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29 Epic Winter Vacation Ideas to Escape the Cold

Written by Becca

Updated on December 30th, 2023

The best places to travel this winter that we’ve listed all have ideal weather for escaping northern cold winters, longer days and dry seasons. Let’s heat up with these favorite winter vacation destinations to get some winter sun!

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Best Winter Vacation Ideas

• Miami & South Florida
• Canary Islands, Spain
• Tel Aviv, Israel
• Cartagena & Santa Marta, Colombia
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Chile’s Coastline
• West coast of Ecuador
• The Yucatan Peninsula & Tulum, Mexico
• El Salvador
• The Philippines
• Indonesia’s Many Islands
• Sri Lanka’s Southeast and West Coasts
• Southern & Southwestern India
• Hong Kong & Macau
• Cabarete & the North Coast of the Dominican Republic
• Zambia & Victoria Falls
• South Africa

Are you looking for the best places to travel this winter? Every year, we search for warm places to visit in December, January and February so that we can get some sun.

Traveling in the coldest winter months gives us something to look forward to, while the days get shorter. This is important for our emotional well-being, and our mental health!

The best places to travel this winter all have ideal weather for escaping northern cold winters, longer days and dry seasons. Check out my favorite winter destinations below, from the US, Europe and the Middle East, to Central and South America, Southeast Asia and South Asia.

Let’s heat up with these favorite winter vacation destinations!

I did a bunch of research lately because I wanted to know the definitive answers for the absolute warmest places in the US to take a trip to during the coldest winter months. My research led to some so-so answers (Phoenix, some parts of southern Texas, San Diego and Los Angeles, and New Orleans), but the two top answers were clear.

Miami & South Florida

Probably the best and easiest US destination with warm weather in winter time is Miami, which hands-down has the hottest climate of anywhere in the contiguous USA during the coldest months of January and February.

I’ve been to Miami in both November and December and can vouch for the fact that this is the city where the heat is on (thanks, Will Smith) even when there are blizzards up north, coating places like NYC with snow and ice.

In doing my own research to find the hottest places in the US that are ideal for winter getaways, Miami tops the climate charts at 74-75 degrees F as daily highs in Jan. and Feb.

A few of my favorite things to do in Miami are taking photos at the Wynwood art walls, eating Cuban food on Calle Ocho in Little Havana and doing my own self-guided art deco architecture walk in Miami Beach.

Hawaii will always be known for being America’s favorite vacation dreamland. It’s one of the warmest places to go in the US during December, January and February. In fact, from November to March, Hawaii is 75-80 degrees (on average, as it varies by islands and their southern or western sides).

Winter is the perfect time to escape the cold and get out to Hawaii. On the north shore of Oahu, waves get crazy big in the winter! This is great for adventurous surfers and spectators alike. Catch the surfing world cup (the Vans Pipe Masters) in December at Ehukai Beach (Banzai Pipeline). In Honolulu, the waves on the south side of the island are super chill and relaxing in the winter.

Next, the days being shorter in December means you don’t have to wake up as early to catch a gorgeous Hawaiian sunrise (try Haleakala on Maui).

You can even enjoy temperatures of around 65 degrees at night in most of Hawaii during December, January and February after the sun goes down (which, in December, is around 5:45pm; compare this to 4:30 pm on a lot of the East Coast!). Also, no passport needed!

Check out these lovely photos of Hawaii in the winter, taken by my sibling Emma Siegel .

Remember to be a conscious and respectful traveler in Hawaii. It’s particularly important in regard to understanding the Hawaiian political history of colonization and militarization by the United State,s and the impact that tourists and gentrification have had on displacing native Hawaiians. Consider recent natural disasters as well, like the wildfires in Maui: make sure to be conscious and respectful of the impact on local communities this winter.

Europe (EU) & Middle East

We have tried for many years to find the warmest places for winter in all of Europe and the Middle East. Here’s what we found and where we’ve gone.

Canary Islands, Spain

Until recently, we did not know where the Canary Islands were, but as it turns out, we’ve now been there twice, both in winter and in summer. Travel to the Canary Islands during winter will give you the warmest destination possible within the EU, and we know this because we researched the topic in depth.

What we learned is that the south and east sides of Tenerife like at El Teide National Park and Gran Canaria get the most sun. These regions of the Canary Islands are warmest year-round.

In winter, check out the Maspalomas Dunes of Gran Canaria and the southern beaches of Tenerife to get your tan on and to see spectacular and unique volcanic scenery.

The Canary Islands are also a great destination for couples, as it’s helpful to rent a car and road trip around these islands. Super romantic, for adventurers!

Stars are one of my favorite things to shoot. If you’re interested in learning how I took this photo, check out our article about night photography .

Tel Aviv, Israel

You may not have pictured Israel as a winter beach destination, but if you go to Tel Aviv between December and February, you can enjoy sunny days with highs in the mid 70s and get some beach time.

Israel is a fantastic cultural destination with so much to see, all in compact distances. Escape the winter cold at the Dead Sea, where temperatures year round are in the 70s and 80s, and you can take a dip and float in the saltiest body of water on earth.

The cost of travel in Israel is a bit like traveling in Europe, so we recommend traveling with a friend or significant other with whom you can share a private room.

If you travel solo and are looking for a great hostel dorm experience, check out a stay with Abraham Hostels .

Note that the rest of Israel has tendencies to get a bit cool during winter, and Jerusalem can even see snow.

Tel Aviv, though, stays consistently in the 70s through much of winter, making it a great escape for European tourists and Israeli natives alike, along with travelers from around the world coming to see the gorgeous Mediterranean beach culture.

Are you ready to take your trip?

Check out some of the things we pack to inspire you for your trip!

South America

South America (mostly all of it) gets its summer when the northern hemisphere experiences winter. This is technically true for South America south of the Equator, but luckily, countries like Colombia are warm all year round (save for elevated areas with high altitudes!).

Cartagena & Santa Marta, Colombia

You can usually find a cheap flight to Cartagena from various US cities if you choose to travel in January and February. If you only have time off in December, don’t worry!

Looking for new proven ways to save money on flights and airfare? The easy solution is to sign up for Going , the leading way to find flight deals and mistake fares, directly to your inbox. Use HALFHALF20 to get 20% off!

Cartagena is a super affordable destination for travelers and it’s hot all year round. Temperatures are never lower than 85 F during daytime and 75 F at night, and with the humidity, it always feels warmer.

Cartagena and its nearby tropical island archipelagos have beautiful pristine beaches, lots of sun all winter long (dry season begins in February) and is an ideal winter vacation for couples, where a private room in a hostel will cost between $40 and $75 USD.

Staying in a hotel will cost between $100 and $200 USD in the mid-range, and there’s a lot of value here!

Santa Marta is an even more affordable destination because you can somewhat escape the tourist prices in Cartagena that cater to foreigners from all over the world. Santa Marta is a bit more laid back and authentic in its historic colonial center.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Argentina’s seasons are flipped with those north of the equator, so during December through February, the country enjoys its summer. Between these months, Buenos Aires, the capital city, gets highs in the 80s and lows in the high 60s at night.

Sounds beautiful to us, and it was (when we went)! Buenos Aires is a lively city teeming with culture and history.

We love the Buenos Aires outdoor cafe scene , the colors in La Boca, the tango dancing and the incredible architecture. Oh, and don’t forget the awesome nightlife scene. Argentina is surely a winter vacation idea for escaping the cold. Leave your coat at home!

Chile’s Coastline

Chile is a skinny country that will have its summer when the US and Canada have their coldest winter weather. Santiago, the capital city, has a daily average high temperature of 86 degrees F in January. Valparaiso, which has a Mediterranean climate, will have warm temperatures in the mid-70s during Jan-Feb.

The northern third of Chile has a “mild desert climate,” giving beaches like Viña del Mar high temperatures around 80 degrees in the warmest months.

West coast of Ecuador

Ecuador, a country that looks small on a map, lies at the Equator! Yes, Ecuador has warm places to travel all winter long.

Beware, though, because not every city in Ecuador is steamy hot. In fact, Ecuador is famous for packing all four seasons and countless types of climate regions into a single country that is about twice the size of Florida.

To get the warmest destinations in Ecuador, keep your travels to hug the Pacific coast, rather than venturing inland to areas that will quickly rise in elevation. For example, the capital city of Quito is several thousand meters above sea level and has an annual climate of a temperate Andean 66-68 degrees F on average, all year.

For the hottest places in Ecuador, check out Guayaquil, Playa Puerto Lopez, Mompiche and Montañita, a beach village popular with travelers.

Central America

Central America is known for being tropical, close to the US and Canada, and a fantastic place to plan your winter travel!

In fact, for many years (and still to this date), I focused on having a winter getaway to Central America specifically. During these travels, I took trips to Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama and the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, from November to March (with most of those trips in January and February).

See what these awesome and mostly tropical winter destinations are all about, here.

The Yucatan Peninsula & Tulum, Mexico

One of our favorite winter weekend getaways from NYC is the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.

You can also save money traveling this winter by flying into Cancun from major US cities and then hopping a bus immediately to less touristy cities like Valladolid or Merida .

Even if you want to go to a different part of the Yucatan like Merida, Isla Holbox or Playa del Carmen, take that nonstop flight from any international airport and you can get on an easy ADO bus to your destination when you land.

We loved exploring the cenotes outside Tulum by bicycle and seeing the clear water, which is so warm it feels like a bath. We also liked day trips like Uxmal , the Mayan ruins site outside Merida. Both are great options for seeing culture.

Our favorite part of traveling in Mexico might be the tacos, so get your stomach ready for some great flavors. Temperatures are always around the mid-80s during winter months of December to February, and nights are rarely lower than the mid-60s.

Having taken my glorious winter trip to Guatemala in January, I’ll vouch for the T-shirt-friendly weather that had me wearing a shirt and shorts visiting the enchanting Mayan ruins of Tikal and the incredible natural landscape at Semuc Champey.

Winter is Guatemala’s dry season, so you can unabashedly enjoy dry weather, sunny days, temperatures in the 80s. I recommend a stay in Antigua , as most travelers often opt for! During winter, you can soak up Vitamin D in the 74-77 degree air at any of Antigua’s rooftop cafes and coffee shops , which is a total treat.

I’ve also been to Guatemala in April, and that was nice, too! A city like Antigua is a great choice of a destination for all year round. Having been there both in winter and spring, I can say it’s an excellent escape from the snow and blizzards at home in the US. Check out my full guide for day trips from Antigua for some more travel inspiration.

I had an awesome time in Panama, one of my favoriate budget-friendly destinations in December! I spent time in all three parts of the Panamanian trifecta: in the mountains, at Boquete, at the beach, in Bocas del Toro and in the city in Panama City and Casco Viejo (the most beautiful historic quarter).

I was surely wearing a summer dress and a tank top and shorts at the beacn in Bocas, and while walking around Panama City, visiting the Panama Canal, in winter. Temperatures remain in the mid-80s or high 70s for December, January and February, and there’s a slight breeze.

At coasta locations like Bocas del Toro on the Carribean side, temperatures are 84-86 degrees year round, in fact! Nights may see the mid-60s, so bring a light coat and one pair of pants.

If you want to stay away from cold temperatures completely during your winter getaway, then stay away from the altitudes in Panama. The week before Christmas, I climbed the tallest volcano in Panama (Volcan Baru) and at the top, it was absolutely freezing! As we descended, though, it was sweaty all the way down in the sun.

Nicaragua is a fun place to go, and judging by the killer temperatures I had there in April (mid-90s… too hot!), I’d advise visiting this lovely Central American nation between November and March.

The best time to visit Nicaragua is indeed during winter, as the dry period falls between December and April. It’ll be wettest, with storms brewing in the Gulf of Mexico, during May to November, so conveniently, this is the less desirable time to go.

For winter climate averages, December to February is coolest, which provides some respite for those extreme high temps I experienced during my (potentially badly planned) trip in April. If I could do it again, I’d go to Nicaragua in December, January or February, especially as a break from the coldest temperatures at home.

For what to see in Nicaragua, check out a few of my favorite destinations: San Juan del Sur, Granada and Leon. I was charmed by the west coast Pacific sunsets and by the colorful vibrant personalities of these historic and colonial cities.

I took my trip to Costa Rica smack in the middle of December and it was bathing suit weather the whole time (on the coast). If you are looking for cooler temperatures (AKA a way to not lose your mind in your sweat), stick to the inland areas for ecotourism like Arenal and Monteverde.

If you do want to get your suntan on and go hiking in a bathing suit, check out year-round hot areas like Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo and Parque Nacional Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast.

Beware of the Costa Rica humidity: this is not a place to smooth out the frizz in your hair!

El Salvador

El Salvador is somewhere I’d really like to go during winter because of its tropical location on the west side of the Central American region. With beaches for surfing and the Ruta de las Flores hiking, it seems like a varied destination for winter travel that’ll be warmer than your home city this time of year.

Between November and March, El Salvador has its winter, but strangely, temperatures peak in April. This being said, in the months leading up to April (January-February-March), daily temperatures are in the 80s and the nights can be nice and cool in the mid-60s.

El Salvador’s tropical climate has its rainy season from around May to August, so by heading there during winter as a vacation destination, you’ll be experiencing the country in its driest period.

Belize has some of the best temperatures for a winter vacation: I don’t Belize you! (Ha ha)

Incredibly, Belize in winter (December to February) won’t make you sweat so much that you’ll want to escape to A/C: no, no, quite the contrary. The winter temperatures in this Caribbean and Central American destination hover in the 70s for much of the winter due to weather patterns in the Gulf of Mexico.

