20+ Beautiful Winter Destinations with Snow

Alaska, United States

Despite its snowy reputation, over 65% of tourists only visit Alaska in summer. However, Alaska can easily rival any of Europe’s Arctic destinations, making it an excellent choice for your winter travels. Visiting Alaska in winter is a great choice to escape crowds, support a sustainable year-round local tourism economy, and try fun winter activities. 

Snowboarding or skiing at Alyeska is unparalleled, with incredible views from the summit. If you’re not a skier, relax at the Nordic Spa, go tubing, and enjoy the small town of Girdwood. Book a few nights at the Alyeska Hotel. 

Head North to Fairbanks, the perfect launching point for Northern Lights tours and dog-sledding adventures. If you’re brave, take a dip in Chena Hot Springs, where outdoor temperatures can reach -40°F.

If you’re in Alaska on a weekend, ride the Aurora Winter Train for an incredible journey across Alaska to see some of the best rural snowy landscapes in the world! Stop in Talkeetna for a winter flight-seeing tour, or go all the way to Fairbanks. 

Traveling around Alaska in winter can be logistically challenging. The average snowfall across the state is 20 feet, but some areas can get up to 50 feet! A great tip is to book a multi-day package with a locally owned and operated tour company for a stress-free way to see the best of the state, without worrying about winter driving. Make sure you pack lots of thermal layers and rent or borrow cold-weather clothing.

Antarctica

A journey to Antarctica is less a vacation and more a pilgrimage to the planet’s last great wilderness. Visiting during the austral summer—from November to March, which conveniently aligns with the Northern Hemisphere’s winter—means experiencing the surreal phenomenon of the midnight sun, where daylight stretches for nearly 24 hours. The continent is a realm of overwhelming scale and pristine beauty, a world painted in infinite shades of white and blue. Silence is a tangible presence, broken only by the calving of colossal glaciers, the cries of seabirds, or the splash of a breaching whale. It’s an otherworldly environment that is profoundly humbling, reminding you of the raw, untamed power of nature.

Since you are living aboard your expedition vessel, every day is an adventure dictated by the ice and weather. The quintessential Antarctic activity is cruising through ice-choked channels in a small, sturdy Zodiac boat. These nimble craft allow you to navigate among sculpted icebergs of impossible blue, getting eye-to-eye with basking leopard seals or curious penguins. Of course, the wildlife is a primary draw; shore landings bring you to vast penguin rookeries, where the comical antics of tens of thousands of Adélie, gentoo, and chinstrap penguins unfold around you. For the ultimate rite of passage, many travelers take the polar plunge in Antarctica —a breathtakingly cold but exhilarating dip into the frigidwaters. This unforgettable moment earns you lifetime bragging rights.

Choosing your vessel is the most critical decision for an Antarctic journey, as there are no hotels on the continent. For an experience rooted in exploration and education, Hurtigruten Expeditions is an outstanding choice. With a 125-year heritage in Norwegian polar exploration, their focus goes far beyond sightseeing. Their ships are purpose-built for polar waters and serve as floating basecamps, complete with state-of-the-art Science Centers. Onboard, a dedicated Expedition Team of scientists, glaciologists, and naturalists provides fascinating lectures and guides every excursion, enriching your understanding of the fragile ecosystem.

French Alps, France

The French Alps are part of the greater Alpine chain, which stretches about 1,200 km (750 miles) across eight countries from France to Slovenia. It is roughly the size of Belgium!

The French section is home to incredible and famous stations like Chamonix, Courchevel, Val d’Isère, and Megève… Or les Trois Vallées, which is the largest ski area in the world!

If you are looking for a smaller, more family-oriented station, Soline from On the Road Diary recommends La Rosière!

There are ski slopes for all levels, ski lessons, sledding runs, snowshoe hikes, and even an “x-treme luge” roller coaster! It’s a 700-meter roller coaster through the woods. We recommend staying in Hotel Relais du Petit St Bernard for the best stay!

