Top 6 Cold Weather Getaways to Visit in 2024
With icy landscapes, cozy accommodations, and the excitement of snow sports, cold weather destinations beckon travelers to visit. Take a break from the beach by visiting enchanting winter destinations.
From ethereal northern lights, to the towering peaks of the Alps, these top 6 destinations offer a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, and are all the rage for
6 Must-Visit Cold Weather Destinations
PREPARING FOR WINTER TRAVEL
Be Ready for Delays
Winter travel means winter weather. Be prepared for snow storms or ice that could delay your flights, trains, and buses. Check the status of your transportation ahead of time and sign up for alerts to stay up-to-date on your travels.
Pack Smart
Cold weather clothing can be difficult to pack. Instead of bulky sweaters, opt for packing thin, warm, layers that pack up smaller. Brands like SmartWool and Patagonia make great thin wool base layers.
Be able to fit more in your suitcase by packing your layers in space-saving compression cubes!
Travel Insurance
Unfortunately, winter sports can come with the risk of injury. Protect yourself and your trip from unforeseen expenses by purchasing travel insurance.
Now that you’re prepared, it’s time to plan where you’re going!
Top 6 Winter Weather Destinations
Reykjavik, Iceland
Zermatt, Switzerland
Aspen, Colorado, USA
Quebec City, Canada
Lapland, Finland
Nagano, Japan
1. Reykjavik, Iceland
WHAT TO DO
When it comes to embracing the winter chill, Reykjavik, Iceland, stands as a testament that the cold is worth it. With "ice" embedded in its name, Iceland is a cold weather destination like no other. Here, winter isn't just a season; it's a culture and a lifestyle.
Witness the Aurora Borealis
Iceland is renowned as one of the best places on Earth to witness the northern lights. The winter months, with their long nights, as well as limited light pollution, provide a prime opportunity for northern light visibility. Picture yourself standing beneath the shimmering green and pink hues, a true bucketlist moment for any winter adventurer.
Warmth Amidst the Cold
While the air might be chilly, Iceland offers a unique way to warm up — in the soothing spa-like experience of natural hot springs. Among these, the Blue Lagoon is an iconic choice, and it lives up to its reputation without being overhyped. Immerse yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by snowy landscapes. The healing properties of these geothermal pools is a great way to rejuvenate after a long day of travel or snow sports.
Visit the Skywalk
Planning a trip to Reykjavik? Check out Tim and Fin’s Ultimate Iceland Travel Itinerary. Their expert insights provide a comprehensive guide, ensuring you make the most of your Icelandic adventure. From the must-see landmarks to hidden gems, their itinerary will make sure you don’t miss a thing.
Arriving to Reykjavik
Reykjavik is easily accessible from various parts of the world, and Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is the primary airport. When planning your journey, consider booking a flight with Icelandair. Icelandair often allows passengers to extend layovers in Iceland at no extra cost. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore Reykjavik before reaching your final destination.
Ground Transportation
A great way to visit Iceland? Rent a campervan to be able to explore so much more of the country. While gasoline is quite expensive there, it is worth it to be able to be on your own schedule and set up camp wherever you’d like.
2. Zermatt, Switzerland
WHAT TO DO
Nestled in the the Swiss Alps, Zermatt boasts the iconic Matterhorn mountain. While renowned for its premier ski destinations, Zermatt offers a spectrum of winter activities that extend beyond the slopes.
A Haven for Winter Sports Enthusiasts
Zermatt's reputation as a winter sports haven is well-deserved. The powdery slopes bring in skiers and snowboarders from around the world. However, if you're not inclined to carve through the snow, don’t worry — Zermatt has many alternative activities.
Venture into the snow-covered landscapes with snowshoes, creating your own path through the silent wilderness. For a more traditional winter experience, glide across the city's natural ice rink, surrounded by the scenery of the Swiss Alps.