This being said, gorgeous destinations in Belize like Caye Caulker, San Ignacio, Tobacco Caye and the Great Blue Hole will have some of their driest weather between December, January, February and March.

Belize is a pretty adventurous travel destination , so go see for yourself!

Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a big place, full of amazing places to see. Lots of Southeast Asia will be hot during the northern hemisphere winter, but not all of them . Read on to see the hottest places in Southeast Asia during winter.

When talking about Vietnam as a winter destination, we have to be a little bit careful: Vietnam is a L O O O N G country, much like California is a long (tall?) state, and temperatures are very different at the top (near China) and the bottom (tropical, near the Gulf of Thailand).

I have been to Vietnam twice in winter (January to be exact, and twice!) and have spent time in the north, central regions and the south. If you really want the “sweat your face off in Southeast Asia experience,” you’ll stick to the south.

The north isn’t all too “cold” in winter, though. Hanoi, the capital city, will be 68-70 in winter. I was able to wear a sundress on some days, and just took a jean jacket with me in my backpack for the day.

Go to central Vietnam in winter, though, and Hoi An (one of my favorite destinations!) will give you daytime highs of 77-79. In thes outh, Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) is even warmer, with daytime highs anywhere between the mid 80s to potentially low 90s in December, January and February. No sweater needed!

Having spent a month in Vietnam in Hanoi, I can surely tell you how cool of a country it is. If you have the time (two weeks, or three), it’s great to explore of all the gorgeous scenery and culture inside Vietnam. The food is some of my favorite in all my travels, and that says a LOT.

Here is a photo I took during winter in Hoi An.

Thailand may seem like an obvious choice for a destination to beat the winter blues, but my advice is to consider that only the southern half of Thailand is going to truly be insanely hot during the winter months of December through March.

Take it from me: having been to Thailand three times during winter, I have sweated my face off in the islands like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, and I have frozen my feet off while trekking in the hills outside Chiang Mai in January, with lows of 44 F and no heat!

Given this, my immediate recommendation for visiting Thailand in winter is to fly into Bangkok, warm up at the beaches that are closer to the Bangkok region like Pattaya, and then, if you have five to ten days for your itinerary, head down to the islands via train or flight, hitting Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and Koh Phi Phi. If you’re so inclined, spend some time on the famed beaches of Phuket to see what that’s all about.

I personally love the north of Thailand, and spent time up there in winter (January to be precise). Temperatures in Chiang Mai may be as high as 88-91 during January and February, and 84 in December. Nights will be down in the high 50s because of the dryness in the air. If you want to avoid the chilly weather of the mountains, stay at lower altitudes, because mountain treks will have nights in the 40s.

I have only taken a trip to Cambodia once, but it was in January-February, so I have a pretty good handle on the temperatures in Colombia in the “coldest” of the Northern Hemisphere winter months.

A winter in much of Cambodia is daily temperatures in the 80s and 90s, and nights in the 60s or 70s. It is quite beautiful. I remember getting so hot seeing the temples of Angkor Wat that my friends and I needed a siesta break in the middle of the day to beat the heat with cold drinks and resting.

If you want a sure way of finding hot weather and sun, head to Cambodia’s south coast to visit its famous coastline that has had tons of development in the last decade. The most famous destinations are Sihanoukville and the surrounding beaches.

Don’t worry, though, if you’re not a beachgoer, cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap (along with the boat ride from one to the other) will keep your skin glowing with the tropical warmth. Nights are rarely cool enough to require a layer on top of a T-shirt, and sunny days during the winter dry season will keep rain away.

Remember that Cambodia requires a travel visa for foreigners. See more about tourist visas in our guide to figuring out if you need a visa to travel .

The Philippines

Can you tell already that I love traveling in winter to escape the cold? I’ve been to the Philippines not once, but twice, over Christmas, and can vouch that this is a HOT place to travel in.

January is the coolest month in the Philippines, but that doesn’t say much for a country that often has average highs at 90 degrees F most of the year. Destinations like Boracay have tropical climates that let temperatures, even in January and February, settle at 86 degrees F.

Dry season is from December to April or May, so by planning your travels for January, February or March, you’ll avoid typhoons completely and experience fewer rains than other times of year.

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Malaysia comes in two halves, and both are warm in winter! This country located right above the Equator is tropical and a lot of fun to travel in!

I’ve been to Malaysia twice, spending time in Kuala Lumpur and Penang (my favorite). In December, January and February, Penang will have highs between 88 and 90 degrees, and Kuala Lumpur will be much the same, at 89-91. With nights in the 70s in both, and for basically the entire year, this such a nice winter getaway!

Also, if anything … go for the food. Malaysian food is incredible. Just look at this photo of my bowl of cold cendol (a sweet soupy and icey dessert to keep you cool in the heat, with jellies and a ton of coconut milk). YUM!

Would you have ever thought of a winter trip to Singapore? It’s a good idea for escaping winter and getting your fill of a tropical getaway! In December through February, Singapore days will be about 88 degrees and nights are only 76!

If you saw Crazy Rich Asians (the movie), you probably saw the scenes of eating in the hawker market. This is one of the best things to do in Singapore, and it’s a Singapore tradition to visit all the stalls to see what you want to eat, and then sweat while digging in!

What I like about Singapore is how clean it is. During my trip, I took the Singapore metro (MRT), visited Chinatown, went to rooftop bars with my friend who lived there at the time and tried LOTS of amazing food! I also liked Little India, as the city has such a mix of cultures.

The driest winter month is February, so that would be a great time to go and enjoy the warm temperatures.

Indonesia’s Many Islands

Indonesia is an island nation that has a tropical climate that keeps its temperatures warm all year (save for some elevated areas with high altitudes that would be inland). You’ve likely heard about Bali by now, and Bali makes a great destination for winter time, but did you know that Indonesia has other places to visit that are great ideas for escaping winter?

Visit Jakarta, Surabaya, Lombok and Medan, and don’t underestimate the beauty in the Gili Islands, West Java and South Sumatra. Beware that the hottest month in Indonesia is actually October, so traveling in the months that follow mean very warm days in the 80s.

Lots of South Asia will be hot during winter, so it is a great region to travel and explore in December, January, February and March.

Sri Lanka’s Southeast and West Coasts

Sri Lanka is a tropical island located south of India. It is a lovely place to plan a one-week or two-week winter getaway, and temperatures remain tropical all winter long due to its location close to the Equator and in the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lanka does in fact have some elevated areas in its center, which will get chilly due to altitude at any time of year. For keeping your trip completely warm and hot, stick to the coasts, visiting Colombo, Galle Fort and the east coast beaches for surfing.

Southern & Southwestern India

The hottest places in India in winter are going to be the west and southern coast (think Mumbai-Maharashtra and Kochi-Kerala) and the southeastern provinces like Tamil Nadu.

Take Chennai, for example, on India’s east coast, which will have winter temperatures ranging from the high 80s to real feels of 90s during the daytime, even in February. And Goa, India’s famed beachgoer paradise on the mid-west coast, with temperatures in the mid-80s and an ocean temperature of around 82 degrees F. Sounds like bathwater.

India is also one of the most affordable places to travel in , and you’ll see when you get there that there is a huge bang for your buck.

While not entirely tropical, there are a few exciting travel destinations in East Asia that are warmer than others. Let’s see which ones make the cut for the warmest places in East Asia during winter.

Hong Kong & Macau

Although it’s far from North America and from Europe, Hong Kong is a worthwhile place to spend a winter getaway and it never disappoints.

Most North American and European citizens do not need a visa to get to Hong Kong, so you can show up when you want! For Hong Kong, a city with a scorching summer reaching the 90s and with humid, wet weather, winter months present an amazing time to visit.

Your escapes from the heat are getting on a junk boat and walking around at night .

Hong Kong winter, between December and February, is the driest time of year, so you’ll avoid all types of monsoons and storms. Humidity dies down, and days are comfortable in the 70s, with nights in the mid-to-high 60s.

Check out the various hikes that are ideal for the dry winter months, and of course explore the incredible urban jungles of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Make sure to check out all of the hidden photo spots in Hong Kong as well!

If you’re interested in visiting Macau (also spelled “Macao”), note that it has largely the same warm climate pattern as Hong Kong, being only an hour away by ferry. Macau has an incredible mix of east and west because of its Portuguese colonial roots. You can see this European history, meshed with that of China, apparent in the unique Macanese cuisine and architecture of Macau.

The Caribbean Islands

The Caribbean will always be a good choice for American and Canadian travelers seeking some winter sun during the coldest months of the year.

What’s stopping you from an easy warm getaway to the Caribbean islands during December, January and February? Start planning with these winter escape ideas below.

Cabarete & the North Coast of the Dominican Republic

Punta Cana’s white beaches and turquoise seas are probably what you think of when you think of spending the worst of winter in the Dominican Republic.

It’s what we think of, too, but it isn’t how we wanted to experience a trip to this country that sits rather close to the continental US. We opted for a trip to explore the sights and beaches of Cabarete and the Dominican Republic North Coast instead.

The good news for this destination as your winter getaway is that it doesn’t come at the price of a 4- or 5-star resort. In fact, you can stay in budget accommodations that bring you close to nature and other backpackers. In Cabarete alone, there’s Ali’s Surf Camp (also known as Surf Camp Cabarete), a nearby hostel and a few Airbnbs.

We opted for a combination of both, between our travels that ranged from Puerto Plata to Rio San Juan, by comparing accommodation options .

For fun ways to get around, there are the local guaguas. These are sure to give you an authentic and semi-crowded Dominican transit experience. The great thing is that they cost between $1 to $2 USD per trip! It’s great value for your money, because other things like private taxi rides don’t come cheap.

There’s lots to do in surf paradises like Cabarete. For coffee lovers, you can visit the local cafe scene .

For the more adventurous type, you can check out some unusual and unique things to do in Sosua and Puerto Plata .

Temperatures range from 65F at night to 85F during the day (it can feel warmer in the sun, but cools down by sunset and it’s pretty temperate).

Given that Jamaica is located in the Caribbean and you’ll want to avoid all of hurricane season completely, visiting this island in the winter time is the best idea. From January to February, Jamaica will have temperatures in the 80s, and this is the “coolest” time of year to visit the tropical island.

What’s there to do in Jamaica? Aside from the well-known destinations of Montego Bay and Negril, there’s Ocho Rios, Kingston, Blue Lagoon and Pelican Bar.

It’s easy to get a flight to Jamaica from the US or Canada.

Africa is far for most travelers coming from North America and Europe, but it is worth the trip. Much of Africa remains warm throughout the year, which makes the African continent a great idea for traveling in November, December, January, February and March.

Zambia & Victoria Falls

Due to being in the southern hemisphere, Zambia, a country in southern Africa, has a subtropical climate that will get you an 87-degree (Fahrenheit) day at Victoria Falls (one of the seven greatest natural wonders of the world).

Pair a trip to Zambia with a trip to Namibia, Botswana or South Africa, and you’ll be able to have a two-week bender seeing the best of Africa during winter in outrageously warm weather.

If you do make it to Zambia, be sure to go for a river cruise on the Zambezi River, trying local brews and seeing hippos with your boat driver and guide.

South Africa

Beautiful South Africa is an excellent choice for a winter trip, as the country is in the Southern Hemisphere and will experience the height of its summer during December, January and February.

Catch a safari, see the beaches in Cape Town, visit wineries in Stellenbosch and hang out in Pretoria, all in temperatures like 80-85 degrees F during the day.

Looking to update your travel attire and gear for the winter? Visit our favorite travel gift ideas .

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Now that the madness of the holidays are behind us, the long and quiet stretch of winter has officially settled in. While this may be a prime season for Dry January detoxes and cozy nights spent in, it's also a great time to plot an escape—because a "cozy night in" feels so much better when it comes with room service, doesn't it?

Gstaad, Switzerland

From Verbier to Courchevel, Europe certainly has no shortage of glamorous ski towns that attract an ultra-high-net-worth crowd, but Gstaad, all old world and impossibly gorgeous, just may be the most glittering of the bunch. Monegasque royalty Andrea Casiraghi and Tatiana Santo Domingo got married here back in 2014, while fashion royalty Valentino regularly hosts his A-list pals at his chalet. For those without a standing invite, the only place to stay is at the grandest dame hotel in town, Gstaad Palace, which has been owned and operated by the same family since it opened in 1913.

Gstaad Palace

St. Martin may be the chiller antidote to glitzy St. Barts but it's got no less of a celebrity sheen. A-listers from Andy Warhol to Robert De Niro have found R&R on the island, particularly at Belmond's La Samanna, a glamorous property that just celebrated its 50th birthday. The resort occupies prime real estate on the best beach, and with newly redesigned villas—think infinity pools, wrap-around terraces, private gardens, more than 4,000 square feet of space—you too can feel like a Hollywood star.

La Samanna, a Belmond Hotel

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Courchevel, France

Of the many stellar five-star hotels scattered around the tony ski resort, none are as utterly charming as Les Airelles Courchevel. Built to resemble an Austro-Hungarian castle, with a handpainted facade and chic, uniquely decorated rooms, the property is full of luxurious amenities. On the list: six restaurants (including two on the slopes), a spa offering facials and treatments with La Mer products, a brand new partnership with famed pâtissier Cedric Grolet, and a decked out teenage room stocked with pinball machines, retro arcade games, and pool tables to keep the kids entertained.

