rivers, and outdoor snow parties. Japan's Sapporo Snow Festival (February) showcases massive ice sculptures and attracts millions of visitors. Venice Carnival (February) brings elaborate masks and costumes to Italy's floating city, while Harbin Ice Festival in China (January–February) creates an entire city from ice blocks with elaborate lighting.

Northern Lights viewing locations

Aurora borealis viewing requires dark skies, clear weather, and locations near the North Pole. Beyond popular Iceland, you can also consider towns like Tromsø, Norway, or Finnish Lapland's glass igloos, designed specifically for aurora viewing from bed. Alaska's Fairbanks area offers excellent viewing from December through March, while Canada's Yukon Territory combines the Northern Lights with frontier culture.

Winter wildlife watching

Winter brings plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. Yellowstone's wildlife becomes more visible and concentrated as snow drives animals to lower elevations and geothermal areas. Churchill, Canada, transforms into polar bear central as bears wait for Hudson Bay to freeze. Japan's Nagano region hosts snow monkeys soaking in hot springs—one of winter's most iconic wildlife scenes. Norway's coast offers orca and humpback whale watching as they follow herring migrations.

Ice hotels and unique accommodations

Ice hotels offer overnight experiences in structures built entirely from ice and snow. Sweden's ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi pioneered the concept, featuring artist-designed ice rooms and sculptures. Québec's Hotel de Glace provides North America's only ice hotel experience, while Finland offers glass igloos for Northern Lights viewing from bed. These unique accommodations combine adventure with comfort. Don’t worry, most of these destinations include warm sleeping arrangements rated for sub-zero temperatures.

Winter travel planning tips

Packing essentials for winter destinations

Layer strategically for cold destinations—base layers (merino wool or synthetic), insulating mid-layers (fleece or down), and waterproof outer shells. Don't skimp on accessories: Warm gloves, hats covering ears, and scarves prevent heat loss. For warm destinations, pack reef-safe sunscreen, lightweight layers, and a light jacket for air-conditioned spaces. Regardless of destination, bring appropriate phone chargers and power adapters.

Finding budget-friendly winter deals

Booking strategically can help you maximize winter travel savings. Winter flight prices fluctuate significantly based on holiday proximity, so use Going's flight alerts to catch deals as soon they appear. Another great way to save is to travel during shoulder season (early December or late January/February) rather than peak holiday weeks. Book accommodations mid-week for better rates at ski resorts where weekends command premium pricing.

Health and safety considerations

Winter travel requires extra health and safety planning. Purchase or ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance to cover winter sports injuries and weather-related cancellations. Stay hydrated in cold, dry climates to prevent altitude sickness at mountain destinations. Remember to apply sunscreen even on cold or cloudy days, as snow reflection intensifies UV exposure.

Best times to book winter travel

Timing matters significantly for winter bookings. Book holiday travel (Christmas and New Year's) 3–5 months ahead for domestic travel and 4–10 months ahead for international travel for the best selection and reasonable pricing. For January–February travel (off-peak), booking 1–3 months ahead for domestic and 2–8 months ahead for international is typically the sweet spot for selection and deals.

The best way to find cheap flights is to join Going. Our Premium and Elite members receive alerts about mistake fares, promotional deals, and price drops from their followed airports, saving 40–50% on flights, which are often the most expensive part of a trip.