If you are looking for a more animated station, head to Avoriaz. This fabulous station is car-free, meaning you can do everything on foot or on ski. It has a lot of bars and great restaurants. Stay in Hotel Névé.

Hakuba, Japan

Winter is a magical time to visit Japan, and the Hakuba Valley is one of the best places to experience the country’s snow-capped Alps. From mid-December through early May, the region transforms into a winter wonderland of deep powder, cozy inns, and steaming onsens. Skiers and snowboarders will be in heaven, but even non-skiers can enjoy the breathtaking alpine scenery and snowy charm.

Hakuba delivers when it comes to snow, the valley’s resorts average 11–13 metres (36–43 feet) each season. The ski season usually begins in mid-December, with January and February bringing the heaviest falls.

Here are three top things to do in Hakuba in winter:

• Ski or snowboard across ten resorts. With 90+ lifts and 200+ runs, there’s terrain to suit every level.
  
• Soak in a traditional onsen. After a strenuous and cold day on the slopes, nothing beats relaxing in a steaming hot spring.
  
• Visit the Snow Monkey Park. Watch the famous Japanese macaques bathe in their own hot springs in nearby Jigokudani, a truly unique winter experience.

Accommodation in Hakuba books out quickly in ski season and especially during peak times like Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year, so plan ahead. We recommend Asuka Lodge, located just 50 metres from the Happo One gondola and close to restaurants and shops. It offers spacious quad family rooms, its own onsen, and a prime location on the main street.

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is a perfect winter destination with plenty of snow from December to March, situated right in the heart of the Austrian Alps. The city itself sits at 574 meters, but the surrounding mountains rise high, guaranteeing snowy slopes and stunning views.

One of the best things to do in Innsbruck is take the Nordkette cable car, bringing you from the city center up to the mountains, to Seegrube or Hafelekar, withing 20 minutes, where  you’ll find yourself in the middle of the snow. Here, you can enjoy stunning views over Innsbruck and the surrounding snow-covered peaks, go skiing, winter hiking or even sledding. Also, exploring Innsbruck’s Old Town is a must. The colorful buildings and the famous Golden Roof look magical with a dusting of snow. Don’t miss the Christmas markets if you visit in December, with lots of local crafts and food. Lastly, don’t forget visiting one of the nearby ski resorts, like Patscherkofel, Axamer Lizum and Kühtai, both easily reachable from the city and great for all skill levels.

When visiting in winter, dress in layers and prepare for chilly weather, especially in the mountains. Public transport is excellent, making it easy to explore without a car. 

It is recommended to stay in the city center, such as Hotel Stage 12, so you can enjoy both the winter sports and the city’s rooftop bars and restaurants. Looking for a more adventurous stay? In the nearby ski resort Kühtai, you can spend the night in an igloo.

Jasper, Canada

Jasper, Alberta is a beautiful mountain town to visit for guaranteed snow on your winter vacation. While it’s smaller than other tourist hotspots (like Banff or Whistler), less people come here in winter, especially because Jasper is further away from major Canadian airports like Vancouver or Calgary. Jasper has a great selection of restaurants, bars, hotels, shops, and beautiful natural areas to choose from.
There are tons of cool things to do in Jasper in winter. For example, some people go skiing or snowboarding at nearby Marmot Basin Ski Resort, while others like ice-skating on Pyramid Lake or looking at partially frozen Athabasca Falls.

On average, Jasper town gets 190 cm (6+ feet) of snow during the winter months. It usually starts snowing here in October. Winter typically ends in April, but snowfall can still occur in May.

The best place to stay in Jasper is the Astoria Hotel. This centrally located historic hotel has been family-owned since opening in 1925. It’s also close to restaurants, bars, and shops, and the rooms are very nice and clean. Besides, it’s usually not as expensive in the winter as it is in the summer months.

Visitors going to Jasper in winter should bring warm clothing, as it can get super cold here (up to -35C/-31F). Additionally, some areas can become slippery, so wearing sturdy winter boots (and possibly ice cleats) is essential. Fortunately, many shops in Jasper also sell winter gear.

