Where to go in winter: Choosing places for winter vacation

Winter vacations are a great way to enjoy the colder months, soaking up the magic and engaging in exciting activities. If you are looking for the best winter holiday destinations, this article is just what you need. Whether it's skiing, beach vacations or cultural attractions, there's always a place that suits your needs. Soak up the winter atmosphere and enjoy all the delights of a winter vacation in the best places to travel in winter 2023.

1. Lapland, Finland

Visit Santa Claus by dog sled.

Lapland is a magical place where you can enjoy incredible adventures in the snowy forests in winter. It is one of the best places to travel in winter, where you can experience Finnish culture and traditions.

Here you can enjoy real winter sports and relax your soul:

• alpine skiing;
• snowboarding;
• sledding;
• snowmobile rides;
• skiing under the stars.

Other activities include saunas and bathing in icy lakes.

Lapland is also known for its magnificent northern lights - green and pink rays in the starry sky - a marvel to be seen with your own eyes.

Thus, if you're looking for winter destinations for your vacation, Lapland is a must-see.

2. Barcelona, Spain

A glass of fine wine and a warm evening are a January fairytale.

Barcelona is the perfect place to travel in winter. The city is known for its pleasant warm climate, offering a wide range of activities to suit all tastes.

Park Guell and the Sagrada Familia Cathedral are a must-see, but travelling in Barcelona is not limited to these attractions. Here you can immerse yourself in the local culture, sample traditional dishes and do some shopping.

A nice bonus of a winter vacation in Spain is the opportunity to visit local New Year's fairs and enjoy the colorful festivities.

Thus, if you are looking for a winter vacation destination where you can enjoy local delicacies, beautiful views and a warm climate, Barcelona is the perfect choice for the best winter vacations.

3. Hong Kong, China

The atmosphere of your favorite movies.

Hong Kong is one of the best winter vacation destinations.

Start your trip with a visit to Victoria Harbour, where several movies were filmed, including the famous The Dark Knight. Then head to Lantau Island to see the big dancing Buddha, which has also been used in movies.

But this is just the beginning of your winter vacation in Hong Kong. This city also offers:

• shopping;
• cultural attractions;
• culinary workshops;
• amusement parks and water parks.

Winter vacations in Hong Kong are not only fun trips to filming locations but also an opportunity to learn about Chinese culture, learn how to cook local dishes and do active sports.

Thus, if you're looking for the best winter travel destinations, Hong Kong is always a welcome sight both on the cinematic and cultural scene.

4. Zakopane, Poland

Skiing through winter mountain scenery.

Zakopane is a real treasure for lovers of outdoor activities. Here you will find the best winter travel destinations with snowy fun, folk culture and outdoor activities.

Zakopane is the capital of winter tourism in Poland, where you can try your luck:

• on the ski slopes;
• in snowboarding;
• in a snowball tournament.

The city is surrounded by mountains, where you can take a wonderful walk and enjoy scenic views.

You'll also find plenty of delicious snacks and Polish cuisine, and you can experience the popular culture by visiting local museums and galleries.

Thus, if you're looking for the best winter vacation destinations to stay active, Zakopane is waiting for you. Get your snow globe ready.

5. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Diverse local cuisine and soft sand.

This is one of the top winter getaways. This city combines modern architecture, cosmopolitan culture and rich nature.

Here you can visit not only the famous Petronas Towers but also many other interesting things:

• gorgeous views from skyscrapers and parks;

• unique traditions;
• many museums, galleries and temples where you will learn more about the history and art of Malaysia.
• travelling on the railroad that connects Kuala Lumpur with other cities and regions;
• extreme sports such as skydiving, rafting or scuba diving.

Kuala Lumpur has activities to suit all tastes and budgets.

Kuala Lumpur is one of the best places to travel during winter because it is always warm and sunny. You can enjoy the beaches, jungles and islands at any time of the year.

Kuala Lumpur is the perfect choice for those who want to escape from the cold and snow.

6. Porto, Portugal

Gothic castles in the embrace of the river.