Après-ski Bliss and Alpine Views
No visit to Zermatt is complete without indulging in the renowned Après-ski scene. After a day of snowy adventures, unwind in the warmth of cozy chalets and lively bars. But the adventure doesn't end there. Hop aboard the Klein Matterhorn, the highest cable car system in Europe. Check out the breathtaking panorama of the Alps — a view that will etch itself into your memory. Then again, in Zermatt, there are very few bad views.
Swiss-Italian Ski Adventure
For a bucketlsit experience Zermatt has to offer, take the word of Tim and Fin and ski from Switzerland to Italy. One you’ll never forget!
Arriving to Zermatt
Enjoy The Views of the Journey
When planning your journey to Zermatt, Switzerland, the most convenient airport to fly into is Zurich Airport (ZRH). From Zurich, hop on a train to Zermatt, winding through the Swiss countryside. Wonderful views plus incredible coffee!
The train ride itself becomes a part of the adventure with the beauty of the Swiss landscape. Arriving in Zermatt, you'll find that the village is car-free. It’s charming, but be ready for public transport or walking.
3. Aspen, Colorado, U.S.A
The Rocky Mountains are home to incredible views, endless activity, and mountain towns filled with charm. Find a snowy vacation in the mountains by visiting Aspen.
WHAT TO DO
One Of a Kind Skiing
Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Aspen renowned for its exceptional winter sports facilities. Aspen has not one, but four distinct resorts, each offering its unique charm. Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk make for an oasis for winter sports enthusiasts and offer a diverse range of slopes.
Explore Art and Snow
If the mountain sports aren’t calling your name, Aspen is still the place for you. Beyond the slopes, Aspen unfolds as a destination rich in culture as well. The Aspen Art Museum is and impressive place to immerse yourself in unique exhibits, especially when surrounded by the snowy landscapes. Aspen's art culture is pronounced and is highly inspired by the landscape around it.
Elevated Dining Experiences
For a taste of Aspen's culinary excellence, venture beyond the town's limits. Some of the finest restaurants are high above the town, accessible by a snowcat ride. Imagine a gourmet dinner above 10,000 feet, surrounded by snow-covered peaks. An experience that is unique to Aspen and will elevate your visit.
Arriving to Aspen
For the direct travel, Aspen arrival is seamless when you choose to fly into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE). This small but efficient airport offers direct flights from many major cities. The airport to the town makes for a quick and hassle-free transfer, but can often come with a higher price tag.
Alternatively, consider flying into Denver International Airport (DEN) and enjoying a scenic drive through the Rockies. Choose to either rent a vehicle or take one of the many bus options. If renting a vehicle, ensure that your rental is equipped with All Wheel Drive, for the law and your own safety!
4. Lapland, Finland
Known as the city that Santa Clause calls home, Lapland was meant to be visited in the winter. From northern lights to sunset skiing, Finland is an ultimate winter destination.
WHAT TO DO
Sunset Skiing in the Northernmost Resorts
Lapland boasts some of the most Instagram-able ski resorts. Smaller crowds and a wide variety of terrain, Oy Levi Resort and Saariselkä Resort are ski gems of the North. Though unassuming as first, once the sun begins to set, the mountains are transformed into glowing slopes for sunset skiing. Complete your day by skiing into the seemingly never-ending sunset.
Warm Up in a Sauna
With over 2 million saunas in Finland, a visit to Lapland wouldn't be complete without immersing yourself in the soothing warmth of a traditional Finnish spa. Many accommodations will include a complementary sauna experience connected to where you are staying. Or you can visit a sauna spa, like the famous Kuurakaltio, that also offers a cold plunge cool down.
Experience the Northern Lights
The Arctic is the ultimate location to witness the northern lights. The mix of latitude and low light pollution makes the perfect equation for seeing the lights! To make sure you don’t miss the incredible sights, many accommodations will have an option to receive a phone call when the northern lights are in view.
Unique Stays in Lapland
Sleep Under the Stars in a Glass Igloo
Lapland offers many unique accommodations, a reason to visit in and of itself! For an extraordinary experience, check out the opportunity to sleep in an iconic glass igloo. As you nestle into the coziness of your igloo, you'll look up to be mesmerized by the Northern Lights overhead.
