Winter is slowly arriving, as the air gets chilly and temperatures drop into an icy-cold one. Winter is the perfect time to take a stroll in the city in fluffy coats, get a cup of hot chocolate or blazing vodka, and go out for ski trips. It is also the perfect time to fly somewhere sunny and find yourself sinking your feet into the warm, tropical waters. Snowy paradise or equatorial wonders, anything would be awesome for winter getaways!
Whether you are looking for a winter wonderland with northern lights and vibrant markets or a sunny paradise with sandy beaches and lush nature to visit this winter, you’ve landed in the right place! Thanks to our expert travelers and passionate local guides, we have compiled a list of 17 best winter getaways around the world. Check out the list and find a destination that fits your travel dreams!
TL;DR: Where is the Best Place to Vacation in Winter?
The best winter getaways for 2025 range from snowy escapes and sunny destinations. Our community’s top picks include Lapland’s Arctic wilderness, Iceland’s breathtaking nature, Andorra-Pyrenees less-visited ski slopes, and Vienna’s Christmas vibes. Moreover, our experienced travelers and local guides choose the tropical beaches of Mexico and Thailand, hiking trails in Gran Canaria, and the vibrant colors of Cartagena and Antalya for sunny getaways. Choosing the best winter destination is not only about how amazing the place looks or how exciting the activities it offer, but also what kind of vacation are you craving for.
Best Winter Getaways for 2025 – Summary
- Lapland, Finland
- Iceland
- Zermatt, Switzerland
- Andorra-Pyrenees, Spain
- Vienna, Austria
- Prague, Czech Republic
- Lake Bled, Slovenia
- Niseko, Japan
- New York City, USA
- Lake Tahoe, USA
- Gran Canaria, Spain
- Paphos, Cyprus
- Antalya, Turkey
- Cartagena, Colombia
- Zipolite, Mexico
- Agadir, Morocco
- Koh Phangan, Thailand
Snowy Getaways for Winter 2025
1. Lapland, Finland
Best for: Northern Lights, Arctic adventures, and Christmas vibes
Lapland tops the list for magical winter vacations. “Lapland fits the word ‘winter wonderland’ perfectly. You can see various landscapes, from snowy pine forests to amazing ski slopes. It’s a place to enjoy Arctic adventures such as dog-sledding, visiting Santa Claus Village, and seeing the northern lights,” said TripLeader Aleksandr, a student who spends the winter hosting annual trips to his home Finland. Besides what Aleksandr has recommended, you can also sleep under the northern lights by staying in a glass igloos. Last but not least, enjoy winter the Finnish way by soaking in saunas after a day of adventure.
2. Iceland
Best for: Outdoor adventures and dramatic landscapes
Iceland transforms into a wonderland of ice caves, frozen waterfalls, and glowing aurora displays during winter. Explore the famous Golden Circle, relax in the steamy Blue Lagoon, and join guided tours to witness the northern lights. Its dramatic volcanic landscapes, paired with geothermal hot springs, make Iceland one of the most striking winter getaways in 2025.
3. Zermatt, Switzerland
Best for: Villa stays, sightseeing, and Alpine towns
Imagine waking up to the amazing panorama of towering mountain tops and a series of pure white snowy hills, along with a colorful miniature of buildings in the mountains’ valley. You can get this scenery in Zermatt, Switzerland. The small town is the home of classic European villages, fantastic ski trips, fairytale-like glacier structures, and the glorious Matterhorn mountain. Spending winter in this Swiss town means scenic strolls along the town with a mountainous landscape, fantastic ski experiences, gorgeous sightseeing, and sizzling cuisines. With all it wonders, Zermatt is one of the best winter getaways for 2025.
4. Andorra-Pyrenees, Spain
Best for: Budget-friendly skiing
Hidden in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, Andorra is a fantastic choice for budget-friendly skiing and snowboarding. Its ski resorts feature extensive runs and lively après-ski options, while the surrounding villages offer Romanesque churches and warm mountain hospitality. It’s a winter getaway that blends adventure with old-world charm.
5. Vienna, Austria
Best for: Christmas markets
Vienna dazzles in winter with its elegant architecture and festive spirit. Explore imperial palaces, sip mulled wine at famous Christmas markets, and catch a classical concert in one of Europe’s music capitals. With cozy cafés and ornate streets blanketed in light snow, Vienna is a romantic winter vacation destination.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
Best for: Christmas markets and cityscape
This city looks like it was straight out of a fairytale! Gothic architecture, pastel-colored buildings, and a pretty river completed Prague’s charm. Visiting Prague in winter means visiting a winter wonderland!
Prague is recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and it looks wonderful in winter. Prague transforms into a romantic, fairytale-like town with pure-white snow covering it. Moreover, winter calls for glimmering city lights and festive festivals, making this Eastern European city looks magical. Spend a wonderful winter in Prague by visiting its historical buildings and marveling at the beautiful spots.
7. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Best for: Sightseeing and budget-friendly vacation
When we talk about fairytale-like winter destinations in Europe, our minds run to Hallstatt. But, what if we told you that Hallstatt has a beautiful yet budget-friendly and less-crowded cousin? You can head to Lake Bled, Slovenia’s gem that attracts travelers regardless of the season. Lake Bled feels like a scene from a storybook in winter, with its emerald waters reflecting snow-covered mountains and a tiny island church. You can hike around the frozen lake, sample famous Bled cream cake, and enjoy peaceful views of the Julian Alps. It’s a serene escape for solo travelers, but you can also easily enjoy it with a small group.
8. Niseko, Japan
Best for: Skiing
Thanks to TripLeader Victor from Spain, we discovered that this world-class ski resort in Hokkaido deserves more popularity. Victor flies every year to Niseko to enjoy the best powder skiing slopes. It is a paradise for powder-snow lovers, as well as a resort town offering true relaxation. You can soak into a traditional onsen (hot springs) and have a fresh seafood and ramen. Niseko blends thrilling outdoor adventure with Japanese hospitality.
9. New York City, USA
Best for: City escape, massive Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebration
New York City in winter sparkles with festive lights, ice-skating rinks, and world-class entertainment. Visitors can admire the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, shop along Fifth Avenue, or watch a Broadway show. Whether it’s for holiday magic or cozy evenings in chic restaurants, NYC is a classic winter vacation spot.
10. Lake Tahoe, USA
Best for: Winter sports and sightseeing
Lake Tahoe straddles California and Nevada, offering pristine ski resorts and stunning mountain scenery. Visitors can ski or snowboard by day, then enjoy lively nightlife and lakeside dining at night. Winter hikes and snowshoe trails also provide a more tranquil way to experience this iconic alpine destination.
Sunny Getaways for Winter 2025
11. Gran Canaria, Spain
Best for: Hiking and social events
For a warm-weather winter getaway, Gran Canaria offers sunny beaches and volcanic landscapes. Explore golden sand dunes in Maspalomas, hike through lush ravines, or relax in charming coastal villages. With pleasant temperatures year-round, it’s an ideal escape from cold climates.
12. Paphos, Cyprus
Best for: Beaches and ancient sites
Paphos blends Mediterranean warmth with fascinating history, making it a perfect off-season retreat. Stroll along scenic harbors, visit ancient ruins like the Tombs of the Kings, and savor fresh seafood by the sea. Mild winter weather and fewer crowds make Paphos a relaxing winter vacation choice.
13. Antalya, Turkey
Best for: Resorts and beaches
Antalya combines rich history with mild winter sunshine on Turkey’s stunning Turquoise Coast. Explore Roman-era ruins, wander old-town Kaleiçi’s narrow streets, and enjoy seaside cafés with sweeping views of the Mediterranean. It’s a great winter getaway for culture lovers and sunseekers alike.
14. Cartagena, Colombia
Best for: Vibrant cityscape and festival
Cartagena offers a tropical winter vacation filled with vibrant Caribbean charm. Colorful colonial streets, lively music, and pristine beaches set the scene for a warm-weather escape. Visitors can explore nearby islands, sample fresh seafood, and dance the night away under the stars.
15. Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Best for: Beaches and digital nomad escapes
“Puerto Escondido is Mexico’s new gem. It is not crowded, laid-back, and home to wild, crystal-clear beaches,” said TripLeader Ellis, an experienced traveler who just got back from her less-discovered Mexico trip. If you think that you cannot handle Tulum and Cancun’s crowds, Puerto Escondido is for you. Ellis mentioned the town as “a mix of Tulum and Bali before social media. Find yourself chasing the waves in the morning, working remotely or mingling with fellow travelers in a hippie cafe, and catching sunsets by the beach. Then, the relaxed vibe and golden sands make it an ideal winter getaway for nature lovers.
16. Agadir, Morocco
Best for: Surfing
Agadir—often mistaken for Mexico—offers North Africa’s warm winter sunshine and wide sandy beaches. Enjoy camel rides along the coast, explore vibrant souks, and indulge in Moroccan cuisine rich with spices. Its combination of beach relaxation and cultural discovery makes Agadir a unique winter vacation spot.
17. Koh Phangan, Thailand
Best for: Party, beaches, and social-laidback vibes
Rather than Phuket or Krabi, TripLeader Timo who has backpacked around Southeast Asia for 10 years, recommended Koh Phangan instead. Timo described Koh Phangan as more ‘niche’, attracting mostly backpackers compared to Phuket that is more touristy. The pristine Thai island is famous for the monthly Full Moon Party, where travelers drink cocktails, wear neon shirts, and dance together at Sunrise Beach. However, Koh Phangan is more than just a party island. Let the crystal-clear waters, palm-fringed beaches, and hidden temples sweep you off your feet. With all it has to offer, Koh Phangan is one of the best winter getaways in Asia.
Plan Your Winter Getaways with Like-Minded Buddies
Whether you’re chasing snow-capped peaks or seeking sunshine, these 17 winter getaways for 2025 deliver unforgettable experiences. Start planning your winter vacation now and embrace the season with adventures that match your dream destination.