Lapland, Finland

Stepping into Finnish Lapland during winter is like walking into a real-life fairy tale. Located deep within the Arctic Circle, this region transforms into a pristine wonderland where heavy blankets of snow silence the landscape and evergreen trees droop under the weight of the frost. The days are short and the air is crisp, but the ethereal twilight, known as the “blue moment” or kaamos, casts a magical, soft glow over everything. It’s a place where the cold is not just a temperature but a core part of an enchanting atmosphere, promising cozy fires, warm drinks, and unforgettable arctic adventures.

The magic of Lapland isn’t just in the scenery; it’s in the unique activities that are only possible here. A quintessential experience is embarking on a Northern Lights safari. Venturing away from the city lights on a snowmobile or in a reindeer-drawn sleigh, you can gaze up at the dark sky in hopes of witnessing the celestial ballet of the Aurora Borealis—an ethereal dance of green and purple light. For a daytime thrill, nothing beats mushing your own team of huskies on a sledding tour. The only sounds are the panting of the energetic dogs and the swish of the sled’s runners as you glide through silent, snow-covered forests. This was literally a dream come true for me. Finally, no visit is complete without a trip to the Santa Claus Village, the official hometown of Santa, where you can meet the man himself, cross the marked Arctic Circle line, and send a postcard home from his official post office.

When it comes to finding a place to stay, the city of Rovaniemi serves as the perfect gateway to your arctic adventures. For an unforgettable stay that combines modern luxury with natural immersion, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is an exceptional choice. Instead of traditional rooms, you stay in luxurious, beautifully designed suites on stilts, complete with a floor-to-ceiling panoramic window that faces the northern forest. These cozy “nests” allow you to watch for the Northern Lights or simply admire the snowy landscape from the warmth and comfort of your bed, perfectly capturing the enchanting spirit of a Lapland winter.

Mestia, Georgia

Mestia is one of Georgia’s most rewarding winter destinations, offering a mix of adventure and stunning scenery. Set in the Svaneti region of the Caucasus Mountains, the town is at its best when covered in snow, with its famous medieval towers rising above the rooftops like something from a storybook. Mestia in winter is so pretty, as the snow not only transforms the views but also creates opportunities to experience the area in unique ways.

Snowfall in Mestia is heavy and consistent, often lasting from late November until well into March. Expect thick layers on the roads and rooftops, and frequent fresh falls that can change the landscape overnight. This makes it a reliable destination for winter sports and a true snowy escape.

For activities, skiing is the highlight, with Hatsvali and Tetnuldi ski resorts both easily accessible and offering runs for all levels. A winter-only experience worth trying is a traditional banya session, where you can warm up in the steam before stepping outside into the snow, both refreshing and very local. For something cultural, climb a Svan tower or visit the Svaneti Museum to learn more about the region’s history.

When visiting in winter, pack warm layers, waterproof boots, and be prepared for road delays during snowstorms. It’s also wise to allow extra travel time when planning day trips. For accommodation, Hotel Posta is a great choice: centrally located, with cosy rooms, mountain views, and hearty local meals.

Prokletije National Park, Albania

Right up on Albania’s border with Montenegro, Prokletije National Park is better known as the Accursed Mountains. In winter it feels like a completely different world. From December through to March, nearby villages like Lëpushë and Vermosh get a good covering of snow, and the high slopes remain snow covered until early spring.

Part of its charm is that Prokletije is not a polished ski destination. Here you can snowshoe out across the Ropojana Valley, a glacial basin surrounded by jagged cliff views, or walk parts of the Valbona toTheth trail when conditions allow. 

Even just spending a few days in the villages of Vermosh or Lëpushë is special,  the pace slows right down, cosy wood stoves are always on, and you can sit back with a hot drink watching the snowfall across the mountain slopes.

Getting here in the cold months does take some planning. Roads can close after a storm, plus daylight is short. Regardless, the bigger, more well known Guest Houses remain open. Pack proper layers and sturdy boots. My personal tip is to not expect everything to run on schedule due to the snowfall — having buffer days is a good idea.