Les Airelles Courchevel

San José del Cabo, Mexico

There are many stunning luxury hotels to choose from at this celeb-adored Baja California destination but for that perfect mix of wellness-minded zen and beachy fun, the answer is Zadún. Nestled among desert dunes along the dramatic coastline, the property is part of the exclusive Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio, whose resorts are known for their impeccable service, ultra-luxe digs, and celebration of (and seamless blend with) their natural surroundings. And of course for their incredible spas, which you'll never want to leave.

Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Raton, New Mexico

As the second largest private landowner in America, with 2 million acres of it, Ted Turner is basically a real-life John Dutton . Except unlike the Yellowstone patriarch, the media mogul doesn't mind sharing. Located on 550,000 acres of pristine wildlife in Northern New Mexico/Southern Colorado is Vermejo, a Ted Turner Reserve, the largest property within his hospitality brand. There is a deep focus on conservation here, especially in protecting the American bison and Rio Grande cutthroat trout, plus ample creature comforts: five-star accommodations, a world-class spa, and incredible food.

Vermejo, a Ted Turner Reserve

The Dolomites, Italy

So breathtakingly beautiful are the Dolomite mountains that in 2009 they were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In San Cassiano, one of the charming Alpine villages nestled underneath the region's imposing peaks, is the Rosa Alpina, which became an Aman partner hotel a few years ago. That means you can expect all the sleek and ultra-zen-like trappings of the cult hotel brand, coupled with the home-away-from-home warmth that comes from being a family-run property since 1939.

Rosa Alpina, an Aman partner

Vienna, Austria

Unabashedly aristocratic and dripping with class (and classical music history), the Austrian capital feels particularly inviting in the winter. Maybe it's the grand balls that take place throughout the month of January, or all the sumptuous Hapsburg palaces and beautiful coffee houses and fantastic Klimt-strewn museums where you can find refuge from the cold. There's also plenty of warmth to be found at the Almanac Palais Vienna—a boutique hotel occupying a pair of former 19th century palaces that opened last March—especially in the calming thermal water-fed indoor pool of its sprawling wellness sanctuary.

Almanac Palais Vienna

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Originally built in 1893, the Wheatleigh, a stately Italianate Gilded Age mansion-turned-boutique hotel feels akin to a European chalet come winter—one that also happens to be on the National Register of Historic Places. Picture crackling fireplaces, warm wood accents, and an intimate vibe—there are just 19 rooms on property—plus scenic views of the Berkshires. A number of nearby trails are great for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding.

The Wheatleigh

Panama City, Panama

Is everyone you know suddenly going to Panama? Stay ahead of the FOMO and book a trip to the Central American capital city and head to its old quarter, which is now home to the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo. Located in a UNESCO-protected historic district, the property dates back to 1917, when it was built to be a social club that, throughout the 20th century, hosted the likes of Albert Einstein and Queen Elizabeth. That sophisticated charm has been well-preserved, and now comes with modern luxuries like five restaurants, a speakeasy, and a great spa.

Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo

Lake Placid, New York

If the nightly s'mores around a campfire aren't enough to draw you to the picturesque Whiteface Lodge in the Adirondacks, the cozy ensuite fireplaces, warm homemade cookies at turndown, and 80+ trails at nearby Whiteface Mountain will do the trick. After a day in the snow, you can cuddle under a wool blanket and gaze at the stars, while enjoying whiskey flights and hors d'oeuvres by the fire.

Whiteface Lodge

Greenough, Montana

Situated along the edge of the 37,000-acre Resort at Paws Up is the Green O, a sister property of just 12 freestanding, fabulously appointed homes. Surrounded by nothing but soaring pine trees and sagebrush, consider this an extravagant way to get in touch with nature, but with the comfort of sleek, modern accommodations, hot tubs, floor-to-ceiling windows, plus access to all of the activities at Paws Up, like horseback riding and cross-country skiing. The best part? It's adults-only.

The Green O

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Come winter, Jackson Hole is a veritable playground for advanced skiers and winter sports enthusiasts. And there is no better base camp than Caldera House, the ultra-luxe ski-in boutique hotel located in the center of all the action in Teton Village. There are just 8 palatial 2- and 4-bedroom suites decked out in state-of-the-art kitchens, home theaters, and giant soaking tubs, while the property offers adrenaline-fueled experiences that might include skiing with an Olympian or backcountry heli-skiing through Teton wilderness.

Caldera House

Venice, Italy

The most authentic way to do Venice? Go in the winter, when it's not only quiet and tourist-free but, with the foggy mist that settles over the city, hauntingly gorgeous. You'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to sumptuous hotels but the latest entry in town is the Violino d'Oro, built in a former 17th-century palazzo with only Italian artisan-crafted furnishings: everything, from the fabrics and plates, to even the terrazzo floors , hails from workshops in Venice and Tuscany.

If you're a skier, skip popular Park City for Alta instead, where snowboarding is verboten. The town, which is located just 28 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, also gets a fraction of visitors as its neighbor (about 500,000 a year compared to Park City, which gets more than 3 million). Stay at Snowpine Lodge, which was renovated in 2019 to become a fully ski-in/ski-out hotel, the area's first. Your après-ski needs will be covered, too, thanks to a spa, slope-side hot tubs and heated pool, an oxygen bar, fire pits, and heated ski lockers.

Snowpine Lodge

Atacama Desert, Chile

For a one-of-a-kind experience, head down to the great natural wonder that is the Atacama Desert. Along with so many otherworldly landscapes to explore at the driest place on earth, come nighttime the stargazing potential here is beyond incredible, especially at the Nayara Alto Atacama, the Nayara brand's first hotel outside of Costa Rica. The 42-room property is situated away from the village (and the light pollution) and in the San Pedro River valley, where your only neighbors will be local shepherds and family orchards.

Nayara Alto Atacama

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

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Winter Bucket List: 60 Fun Activities & Things to Do When its Cold

The sunshine has mostly disappeared and the leaves have fallen off the trees, which can only mean that Winter is definitely closing in. Instead of just hiding out under the covers at home waiting for the snow to melt and the beach weather to return, strap on your snow boots, put on some gloves, and take advantage of the change of season by creating a Winter Bucket List filled with cold-weather activities and fun things to do.

A Bucket List Full of Fun Winter Activities & Things to Do When it’s Cold 

1. ✧ host a football party.

Tis’ the season for…football! Invite all your friends over to root for your favorite team. Don’t worry about the food because Southern Living’s Favorite Game Day Recipes and Food Network’s Game Day Party Recipes has you covered. From mozzarella sticks to Italian stuffed Jalapenos, even if your team is not victorious at least the food will be good.

2. ✧ Make Homemade Hot Chocolate

There’s nothing quite like sipping some hot cocoa while watching a fire blazing. It’s the perfect way to write your bucket list ( hint, hint )! You can make yourself a simple Old-Fashioned Hot Chocolate or spruce it up by whipping up a Red Velvet Hot Chocolate . Don’t forget to sip it in your favorite bucket list mug from our buck & co. shop!

3. ✧ Go Ice Fishing

Bundle up, break out your portable seat and spend a relaxing (albeit chilly) day fishing for your dinner. This popular cold weather sport is done using tools like an ice auger, skimmer and gaff hook to catch an array of fish.

Cottage Life breaks the how-to down in their Beginner’s Guide to Ice Fishing . If you need a prime fishing spot for this bucket list adventure, check out Matador’s article on The World’s Best Ice Fishing Locations around the world.

4. ✦ Perfect Your Chili Recipe

Chili is one of the most loved dishes in the winter season. so now is the time perfect your chili recipe. It will give you the opportunity to wow your guests at your next dinner party, but there’s nothing wrong with eating an entire bowl to yourself. 

Here’s the one I spent a year perfecting: Best-Ever Homemade Beef & Mushroom Chili Recipe

5. ✦ Go Dogsledding

This Winter see what all the barking is about and take a dog sledding tour through the snowy wilderness. There are sledding opportunities all over the world, CNN lists their top picks and TreeHugger gives us 5 Destinations for Dog Sledding Around the World . I took two thrilling rides, once in Montana and once in Norway!

6. ✦ Start a Scrapbook

Yes, scrapbooking is still a thing and makes for one of the best winter activities for adults or kids. Besides isn’t it about time that you did something with all those boxes of unorganized photos?

If you think you are not creative enough there are plenty of page ideas on the internet. Check these ones out: Scrapbook Ideas for Beginners: 25 Inspiring Layouts and 33 Cool DIY Scrapbook Ideas You Have To Try . Or for something even easier just buy a page kit that has everything you need.

7. ✦ Build a Snowman (Or Snow Angel)

Escape to a winter wonderland to make a snow angel or build a good old fashioned Frosty. Have fun plopping yourself right into the snow, waving your arms and legs to create the perfect angel or stacking big balls on top of each other for a jolly snowman (don’t forget the carrot nose, hat and stick arms!). Bucket list bonus if you do both!

For help read The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Snowman and just for fun here’s 31 Epic Snowman Designs . For a super easy option just buy a kit .

8. ✦ Keep a Gratitude Journal

A great thing to do is start each morning by listing five things you are grateful for. In the beginning it will probably be a struggle to come up with a mere five, being wrapped up in a world full of fear can disguise the good in your life. Think hard. Did you just drink a deliciously warm cup of coffee? Or did you connect with a friend by text? Or enjoy a heartwarming movie on television? There is always something to be grateful for— always .

Need help with coming up with things to be grateful for? Read my article on Being Grateful: 100 Things to Be Thankful For Today

9. ✦ Binge Watch a TV Series

How about getting in your comfy jammies, grabbing a cup of hot chocolate and spending chill time binge watching a fun TV series? This is an easy way to spend time together with the kids, as a couple or even solo.

From comedy to suspense, Netflix and/or Amazon Prime has everything to offer so you can have fun watching back-to-back episodes! It can be a TV show that you’ve loved and are eager to watch again or maybe you’d like to try out a new one.

Schitt’s Creek, Friends and Grey’s Anatomy are pretty popular series, but if you are struggling to find a show, then the 33 of the best TV shows to binge-watch  list will help you out.

10. ✦ Take a Snowshoe Hike

Strap on some snowshoes and hike through the snow covered pines. Snowshoe Magazine can help you out with its First-Timer’s Guide to Snowshoeing and Matador Network gives you 10 Amazing Places to Snowshoe in North America .

11. ✦ Go Tubing or Sledding

Who doesn’t love sledding down the mountain? It’s one of those winter activities that’s fun for the whole family. So, find a snowy hill (or ski resort who offers other activities besides skiing) and take a fun ride down!

12. ✦ Soak in a Natural Hot Springs

There’s nothing quite like soaking in a warm body of water while the weather outside is chilly. Research natural hot springs nearby, and take a road trip to soak in one.

Not only is it relaxing, but they are known to improve blood flow and offer glowing skin at your fingertips—bonus! If you can’t find a natural one, do the next best thing at find an outdoor hot tub at a local spa.

13. ✦ See the Nutcracker Ballet

Whether it’s just on a small local stage or a big city production, a quintessential thing to do during the holidays is to escape into a dreamland with the exquisite ballet performance of the Nutcracker. This classic Christmas story is centered around a young girl’s Christmas Eve celebration and is a must thing to do at least once in your lifetime!

14. ✦ Read by the Fire

The fire is even better when you have a great book to read. Amazon even has hundreds of free books to download to your Kindle. Don’t have a Kindle? No problem, just download the Kindle app to your smartphone or tablet (you can even download my book on Amazon — shameless plus! ). Like to flip the pages of a book? Hit up your local thrift store where you can typically pick up a paperback for under a dollar.

If you love the classics then check of the Classic Books Bucket List: 25 of the Best Must-Read Novels

15. ✧ Do the Polar Bear Plunge

The Polar Bear Plunge is an event where you submerge your entire body into a chilling water, typically to raise money for a charitable organization, but sometimes just for “fun”. Why not be a brave do-gooder this Winter, strip down to your skivvies and jump into freezing cold water for a good cause.

16. ✧ CAMP OUT IN THE FAMILY ROOM

How fun would it be for the whole family to have an evening camping in the living room? Move the furniture out of the way and set up a pop up tent right in the middle of the room. Then gather up you pillows, blankets, snacks, books and any other for activities you want to do while you are disconnected.

For extra special fun with the kids, get an indoor teepee!  Esty  has a ton of adorable ones. Check them out  here .

17. ✧ MAKE A POT OF MULLED WINE

Mulled wine, also known as glühwein, is a warm, spiced drink that is a huge hit in the winter months. It’s really easy to make and Country Living has shared  25 easy mulled wine recipes to warm you up .

18. ✦ KNIT A SCARF OR HAT

For beginner knitters, scarves make easy projects and can be worn in a variety of ways to cover up any silly mistakes. Plus, those who master the art, won’t ever need to buy Christmas presents again!

You can find several different How-To videos on YouTube, but this step-by-step video on  How to Knit a Scarf for Beginners  is one of the best.

For an uber-soft scarf use this  alplaca yarn  or this  chunky chenille !

19. ✧ ATTEND A HOCKEY GAME

Spend an afternoon surrounded by screaming fans, watching hockey players swoosh by, in an action pack game. With any luck you will be able to catch a flying hockey puck and keep it as a souvenir.

20. ✦ TAKE A COOKING CLASS

Being a restaurant owner and chef, I enjoy taking cooking classes when traveling around the world (but, you could also find some close to home).

I have learned to make  pierogi in Poland ,  pad thai in Thailand  and  macarons in France ! There’s nothing like learning tricks and techniques from the experts at creating a dish.

