Best Winter Travel Destinations 2026
When winter tightens its icy grip, many people escape to sunny shores and warmer climates, while others enjoy the bite of the cold on snowy slopes. Regardless of your preferred destination, a winter vacation is a delightful seasonal treat.
There are many extraordinary spots around the world, so we’ve rounded up some of the best winter vacation destinations for you. Add these amazing places to your travel wish list. Warm or chilly, they’re all well worth a visit!
Sunny Winter Vacation Destinations
Are you longing to break away from the chill and soak up some sun? Here are our favorite places for winter sun holidays.
The Maldives
Few things define a winter escape quite like an island winter vacation. The Maldives, a collection of coral-covered volcanic mountain crests, is an archipelago on the equator. Numerous people flock to these islands to experience warm weather, gorgeous beaches, crystalline seas, and astounding marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays.
Luxury resorts offer everything you could ever want for a dream family vacation, romantic getaway, or wellness break. Indulge in mouthwatering food and leave the chilly weather behind.
Bali, Indonesia
This world-favorite destination needs no introduction and is the perfect place to escape the cold. Although October through February is Bali’s rainy season, it’s a tropical utopia like no other. Its mix of sandy beaches, aquamarine waters, world-class surf breaks, lush forests, and waterfalls is one of its strongest selling points.
Visitors can also join a range of top-shelf accommodations, lively beach parties, wellness experiences, and incredible food. Many tourists return year after year, which is probably Bali’s highest recommendation.
Alicante, Spain
If you’re looking for a sunny winter destination that’s pleasantly warm without being too hot, Alicante is the place for you. Its mild daytime temperatures and colder nights merge T-shirt days with sweater evenings, giving you the best versions of both.
Steeped in history, visit the age-old Santa Barbara Castle sitting on its hilltop overlooking the blue waters of the Mediterranean. You can also check out Old Town, with its bustling street-side restaurants and shops. Alicante offers an unforgettable cultural experience, lazy beaches, and exciting water sports.
The Algarve, Portugal
Known for its dramatic golden cliffs and described by many as one of the most beautiful places in the world, this sunny European winter destination is an experience in history, stunning shores, and delicious food.
While its waters may be a little too nippy for wintertime snorkeling, diving, and swimming, the beaches are just perfect for sunset walks and a complete disconnect from the hustle of everyday life. Brimming with history, places such as Lagos open a window into Roman and Moorish life thousands of years ago. There are also markets, golfing, and many other incredible experiences. We suggest consulting a map to get to know the lay of the land and marking the spots you’d most like to visit.
Snowy Winter Wonderlands
Do you enjoy the feel of winter nipping at your cheeks and nose while zooming down a snowy slope? How about wandering through historic towns with white-capped roofs and the glow of festive lights? Let’s take a closer look at some of the world’s best winter wonderland vacation destinations.
Lapland, Finland
Recognized globally as the headquarters of Santa Claus, Lapland is the definition of unique. Unlike ritzy alpine resorts, this northernmost corner of Finland has an untouched wilderness with prime access to the famed and mysterious Aurora Borealis. It’s an Arctic experience in its rawest, truest form.
Enjoy activities such as husky sledding, reindeer safaris, and snowmobile adventures. There’s something for every age and preference, making it appealing to solo travelers, families, and couples alike.
Banff, Canada
Nestled in the midst of the Canadian Rockies, Banff has all the right ingredients for a winter wonderland. From its snow-covered fir trees to natural hot springs, there are so many things to do and see.
It’s a premium hub for winter sports such as skiing and snow tubing. Visitors also praise the walking trails along the scenic lakes. You can stay in historic luxury resorts and indulge in VIP pampering, cozy cabins, or budget-friendly hotels.
Iceland
Another one-of-a-kind winter escape, Iceland is home to some of the most amazing sights in the world. During the cold season, its landscapes evolve into rugged beauty that will take your breath away.
With frozen waterfalls, a white snowy cloak as far as the eyes can see, turquoise-blue glaciers, ice caves, and the Northern Lights, Iceland is a world filled with unforgettable wonders. View whales in the wild and experience natural hot springs and geysers. It’s an incredible adventure!
Spitsbergen, Norway
If you’re looking for a unique experience, Spitsbergen is another must-visit on your travel agenda. It’s an island off Norway’s mainland and home to astounding wildlife, including polar bears and polar foxes.
You can go on land or water explorations. Experience remote cottage living and saunas overlooking the mountains, discover the wonders of ice caves on a snowmobile, or zip through the landscapes on a dog sled. This destination ticks all the boxes for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
Zermatt, Switzerland
An ideal winter escape for skiers and non-skiers alike, Zermatt sits in the Swiss Alps at the foot of the renowned Matterhorn. This traditional alpine village is full of charm, with its snow-capped chalets, cozy eateries, and wonderful winter activities.
Incredible on-piste and off-piste slopes make this a skiing mecca, but there’s more on offer than just challenging the heights on two planks strapped to your feet. You can also explore glaciers, snowshoe, and simply wander through its picture-perfect little streets.
A winter vacation is the perfect way to end the old year and start the new one. Visit these destinations to make your winter holiday dreams come true!
By: @olivia
(Olivia Harper)