12 Cities for Winter Lovers Who Can’t Get Enough of the Season

The winter season is a magical time of year; for some places, it’s the best time to visit. The world’s best cities for winter transform into postcard-worthy destinations once the snow starts to fall.

For some people, winter becomes a dreary time of year spent indoors. For others, it’s a time to get out and celebrate the season with everyone else in their city.

No matter if you love skiing or relaxing in a luxurious hot spring, there’s an urban winter destination for you. In this article, you’ll discover the world’s top 12 cities for winter.

Table of Contents

Bergen, Norway

Bergen is a gorgeous coastal city full of dramatic natural surroundings and colorful architecture. You’ll gaze at snow-covered mountains framing the wooden houses along the Bryggen Wharf.

Start your Bergen adventure at the wharf, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, head up the mountain by the Fløibanen cable car. When you reach the summit of Mt. Fløyen, you’ll be struck by views of the fjords, city, and mountainous landscape.

If you can, you can take a winter fjord tour. You’ll explore the snake-like fingers of mountains that jut out into the sea. When you return, enjoy a warm, comforting meal at one of the city’s top restaurants.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is famous for its baroque architecture, beautiful parks, and renowned beer and cuisine. However, in winter, the capital of the Czech Republic comes alive with festivities and lights.

Imagine seeing the castles and towers covered in snow. Head to the Old Town Square to see the famous monuments adorned in festive decorations. Then, walk to Prague Castle via the historic Charles Bridge to see the city in its winter glory.

Throughout the season, Prague’s taverns and bars turn into festive parties. You can shelter from the chilly air and warm up by a fireplace. Of course, there will be plenty of music, hearty stews, and some of the best beer you’ll ever try in your life.

Nagano, Japan

Nagano is Japan’s winter sports capital and one of the region’s best cities to visit during the winter. You’ll have your pick of world-class ski resorts that surround the city.

When your adrenalin subsides, head down from the Japanese Alps to town to visit the 7th-century Zenkōji temple. Then, take a rest in one of the nearby onsens (hot springs).

After relaxing in the baths, visit the Jigokudani Yaen Koen to see wild monkeys relaxing in the onsens. End your evenings dining in one of Nagano’s famous restaurants for some of the best cuisines of your life before partying throughout the night like a local.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow in winter is almost unimaginably beautiful. With its medieval architecture, friendly people, and lively entertainment, you’ll be immersed in a winter wonderland.

Start your experience in the Rynek Główny, the city’s centuries-old central square. You’ll see medieval spires and buildings decorated with ornate holiday lights and ornaments. St. Mary’s Basilica becomes a striking scene covered in snow.

After taking pictures downtown, head to Kościuszko Mound for beautiful views of the city and countryside. Afterward, return to the old town to explore the Christmas markets and try local comfort food in the historical taverns. You’ll be so full of cheer and warm food that you’ll feel warm and cozy late into the night.

New York City, New York, United States

New York City is a magical paradise during the winter. The city’s skyscrapers and historical buildings are decorated with beautiful ornaments and lights. Special seasonal events such as the Union Square Holiday Market become bustling centers for holiday magic.

Head to Central Park to ice skate or watch the Christmas carolers sing their hearts out. Then, shop till you drop in the stores and boutiques of Fifth Avenue.

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For a break from the snow, pop into the city’s world-renowned museums to see fine art, fossils, and other timeless objects. Then, hit the town at night for live jazz or grab a seat in a timeless bar in Manhatten to take in the city’s world-famous winter vibes in style.

Sapporo, Japan

Best Winter Destinations in Japan Sapporo, Hokkaido Hokkaido Government Office — © Travel man / Adobe Stock

Sapporo is a beautiful winter paradise located in Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido. During the Sapporo Snow Festival in February, the entire city turns into a standing parade of giant ice sculptures.

Throughout the season, you can cozy up over warm bowls of ramen and visit ancient temples and streets surrounded by deep snow piles. Grab a pint of beer at the Sapporo Beer Museum and check out the downtown shops and restaurants in full festive decorations.

If you love winter sports, hit the slopes at one of the city’s major ski resorts. Then, rest your muscles in the Hoheikyo Onsen, just a short drive outside of the city.

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Montreal, Canada

Montreal’s winters are so severe that the locals have made it the most lively time to visit. There are almost endless events going on, and the cityscape covered in snow is absolutely stunning.

Start your visit downtown and shop at the city’s Christmas Markets. If you visit in January, check out the old port for Igloofest or relax by the interactive lights of Luminothérapie, one of Canada’s most beloved art events.

When you’re not exploring the city’s events and sights, it’s time to indulge in its world-famous cuisine. You’ll find fine dining, French cuisine, local pub food, and craft beer. This is Canada, after all!

Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is one of the most exciting winter cities you can imagine. From temples covered in snow to ancient streets with vendors serving hot comfort food, this massive city does winter better than most destinations around the world.

Grab a hot bowl of Kimchi-Jjigae before walking through the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace. Then, make your way to the Namsangol Hanok Village to see traditional architecture covered in snow.

If you love winter sports, you can hit the slopes near the city for epic skiing. After shooting down the mountain, cozy up in a local restaurant for a Korean BBQ before spending the night with live music and endless fun.

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Chicago is the third-largest city in the US and a must-visit destination in winter. When the city is covered in snow, skyscrapers are lit up with holiday decorations and lights.

Start your visit right by visiting its museums, such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Chicago History Museum. Then, walk through downtown’s historic districts before visiting the famous John Hancock Building’s 360 Chicago viewing platform.

After taking in the sights, stop in to sample Chicago’s famous cuisine. From Michelin-starred restaurants to classic taverns, you’ll experience one of the best food cities on the planet while warming up from the snowy streets outside.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is a city full of wintertime activities, historic places, and some of the best wintertime festivities in Europe. Start your journey by seeing the historic old town sights covered in snow.

Visit the Amalienborg Palace before hiking up the Round Tower for excellent city views. Then, visit Rosenborg Castle grounds for a magical sight.

If you love Christmas Lights and heart-warming treats, visit Tivoli Gardens and experience the magic. For the most stunning winter scene, visit the 17th-century harbor of Nyhavn to see the colorful buildings and experience fun events and winter pop-ups.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn’s medieval old town is one of the most inspiring winter sights in Europe. Surrounding the Tallinn Town Hall, you’ll admire the beautiful decorations and lights that cover the buildings.

You’ll walk down the cobblestone streets and hop into charming shops and artisanal bakeries for delicious treats. Then, enjoy warm cups of mulled wine and slip into the snow-dusted cobblestone streets.

Don’t miss the city’s Christmas markets and ice skating rinks near the old city center. For your stay, you can rest in one of the city’s beautiful inns and hotels for the ultimate winter experience.

Ushuaia, Argentina

Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world and a hub for winter activities. You’ll have to visit during the summer in the northern hemisphere from June to September, but when you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a dreamy winter paradise.

You can spot the Southern Lights dancing over the city. Then, try the city’s famous seafood and empanadas at one of downtown’s popular taverns.

The city’s ski resorts feature world-class skiing and snowboarding. You can also explore the strikingly beautiful Tierra del Fuego National Park on cross-country skis. For outdoor enthusiasts, winter in Ushuaia is worthy of the long flight.