If you are looking for  the best class in a different country or for a cooking school vacation, check out these articles:

• Best Cooking Classes Around the World
• 10 Best Cooking School Vacations

21. ✦ ICE SKATE ON A LAKE

Frozen ponds, lakes or rivers can provide you with some of the most scenic ice skating rinks around the world. Glide along, enjoying the fresh air—score some bonus bucket list points if you can learn to ice skate backwards.

If you can’t find a lake or such, outdoor ice skating rinks start popping up everywhere during the winter season-even in places that have no snow! Put on a pair of blades and glide around the rink. Don’t forget to follow it up with a cup of hot cocoa.

22. ✧ MAKE APPLE CIDER

Only second to hot chocolate, apple cider is a great way to stay warm when the weather is not. It only takes a few ingredients and this  easy hot apple cider  will give you a cup in less than half an hour.

23. ✧ HAVE A BONFIRE

Who doesn’t love sitting next to a warm fire pit when it’s cold outside? Call your friends and gather your family for an exciting outdoor bonfire experience. You can sit around the flames, tell ghost stories, and enjoy your favorite food at the same time.

For an extra bucket list worthy experience, you can do some outdoor camping at the same time, and enjoy a starry night.

24. ✧ HAVE AN INDOOR PICNIC

Picnics aren’t just for the outdoors—clear a space on your living room floor and recreate a memorable dining experience. You can even pack a traditional wicker basket with your favorite picnic foods and enjoy the feast without going too far.

Real Simple magazine can help you out with their  Picnic Packing Checklist . If you want to set up an Instagrammable picnic, here’s a  cute red checkered picnic basket  you can use.

25. ✦ DECORATE SUGAR COOKIES

Decorating sugar cookies will be the perfect thing to do with your kids, though my husband and I had a blast doing it on our own! Just follow Alton Brown’s perfect  sugar cookie recipe , then pick any cookie cutter shape you desire. The best part is that you can eat the outcome of your activity. Fun!

There’s nothing wrong with sticking to the  traditional gingerbread cookie cutter , but there are also tons of other fun shapes—like these:

• 2-Piece Reindeer Face Cookie Cutter
• Pine Tree Forest cookie cutter
• Snowflake Cookie Cutter Platter

26. ✧ Do a Family Winter Photo Shoot

Any time you can get the entire family together it is a blessing, but a photo memory of the event is even better! If you are stumped for theme ideas check out 50 Family Photoshoot Ideas  and 100 Fun Family Photo Ideas .

27. ✦ Do a Random Act of Kindness

Random acts of kindness are some of the most fulfilling and most humane and human things you could ever do. Especially when it is done for a complete stranger.

• Donate some food
• Pay the bridge toll for the person behind you
• Go to an animal orphanage and help out for the day
• Feed someone’s parking meter.

The possibilities are endless. The best way to approach this is to look at your local community and see what it is they need the most. Or check out my post for ideas: 75 Random Acts of Kindness Ideas: Examples of Kind Things to Do .

28. ✧ Drive a Snowmobile

Do you love speed and exciting activities? Driving a snowmobile can help with that, and will serve as the perfect addition to your winter bucket list.With thousands of miles of snowmobiling opportunities around the world, find your perfect location to hop on and tear through the snow-filled, rolling hills.

29. ✦ Have a Game night

Stay in for the evening, get cozy in your jammies and have a game night marathon. There are different games for all ages, but Bingo and  Scrabble  are favorites for almost friends and everyone in the family (this  bingo set  comes with everything you need!).

You can make it even more fun by adding prizes for the winner, like store gift cards, candies or extra TV time for the kids.

My favorite adult game night involves a few fierce rounds of  Cards Against Humanity , but  Smart Ass  and  Drink-A-Palooza  will also make it a lively night. If you want to make your game night more family friendly for the kids then look at these  family games . Still unsure of which games to play? Check out this list:  Board Games Bucket List: 50 of the All Time Best Ones to Play

30. ✦ Learn to Snowboard

Put away those skis this season and try your hand at snowboarding, even if you only make it down the bunny slope (like me!). Make the most out of your experience by staying at a cozy lodge and enjoy some apres-skiing at the end of the day. Or should I say apres-snowboarding? 

You can take a class at your favorite ski resort or the Snow Professor has made a helpful video to get you started, How to Snowboard: Step 1 .

31. ✦ Bake a Pie

There’s an art to making the best homemade pie. It’s all about the fruit inside, creating the perfect pie crust and making it with a touch of love. It doesn’t matter if it’s apples, lemons or peaches – choose whatever is sure to make your mouth water.

You can always find great pie recipes on All Recipes , but for something extra special Saveur created a list of the  best pies to bake right now .

32. ✧ Make a Gingerbread House

Spend an afternoon putting together a gingerbread house that is filled with all the sweets and treats of the season. This is such a fun activity to do with children! Good Housekeeping has given us inspiration with 34 Amazing Gingerbread Houses or, for an easier option, you can purchase a pre-baked Gingerbread House kit and add your own goodies.

33. ✦ Go Bowling

Yes, you can go bowling anytime of the year, but bowling during the winter season is a great way to escape the chilly weather outside. You can enjoy removing your layers of winter clothes, putting on those oh-so-cute shoes and taking your best shot at getting a strike. Bonus bucket list points if you bowl a turkey—three strikes in a row!

34. ✧ Volunteer at a Food Kitchen

There is nothing better than giving back to society, and the cold winter season is the perfect time to volunteer at a food kitchen and help those in need. You can also donate winter clothes and items during the season, but volunteering at a food kitchen will let you connect with society and do your part in making it better for everyone.

You can serve hot soup and delicious food to those who do not have anyone to care for them. Do a good deed this winter season.

35. ✦ Relax at a Spa

Whether you have had a long and exhausting day or an easy breezy one, relaxing at a spa is the perfect solution. You can not only relax your tense muscles, but the steam-filled spa experience will also offer a comfortable sensation amidst the winter season. You can get glowing skin, sweat out impurities, relax your muscles, and let the steam take your mind off the winter season.

36. ✦ Visit a Museum in Your Town

Sometimes we take for granted what is in our own backyards. I am definitely guilty of this—don’t be like me! Do some research of local museums and then make a plan to visit one. You can roam through the rooms discovering new things on your own or participate in an educational tour. 

37. ✦ Do a Jigsaw Puzzle

So you’re indoors and it’s cold outside. Brainteasers are the perfect winter activity for those who enjoy a challenge, and completing a jigsaw puzzle is one of them. Grab some apple cider (or a bottle of wine) and spend some quality time sitting around the table looking through and joining the tiny pieces. 

Not sure what puzzle to complete? Check out the  best 1000 piece jigsaw puzzles for adults (& tips to complete one)

38. ✦ CATCH SNOWFLAKES ON YOUR TONGUE

Who doesn’t love watching the snowfall? Awaken your inner child and try catching a snowflake on your tongue!

39. ✧  STICK TO AN INDOOR WORKOUT ROUTINE

Have you been trying to get yourself into shape for years now? Well, take advantage of the coming winter season, and stick to a regular workout routine. It doesn’t have to be a really difficult or challenging one. YouTube is filled to the brim with workout videos and channels, making it easy to work out for  free  at home!

At most you’d have to purchase some basic weights and a yoga mat, but that small investment will be worth it. With workout styles varying from yoga and pilates to dancing, weight lifting and even boxing, you are bound to find a fit for your fitness routine.  Blogilates  and  Popsugar Fitness  are excellent channels to start from.

40. ✦ SLEEP IN AN ICE HOTEL

Each year in different chilly locations around the world, hotels are built from natural ice and snow. The  IceHotel  in the village of Jukkasjärvi, in northern Sweden and The  Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel  that is nestled in the wilderness of Northern Norway are two of the best. They both are art exhibitions as much as hotels, where the canvases span from floor to ceiling.

Spend the night in one of their negative-five-degree rooms, where you will be surrounded by artistically chiseled ice. It’s a bonus that there is also a chance of seeing the Northern Lights from either location!

41. ✦ Write a Thank You Note to Someone Who Deserves It

So often people want to tell a company or friend how they feel when they are not satisfied. Instead write a thank you to show your appreciation for a job well done.

Writing your note on a simple sheet of paper is fine, but stocking up on blank greeting cards may be a good idea instead. I bought these cute blank bird greeting cards which are perfect for a bunch of different occasions, including a simple thank you.

42. ✧ Watch all the Oscar Winning Movies

Make some popcorn and cuddle on the couch with a blanket and start your bucket list quest to watch all the best picture Oscar winning movies ever made. A subscription to Netflix is a great way to accomplish this goal, they have almost every one available for rental!

Click here for a list of the Best Picture Winners .

43. ✦ Make Homemade Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a cold winter day. So whip up one of your favorites and enjoy it with some of that crusty bread you also made.

44. ✧ Have a Pajama Day

It’s a luxury to be able to spend all day in your PJs and you’ve already got plenty of great ideas listed here to make your pajama day complete! Put on your most comfy pair and opt to watch movies, play games or just eat lots of yummy food.

Don’t have a comfy and cute pair of PJ’s? Try Pretty Garden’s  cheetah print pajama se t or  the  dreamy cloud set  that can be monogrammed.

45. ✦ Try a New Restaurant

Let’s face it—we tend to get stuck in our same restaurant routines. eating at the same handful of places. Break out of that routine and try something new! It could be a place similar to your favorite Mexican joint, or an entirely different cuisine that you have never tried before. 

46. ✦ Bake Cookies

Who doesn’t like a home filled with the smells of fresh-baked cookies? It doesn’t matter whether it’s snickerdoodles, oatmeal raisin or simple chocolate chips, spend an entire day just baking. Make it even more fun by inviting friends and family to participate.

For some delicious cookie ideas see the Epicurious’ 113 Favorite Cookie Recipes (and send me a dozen of the spiced molasses cookies!). Don’t forget the cookie sheets! The Rachael Ray Yum-o! Nonstick Pans are amazing, or at least get yourself some silicone baking mats that make the process so much easier!

47. ✧ DIY Snow Globes

Who doesn’t love a good winter snow globe? You don’t need to spend lots of money on one because it’s pretty easy to make your own and is one of the best activities for families!

Some of the best DIY snow globes for you to make:

• 13 DIY Snow Globes That Will Get You Excited For Christmas
• Cute Personalize Photo Snow Globe
• Whimsical Flamingo Snow Globe

48. ✦ Clean Out & Organize Your Closet

It is surprisingly rewarding to be able to purge some clothes, plus it is purely a bonus that you can donate or consign them! If you are anything like me then it’s pretty hard to decide what to keep and what to give away, so either ask yourself Marie Kondo’s mantra, “does it bring you joy?” or use these 17 Invaluable Tips For Anybody With Too Many Clothes .

49. ✦ Spend the Night in a Cozy Cabin

Whether it’s in the middle of the forest or atop a snowy mountain, there’s nothing quite like being holed up in a cozy little cabin. I checked this off my winter bucket list in California’s Yosemite Valley where on Christmas morning we woke up surrounded by a blanket of white. It was dreamy.

To find your perfect cabin check out Travel and Leisure’s Best Winter Lodges . Read More: Yosemite Valley Bucket List: 9 Best Things to Do in the Winter

50. ✧ Make an Ice Sculpture

I’ll be honest, you might need to sign up for a class to complete this bucket list goal, but it will be worth it! You can pick the perfect shape, learn how to use all the tools required, and build yourself a frozen masterpiece. Make sure to take a class close to a time when you are having a party or attending one so you can show off your work of art!

51. ✦ Donate Toys

There are so many needy families around the world, and many of them have young children who would miss out on the joy of Christmas if it weren’t for a generous helping hand. For this Winter Bucket List idea gather toys and donate them to a good cause to put a big smile on a child’s face.

I organized a successful Toys for Tots drive at my restaurant , but there are other amazing organizations, like The Salvation Army or United Way .

52. Bake a Loaf of Bread

Did you ever have a loaf of bread that was so good that you wanted to make your own? Well, now is the time to get your hands on this experience, and you can use the coming winter seasons to learn how to bake a loaf of bread. Get the ingredients, watch an online tutorial, call someone for help, and taste your first slice of bread. 

53. ✦ Go on a Sleigh Ride

Rudolph may not be pulling the sleigh and Santa may not be riding on it with you, but take a quiet sleigh ride through the winter wilderness. Add a cozy blanket and some hot chocolate to make this a ride to remember.

 54. ✧ Create a Winter Song Playlist

Music is a great way to get you geared up for any season, especially one made for chilly days spent by the fire. If you have young children, make sure you keep them entertained with music and educational songs that are suited to their age so they have the opportunity to carry on learning through the winter.

You can check out this channel on YouTube for suggestions.

Having a hard time thinking of songs for adults? Spotify has made it easy with this Winter Chill playlist.

55. ✦ Send a Care Package to a Soldier

Sending a care package to a soldier is the best idea for any season, but especially during all the winter holidays. It was one of my most memorable bucket list checks (I did it on my birthday!) and you can get some tips from my article .

56. ✦ Have a Snowball Fight

With so much fresh snow outside can you really restrict yourself only to the indoors. Get outside for a good old fashioned snowball fight! Invite some friends, make teams and let’s see who wins the war of snow.

Don’t get out there unarmed, learn How to Make the Perfect Snowball first!

57. ✦ Make Your New Year Bucket List

Take a look at your master bucket list and determine which of those goals will be high priority in the new year. If you don’t have a bucket list yet, then you’ve come to the right place!

Here are some articles to help you:

• How to Make a Bucket List: 5 Easy Steps to Create a Great One
• 1000+ Ideas for Your Bucket List
• 10 Incredible Ways a Bucket List Can Improve Your Life
• 5 Tips to Help Conquer Your Bucket List
• Bucket List Meaning: What’s the Definition and What is it?