For a base that is simple and welcoming, Guesthouse Alpini in Lëpushë is a great pick. It’s family-run, always warm, and serves hearty home-cooked meals, including vegetarian-friendly options. Exactly what you want after a day out in the snow.

Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City is a fantastic place to visit in the winter. The cobblestone streets and historic buildings look straight out of a snow globe, and you can count on plenty of snow — the city averages 124 inches each year. It’s cold, yes, but that’s part of the charm, and if you dress for it, you’ll see why winter is such a special time to visit.

Quebec City offers plenty of things to do in the winter — from skating at Place d’Youville rink in the heart of the city to racing down the century-old toboggan run by Château Frontenac. For something unique, don’t miss the Hôtel de Glace, a hotel built entirely of ice and snow just outside the city. While you’re there, head to Montmorency Falls to see the waterfall frozen solid — it’s even taller than Niagara and pretty spectacular in winter. If you’re into outdoor adventure, nearby Mont-Sainte-Anne and Le Massif offer some of the best skiing in Eastern Canada.

Visiting in winter does mean bundling up. Temperatures often dip well below freezing, so warm layers, a good coat, and proper boots are a must. The bonus is that crowds are smaller compared to summer, and prices can be a little lower too — except in February when Carnaval de Québec brings in visitors from all over.

For an iconic stay, book a night at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. This castle-like hotel overlooking the St. Lawrence River is not only the most photographed hotel in the world, but also the perfect base for a winter getaway in Quebec City.

Reykjavik, Iceland

A winter trip to Reykjavik, Iceland, is an immersion into a world of dramatic contrasts, where fire and ice coexist in a stunning landscape. The world’s northernmost capital becomes a cozy hub of warmth and light against the backdrop of short days and long, dark nights. Snow dusts the colorful rooftops of the city’s buildings and the iconic spire of Hallgrímskirkja church. At the same time, geothermal steam rises from vents, reminding you of the volcanic power simmering just beneath the surface. Far from being a dormant city, winter in Reykjavik is vibrant, offering a welcoming, energetic basecamp for exploring the raw, untamed beauty of the Icelandic wilderness.

From Reykjavik, a host of unforgettable winter experiences are just a day trip away. The number one reason for a winter visit is, of course, the chance to hunt for the Northern Lights. Joining a guided tour takes you away from the city’s light pollution into the dark countryside, offering the best chances of witnessing the awe-inspiring auroral display. Another essential activity is driving the famous Golden Circle route. In winter, Gullfoss waterfall is a breathtaking spectacle, partially frozen and surrounded by glistening ice, while the Geysir geothermal area sends spouts of boiling water into the frosty air, creating dramatic clouds of steam. For ultimate relaxation, a visit to a hot spring, like the Blue Lagoon is a must; soaking in its geothermally heated, milky-blue waters while crisp, cold air surrounds you is a surreal and deeply restorative experience.

After a day spent exploring Iceland’s frozen wonders, a comfortable and stylish hotel is essential for recharging. For a stay that perfectly blends modern design with a prime location, look no further than the Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre. Situated in the heart of the city, this hotel captures the Icelandic spirit with its locally inspired art and sophisticated, cozy atmosphere. You can unwind at the hotel’s café, sample local treats during the complimentary evening tasting, and then retreat to a chic, comfortable room. Its central location makes it the perfect base for exploring Reykjavik’s shops and restaurants on foot, providing an ideal haven to return to after your wild, wintry adventures.

Šiauliai, Lithuania

Šiauliai might not be the first place you think of for a winter break. But it really is magical in the snow.

Seeing the Hill of Crosses dusted in snow on a crisp, sunny winter’s day was unforgettable. The thousands of frost-covered crosses glittering in the golden sunlight was one of the most beautiful winter scenes I’ve ever experienced.

