12 Beautiful Cities for Winter Vacations That Will Make You Love the Cold

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Looking to take a winter vacation? You are in the right place. Winter transforms some cities around the world into magical wonderlands. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of skiing in the mountains or strolling through twinkling Christmas lights, each of these winter destinations brings its own unique charm to the season.

Beyond the fairytale snow-covered landscapes, you will likely enjoy lower prices and smaller crowds if you visit in winter. But which cities offer the best winter scenery? Here are some recommendations for the best winter getaways. Ready? Grab your warmest winter coats, and let’s head out to 12 of the most beautiful cities for a winter vacation.

Quebec City, Canada

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Located in Quebec Province, Quebec City is known for its historic European-style architecture and rich cultural heritage. The beauty of Quebec City is amplified by the snowfall, which blankets the narrow streets and historic buildings, turning the entire city into a picturesque winter scene.

The iconic Château Frontenac, often considered the most photographed hotel in the world, looks especially beautiful under a layer of snow. The winding streets of Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec) are decorated for the holidays, adding to the city’s fairytale charm.

Lastly, Parc des Champs-de-Bataille (Battlefields Park) and Parc du Bois-de-Coulonge offer serene, snowy landscapes perfect for winter walks and photography. While Quebec City is such a picturesque destination, visiting it in winter is an opportunity to see it in its best scenery.

Reykjavik, Iceland

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Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a fascinating winter destination known for its otherworldly landscapes, vibrant culture, and the magic of the northern lights. Despite the extreme cold, Reykjavik’s winter season offers a unique charm with its snow-covered streets, steaming geothermal pools, and lively winter festivals. It’s the perfect place for those seeking a combination of nature, culture, and adventure.

Reykjavik is framed by stunning mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, both of which take on a serene and almost surreal beauty during winter. Mount Esja, visible from the city, is often covered in snow, creating a breathtaking backdrop. On clear nights, you may see northern lights from Reykjavik. Other highlights that would make your winter vacation in Reykjavik even more memorable include the Blue Lagoon and whale-watching tours.

Don’t miss out on Hallgrímskirkja Church, Reykjavik’s most recognizable landmark. This towering church offers incredible views of the city and the surrounding landscapes from its observation deck, giving you a good opportunity to enjoy views of the city covered in snow.

Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich, the largest Swiss city, is a magnificent destination that offers a perfect blend of festive charm, scenic beauty, and proximity to the Swiss Alps. In winter, Zurich’s streets are lit up with Christmas lights, snow blankets the city, and the festive atmosphere creates an inviting winter wonderland. Its combination of historic architecture, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural scenery makes it a must-visit during the colder months.

The peaceful waters of Lake Zurich are especially stunning in winter, reflecting the snow-covered mountains in the distance. Strolling along the lakefront is such a calming thing to do in Zurich. You can also explore Zurich’s Old Town, where historic buildings are covered in snow and Christmas lights, or find a spot to enjoy views of the Alps.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a destination that has everything to offer for every season, right from fall foliage to cherry blossoms. The city’s scenery in winter is, however, one that you have to experience at least once in your life.

The city’s historic temples, shrines, and traditional gardens are transformed into charming scenery when covered in snow. Luckily, the crowds in Kyoto in winter are thin, allowing tourists to experience the winter wonderland in perfect tranquility.

Some unmissable highlights for beautiful winter scenery include Kyoto’s famous temples, like Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion); Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and gardens like Ryoan-ji and Tenryu-ji. These are typically beautiful spots, but their scenery is exemplified when covered in snow.

Aspen, USA

Most Expensive Destinations in the US Aspen, Colorado — © 360degreeAerial / Shutterstock

Aspen transforms into a picturesque alpine wonderland during winter, with snow-covered mountains, frosted forests, and cozy wooden lodges glowing with lights. The scenic beauty of the surrounding Rocky Mountains, combined with Aspen’s historical architecture, makes the town visually stunning.

While every direction you turn will be photogenic, some of the highlights that make Aspen’s charm a level higher include the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, frozen forests and lakes, and the city’s Victorian-era buildings. Luckily, Aspen is more than just a pretty face; it has a lot of active exploration activities. You can head out to hike, ski, or get active with the city’s vibrant apres-ski scene.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a captivating winter destination that features fairy-tale architecture, charming streets, and rich history. The charm of Prague is even taken a notch higher with snow-dusted rooftops and streets, and festive Christmas markets.