Porto is one of the best winter vacation spots. This city is located on the Douro River and is enveloped in magical scenery.

Porto offers many options for a wonderful vacation:

• city walks;
• famous riverside wineries (to taste local wines);
• traditional Portuguese food.

Walking through the streets of the city, you are sure to see wonderful Gothic castles and cathedrals such as:

• Sé Cathedral;
• National Palace of Pena;
• Sant Antoni Castle.

These architectural masterpieces are magnificent and are a window into Portugal's past.

Porto is thus one of the top winter destinations to enjoy all that this marvelous city has to offer.

7. New York, USA

Broadway plays and famous stores.

New York is a great winter vacation destination.

From glitzy department stores such as Macy's and Saks Fifth Avenue to local markets and boutiques, shopping enthusiasts will appreciate New York as the perfect destination.

Connoisseurs of culture won't be bored either as New York City has many famous museums, movie theaters and concert venues, making it a mecca for arts and culture. And do not forget about Broadway, the heart of the theater scene.

Walking the streets of the city on Christmas Eve will cover you with magic and give you faith in a miracle.

New York is at the top of the list of winter vacation spots where you can experience the Christmas fairy tale.

8. Cancun, Mexico

Hot sun and white-sand beaches.

Cancun is the perfect winter vacation spot if you want to escape the cold and gray of the Caribbean.

Here you can enjoy a variety of water sports such as:

• kitesurfing;
• snorkeling;
• wakeboarding;
• flyboarding.

Of course, relaxing on the beach or playing volleyball are also great options.

There are many resorts in the city where you can relax and enjoy all the amenities, with the restaurants being famous for their amazing local cuisine.

A nice bonus of a winter vacation in Cancun is that there aren't many tourists, allowing you to enjoy the beaches and resorts in a more relaxed environment.

Thus, if you're looking for the best places to travel during winter, Cancun is the place to go! Enjoy sunny beaches, crystal clear water, great food and water activities.

9. Vienna, Austria

Great music, fine food and art.

Where to go during winter if you want an aristocratic fairytale? Vienna, of course! With its unique performances of local musicians, cultural events and classical concerts, it is the place to immerse yourself in an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication.

Vienna also offers plenty of opportunities for winter outings. Take a stroll around the city's famous landmarks, such as St. Stephen's Cathedral or Schoenbrunn Palace, to explore the architecture and art of the city.

Most restaurants in Vienna offer high-quality food based on local traditions. Be sure to try schnitzel or other traditional Austrian dishes. And don't forget about the exquisite pastries and delicious cakes.

Vienna is thus one of the top winter vacation spots. The city offers plenty of opportunities for recreation and cultural activities, making it an attractive place to visit, especially in winter.

10. Sri Lanka

The best tea in the world, national parks and beautiful beaches.

Sri Lanka is a great winter vacation destination for those who love hot climates.

There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained:

• visit the best tea parties in the world;
• ride elephants;
• visit the famous ancient temples.

You can also go to national parks to see a variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, leopards, monkeys and many other animals.

Sri Lanka is also known for its beautiful beaches where you can enjoy ocean walks, swimming and water sports. Surfing awaits the extreme surfers at popular resorts along the coast.

New Year's Eve in Sri Lanka is another great event to visit. National festivals and celebrations are held on this day, closing the year and welcoming the next.

Thus, Sri Lanka is quite a popular winter destination. This island offers a lot of opportunities for recreation and entertainment, which makes it attractive for tourists.

11. Phuket, Thailand

Diving in picturesque bays.

Phuket is the best vacation spot during winter. The island is located in Thailand and offers many opportunities for a winter vacation away from the cold gray of everyday life.

Here you can enjoy beautiful beaches, crystal clear water and amazing exotic nature. A plethora of resorts, restaurants and stores make it an attractive vacation destination.

Diving is one of the most popular sports in Phuket, as it is located near some of the best diving beaches in the world.

Here you can also see a variety of marine life, as well as take part in ship and boat tours to enjoy scenic ocean views.

In addition, Phuket also offers many recreational opportunities such as:

• golf;
• spa treatments;
• national parks.

