Looking for a destination to escape the grey and gloomy winter weather? Here are 20 winter destination ideas. Whether you’re looking for a sunny vacation on a sandy beach, a chance to try out winter sports, or to discover new cultures, there’s something for everyone, no matter your taste or budget.
Ready to pack your bags? Follow the guide!
10 sunny winter destination ideas
Morocco
If you’re looking to escape the cold and damp winter weather, Morocco is the perfect destination with its mild temperatures averaging between 60-77°F during the winter. Take advantage of the sunny days and mild evenings to relax and recharge.
Not to mention, Morocco offers endless discoveries. Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the desert, hike in the Atlas Mountains, or immerse yourself in the country’s rich history and culture by visiting historical sites. Whether you’re into adventure sports, hiking, or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
👉 Plan your getaway : Flights to Morocco | Accommodation in Morocco | Tourist activities in Morocco | Packaged trips in Morocco
The Canary Islands
With their mild climate and privileged geographical location off the coast of Morocco,
The Canary Islands are an idyllic destination to visit during the winter.
Pack your t-shirts and swimsuits – the temperature ranges between 68°F and 77°F in the middle of winter: perfect for soaking up the sun!
With their exceptional landscapes, abundant wildlife, and delicious local cuisine, the Canary Islands are also a destination that is rich in discoveries and adventures. What more could you ask for?
👉 Plan your getaway : Flights to the Canary Islands | Accommodations in the Canary Islands | Tourist activities in the Canary Islands | Packaged trips to the Canary Islands
South Africa
Winter in the northern hemisphere is summer in South Africa, making it the perfect time for a dose of vitamin D away from the cold and rain!
With its stunning landscapes and many natural attractions, South Africa is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include exploring the mountains around Cape Town, visiting the sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean, and water sports in Durban. The country also boasts many historical sites that will appeal to history and culture lovers, such as Robben Island National Park and the Apartheid Museum.
It may not be the most budget-friendly destination, but if your bank account allows it, it’s an ideal place to catch some winter sun.
👉 Plan your getaway : Flights to South Africa | Accommodations in South Africa | Tourist activities in South Africa | Packaged trips to South Africa
Australia
Pack your bags and head down under for an escape from the cold winter weather!
Australia offers a plethora of activities and sights to see. From exploring the unique landscapes of the Outback, to discovering the country’s diverse wildlife and marine life, to snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, to catching a performance at the Sydney Opera House, to delving into the rich culture of the Indigenous Australians, to exploring the historic neighborhoods of Melbourne and Hobart, there’s something for everyone.
In short, there’s no shortage of things to do in Australia!
👉 Plan your getaway : Flights to Australia | Accommodation in Australia | Tourist activities in Australia | Packaged trips to Australia
Mexico
Are you craving sunshine, cocktails, fine sandy beaches, and an unforgettable experience of nature and discovery? Look no further than Mexico!
This vast country holds countless wonders that will thrill adventure seekers: the Riviera Maya, the Mayan and Aztec archaeological sites (Tulum, Chichen Itza, Tehotihuacan), countless art galleries, the beautiful colonial cities (Oaxaca de Juárez, San Miguel de Allende, Puebla).
Mexico is also an ideal destination for food lovers, with tacos, burritos, enchiladas and of course tequila and margaritas on the menu.
👉 Plan your getaway : Flights to Mexico | Accommodation in Mexico | Tourists activities in Mexico | Packaged trips in Mexico
Costa Rica
Ready for an adventure in the bustling tropical rainforest of Costa Rica to escape the winter blues?
Winter is the perfect time to visit the country as the dry season runs from December to April. The rate of precipitation is low and temperatures hover around 68 to 86°F.
With its idyllic beaches, volcanoes, and incomparable national parks, Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise. Here, the keyword is “biodiversity”! 25% of the country is covered by protected jungle, known for its incredible wealth of wildlife and flora.
Thrill-seekers won’t be left out either. The program includes rafting, surfing, caving, zip-lining, and more.
👉 Plan your getaway : Flights to Costa Rica | Accommodations in Costa Rica | Sightseeing in Costa Rica | Packaged trips to Costa Rica
Brazil
Get ready to head to the other side of the world, to the southern hemisphere, to escape the winter gloom! Winter in Europe is summer in Brazil, making it the perfect time to explore the country if you’re a fan of sun and warmth.
With a total surface area of 8,515,767 km², Brazil is the 5th largest country in the world, so you’ll have plenty to see and do.
Some of the most iconic tourist sites in the country include Rio de Janeiro, the Pantanal ecosystem, Iguaçu Falls, the Chapada Diamantina and Lençóis Maranhenses national parks.
Foodies will also have plenty to indulge in, with countless culinary delights to discover.
👉 Plan your getaway : Flights to Brazil | Accommodation in Brazil | Tourist activities in Brazil | Packaged trips to Brazil
Thailand
ack your bags for Southeast Asia! From November to April, Thailand is in peak dry season (with average temperatures around 80-86°F) – making it the perfect time to visit the country. It’s best to avoid exploring Thailand during the rainy season (May to October) as it also coincides with typhoon season.