58. ✧ Make a Pine Cone Wreath for Your Front Door

Get the hot glue gun out and get a little creative by making a pine cone wreath to hang on your front door. Pinterest is loaded with plenty of creative ideas and A Piece of Rainbow has a  step-by-step guide .

59. ✦ Take a Warm Bubble Bath

Warm bubble baths are not just for the children with rubber duckies, they are a relaxing way for adults to destress. It’s a nice way treat yourself! Turn on some tunes, light a candle and let your anxieties dissolve along with the salts and bath bombs.

FYI: If you are worried about soaking your sensitive skin, Aveeno’s Soothing Bath Treatment is perfect, and the Bubbly Belle Bath Bombs set will add a drop of soothing aromas to your tub.

60. ✧ Donate Warm Mittens & Jackets to a Homeless Shelter

Think about other people this winter season who can’t afford to buy warm mittens and jackets. Do your best to help out by collecting and donating these much needed items. It will not only be helpful to them, but it will make you feel good. 

61. ✦ Find You Favorite Tea

Tea is your soulmate during the harsh winds of the winter season, and it is time you find the perfect herbal soulmate for yourself.  Some people love chamomile tea, while others adore the oolong tea. I love jasmine green tea. What do you love? If you haven’t found the perfect tea for you the Twinings Tea Bag Sampler Set has over 20 different kinds to choose from!

T This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

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40 thoughts on “Winter Bucket List: 60 Fun Activities & Things to Do When its Cold”

Great list! And the photo of the dog sledding is amazing.

I’m staying (mostly) at home in the run-up to Christmas this year, though I will definitely be checking out the Christmas lights and windows in London in a couple of weeks time. But then for New Year, I’m heading to New York – will definitely have to go ice skating in Central Park! (I think it’s going to be a very steep learning curve…)

I bet the lights in London are AMAZING! Going ice skating in Central Park would definitely make my Winter bucket list :)

These are all great ideas for winter! I would love to sleep in an Ice hotel. But also driving a snowmobile must be so much fun. A snowball fight will definitely be on my winter bucket list! :) Annette, what’s your personal favorite?

Staying in an Ice Hotel or dog sledding would be my number ones!!

Growing up in Wisconsin, hockey, ice fishing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing were ways of life in the winter!! Wasn’t much else to do :-) For that reason I’ve never thought of them as bucket list activities but I guess they would be for those who haven’t lived in the frozen tundra, hahahaha. How about making hot holiday cocktails? Hot toddys, mulled wine…hmmm I think I know what I’m doing tonight! Jessica

Loving the idea of making holiday cocktails for the Winter Bucket List. May need to make an addition to this list!

now i’m going to central park for ice skating…thanks for sharing..

pic of ice skating was awesome…

i want to build a snowman.. totally humming Disneys Frozen when I typed that lol

It’s just as fun as an adult :)

These are all such good ideas, especially since I go to school in northern Utah, where it is cold and snowy all. winter. long. After we all check these items off our winter bucketlist, if anyone is interested in a winter escape, the student magazine I am a part of wrote a fun travel article about winter getaways in Germany.

Funny, but I’ve never thought about Utah as wintery. I may need to head there (& Germany) for some snowy fun!

Snowshoe! Have to try that one. Loved your list, it is full of adventure. Can I add one to it? Eat a snowflake! As snow is coming down, stick out your tongue. Build an Igloo/fort to go with that snowman.

I love those additions! I am in Germany right now and there is a chance of snow today, so I am going to try to eat a snowflake today.

I like your post, great work! I will add sleeping in an Ice Hotel to my checklist

Great 20list

Travel book make you explore what other have experienced but Traveling make your explore what you have experienced.This 20 list is amazing and one should experience it all.Thanks for list.

Amazing list, dogsledding looks so much fun and icesculpting seems to be interesting.

Looks very interesting with lots of places to check out! Looking forward to see all the amazing things. stunning your all pictures and great article.

Love the list, no one can say they find winter boring after reading your article!!

this is really amazing list that i ever seen. If we are active and do the things that you mentioned we will stay tuned and never get bored in winter. Thank you so much for such a nice information.

I hate winters. That’s why I moved to Mexico as soon as I could. But Dog sledding seems so much fun. Never knew Dogs can have so much stamina.

Great list! And the photo of the dog sledding is amazing.thanks Annette

wow, I did all this in summer and it was not fun

haha @obamas lastname, me too lol xd

I won’t be able to do a lot of these this winter cause it doesn’t snow in my city.

I’m going to a new group & I ss’d some ideas that we may be able to do! We need to do engaging things. Thanx for the list!!!

great idea i will clean my closet

I will be doing a game day thanks you for the list

i’ll go play in the snow whit my friend

That’s a great list of activities in the wintertime. Thanks a lot. I think I would get a ride dog sledding tour through the snowy wilderness. It would be genuinely exciting.

Sitting under fireplace, drinking hot chocolate, snowman

lots of interesting ideas

lots of interesting ideas looking forward trying some of these ideas

Hi Annette,

Loved your post! Winter is my absolute favorite season, and I always look for activities that I can try out. You shared so many great ideas through this post, and I can’t wait to try them all out. I especially loved Ice fishing, dog sledding, and snowshoe hikes. Also, reading by fire is one of my favorite winter activities. I really liked that you included it in your list. Thanks a lot for curating such an amazing article.

Wow! Thank you for sharing an amazing list shared by you. I really like all activities. I am sure when I discussed with kids and play with them they will definitely love and enjoy all activities. Thanks again for sharing! Keep posting this type of blog. I am going to bookmark.

Nice article, waiting for your another blog.

These are really great ideas, thank you so much

So many great ideas that I have not done. Thanks so much for the suggestions and places of recommendations!!

Great ideas of things to do in winter

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33 Essential Winter Travel Tips (Whether You Drive or Fly)

If you're traveling this winter, whether by plane, train, or automobile, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind to make your trip as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Here are 33 essential winter travel tips to help you get where you're going safely and comfortably, no matter what mode of transportation you're using.

1. Plan ahead.

This is especially important if you're flying, as airport delays and cancelations are more common in winter weather. Check everything you need to know about your destination and plan to arrive a day or two early if possible, just in case your flight is delayed.

2. Dress in layers.

You never know when the temperature will change, so it's always best to be prepared. Wear a base layer of clothing that will keep you warm, even if it gets wet.

Add a middle layer of insulation, such as a sweater or light jacket. And top it off with a waterproof outer layer in case you get caught in the snow or rain.

When you fly, the general rule is to wear your heaviest clothes. This will keep you warm and will prevent your luggage from being overweight.

3. Pack your essentials.

In addition to your clothes, make sure you pack all of your essential toiletries and medications. And don't forget your phone charger!

4. Stay hydrated.

It's important to stay hydrated when traveling, especially in winter weather. Bring a water bottle with you and drink frequently, even if you're not thirsty.

5. Protect your skin .

The cold weather can be harsh on your skin, so make sure to pack some lotion and lip balm. Apply them frequently, especially if you're exposed to the elements.

6. Don't forget your sunscreen.

Winter sun can be just as damaging as summer sun. So it's wise to apply sunscreen before you go outside.

7. Be mindful of ice and snow.

Ice and snow can make even the most familiar surroundings treacherous. Take extra care when walking, and always keep your hands free in case you need to break your fall.

8. Check the forecast before heading out.

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before you leave the house. This way, you can dress appropriately and be prepared for whatever the day brings.

9. Allow extra time for travel.

Winter weather can slow down even the best-laid plans. So, when making travel plans, always allow yourself some extra time in case of delays.

10. Drive carefully.

Snow and ice can negatively impact driving conditions. Ensure your safety by slowing down and allowing yourself extra time.

11. Know your route.

If you're driving in unfamiliar territory, make sure you know your route before setting out. This way, you can avoid getting lost or stranded in the middle of nowhere.

12. Keep your gas tank full.

It's always a good idea to keep your gas tank at least half full in case you get stranded or have to take a detour.

13. Pack a winter survival kit.

If you're driving in remote areas, it's a good idea to pack a winter survival kit in case you get stranded. This should include food, water, blankets, and other essential items.

14. Bring a map.

A physical map can be a lifesaver if you get lost, don't have access to the Internet, or your phone dies. So, make sure you pack one before heading out on your trip.

15. Tell someone your plans.

It's always a good idea to let someone know your travel plans, especially if you're going to be in a remote area. This way, they can come looking for you if you don't arrive at your destination when expected.

16. Check your car before heading out.

In winter weather, it's important to make sure your car is in good working order before setting out. This includes things like checking your tires, brakes, and windshield wipers. When driving in the winter, be sure to use snow tires or chains and use windshield washer fluid that won’t freeze.

17. Bring a shovel.

A shovel can be a lifesaver if you get stuck in the snow. So, make sure you pack one before heading out on your trip if possible.

18. Bring a bag of sand.

Sand can be used to help get your car out of the snow if you get stuck. So, it's a good idea to have a bag of it in your trunk.

19. Don't travel alone.

If possible, travel with someone else. This way, you can help each other if you run into trouble.

20. Stay on main roads.

In winter weather, it's best to stay on main roads where there is more traffic and better cell phone reception.

21. Keep your phone charged.

It's important to have a fully charged phone in case of an emergency, so make sure you charge it before you leave and keep it plugged in while you're on the road.

22. Bring a power bank.

A power bank can be a lifesaver if your phone dies and you can't charge it.

23. Check your airline’s baggage policy.

If you’re flying, check your airline’s baggage policy before packing. Some airlines have restrictions on how many bags you can bring or how much they can weigh.

24. Get travel insurance.

In the event that your flight is canceled or you get sick while on your trip, travel insurance can help cover the costs.

25. Bring something warm.

Take a blanket, pillow, or something to keep you warm on a cold plane or in the car.

26. Pack snacks.

Pack snacks to keep your energy up while traveling.

27. Ask about winter weather driving rates.

If you’re renting a car, ask about winter weather driving rates. Some companies charge extra for driving in the snow.

28. Use a power strip.

Charging your devices at once is easier if you bring a power strip.

29. Sign up for airline alerts.

If you’re flying, sign up for airline alerts to be notified of any changes to your flight.

30. Keep your headlights on.

When driving, keep your headlights on so you can see and be seen.

31. Bring cash.

It's always a good idea to have cash on hand, especially when you're traveling in remote areas in the winter.

32. Make copies of important documents.

Be sure to make copies of your passport, driver's license, and other important documents.

33. Watch for frostbite.

Frostbite can happen quickly in cold weather, so it's important to be aware of the signs. If your skin starts to feel numb or tingly, seek medical attention immediately.

If you're planning a trip this winter to enjoy the cold season to the fullest, why not head to Europe!

Here you'll find some of the best winter travel destinations to end the year on a great note.

Plus, we've put together a guide on how to up your skincare game for the winter season here .

And don't forget to check out Flatio for accommodations in hundreds of destinations across Europe to make your trip even more memorable. We look forward to seeing you on Flatio!

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My Itchy Travel Feet

The Baby Boomer's Guide To Travel

Winter Travel Planner for Boomers

This article may contain referral links. Read our DISCLOSURE

Are you planning a winter trip? If you’re a boomer traveler who enjoys an invigorating cold weather activity like snowshoeing or cross country skiing, followed by an evening by the fire in a luxury lodge, this is the Winter Travel Planner for you. Just because you’re a boomer doesn’t mean your winter fun is done, although you do have to exercise a bit more caution…no broken hips allowed!

Is a tropical getaway your idea of a winter trip? If so, you’re on the wrong page. You probably want to check out our Hawaii Travel Planner or my South Pacific travel tips .

Although spring and summer are the most popular seasons to travel, don’t overlook wintertime trips. It’s one of my favorite seasons to explore. And you don’t have to be a downhill skier to have fun. Enjoy sledding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or a winter photography trip to capture snow-covered landscapes combined with beautiful memories.

If you’re planning a cold-weather adventure, use our winter travel planner to discover the travel resources that will help make your next wintertime travel an amazing experience. Keep reading for the best online resources, my first-hand winter travel tips, the cold weather gear you’ll need plus a few suggestions for the best winter destinations for boomers.

What you'll learn in our winter travel planner

• Winter travel resources
• Our best winter travel tips
• Cold weather gear for boomers
• Where to stay for snowy fun
• Winter travel destinations

Boomer Travel Tip

Subscribe to the Weekly Broadcast so that you don’t miss any winter travel planner updates!

Online resources for winter travel

Online resources are invaluable for up-to-date information. Check the weather, confirm road conditions, check to see if your flight is delayed.

The National Weather Service is my choice for accurate weather forecasts, especially in mountainous regions where the weather changes quickly and is very unpredictable. The NWS also offers valuable safety tips for dealing with hypothermia as well as traveling in snowy weather.

If you’re driving on a winter road trip in the U.S., knowing the status of road conditions is a must. Check with the Department of Transportation for the states you’ll be traveling through. Most of these sites have color-coded maps showing road conditions and closures plus video cams so that you can see the conditions in real time. And some have apps, which you should download before starting out on your trip.

Will you be flying to your ski vacation? FlightAware is a live tracking system that uses the satellites logistic system, Aireon. Check for cancellations and delays, a live feed for each airport, or check the misery map, which displays a color-coded map of airport delays.

While not an online resource, we would never leave on a cold weather trip without confirming that our AAA membership is up-to-date. When the car battery won’t start or you’re stuck in a snowbank, you’ll be happy that you joined.