If you’re visiting during December, you’ll find Šiauliai sparkling with festive cheer. The Šiauliai Winter festival of events runs mid-November to early January, with Christmas markets, concerts, and a Ferris wheel bringing festive charm. Don’t miss the main Christmas tree and Santa’s residence in Resurrection Square, and if you stay into January you’ll see the Three Kings procession bringing the season to a close.

On snowy days, bundle up and wander Sundial Square. Or, if the weather turns, head indoors to the Rūtos Chocolate Museum, the Cat Museum or the quirky Museum of Photography.

For a comfy and convenient base, I recommend staying at the three-star Hotel Šiauliai– it’s right in the centre and perfect for exploring on foot.

With frequent snowfall and temperatures hovering between 0°C and -7°C, winter in Šiauliai is properly cold, so pack layers, sturdy boots, a warm hat, and thick gloves. A windproof coat will also help to keep you toasty. Another tip is to bring some Euros in cash too, for smaller purchases.

Visit Šiauliai in winter to experience its true Baltic charm with fewer crowds, better prices and stunning snow-covered scenery.

Svalbard, Norway

Svalbard, Norway, is pretty much as far north as you can get—it’s actually home to the northernmost city in the world! 

Accordingly, Svalbard enjoys a long snowy season, from around September all the way through June. To have the most pleasant visit to Svalbard, consider avoiding the depths of winter, from November to January. During this period, Svalbard experiences the “polar night”, where, due to its northern location, the sun literally doesn’t rise for months at a time! 

Svalbard is a polar desert and, due to the low precipitation here, there’s actually not as much snow as you might imagine during the colder months—typically about a foot of snow will remain on the ground through the wintertime. 

If you’re coming to see both wildlife and snow, your best bet is to come in May, June, or September, when you can join an expedition cruise that sails to some of the more remote fjords in the archipelago and see walruses, arctic foxes, and polar bears. 

Outside of these shoulder months, travel around Svalbard’s islands is much more difficult in the winter, due to the significant amount of sea ice, so you’ll mainly be spending your time in its largest city, Longyearbyen. Luckily, there are tons of things to do in Longyearbyen in the wintertime, from multi-day sled dog expeditions to seeing some of the world’s most epic displays of the Northern Lights. 

Be sure to book a stay at the Basecamp Hotel, which has been designed to feel like a historic trapper’s cabin, but with modern amenities, like waterfall showers and an onsite chef. You can stay up all night in the shared loft area, with a glass ceiling to stare up at the Northern Lights! 

Swiss Alps, Switzerland

One of the places that comes to mind to all of us when thinking of snowy destinations is to go to the Swiss Alps. The postcard-perfect villages, the incredible mountains, the world-class skiing, and delicious food are just a few of the ingredients to make this one of the best winter destinations in the world.

The Alps cover up to 60% of Switzerland, roughly all the south and east of the country, so you can imagine there are plenty of places to visit, which makes this a perfect destination for either a short escapade or a long trip.

There are my top 3 recommendations to do in the Swiss Alps:

Go Skiing: you’re spoiled for choice in Switzerland, and even though winter seasons are getting trickier, places like Zermatt are almost guaranteed to have snow. Other famous ski resorts are Verbier, Crans-Montana and luxurious St. Moritz.

Do some snowy hikes: Switzerland is a paradise for hiking, and that goes across all seasons. One snowy adventure I loved was when I went hiking to Lac Bleu in the Valais Canton.

Go to the prettiest town in Switzerland: Also in the Valais Canton, the town of Evolene was voted a few years ago as the prettiest of all! As it’s a small village, there are no big hotels but instead you can rent a chalet in Evolene, and enjoy the local restaurants for a delicious fondue or raclette and some local Fendant white wine.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn in winter honestly felt like walking into a fairytale, but with the kind of charm that makes you stop and pinch yourself. The ferry ride over from Helsinki was something else – cutting through the ice with little frozen islands along the way was such a unique experience. Early mornings were my favourite time to wander – snow still fresh on the cobblestones, quiet streets, church spires poking through the mist and those incredible views from the lookouts and towers. Ice skating in the Old Town was the absolute highlight for us.