Get ready to experience a mix of historical temples and sites (such as Wat Phra Kaew and the Royal Palace in Bangkok, Wat Pho and the giant reclining Buddha in Chiang Mai, and Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai), national parks and nature reserves (like Khao Yai National Park for elephant spotting and other wildlife, and Khao Sok National Park for lush jungle landscapes), sandy beaches and tropical islands (like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Koh Lipe, Koh Chang), and of course, the incomparable Thai cuisine!
👉 Plan your getaway : Flights to Thailand | Accommodations in Thailand | Tourist activities in Thailand | Package trips to Thailand
Vietnam
Looking to escape the winter blues? Head to Vietnam! With temperatures ranging around 68-77°F, Vietnam is the perfect destination for a break from the gloomy and damp weather.
Plus, the country celebrates Tet, or the Vietnamese New Year, during the winter season, an unmissable event where houses and streets are decorated with lanterns and flowers.
Vietnam is also a country that offers a wide range of tourist activities that will delight adventure seekers: hiking in the Northern mountains, exploring national parks and nature reserves (Cuc Phuong, Ba Be, Cat Ba, Yok Don…), bike rides, bamboo rafting or kayaking, visiting temples and historical sites (Imperial City of Hue, My Son Temples, Temple of Literature in Hanoi…), dance and music shows, or discovering local culinary specialties.
👉 Plan your getaway: Flights to Vietnam | Accommodation in Vietnam | Tourist activities in Vietnam | Packaging trips in Vietnam
The Philippines
The Philippines are a top choice for getting away from the winter blues and dreary weather.
Their tropical climate is warm and humid all year round, with temperatures ranging between 77°F and 91°F. During the dry season (from December to March), the weather is typically sunny and dry, making it the perfect time to enjoy the beach and the sea.
You won’t get bored for a second! The Philippines offer a wealth of unforgettable tourist activities to satisfy your thirst for adventure, discovery, and thrills. You can dive into the turquoise waters of the Sulu Sea, wander through the bustling streets of Manila, or explore the unique wildlife and flora of the country in one of its many national parks. Culture enthusiasts will also be delighted to discover the many temples and pagodas throughout the country, as well as the remnants of the Spanish Empire.
👉 Plan your getaway: Flights to the Philippines | Accommodations in the Philippines | Tourist activities in the Philippines | Packaged trips in the Philippines
Cape Verde
Cape Verde is the perfect destination for those looking for a sun-soaked getaway!
The country boasts a pleasant tropical climate year-round, with temperatures averaging between 77°F and 86°F. The dry season, which runs from December to March, is the ideal time to visit.
With its turquoise waters and waves that will delight surfers, Cape Verde is a dream destination for water sports enthusiasts (diving, kitesurfing, etc.).
Cape Verde is also an idyllic place to get away from it all. Activities include hiking, visiting colonial cities, diving into the Creole Portuguese-African culture, and discovering the local cuisine that blends African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences.
👉 Plan your getaway : Flights to Cape Verde | Accommodations in Cape Verde | Tourist activities in Cape Verde | Packaged trips to Cape Verde
10 cold destinations to visit in the winter
Germany
Are you a winter lover and enjoy the snow, cold and warm drinks by the fire? Then, Germany, the land of Christmas markets, is the perfect destination for you.
German Christmas markets are a must-visit, the ideal spot to get into the holiday spirit by buying decorations, trying delicious and comforting local food and doing your gift shopping.
Germany also offers a wide range of cultural activities and discovery. From Berlin to Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg or Saxony, you’ll find plenty to explore.
Ski enthusiasts can also hit the slopes of the Bavarian Alps, the Southern Alps or the Black Forest.
👉 Plan your getaway: flights/train to Germany | accommodations in Germany | tour activities activities in Germany | Germany tour packages
Switzerland
Why not take advantage of the winter to escape to Switzerland, known for its breathtaking landscapes and winter activities?
With average temperatures between 23°F and 41°F in December, January and February, Switzerland is the perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, sledding… there’s something for everyone!
And for those who prefer to explore the culture instead of hitting the slopes, Switzerland also has charming cities like Zurich, Bern and Geneva, where it’s pleasant to stroll around and discover the local culture.
Don’t forget to try the delicious Swiss culinary specialities, like fondue or raclette (yum!).
In short, Switzerland is the perfect destination for a winter getaway!
👉 Plan your getaway: Flights/train to Switzerland | Accommodation in Switzerland | Tourist activities in Switzerland | Switzerland tour packages
Austria
Looking to get a good dose of snow and cold this winter? Austria is the place to be!
With its picturesque landscapes, world-renowned ski resorts and bustling cities, Austria offers the perfect setting for a winter vacation you’ll never forget.