Winter travel tips

Alan and I are big winter enthusiasts who believe in preparing ahead of time. Alan’s tips for a winter driving kit are good if you’re planning a road trip or if you live and drive in a winter location. When we started taking long trips in December, January, and February, I researched  everything we would need to do in order to leave our house with peace of mind. Alan and I use these 17 tips before every long trip. And, yes, I’ve curated apps for winter travel, too.

Alan’s Tips for Making a Do It Yourself Winter Driving Kit

Updated 11.01.2019:  We’re all accustomed to seeing Alan’s amazing travel photos, but rarely do we hear from the man behind the lens. In fact, very few readers realize that Alan is a travel planning machine who thrives on the challenges of off-the-beaten-path travel. We’ve already spoken about winter travel and the hurdles that come with […]

20 Tips for Preparing Your Home for an Extended Vacation

Cummins originally sponsored this look at how to prepare your home before a vacation. It’s the day we leave for that month-long South Pacific cruise. Alan waits in the car as I lock the front door after checking everything in the house one more time. Then I try the lock, again—and again. Confession time: I […]

Top Five Apps for Winter Travel

Although many travelers take off the winter months to rest and rejuvenate, real adventurers in the know seek out cold weather travel opportunities. In fact, traveling during wintertime is a great idea for anyone looking for great deals to destinations that offer breathtaking landscapes, endless outdoor adventures and quite often, few crowds. Of course, traveling in […]

Cold weather gear

Staying warm and comfortable is the key to a successful winter trip. But that doesn’t mean purchasing cold weather gear that’s uber expensive or designed for hard core skiiers or backpackers. Do what I do: dress in layers. Over the years, I’ve written several guides to winter packing that’s lightweight as well as easy on your budget. After all, many of you are interested in a fairly short, annual trip to enjoy the snow that doesn’t require pricey winter clothing. My recommendations are perfect for you.

The Best Cold Weather Gear for Women That Packs Light

Packing for trips isn’t easy these days, especially when it comes to winter travel. Cold weather gear for women that packs light is a must to avoid overweight bag charges from the airlines. And who wants to lug heavy bags around, even on a road trip? I look for the best cold weather gear for […]

Cold Weather Gear for Men That Packs Light

  Updated 11.01.2019: Are you planning to take advantage of the last few months of winter to do some cold-weather traveling? Packing for cold destinations can take on a whole new level in terms of packing appropriate clothing and accessories, which may mean more bulk for your suitcase. The trick to winter travel preparation is […]

Cold Weather Gear That’s Easy on the Budget

Cold weather gear doesn’t have to be expensive. Check out my favorites!

Our favorite places to stay for snowy fun

For a snowy trip, Alan and I enjoy staying at guest ranches, lodges and cozy inns. Our preference is a lodge or ranch that includes all meals and activities where most of the fun is on property. Of course we read reviews before choosing a place to stay. Renting a cozy cabin is another great choice. If possible, we avoid busy ski resorts.

Triple Creek Ranch Winter Getaway: Luxurious Montana Fun

When you think of spending time at a guest ranch, do you imagine horse rides through fields of wildflowers, cooling your toes in a gurgling creek or telling stories under a star-filled night sky? My guest ranch visions are white, all white, especially when it comes to a Triple Creek Ranch winter getaway in Darby, […]

Luxurious Winter Fun at The Resort at Paws Up

A river laced with ice and snow winds through rolling hills studded with a thick forest of evergreens. Mountain ranges provide the snowy backdrop. On a frosty hike along the banks of the Blackfoot River, Alan and I stop to inspect bobcat tracks before looking up to see a bald eagle sitting majestically in the […]

Cool thoughts about Hannagan Meadow Lodge

When the thermometer reads 108 degrees in Arizona, this broiling hot baby boomer re-visits her favorite frozen adventures. I picture snow piled high around a rustic cabin, cross-country skiing across a rolling meadow or sitting in the dining room at Hannagan Meadow Lodge watching the snowflakes fall. Located at 9100 ft., in the White Mountains of eastern […]

Best winter trips for boomers

Looking for a winter destination? From off-the-beaten-path areas in the U.S. to iconic international trips, we have plenty of ideas for you. Check out our experiences and those of guest writers who share tips on how you can make the most of your trip.

A Winter Trip to Glacier National Park

If you’re looking for things to do on a Glacier National Park winter trip, you’ll be surprised at how much there is to do. Inside the park, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and winter hiking provide a beautiful winter experience. Or you could just admire the scenery. Winter is a fine time to visit this lovely […]

Visiting Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley in the Winter

Are you thinking about visiting Yellowstone National Park’s Lamar Valley in winter? In this article, I’m sharing a Lamar Valley day trip itinerary plus where to stay and how to plan your trip to this northern region of Yellowstone known for winter wildlife watching. For years, I’ve wanted to visit Lamar Valley in winter, especially […]

Start the New Year Out Right With These Cold Weather Trips

If you’ve been following the My Itchy Travel Feet page on Facebook, then you know how much Alan and I enjoy traveling on cold weather trips. Why are we such big fans of cold and snow? Because it’s a great way for active boomer travelers to jump start those New Year’s fitness goals. And did […]

Visiting Quebec City during Winter Carnival

For most, the mention of Carnival conjures up images of scantily clad women gyrating their way along a colorful Rio de Janeiro parade route. However, there are some carnival celebrations, like the one in Quebec City, Canada, that offer a less raucous experience that’s still tons of fun. Guest contributor, Kirsten Gallagher, recently had the opportunity […]

Enjoying a Nordic Ski Trip in the Canadian Rockies

How does cuddling up beside a crackling fire in a lodge tucked away in the Canadian Rockies after a day of cross-country skiing sound? Nice, right? There are tons of active travel opportunities in Alberta and British Columbia where you can do exactly this and more. Today’s guest writer, Leigh McAdam from HikeBikeTravel, lets us […]

Exploring Montreal in Winter

As you know, we love active travel and although some are a little adverse to cold weather travel, we love to mix the two. And while there are many places to enjoy some wintertime travel, you can’t go wrong with our neighbor to the north, Canada. Guest contributor and Ontario resident, Kirsten Gallagher, is here […]

A Snowy Walking Tour in Amsterdam

When Alan and I boarded Amacello in Amsterdam for an AmaWaterways Rhine River Christmas Market cruise, we didn’t expect such a snowy welcome. But those white flakes didn’t keep us from exploring Amsterdam on a Jordaan District walking tour provided by the ship. In fact, the snow added to the fun of visiting the UNESCO World Heritage […]

Meet Scotland’s Wild Reindeer on a Cairngorm Reindeer Adventure

If your snow boots are itching for an adventure, Scotland’s Cairngorm Mountains are a great bet this time of year—especially for animal lovers. If you like the idea of trekking to off-the-beaten-path destinations to see wildlife in their natural habitat, here’s a fabulous idea. Guest contributor, Shaly Pereira from traveltoes85, is here to tell us […]

A Winter Walking Tour of Cologne, Germany

Pastel-colored buildings enhance the snowy scene when AmaWaterways Amacello pulls into her spot along the banks of the Rhine River in Cologne, Germany. Cologne in December can be snowy, as it is on our visit. But Alan and I aren’t going to let a little snow on the ground keep us from exploring Germany’s 4th […]

Iceland Travel Tips for Winter Travelers

Need Iceland travel tips for a winter trip? We’ve got adventure-filled tips that will make any active boomer traveler smile with anticipation. Years back, traveling to Iceland may have seemed like traveling to another world. But in today’s ultra-connected world, Iceland is becoming one of the planet’s hottest cold-weather travel destinations and worthy of your […]

In Search of the Northern Lights in Tromso, Norway

Traveling to see the Northern Lights is one adventure that is on a lot of people’s travel bucket list and today’s guest contributor, Vanessa A Nirode, is no different. This past December, Vanessa took a last-minute trip to Norway’s northern most city, Tromsø, to spend her Christmas vacation trying to find the spectacular, but often […]

Winter Adventures for Boomers 65+ to Enjoy

Disclosure: This post is sponsored and developed in part by Pfizer; however, the opinions are my own. Are you a baby boomer who enjoys cold weather activities? There’s a magical quality to spending time outdoors on a snowy day. Whether it’s a quiet walk in some snowy woods or a thrilling hike along a trail, […]

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31 Winter Vacation Ideas for 2023: From Snowy Wonderlands to Faraway Beaches

By Caitlin Morton and Matt Ortile

Sponsored by Visit US Virgin Islands

Whenever cold weather swings around, our travel daydreams tend to fluctuate between two very different types of winter vacation ideas: snowy wonderlands and tropical beaches . Some days, we envision a ski vacation or trip to a snow-covered European village , and other days we start planning our next beach trip while scorning the sub-zero temperatures. Repeat that cycle about 50 times, and that pretty much sums up what our lives look like from December through March every year.

If you experience these dueling pangs of wanderlust, then you’re in luck—we’ve rounded up 31 of the best winter vacation ideas, listed in alphabetical order and divided equally between cold- and warm-weather destinations, for you to dream about—and to plan—visiting ASAP. Because who says you have to choose just one?

There are winter wonderlands, and then there is Antarctica. Lately, it seems everyone is going to the seventh continent , and the appeal isn’t hard to figure out: There are the otherworldly landscapes, the fearless and adorable penguins, and the opportunity to see one of humanity’s final frontiers. But tourism has an impact, positive or negative, wherever travelers go, and it’s important to learn more about how to take care of our planet as we bask in its glory.

There’s no better place to escape the winter cold than right on the equator, where perennial favorite destination Singapore sits. Inclement weather won’t stop you from visiting the city-state’s many hawker centers , museums , boutiques , and night markets . This city in a garden is a perfect way to relieve your eyes of the winter grays and give them some verdant life.

Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

If the famous beaches of Rio are getting too crowded for you, head 220 miles off Brazil’s northeastern coast to the breathtaking archipelago of Fernando de Noronha—voted one of the world’s best islands in our latest Readers’ Choice Awards. Here you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, trek lush trails, and watch the moon rise over the ocean.

Whistler Blackcomb, Canada

In recent years, Whistler has become a beloved spot for high-quality ski and snowboard hills. With 8,171 acres of skiable terrain, there’s easily enough ground to keep you on new trails throughout the six-month regular season. Runs offer a wide range of difficulty levels, making this the perfect place for beginners, adrenaline junkies, and everyone in between .

Olivia Morelli

Gianluca Longo

Charlie Hobbs

US Virgin Islands

Sitting pretty in the middle of the Caribbean, the US Virgin Islands consist of three islands: the bustling island of St. Thomas, where you’ll find the capital city Charlotte Amalie; the easy-going St. John, where Virgin Islands National Park takes up much of the area; and the largest of the three, St. Croix, with plenty of spots for scuba diving and historical towns. Dreaming of all three? Ferries and island hoppers make visiting each island easy and accessible, and US citizens can visit without a passport .

You’ve probably been on a layover in Abu Dhabi before, but now’s the time to make an actual visit. The history and luxury of the city are as inviting as ever , especially with pleasant temperatures from December to March. For the aviation geeks out there, the emirate’s new Midfield Terminal, now called Terminal A, will finally open this November, expanding passenger and cargo capacity in the Middle Eastern hub. Expect new lounges, retail stores, restaurants, and more, as one can naturally expect from the UAE’s capital.

Icy and mysterious Greenland is one of the most naturally beautiful places on earth. The world’s biggest non-continental island is so much more than glaciers (but yes, the glaciers are spectacular). Think magnificent fjords, colorful villages, and fields of sheep. Throw in some northern lights appearances, and you have yourself one unbeatable winter destination .

Boracay, Philippines

Consistently voted one of the best islands in Asia in our Readers’ Choice Awards, Boracay is a perennial favorite of locals and tourists alike. The idyllic white sand beaches were so popular with visitors that, at one point, the authorities had to prohibit tourism for a while to let the land and community rehabilitate. But now it’s back in business, ready to welcome those looking to relax and unwind , or party the night away—or both.

Dolomites, Italy

If the Alps is the destination for glitzy ski towns, then consider the Dolomites its chiller, cozier cousin . Also known as “the Pale Mountains,” its powdery slopes can be accessed via the 86-mile Great Dolomites Road, one of the world’s most beautiful alpine drives, offering beautiful views of Italy ’s best wintery landscapes.

From December to March, South Africa’s safari circuit takes a back seat to Africa’s most cosmopolitan city, thanks to prime weather conditions. During the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, Cape Town ’s restaurant, hotel, and nightlife scenes are at their best. Plus, it’s the growing season in South Africa’s winelands , from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek to Swartland, all of which are just a short road trip away.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai in Thailand is surrounded by misty mountains, golden temples, and verdant rice terraces—all with a climate that rarely dips below 60 degrees. During the city’s Flower Festival, held annually on the first weekend of February, every street in the old city is covered in flowers and plants for three days.

Finnish Lapland

Imagine the most idyllic winter scene you can dream up, and Finnish Lapland will absolutely deliver. There aren’t many places where you can visit Santa Claus, take a reindeer sleigh ride, or sleep under the Northern Lights in a bubble sled—but Lapland lets you do all three.

It may seem counterintuitive to fly to an island for the cool weather, it’s exactly that brisk and fresh feeling that’ll enchant you in the Azores , an archipelago in the middle of the North Atlantic. All that lush greenery and pleasant chill will let you discover a new kind of sweater weather. And it’s just a five-hour flight from the US.