Surrounded by medieval walls, light snow falling, the rink was pure magic – we laughed, slipped and soaked it all in. Food became part of the adventure too: warming up with cinnamon buns from Pulla Bakery, sipping glögi at the Christmas market and dining by candlelight at Olde Hansa where the boys tried wild game for the first time. If you’re looking for a place to stay that’s full of charm and right in the heart of it all, I’d recommend Kullassepa Boutique Apartments – Square View, where you can wake up to the magic of Tallinn’s Old Town right outside your window.

My best advice if you’re visiting is to bring proper boots – those cobblestones can get icy – and layer up so you can move easily between the freezing outdoors and the cosy cafés. Definitely grab a Tallinn Card too, it saved us heaps on activities and treats. More than anything though, give yourself time to just wander. It’s those little unplanned moments in the snow that made Tallinn so memorable for us.

Toronto, Canada

Toronto is a great place to visit year-round with friendly locals, delicious food and unique boroughs to explore, however there is something truly magical about exploring this Canadian city in the winter when the streets are lined with snow. January is the heaviest month for snowfall here, but there’s still plenty of the white stuff in December and February to enjoy. 

Naturally, a December visit abounds with holiday cheer and beautiful light displays in the Distillery Historic District and Nathan Phillips Square. The latter is also home to an iconic ice rink for anyone wanting to try their hand at ice skating. The former is a great place to escape the cold, where you can warm up with a local gin or whisky at the Spirit of York Distillery. 

You can also wander the incredible street art of Graffiti Alley (located in Rush Lane) in the snow. It might be perishingly cold, but there’s something unique about strolling through an open-air street gallery with snow piled up underneath the murals. It is totally free to wander through, but I do recommend rugging up so that you can really enjoy the art at a leisurely pace. 

Finally, easily accessible by car or train from Toronto is the remarkable Niagara Falls, which holds a special kind of magic in winter when the falls freeze over, transforming the area into a winter wonderland. This is the kind of viewing that must be seen to be believed. 

The Old Town Toronto area is fantastic, making the Executive Hotel Cosmopolitan Toronto a great accommodation option. This hotel is beautifully designed and offers excellent amenities. It is close to the Distillery District and Yonge Street. 

Tromso, Norway

Tromsø sits well inside the Arctic Circle and is one of the best bases in Norway for a winter trip. The city is compact, easy to get around, and offers a mix of cultural sights and access to nature. Winter is also when the northern lights are most visible, drawing many travellers to the area.

Snow is common from November through April, with regular falls that cover the city and surrounding mountains. Paths in the centre are well cleared, but outside town you can expect deep snow and icy roads, so good boots and warm clothing are essential.

Three activities stand out in winter. Visiting reindeer with Sámi herders gives an insight into local culture as well as a chance to feed the animals. Husky sledding is another popular option, combining speed, scenery and beautiful views. From November to January, whale watching is at its peak, with orcas and humpbacks feeding in the nearby fjords. Tours use hybrid-electric boats to limit disturbance.

Make sure you prepare and pack accordingly, as it gets very cold. Dress in layers, and bring thermal underclothes, gloves, and a hat. Tours often provide outer gear, but having your own base layers makes long days outside more comfortable.

For accommodation, Scandic Ishavshotel is a good choice. It’s on the harbour with straightforward rooms, a reliable breakfast, and easy walking access to most tour pick-ups in the city centre.

Whitefish, Montana, USA

Winter in Whitefish, Montana, is nothing short of magical, and it’s actually a fairly budget-friendly destination, as far as winter getaways go. Nestled at the edge of Glacier National Park, Whitefish transforms into a snowy playground each winter with the town receiving about 70 inches annually, while Whitefish Mountain Resort, just minutes away, gets an impressive 300 inches.