Prague’s Old Town (Staré Město) is particularly magical in winter, with its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings covered with snow. The Old Town Square, with its Christmas market and the Astronomical Clock, is especially picturesque. Other amazing spots to enjoy Prague’s scenic winters include Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the Vltava River.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is another perfect destination for your winter vacation. In winter, this city becomes a snowy wonderland, with its historic buildings, streets and squares covered in snow. In December, the city switches into a festive mood, which can make your vacation even more vibrant.

Hofburg Palace and Schönbrunn Palace covered in snow are fairytale perfect. Besides, Vienna’s parks, such as the Stadtpark and the Schönbrunn Gardens, are serene and beautiful in winter. The snow-covered landscapes and frost-laden trees offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle. Lastly, if visiting in December, do not miss out on the city’s Christmas markets like those hosted at Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn Palace.

New York City, USA

New York City is another destination that offers unique winter experiences. For starters, NYC is renowned for its elaborate holiday decorations and lights, particularly in areas like Fifth Avenue, Dyker Heights in Brooklyn, and Rockefeller Center.

Landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the Brooklyn Bridge are even more striking against the winter skyline. The contrast between the city’s vibrant lights and the winter scenery is breathtaking.

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There is so much to do in the city in winter. You can visit the Rockefeller Center to see the famous Christmas tree, catch a show in NYC’s Broadway theaters, or shop along Fifth Avenue as you enjoy views of the festive displays in the store’s windows. Take a winter stroll through Central Park, where you can enjoy snowy landscapes, go ice skating at Wollman Rink, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride. The park is especially peaceful and picturesque in winter.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is a city renowned for its historic charm and stunning architecture. A good time to enjoy Edinburgh’s charm would be in winter when the city’s medieval and Georgian architecture is covered in snow.

Start by exploring Edinburgh Castle, which overlooks the city. Views of the snow-covered city from the castle are spectacular. Then head down to The Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s historic thoroughfare. Festive lights beautifully illuminate the historic buildings lining the street, and sometimes covered in light snow, creating a picturesque scene.

Another must-see is Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that offers panoramic views of the city. It is a perfect spot for a winter hike. Lastly, if you are visiting in December, do not miss Edinburgh’s Christmas markets, especially those in East Princes Street Gardens and George Street.

Banff, Canada

12 Beautiful Places for Winter Landscapes in the World Banff National Park, Canada — © Christian Petrone / Shutterstock

Banff is such a dreamy destination to visit in winter. Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers stunning natural beauty, numerous outdoor activities, and a charming alpine ambiance.

Start by exploring the town’s snow-dusted streets and historic architecture as you enjoy the beautiful backdrop of towering mountains. You can then head out to explore the natural wonders of Banff National Park, including Lake Louise, or the peaks of the Canadian Rockies, including Mount Rundle and Cascade Mountain.

The combination of snow-covered mountains, pristine lakes, and a vibrant town atmosphere makes Banff a top choice for a winter getaway in North America.

If you choose to get active, you can go skiing, snowboarding, hiking or ice skating on the frozen Lake Louise. If you prefer to relax, you can soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, take a traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy landscapes, or ride the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain as you enjoy views of the snowy landscape below.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges, the capital of West Flanders in northwest Belgium, is known for its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and picturesque canals. While Bruges is a picturesque destination in its own right, it is a great place to experience the “Venetian scenery” in winter without having to worry about floods that sometimes hit Venice in winter. Bruges’ canals, lined with historic buildings and charming bridges, are even more enchanting in winter. The canals, often misty and tranquil, provide a picturesque setting, especially when adorned with festive lights.

The city’s medieval buildings, including the Belfry of Bruges, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the Markt Square, are marvels that will make your vacation even more enriching. Lastly, Bruges’ Christmas markets are also great points of interest that should not be missed if you are visiting in December.

Bolu, Turkey

You probably didn’t expect a Turkish destination for your winter vacation, but Bolu is one that will not fail to impress you with its snowy scenery. Winters in this city can get extremely cold, but the scenery will be worth it. This city, located in northwestern Turkey, offers amazing views of snow-covered mountains, forests, and tranquil lakes.

Yedigöller National Park is the highlight of Bolu’s winter scenery. The park features seven lakes surrounded by dense forests, which become even more beautiful when covered in snow. The tranquil lakes and snowy surroundings provide a picturesque winter landscape. Whether you are looking to relax or get active, there is something for you to enjoy in Bolu.