Yellowstone National Park

No matter the season, Yellowstone is always a good idea. Famous sites at the oldest of all US national parks (established in 1872) include the Old Faithful geyser and the Grand Prismatic Spring, but truly, every single acre of the park is worth seeing in person. Visiting in the winter is a good way to avoid the summer crowds; you'll be greeting by landscapes filled with steam from the thermal features.

When you visit the birthplace of hygge (the Danish concept of “coziness”), you better believe your winter vacation is going to be aces. That feeling can be found throughout Copenhagen , from pastry shops to inviting hotels .

Zakynthos, Greece

All Greek islands seem to be framed by that killer shade of emerald blue, but there’s something about the white sand beaches and brilliant waters at Navagio Bay in Zakynthos that will make your heart skip a beat. Maybe it’s the secluded location (it’s sheltered on either side by soaring cliffs) that keeps its aquamarine waters so perfect and pure—basically the exact opposite of winter grays.

Salzburg, Austria

Classic Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, sits divided by the Salzach River: Its pedestrian Old City lines the left bank, and the (slightly) newer side is on the right. For a hotel stay involving gingerbread cookies, fluffy beds, and views of falling snow, look no further than Hotel Goldener Hirsch .

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

While often thought of as a side trip from Cancún, Isla Mujeres is a destination in its own right. The main beach of Playa Norte is made of crushed coral, has warm shallow waters, and is much quieter than the beaches across the bay. Scuba enthusiasts should take note: The island is home to the largest concentration of whale sharks on the planet.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

This Teton-ringed valley is a true winter wonderland. Of course, it helps if you want to spend most of your time skiing— Jackson Hole is known for its 3,000 acres of both accessible backcountry terrain and challenging vertical slopes. But even if you don’t want to hit the powder, you can still indulge in après-ski diversions in both Teton Village and the town of Jackson. And let’s face it: Any excuse to cozy up in Caldera House is valid.

Luxor, Egypt

We haven’t invented time travel just yet, so the best you can do is visit one of the oldest cities in the world . Have you been to Luxor, home of Egypt’s most iconic destinations like the imposing Colossi of Memnon and the Valley of the Kings, where you can visit the tomb of King Tutankhamun. Granted, wintertime is peak season in Egypt; the cooler weather attracts more tourists, but it’s worth braving the crowds to avoid bursting into flames.

Nevis (of the nation of St. Kitts and Nevis) is a Caribbean island with gentle slopes rising to the peak of its dormant volcano. It’s more low-key thanits sister island, and known for its historic inns. If you’re looking for a luxury hotel, stay at the Four Seasons Resort Nevis for easy access to Pinney’s Beach, a favorite for both families with kids, and travelers seeking a calm respite.

Roatán, Honduras

The most developed of the Bay Islands, Roatán is mainly known as a diver’s paradise . Almost all of its 31-mile coastline is lined with biodiverse coral reefs, home to colorful fish, dolphins, and West Indian manatees. Even better? You can visit Roatán on one of Virgin Voyages’ Caribbean cruises , which counts the Honduran island among its many port stops.

New Zealand

Thanks to new direct flights directly from the US mainland to cities like Auckland and Christchurch, heading to New Zealand is easier than ever. It’s a year-round destination, but Kiwi summer from December to February offers a nice change of season for those visiting from the Northern Hemisphere. Try Maori cuisine with a gourmet twist in Wellington , or slow-cooked New Zealand lamb in Sichuan sauce in Auckland .

Srinagar, India

To experience a winter wonderland on the Indian subcontinent, head to Srinagar, the most populous city in the Kashmir Valley. Thanks to cool new hotel openings and developing infrastructure in the region that make visiting much easier than ever before, Srinagar was on our international list of 23 Best Places to Go in 2023 . To keep warm, indulge in a multicourse wazwan feast and wash it all down with piping hot cups of kahwa, Kashmiri saffron tea.

San Diego, California

Welcome to the unofficial Christmas (merchandise) capital of the United States, where two megastores selling Christmas decorations draw holiday enthusiasts to San Diego year-round. Perhaps it’s the dissonance between the classic wintery aesthetics and the eternally sunny climes that make Southern California a perfect winter vacation idea, but who’s going to say no to pristine beaches and easy-luxury hotels any day of the year?

Hokkaido, Japan

The Japanese island of Hokkaido is blessed with myriad geological beauties (think volcanoes, national parks, and lakes)—most are even more stunning in winter. For example, the ethereal Shirogane Blue Pond wears ice beautifully, with its towering trees and azure waters coated in glimmering frost. Looking to ski? The slopes of Niseko are among the finest in the world.

Canary Islands, Spain

It’s not quite hot enough to swim off the white sand beaches of Spain ’s Canary Islands in the winter, but to make up for it, there are fewer crowds, ever-impressive views, and off-season prices on this cluster of volcanic isles. For what it’s worth, the island of Gran Canaria, just off northwestern Africa, is said to have the best climate in the world.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt, surrounded by some of the Alps’ tallest peaks, has 223 miles of runs in four huge ski areas —some at an altitude of over 10,000 feet, meaning snow here lingers for a very long season. This enchanting Alpine village lies at the foot of the Matterhorn, Switzerland ’s most famous mountain, and has plenty of modern touches, like its state-of-the-art lift system and swanky après-ski diversions.

Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Just off the coast of Queensland, Australia , you’ll find these 74 islands in the crystalline waters of the South Pacific. Fly into Hamilton Island, the largest of the archipelago; take to the sea on a yacht (warmer waters in Southern Hemisphere summer means whale watching season); explore the Great Barrier Reef , and learn about the traditional indigenous owners of the land, the Ngaro Aboriginal people .

Park City, Utah

The ski capital of Park City (and home to the Sundance Film Festival) is on our list of Best Places to Go in the US this year, with its iconic resorts like Montage Deer Valley , the Stein Eriksen Lodge , and the St. Regis Deer Valley offering comfy and chic digs for winter sports enthusiasts and those who love them. To see “The Greatest Snow on Earth” (the state of Utah itself has trademarked the phrase), swing by anytime between December and March.

New York City

Not many cities can compare to New York City during the holidays. Already experienced those classic traditions like the lighting of the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center , the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes , ice skating in Central Park , or The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center? Follow our guide to make a few unexpected ones of your own.

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Winter Travel Tips From a Weather Expert

Aaaah! The joys of traveling in winter weather.

10 tips to make traveling easier, whether you fly or drive

Traveling this winter? Whether you fly or drive, here are 10 quick tips from a weather and climate expert to make traveling easier.

Winter Car Emergency Kit

Are you prepared for the next blizzard, power outages: what to do before, during, and after an outage.

1. Fly non-stop.  If you can fly non-stop, do so in the wintertime. We know it can be more costly, but if you're choosing between flights, it makes sense for winter travel. 

2. Pick connecting airports carefully . Remember that El Niños shift the mid-winter storms south. This surprises many travelers.

• Yes, in fall and spring, it is smarter to choose your connections through southern airports like Dallas/Fort Worth to avoid snow delays.
• In mid-winter, however, during El Niños, northern terminals have quieter weather, and the southern tier of states usually have more storms. 

3. Fly Early in the Day.  Weather problems in one airport trigger delays throughout the system, so fly early in the day.  The earlier you fly, the fewer of these cascading delays will hit you.

4. Give yourself extra time in winter!  On planes, give yourself a longer than average time between connections. De-icing can make your flight depart one to two hours late. 

Whether driving to the airport, hotel, or destination, add an extra hour. Would you spend extra time reading in an airport or trying to book a new flight? Just do it! You'll save yourself unnecessary stress.

5. Check in 24 hours ahead, and don't wait.  Bad weather and travelers on canceled flights trying to get new flights means planes can be overbooked. If you have assigned seats and check in by computer 24 hours early, you have less risk of being bumped. 

6. Get updated online .   Get Twitter (or Facebook) and follow your airline 2 or 3 days before the flight. If you see flights are starting to be canceled due to weather, then your flight is at higher risk. The earlier you learn of a canceled flight, the more likely you can get rebooked.

7. Have an emergency car kit. In the back of your car, keep a warm pair of mittens, a blanket, a flashlight, extra batteries, windshield cleaner, a water bottle, an energy bar or two, and a bag of kitty litter or rock salt for traction. See the Almanac's Winter Car Emergency Kit .

8. Is your car winter-ready? How's your tire tread and air pressure? Do you need winter tires? Are all your fluids topped up? Do you know where to find your defroster, hazard lights, and windshield wiper buttons? Do you know how to shift into lower gear? Does your car have any special features, such as anti-lock brakes? If you're going on a long winter drive, spend a little time with your owner's manual and maybe even drive your car in a parking lot to be sure you're ready for winter driving.

9. Prepare before driving.  Don't leave the house in a rush when driving in the winter. Turn on the defroster so your windows heat up and won't get foggy when you're driving. Take time to get any snow off your car lights and windows. 

10. Slow down!!  In winter snow, drive much slower. Never tailgate. Focus on the road and look ahead for bridges (that may have ice spots), turns in the road, and snowdrifts. Again, there is no rush. Take your time and reduce your speed dramatically, even by half if needed.

We love interesting weather, but here’s hoping your travel weather is boring this winter!

James J. Garriss

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18 Winter Travel Tips for Flights and Road Trips

Ed Hewitt started traveling with his family at the age of 10 and has since visited dozens of countries on six continents. He wrote for IndependentTraveler.com for more than 20 years, producing hundreds of columns on travel and offering his expertise on radio and television. He is now a regular contributor to SmarterTravel.

An avid surfer and rower, Ed has written about and photographed rowing competitions around the world, including the last five Olympic Games.

He's passing his love of travel on to the next generation; his 10-year-old son has flown some 200,000 miles already.

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Successful winter travel is all about successfully navigating the weather. In winter, most travelers hope to get to and from their destinations with minimum trouble and maximum enjoyment—and, most importantly, to always arrive safe and sound, no matter what sort of snow, ice, sleet, or freezing rain you may encounter. To that end, here are some winter travel tips and tactics to help you avoid spending the season stuck in airports or on roadsides.

Winter Travel Tips for Flying

1. The worst winter travel problems for travelers frequently occur at connecting airports. If your first outbound flight is canceled and you end up returning to your own home from your local airport, that’s not too bad; if you are stuck in your vacation hotel hoping to get a flight home, that’s a bit worse. But when you’re stuck in a connecting airport in Texas calling hotels and praying for a place to stay, you’re in what I would call your worst-case scenario.

For this reason, you should fly nonstop whenever possible. To find nonstop flights, do all your initial flight searches with the “Nonstop Flights Only” button checked on your favorite booking engine. If you also use search options like “Show Nearby Airports” and “My Dates Are Flexible,” you’ll have a very good sense of how best to get from Point A to B without any Point C for connection.

2. If you absolutely must fly with a connection, watch your layover times carefully. If a weather delay causes you to miss your connection, you might be out of luck; the airline is not necessarily obligated to find you a seat on the next flight, and often cannot logistically do so if flights are full or unavailable. If you have a really tight connection time and your flight is running late, tell a flight attendant who may be able to make arrangements to hold your next flight, or at least get you off your first flight quickly.

3. Check the weather at your connecting cities as well as at your departure and destination airports. You’ll want to know what the weather is like for the departure and arrival airports (particularly if we’re traveling on vacation), but for the same reasons stated above you’ll want to know what is going on at your connecting airport as well. If the weather looks threatening, contact your airline to see if it can reroute you; it may be in its best interest to do so, and save you a lot of grief. Your chances of getting on a different flight will be greatly enhanced if you’ve already done the research yourself to determine which alternate flights might work best. Don’t count on a gate agent to know about or search the schedules of other airlines.

4. Try to book your connection through a southern city where weather shouldn’t be an issue. There are no guarantees here, as northern airports tend to be better equipped to deal with winter conditions, and a snowstorm can almost wholly shut down an airport that more often suffers from too much sun. However, your odds are better in places that rarely see ice or snow.

5. Choose a morning flight. For two reasons: First, you are far less likely to have your flight affected by problems at other airports. Second, if your flight is canceled or badly delayed, your options for alternate flights are greatly increased, improving your odds for getting on a different flight by the end of the day.

6. Consider alternative airports . Very often the problem is not solely weather, but also the overall volume of passengers and flights. In places like Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Houston, second-tier airports aren’t too far out of town and are tied into the transportation grid.

7. Get ahead of the game at security. Before you even get in line, put all your gear and spare coins into a pocket of your carry-on bag. With so much valuable stuff getting dumped into plastic bins all day, every day, it’s inevitable that stuff gets left behind, dropped, damaged, broken, or even stolen. If you take 15 seconds to stow everything, you’ll make the time up twice over on either side of the security gate, and won’t risk losing cell phones, wallets, keys, and other essentials. Find more airport security tips here and here .

8. The annual holiday travel rule: Don’t wrap gifts—security will have to rip them open. With the TSA searching checked bags as well as carry-ons, this applies to all of your luggage; not just what you bring onto the plane with you. Consider shipping your gifts ahead of time or wrapping them once you get to your destination. Find more holiday-specific winter travel tips here .

9. Finally, avoid peak travel dates as best you can, particularly holiday weekends. Find out the best and worst days to travel around the holidays here .

Winter Travel Tips for Driving

1. Put some extra clothing and emergency items into your vehicle; these will come in handy if you break down in cold weather. Assemble a basic kit including a pair of gloves , weather-resistant pants and/or coat, maybe an old pair of boots, a blanket , jumper cables , a flashlight with some extra batteries, and a windshield scraper (and maybe a de-icer ), and you should be in good shape. You might also toss a few nutrition bars in as well; things that won’t spoil, are packed with calories, and can bail you out in a pinch.