Thus, Phuket is one of the best winter destinations.

12. Rome, Italy

Sunny atmosphere and delicious food.

Rome is one of the most beautiful winter destinations. The city mesmerizes you from the first second with its searing temperament and welcoming atmosphere.

Stroll through the famous sites that silently tell the story of Italy:

• Vatican City;
• Colosseum;
• Pantheon.

Connoisseurs of beauty can enjoy the beauty of museums and see works of art created by great artists of the past.

Finish the fascinating walk in one of the many restaurants where you can taste authentic Italian cuisine.

In winter, Rome becomes less busy and more peaceful but no less beautiful.

Thus, if you are looking for good places to travel in winter, Rome is the perfect choice. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and museums of Italy, taste authentic Italian cuisine and soak up the unique atmosphere of the city. Give yourself a real Roman vacation and an unforgettable experience.

13. Stockholm, Sweden

Incredible aquariums, mazes of museums and art.

Stockholm is one of the most beautiful winter destinations. The city is located on the shores of the Baltic Sea and offers plenty of opportunities for recreation and entertainment.

Stockholm attracts tourists with its cultural attractions and atmosphere. Check out the famous Vasa and Skansen museums to see exhibits of Swedish culture and history.

Walking along cozy streets with beautiful winter views of the surrounding islands is an unforgettable experience. Go to the ice skating rink in the heart of the Old Town or to a ski resort on one of the islands surrounding the city to immerse yourself in a true winter fairy tale.

Stockholm is also famous for its delicious food, which is a unique blend of Scandinavian and international cuisine. Here you will find many restaurants, bars and cafes where you can enjoy fresh, locally-produced food.

Thus, Stockholm is one of the great winter destinations for travelling. A memorable vacation awaits you in the beautiful Scandinavian city.

14. Banff, Canada

Famous ski resorts and extreme skiing to suit your tastes.

Banff is one of the best winter vacation destinations for active travellers.

The ski resorts welcome vacationers of all skill levels:

• Lake Louise Resort;
• Banff Springs;
• Norquist Resort.

Here you can go skiing on:

• skis;
• snowboards;
• snow bikes.

Each resort has its own style and unique atmosphere, so you'll have plenty to choose from.

In addition, Banff is a great place for extreme recreation activities such as snowmobiling, snowboarding in deep snow, dog sledding and many others. These sports will give you an unforgettable experience and feel of Banff.

The city offers a plethora of recreational activities, making it attractive to tourists who want to enjoy the delights of winter in Canada. If you are looking for a good winter vacation, Banff is a great choice!

15. Montenegro

Mountains, beaches and hiking.

Montenegro is a great destination for winter vacation getaways. It is located in the Southern Balkans and offers many opportunities for recreation and entertainment.

Montenegro is famous for its beautiful mountain ranges, various hiking spots and panoramic views. In winter, the mountains are covered with snow, which makes them even more picturesque.

There are also marvelous beaches on the Adriatic coast that can be visited in winter. The weather is a little cooler, but you can still enjoy the picturesque scenery and go surfing or snorkeling.

Montenegro also has many historical and cultural attractions to visit, such as the famous city of Kotor, ancient ruins and monasteries.

Local restaurants offer national cuisine, which is a combination of Balkan and Mediterranean traditions.

Thus, if you are looking for places for good winter getaways, Montenegro is a great choice. Here you will find many different types of vacations such as:

• mountain hiking;
• skiing;
• snowboarding in ski resorts;
• beach vacations.

In addition, you can enjoy rich cultural and historical attractions, taste the national cuisine and be enchanted by the picturesque scenery. For those who want to escape the winter cold and enjoy a warm climate, Montenegro offers wonderful thermal springs.

Here you will find many opportunities for recreation and entertainment from beautiful mountain hikes to beach vacations, from enjoying the therapeutic properties of mineral waters to cultural and historical attractions.

Although there are a lot of top winter holiday destinations, it is impossible to choose just one. Whether you want to go skiing, go to the beach or on a cultural tour, you are sure to find a winter place to travel that suits your desires.