Hitting the slopes at Whitefish Mountain is a must, with long runs, varied terrain, and stunning views. For a truly unique experience, though, book a sleigh ride with Clydesdale Outpost, where majestic draft horses pull you through this frozen paradise. For a quieter adventure, try cross-country skiing through the snow-covered forest of Glacier National Park. Unlike the busy summer tourist season, you’ll have the park almost entirely to yourself.

Visiting Whitefish in the winter does come with some practical considerations. Whitefish Mountain Resort is notorious for its foggy conditions, so be sure to check the weather before heading up. Driving a vehicle with good (perhaps studded) tires is also essential for navigating the area’s icy roads. As always, dress in layers; although Whitefish is in a more temperate corner of the state, the temperatures can drop precipitously in a matter of hours.

When it’s time to retire for the evening, Apres Whitefish is one of the coziest hotel options, featuring modern rooms with a ski lodge aesthetic – and their famous crispy Liege waffles are served in the lobby every morning!

Zakopane & the Tatra Mountains, Poland

Zakopane, a highlander capital of Tatra mountains is a fantastic destination all year round, but it can be exceptionally magical in the winter, when the mountains are covered by snow.

With ever-changing weather patterns, the snowfall is unpredictable, but you should expect snow from November to March, with more of it in the higher parts of the mountains.

Regular snowfall makes Zakopane a great destination for winter sports including skiing/snowboarding and hiking or climbing. There are several ski trails for all abilities, the most famous being Kasprowy Wierch or Gubalowka.  For those who prefer to walk, there are several valley walks, including Koscieliska, where the hike ends in a mountain  hut that serves hot chocolate or coffee – a perfect ending to a stunning walk. Alternatively, in some valleys you can also have an opportunity to take part in a horse-drawn sleigh ride (using horses in tourism is now more regulated, making it more sustainable). For experienced climbers and those who come with full winter equipment, there are many routes for winter adventures.

The town itself is unique and offers a lot of attractions like visiting museums or spotting the oldest houses. There are numerous stalls offering traditional food and handmade gifts. Poland has a rich tradition of Christmas celebrations, so December and early January will be fantastic times for those looking to take part in festive celebrations.

Book your accommodation in advance, especially around Christmas and New Year, as Zakopane is a popular winter destination amongst Poles. 

Zermatt, Switzerland

One destination not to be missed with snow is to the beautiful, car-free village of Zermatt in Switzerland. Visiting all year round is possible, but Zermatt during winter (even if you don’t ski!) is a very special time to go. 

During winter, the amount of snow is perfect for those wanting to ski, snowboard, snowshoe hike or simply to explore with the local cable cars and scenic trains. From late November to the end of March is the best time for this. 

For three special things to do while visiting during the snowy period, it’s firstly a must to head up to the Klein Matterhorn at 3,883 meters. Here you can enjoy the views at their official viewing platform, as well as visit their cinema lounge and walk through the Glacier Palace ice tunnel. Indulge in a bite to eat at their restaurant before heading back down.

Secondly, no visit to Zermatt would be complete without taking the cogwheel train to Gornergrat. You can buy tickets in advance else on the day at their ticket office. This has fantastic views of the Matterhorn and you can combine this with a snowshoe hike or take a fun sledging experience! 

Thirdly, enjoy the village! Zermatt village has some wonderful little boutiques, restaurants, cafe’s and the Matterhorn Museum Zermatlantis that you can explore during winter. 

For your visit, we personally recommend staying at House Mojo. They have self-accommodation apartments, located right near the Matterhorn Express gondola for the mornings and just a short walk from the village centre. They have a few options, all with a balcony and view of the Matterhorn from the window. 

Final Thoughts

From the untouched icy wilderness of the polar regions to the charming, snow-dusted villages of Europe and the legendary powder of mountain resorts, it’s clear that winter offers a world of breathtaking beauty. Each of these twenty destinations provides a unique invitation to embrace the cold and discover the magic that only a blanket of fresh snow can bring. So whether you’re now dreaming of dog sledding under the northern lights, skiing down a pristine alpine slope, or simply sipping hot cocoa in a cozy cabin surrounded by a silent, white forest, don’t let the season pass you by.

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