Winter Escapes: 5 Amazing Destinations for Your Next Cold-Weather Getaway

Winter used to be the season I just tried to get through. Now? It’s the season I look forward to most. There’s something so comforting about stepping into a snowy scene, breathing in cold air, or escaping it all to warm up on a quiet beach. Winter vacations have become my favorite kind of reset—a time to slow down, reconnect with nature and experience things that feel richer because they happen when the world seems to be sleeping.

Travelers now look for winter getaways that offer peace, beauty and local culture—especially after the holiday chaos. A 2019 study found that around 23% of Americans actually prefer taking their vacations in the winter instead of the summer. And after years of traveling, I’ve found 5 destinations that never fail to deliver that winter magic.

Banff, Canada – For the Snow-Globe

Nothing will prepare you for the quiet of Banff in the winter. Nestled in the Alberta Rockies, Banff National Park becomes a snow-covered wonderland every year. Frozen lakes sparkle under blue skies, wildlife roams just beyond the trailheads, and the town of Banff itself feels like a postcard come to life.

Whether you’re carving down the slopes at Lake Louise or soaking in the hot springs of Banff Upper Hot Springs, there’s something special about this place. Even just walking the snowy streets with a hot chocolate in hand feels like therapy. It’s a destination for those who love adventure and stillness—a perfect mix of drama and charm.

 

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Zermatt, Switzerland – For Alpine Luxury and Epic Views

If you want winter luxury, Zermatt is the place. This alpine village in southern Switzerland sits at the foot of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the world.  No cars are allowed—only electric taxis and horse-drawn carriages—so the air is fresh and the vibe is relaxed.

You can spend your days skiing the vast Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, where every turn offers a new breathtaking view. Off the slopes, there’s no shortage of indulgence. Fondue in candlelit mountain huts, luxury spas overlooking snowy valleys and evenings wrapped in wool blankets by the fire. Zermatt isn’t just a ski town; it’s a full winter experience.

 

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Sapporo, Japan – For Snow Sculptures and Culture

Sapporowill surprise you in the best way. Go during the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which takes place every February, and you will be blown away by the sheer scale and artistry of the snow and ice sculptures. Imagine entire castles carved out of snow, lit up at night like a dream.

Beyond the festival, the city has amazing powder for skiing and snowboarding in nearby resorts like Niseko. The food scene is also incredible—hot bowls of miso ramen, fresh sushi and steaming onsen baths to end your day. Sapporo blends culture and winter fun so seamlessly. It’s perfect for travelers who want to mix adventure with deep local flavor.

 

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Aspen, Colorado – For Mountains with a Side of Glamour

Aspen is the kind of place where you can ski all day and then dress up for a five-star dinner by nightfall. It’s polished but not pretentious and has something for every kind of traveler. The powder is great, the runs are world-class, and the atmosphere is pure Colorado cool.

But Aspen is more than just a ski town. The art galleries, boutique shops and high-end restaurants add a layer of sophistication that’s hard to match. You will love skiing in the mornings and exploring the local cafes in the afternoons with just enough time to catch some live music before dinner. Aspen has the full winter fantasy—sporty, stylish and always buzzing.

 

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Tulum, Mexico – For a Warm Winter Escape

Not all winter escapes need snow. If you need to trade the parka for a swimsuit, head to Tulum. Located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Tulum is the perfect antidote to cold weather. White sand beaches, turquoise water and laid-back vibes make it one of the most rejuvenating places you will ever visit in winter. Tulum isn’t just about lounging, though.

There are ancient Mayan ruins to explore, cenotes to swim in and beach yoga classes that make you forget what month it is. The food is fresh and delicious—ceviche and mezcal under palm trees. In a season of hustle and chill, Tulum invites you to slow down, take off your shoes and just breathe.

 

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Final Thoughts: Let Winter Surprise You

Every winter trip I’ve taken has changed my relationship with the season. Instead of hiding from the cold or rushing through the dark months, I now use this time to explore in a different way. Whether I’m bundled up in a mountain lodge or barefoot on a beach, winter gives me a kind of peace I don’t find any other time of year.

If you’ve been thinking of planning a winter vacation, start by asking yourself how you want to feel. Do you want to be energized or relaxed? Do you want snowflakes or sunshine? These five destinations—Banff, Zermatt, Sapporo, Aspen and Tulum—offer a wide range of experiences, but they all have one thing in common: they make winter worth celebrating.