10 Best Winter Destinations For Holidays in 2025/2026

As the days get colder and the snow starts falling, many travelers dream of either diving into the magic of winter or escaping it entirely for sunny skies. If you also crave the northern lights or want to sunbathe on a beach, we’ve got you. Our exclusive guide rounds up the top 10 Winter escape destinations for 2026 that promise unforgettable adventures.

Ready to plan your winter getaway? We’ve got you covered with affordable flights, hotel deals, car rentals, cruises, and custom vacation packages you can mix and match to your liking. Let’s explore!

1. Reykjavik, Iceland

Chase the Northern Lights in Iceland this winter because it will be a mesmerizing experience for you. Iceland transforms into a snow-globe fantasy with glowing glaciers, steamy hot springs, and a sky with dancing auroras during winters. It's a perfect choice with the following opportunities waiting right ahead.

• Relax in the Blue Lagoon’s geothermal waters.
• Explore Golden Circle landmarks like Thingvellir and Gullfoss.
• Book a guided tour to see the Northern Lights.

Travel Tip:

Bundle your flight, hotel, and car rental for easy access to natural wonders scattered across the island.

2. Zermatt, Switzerland

Do you love snowy adventures? Zermatt is a perfect place for you to travel this winter. Nestled in the Swiss Alps, it is a snowy paradise. You can ski under the Matterhorn, snowboard your way from the top, or sip hot cocoa by a fire. Here are the top things you can experience in Zermatt:

• Ski or snowboard the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.
• Ride the Gornergrat Railway for jaw-dropping mountain views.
• Enjoy après-ski in a cozy alpine lodge.

We recommend that you plan early for winter sports vacations. You can also compare car rentals in Switzerland before you start your journey or book the final trip.

3. Tulum, Mexico

Are you not quite a fan of the cold weather? Escape to Tulum for white sands, turquoise seas, and rich history this winter. The warm, breezy, and just the right amount of laid-back experience awaits you in Tulum. Here’s what this Mexican paradise has in store for you:

• Explore ancient Mayan ruins right by the ocean.
• Snorkel in cenotes (natural sinkholes).
• Dine in open-air restaurants serving fresh local cuisine.

Book your next winter flights to Mexico and explore Tulum to bask in the sun and take in the beach bliss.

4. Kyoto, Japan

Winter in Kyoto is peaceful and enchanting. So, it is a great time to visit Japan. Ancient Kyoto temples dusted with snow offer an unforgettable cultural experience in the city. You can enjoy the following top activities while you are in Kyoto this winter:

• Visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), glimmering in winter light.
• Wander through snow-covered bamboo groves.
• Enjoy seasonal kaiseki dining and hot matcha tea.

Travel Tip:

Fly into Osaka or Tokyo and use the rail pass. Alternatively, you can rent a car using our website for rural exploration.

5. Banff, Canada

Banff National Park turns into a winter paradise ideal for hiking, ice skating, and wildlife spotting as winter hits the country. This Canadian gem is famous for frozen lakes and winter hikes. Whether you love being outdoors or like being curled up in a cozy cabin, there’s something to do here for you:

• Ice skate on Lake Louise.
• Take a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain.
• Warm up in Banff Upper Hot Springs.

You can compare hotel deals for mountain access and save big, or explore the bundled vacation offers for a perfect experience.

6. Queenstown, New Zealand

If you want to entirely skip winters and experience summer instead, head to Queenstown in New Zealand. It offers summer in full spring for a perfect flip-side getaway. Escape to Queenstown during the Northern Hemisphere’s winter for an exciting experience and do fun things like:

• Go bungee jumping or skydiving for thrills.
• Cruise Lake Wakatipu and hike nearby trails.
• Explore local vineyards and enjoy fresh cuisine.

Look for round-trip flight packages and car rentals to explore the South Island with freedom.

7. Vienna, Austria

Love a romantic escape? Winter fills Vienna with romance and elegance, blending its beauty with the holiday sparkle. With bustling Christmas markets, classical music, and imperial architecture setting the tone, you can have a vacation of a lifetime in Vienna, Austria. Here are the best things to experience:

• Attend a Mozart concert at a historic palace.
• Sip mulled wine at festive markets.
• Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through snow-dusted streets.

Find hotel deals and city tours with us and get the best value during the peak festive season, and an unforgettable experience.

8. Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa dances in coastal summer magic when it's winter in the US and other Northern Hemisphere regions. Cape Town, South Africa, offers dramatic landscapes, vibrant culture, and summer sunshine, helping you escape the cold winter climates. Here are the top experiences for you in the city:

• Ride the cable car up Table Mountain.
• Relax on Clifton Beach.
• Visit the Cape Winelands for a tasting tour.

P.S. Flight and cruise combos are popular for travelers seeking both land and sea exploration.

9. New York City, USA

Winters in your own country are the best, and only a few places celebrate it, like NYC. It’s all about sparkling lights, iconic landmarks, and holiday traditions. The festive lights and urban energy make New York City a memorable adventure. Make the travel even more magical with these things to do on your next journey:

• See the holiday windows and Christmas tree displays.
• Catch a show or visit top museums.
• Indulge in diverse dining and rooftop views.
• Skating at the Rockefeller Center

10. Dubai, UAE

Dubai is another warmer destination in winter. The city is filled with luxurious experiences, and you can enjoy them all without that intense summer heat. It’s a futuristic city filled with adventure, offering you shopping, sand dunes, and more. Your trip becomes even more interesting:

• Go dune-bashing on a desert safari.
• Shop in mega-malls or traditional souks.
• Enjoy indoor skiing or beach lounging, your choice!

Use this website to combine flights, hotels, and car rental options to travel around Dubai at your own pace.

Bonus Tips For Booking Your Winter Getaway

• Book Early for the Best Rates. Popular winter spots fill up fast. Book flights, hotels, or vacation bundles ahead of time to save up to 35%.
• Look for Flexible Car Rentals: A reliable rental car gives you freedom on the road whether you're heading to a ski lodge or beach town
• Consider Cruises for Warm Escapes: Set sail to the Caribbean or Mediterranean for an all-in-one vacation experience.
• Use Travel Packages: Combine everything from flights to stays, cruises, or cars into one easy booking and save money.

Why Book with Us?

• Affordable Flights: Compare top airlines in seconds.
• Handpicked Hotels: From boutique stays to all-inclusive resorts.
• Reliable Car Rentals: Book separately or as part of your package.
• Cruise Options: Escape winter on the open sea.
• Custom Vacation Packages: Build your dream trip your way.

Dreaming of snowflakes or sunsets? We’re here to help you book smart, travel easy, and save big.

Ready to Escape?

2026 will come bearing promises and perfect winter escapes. Prepare today and get ready to explore these top winter destinations in 2025-2026 for a memorable experience. Start your research today for a perfect experience with your favorite airline or service provider. Book with Traveloplans and turn your next journey into an epic adventure.