Stay Cool in a SnowHotel
Feeling adventurous? Book a stay in a SnowHotel. This hotel is only open from December to April as it can only be open when the temperature is between 0-5 degrees Celcius! Every year the hotel is rebuild after the warmer months for a new look every year. If a snowy stay isn’t for you, you can still purchase a ticket to tour the hotel and enjoy the icy hotel bar.
5. Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
Step into Quebec City is like stepping into winter fairytale. The mix of the French touch and cobblestone streets of Old Town Quebec City have a historic charm that is accentuated by the snowy atmosphere in the winter.
WHAT TO DO
The Quebec City Winter Carnival
For a world-renowned winter experience, plan your visit from January 25 to February 11 and visit Quebec City during The Winter Carnival. As one of the world's largest winter festivals, it transforms Quebec City into a snowy wonderland. Enjoy an array of snowy activities, from lively parades to snow castle contents, making it a celebration that truly embraces the spirit of the winter.
Visit Montmorency Falls
A short drive from the city, venture to Montmorency Falls and see the beauty of frozen nature. Taking a cable car to the top, you'll see the Montmorency Falls frozen into natural ice sculptures. Once up the cable car, take a walk along the bridge to enjoy the view. For more adventure, take a snowshoe hike around the park or opt for ice climbing!
Old Town Quebec City
Quebec City was made to be wandered. The quaint streets and cozy shops create a charming ambiance especially when dusted by winter snow. On especially chilly days, slip inside to visit museums, palaces, and historical sites. Our favorite way to warm up? A piping hot plate of traditional poutine. Yum!
GETTING AROUND QUEBEC CITY
Try Public Transportation
No need to rent a vehicle when visiting Quebec City! The reliable transportation of the Réseau de transport de la Capitale makes it easy to get around the city. The bus system allows you to seamlessly visit all corners of the city and even explore the suburbs.
The public transportation system will even bring you right into the city from the airport. While taxis and rental cars are available, the train and bus systems will be an efficient and effective way to visit Quebec City.
6. Nagano, Japan
Nagano, nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, is home to three major ski resorts: Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, and Shiga Kogen. Not just a hub for snow sports, Nagano is a perfect blend of snow-covered landscapes, cultural richness, and an incredible food scene.
WHAT TO DO
Visit Snow Monkey Hot Springs
After a day on the slopes, visit Nagano's famous hot springs for a therapeutic soak. The area is dotted with onsen resorts where you can relax in open-air thermal host springs.
While the warm waters are nice after a long day of snow sports, the unique reason to visit the springs are for the snow monkeys that enjoy dipping into the waters with you! Jigokudani Park is most famous for the snow monkey pools and their playful, camera-ready snow monkeys.
Visit a Kamakura Snow Hut
With record-levels of snow, Nagano is able to create a Snow Dome Village during the Liyama Snow Festival. The village puts on a snow festival complete with private kamakura snow hut reservations and a fireworks show. Visit and reserve a kamakura snow hut for locally made hot pot, rice balls, and delicious sweet red bean soup.
Winter Illuminations
During the winter months, there are many luminary festivals to celebrate the winter and new year. Festivals such as the Nagano Lantern Festival and the Kiso Valley Ice Lantern Festival light up the streets and buildings creating a warm atmosphere. Celebrate the festival by enjoying the lights and warming up with traditional soups and hot sake.
ARRIVING TO NAGANO
Tokyo Bullet Train
Arriving to Nagano is an experience in itself. Fly into Tokyo (another great city to visit in the winter) for the chance to take a bullet train to Nagano. The bullet train will have you from Tokyo to Nagano in under 2 hours. The ride is not only quick, but also offers incredible views and incredible Japanese hospitality.
Cool Places for Winter Travel
If you’re looking for a change from your typical tropical get away, it’s time to swap your Bahama Mama for a Hot Toddy! Cold weather destinations are full of adventure and incredible sights waiting for you to discover.
From carving slopes in Aspen to chasing the northern lights in Lapland, winter travel is a unique experience. Enjoy the thrill, magic, and wonder of winter travel!