The weather in Austria is quite chilly in December, January and February, with average temperatures between 23°F and 41°F. It’s a winter sports paradise, where you can hit the slopes at places like Kitzbühel, Innsbruck or Zell am See.
But Austria also offers a wealth of history and culture, with cities like Vienna, Salzburg or Linz filled with stunning historical sites to explore.
And when it comes to food, Austria has plenty of winter-friendly specialties like Wiener Schnitzel, knödel or apple strudel.
👉 Plan your getaway: flights/train to Austria | accommodation in Austria | tourist activities in Austria | Austria tour packages
The Czech Republic
If you’re a fan of winter sports and a chilly atmosphere, the Czech Republic is the perfect destination for you. With its picturesque mountains, outdoor ice rinks
and indoor hot springs, the country has something for everyone.
Take a stroll through the charming medieval streets of Prague and take in the rich cultural heritage of the city, from the Prague Castle to the Astronomical Clock, Týn Church, Charles Bridge and Powder Tower.
The Czech Republic is also known for its lively Christmas scene, with many Christmas markets offering handmade products and delicious traditional dishes.
All in all, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy during your winter stay in the Czech Republic.
👉 Plan your getaway: Flights to Czech Republic | Accommodation in Czech Republic | Tourist activities in Czech Republic | Czech Republic tour packages
Sweden
Winter in Sweden is like stepping into a winter wonderland, with snowy landscapes that look straight out of a fairytale. The long days provide nature and winter sports enthusiasts with the perfect opportunity to enjoy all the snow activities, from skiing and snowboarding, to ice skating and snowshoeing. It’s also the best time to catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights.
Winter is also a great time to experience traditional Swedish Christmas celebrations, like the Stockholm Christmas market or the spectacular light decorations that adorn Swedish homes during the end of the year.
And let’s not forget the plethora of must-see sites, from Gothenburg and Uppsala, Drottningholm Castle, and the Stockholm archipelago.
In a nutshell, Sweden in winter is the perfect escape for those looking to get away from the winter gloom and experience an enchanted Christmas.
👉 Plan your getaway: Flights to Sweden | Accommodation in Sweden | Tourist activities in Sweden | Sweden tour packages
Norway
Feeling the need to embrace the cold this winter? Look no further than Norway. With its enchanting winter landscapes and mesmerizing northern lights, Norway is a winter lover’s paradise!
Hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and of course, dog sledding. Take advantage of the season and soak in the winter charm of Norway’s cities (Oslo of course, but also Bergen, Tromsø and Trondheim).
And don’t miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful Norwegian fjords.
👉 Plan your getaway : Flights to Norway | Accommodation in Norway | Tourist activities in Norway | Norway tour packages
Denmark
Head to Denmark for a winter adventure! Winter sports enthusiasts will have plenty to keep them busy with activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and ice fishing.
During your stay, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the traditional Christmas markets that take place across the country, or to stroll through the picturesque streets of Danish cities such as the capital, Copenhagen, as well as Aarhus and Ribe.
Nature lovers will be enchanted by the Danish islands (Bornholm, Zealand, Funen…), majestic fjords and snowy forests, with their wild landscapes and untouched nature.
👉 Plan your getaway : Flights/train to Denmark | Accommodation in Denmark | Tourist activities in Denmark | Denmark tour packages
Finland
Finland is the ultimate destination for those who crave the thrill of subzero temperatures
and winter sports like cross-country skiing, ice skating, and dog sledding.
But it’s not just about the cold, this Nordic country also offers a rich cultural experience with its museums, art galleries, and high-end restaurants,
not to mention the traditional Finnish sauna, a must-try for any winter traveler.
👉 Plan your getaway: Flights to Finland | Accommodation in Finland | Tourist activities in Finland | Finland tour packages
Canada
Welcome to the winter wonderland of snow and winter sports! While weather can vary greatly from province to province, be prepared for it to be (very) cold!
Winter is also the perfect time to experience some must-see events, like Montreal’s Chinese New Year or Toronto’s Nuit Blanche.
Nature lovers won’t want to miss exploring the national parks, like Banff and Jasper.
If you’re not a fan of the (very) cold weather, stick to the milder climate of Vancouver!
👉 Plan your getaway: Flights to Canada | Accommodation in Canada | Tourist activities in Canada | Canada tour packages
Japan
The winter in Japan is a magical time with its breathtaking snowy landscapes, and it’s perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a chilly adventure.
While temperatures can drop below freezing in some areas, the Japanese know how to warm up with hot springs and traditional hot drinks like tea and warm sake.
It’s also a great time to experience winter celebrations such as Christmas lights, year-end parties, New Year’s celebrations, and the Sapporo Snow Festival.
👉 Plan your getaway : Flights to Japan | Accommodation in Japan | Tourist activities in Japan | Japan tour packages
Captain Ulysses hopes to have inspired and helped you find the perfect fit for your next winter vacation among these 20 options, whether you’re a heat lover or prefer colder destinations.
Sayonara!
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
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