2. Make sure your car is checked over for winter weather readiness. In particular, you or a mechanic should inspect your tires before the first big winter storm.

3. Once your vehicle is inspected and equipped, follow this advice I heard a while back from a Montana snowplow driver: “See and be seen. Keep your headlights and taillights clean, especially in stormy weather. Keep windows clean and make sure defrosters work well. If snow has built up on your vehicle overnight or after a break from driving, clear it away so it doesn’t blow off and obscure your windows.”

4. Slow down. The U.S. Department of Transportation recommends slowing down by about 50 percent in bad weather. Also leave extra space between you and the car in front of you in case of slippery roads.

5. Remember that not all stretches of road are created alike. For example, many recently built small bridges and overpasses have been designed to blend into the surroundings, with a gradual or nonexistent change in elevation. These bridges nonetheless remain susceptible to icing over much more rapidly than regular blacktop. Look out and look ahead for these short stretches of road when temperatures approach or drop below freezing. If you don’t know the ropes of driving on icy surfaces, here’s how to drive on black ice .

6. Some features of modern automobiles may actually serve you poorly in bad conditions. In some SUVs and four-wheel-drive vehicles, for example, you may have better traction when the vehicle is under way, but the four-wheel drive won’t help you stop any faster. Also, skip the cruise control; your cruise control feature may accelerate when you least want it to, such as when you are climbing an icy bridge.

7. Some safety experts recommend putting a bag of kitty litter in the trunk, both for added ballast to offer better traction, and to put under the wheels if you need to get yourself out of a slippery spot.

8. If you’re stranded and have to stay in your car, you can run the engine for heat, but make sure the exhaust pipe is not obstructed by snow or mud. If you prefer not to have the engine running the whole time, close the windows to keep heat in, and run the car for 10 minutes every hour, cracking open a front window when you do so.

9. If you are parking at your hotel or near attractions in bad weather, opt for a spot in an indoor parking garage when available.

Readers: What winter travel tips would you add? Post them in the comments.

More from SmarterTravel:

• The One Winter Travel Accessory You Should Always Pack
• 7 Lightweight Winter Jackets for Travel
• Quiz: Where Should You Travel This Winter?

Editor’s Note: This story was written in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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• Travel Tips

Winter Travel Pros Share Their Advice for Cold Weather Travel

We tapped former winter olympians, outdoor photographers, and more..

Published on 2/21/2024 at 9:00 AM

There’s a reason more people travel in warm weather . Cracking the code to a successful winter trip is no easy feat. There are all kinds of meteorological variables—from sub-zero temperatures to spontaneous blizzards—that can affect travel plans, whether they involve flights or road trips. There’s also the question of how to pack: You put a single winter coat in your suitcase, and it feels like you’ve already exhausted all your space. Plus, you might find yourself catching a bit of a cold along the way.

But traveling during the winter does have some undeniable benefits, like unforgettable ski adventures , shoulder season discounts , fewer crowds, and better PTO availability, not to mention the sheer beauty such snow-capped destinations offer. Wanderlust tends to peak this time of year, and exploring somewhere new is one of the best ways to overcome those pesky winter blues.

To help you plan the perfect cold weather getaway, we reached out to frequent winter travelers—from pro snowboarders to outdoor photographers—for their expert advice on cutting down on the bulk and traveling smarter this season. So whether you’re taking off in the dead of February or embarking on a frosty vacation, here are some winter travel tips for staying warm and healthy on the go.

“Tea or hot water is an easy way to either warm yourself up from the inside by drinking it, or give your body a mini heater if you hold it in your hands. One of my favorite tricks for winter camping is to fill a Nalgene bottle up with hot water and put it in my sleeping bag with me while I sleep. Pairing that with a good, insulated sleeping bag, and even a heated blanket or pad if I’m car camping, has allowed me to actually enjoy sleeping outside in the winter months, rather than just bearing it.

I spend a lot of time on the road in the winter traveling for work, and I always have the bare essentials in my truck in case there’s a highway closure or something happens where I may need to be out for some time. From about October to May, you won’t catch me without a small jet boil to make tea or soup, a large puffy jacket, a sleeping bag and sleeping pad, hand warmers, and a head lamp. It gives me the confidence knowing that I would be okay if something were to happen, which then allows me to spend more time outside.” – Jessa Gilbert , artist and adventurer

"I just completed a 100-day cross-Canada tour. This was the trickiest packing I’ve ever had to do—imagine trying to pack for rain and moderate temperatures in November in Vancouver, cold weather in December in Calgary, Edmonton and Winnipeg (which went out the window because of climate change), then snow in January in Montreal and Ottawa. Plus I had to bring posters, tripods, cameras, and ring lights. So the night before I left, when I realized none of the filming equipment would fit, I went to  Golf Town  and purchased a golf travel bag to fit all the equipment and some clothes. The looks I got in airports across Canada in the winter were hilarious. Two checked bags, a carry on, a personal item, AND an oversized golf travel bag. I must have looked as ridiculous as I felt.

Staying healthy on the road can be challenging. Fortunately I had enough bags to ensure I brought my vitamins and supplements, but for those traveling lighter, I suggest a pill case. It’s tedious to get it organized but well worth it. A few other tricks is to grab a disinfectant spray and spray down the room. Also do a quick search of the healthy restaurants in the city—eating healthy can be a massive challenge but eating like crap will make you feel like crap! Finally, exercise. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. If you don’t have access to a gym in the city, use the hotel one. Stay active and healthy so your work and travel aren’t derailed.” – Brock McGillis , LGBTQ+ activist and former Ontario Hockey League goaltender

“I love my Dakine snowboard bag. It's a long roller bag that allows me to fit a ton of stuff in it including snowboards, boots, binding, and goggles. It’s big but it keeps all of my things in one place. The key to dressing warm is layering, so I wear a micro puff that goes under my snowboard jacket.

I'd say keeping my health in check is the harder question for sure. I haven't been home since November 13, so it's important to stay true to a health routine. I stay super hydrated and I also take Vitamin C packets and multivitamins. When I start to see something coming on, I try to prevent it with throat sprays, extra vitamin C, and Usana supplements.” – Red Gerard , US Olympic snowboarder & 2018 gold medalist in slopestyle

“Cold weather clothing can be quite bulky. I try to keep in mind that I usually wear the same outfits over and over again, especially during winter adventures. Merino Wool Base Layers like Icebreakers never smell bad, so I only pack one pair of those to save space. Sweaters tend to not get dirty either, so I'm often outfit repeating in the wild. I also like to consider the practicality of an item of clothing rather than the cuteness. Staying warm and dry is more important to me when considering packing space.” – Kyana Sue Powers , outdoor adventure and lifestyle photographer

“We usually like to bundle up in our warmest clothes for winter travel, but given that temperature can fluctuate a lot depending on the environment, usually we bring various layers and different types of clothing. Generally, Logan wears a light Lululemon jogger and Eva will wear Lululemon sweatpants for actual travel, along with two to three upper body layers depending on if the car or airplane is cold. Staying warm is definitely key to keeping healthy so we do our best to stay out of the cold. Ironic for ice skaters!” – Eva Pate and Logan Bye , Team USA ice dancers

“With upcoming time off for Spring Break, many people are getting ready to travel by air with winter sporting gear for the first time. Make sure to get a large bag for your ski and snowboard gear with compartments and wheels. I recommend taking a good set of base layers, a mid-layer, and a light or mid-weight jacket, a helmet, goggles with interchangeable lenses, a hat, and heat boost gloves or mittens . I also highly recommend bringing extra socks for all activities, and don’t forget a swimsuit as most winter locations have hot tubs, which are great after a long day on the hill or outside.

Assume you will be checking two bags if you plan to travel with all of your gear and clothing. Pro tip: Put your custom ski or snowboard boots in your carry-on. They’re not easy to replace. Another option that allows you to save room in your bags while traveling is to rent equipment when you get to your destination. That way you don’t have to worry about paying extra or lugging around heavy bags at the airport or to the Uber.

As for preparing for any health wildcards, ensure that you carry on any medications and pack Emergen-C to keep your immune system boosted when around other tourists. Anti-inflammatory and pain medications are also handy after playing hard on the mountain. Especially if you’re not a seasoned winter sports pro, your body will be sore. Pack an Ace wrap, moleskin, and Arnica gel for little bangs, bruises, and blisters. Lastly, if you are traveling from low altitude to high altitude, make sure to hydrate starting right when you get there mixing in Acli-Mate to your water as needed and take Ibuprofen in both the mornings and evenings.” – Jonah Drescher , former US Ski Team member and manager at Christy Sports

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Taking a road trip this winter? Don't drive off until you go through this checklist

For anyone experiencing wanderlust after being cooped up over the holidays, a winter road trip can be a safe way to scratch that travel itch, even during the pandemic . Before you head out, though, check the COVID-19 risk level along your route and review the AAA COVID-19 travel restrictions map . And no matter the number of days or distance of your road trip, be sure you – and your car – are ready to drive in the snow.

Driving anywhere in the cold weather and winter months requires special considerations. We spoke with Elizabeth Carey from AAA Western and Central New York to find out her best tips for cold weather road trips. 

Travel restrictions by state:   Which areas still require COVID tests or quarantines?

1. Know before you go

Before anything else, it’s important to know where you’re going. Are you heading into an area that’s prone to lake effect snow? What’s the weather forecast during your trip? Check the National Weather Service website for area road conditions, including regional winter weather advisories and storm watches, and download a good weather app to make sure you’re prepared. 

2. Test your car's battery

Nothing’s worse than the car not starting when everyone’s ready to go. If your engine’s slow to start, the lights dim when starting, or the car battery’s simply old, you may need a new one. Most car batteries last three to five years, so if your battery is more than three years old, get it checked before a cold weather road trip. A mechanic can easily test the battery and charging system. Make sure the battery terminals and cable ends are free from corrosion and the connections are tight. Finally, make sure you have jumper cables on hand and know how to use them.

3. Check your lights

It gets dark early on a winter road trip, so be sure that your headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals and emergency flashers are all working. Replace any burnt-out bulbs before hitting the road, and throw in a working flashlight in your glove compartment while you’re at it. 

More travel ideas:  10 best places for vacations with teenagers

4. Measure air pressure in your tires

Tires are probably the single most important part of safe winter driving. Make sure all four tires have the proper tread for the best traction while driving in potentially snowy conditions. If you live in (or are heading to) an area with heavy winter weather, snow tires will provide the best traction. Regular, all-season tires work well in light to moderate snow conditions, too, provided they have enough tread. 

AAA recommends replacing any tire whose tread is worn to 2/32 of an inch or less. One way to tell is to place a penny in the tread; if you see all of Lincoln’s head, the tire needs to be replaced. Don’t forget to make sure your tires are properly inflated, too. As the temperature drops, so does the tire pressure, typically one PSI for every 10 degrees. Underinflated tires can affect braking distance, steering, and handling. Look for the proper tire pressure in your owner’s manual or the tire information sticker in the driver’s door jamb. 

5. Check your wiper blades and fluid levels

Make sure your wiper blades can clear your windshield, and replace any blade that leaves streaks or misses spots. Fill-up the windshield washer reservoir with fluid that won’t freeze when the temperature drops. Winter deicer fluids are formulated to prevent the solution from freezing, and also contains chemicals that melt ice and frost. Don’t forget the engine coolant/antifreeze when checking fluid levels as well. Antifreeze lowers the freezing point of the engine’s liquid coolant system preventing the car from overheating. 

6. Pack your winter gear, but don’t wear it while driving

Make sure you have coats, scarves, gloves, boots and hats with you, but keep them separate while driving. The bulky coats limit arm movements, gloves decrease sensing steering wheel feedback, and large boots can interfere with the pedals. For infants in child seats, those puffy winter coats can cause car seat restraints to not fit securely. Pack the winter gear close at hand, but save the layers for the outdoors. 

7. Stock an emergency kit

Don’t leave home without a proper car emergency kit that includes some basic items like a first aid kit, snacks (for both humans and any pets), ice scraper with brush, basic tools (screwdrivers, pliers, wrench), warning flares, cloths or paper towels, some drinking water, and an emergency blanket in case you find yourself stranded in some bad winter weather. 

8. Give your car a checkup

Before any major winter road trip, AAA recommends taking your vehicle to a mechanic for a thorough checkup of the brakes, drive belts, engine hoses, and all fluids (transmission, brake, and power steering). 

Family Car Rentals:  How not to overpay when renting a car 

9. Keep emergency numbers handy

Make sure you have important phone numbers for emergency services programmed into your mobile device, and don’t forget to bring a car charger for your phone or tablet as well.

10. Use extra care when driving in the snow

If you’re out on your drive and get caught in a snow squall, don’t panic. Here are some basic tips for driving in the snow:

• Drive slowly and keep your speed down to account for decreased traction.
• Accelerate and decelerate slowly to avoid skids.
• Increase your following distance to five or six seconds to account for the longer distance needed to stop.
• When braking, keep your heel on the floor and apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.
• If possible, don’t stop when driving up a hill, as it can be difficult to get moving again on an icy road. However, don’t power up hills either. Applying extra gas on the snow-covered roads will only make your wheels spin.
• Finally, make sure all the windows of your car are clear of snow.

11. Pack a shovel and sand (grit)

If you get stuck in the snow (or plowed in), you’ll be glad you packed a small shovel to dig yourself out. A bag of some sort of grit (sand, salt, cat litter) will help your tires grab on icy surfaces as well as give some extra weight in the back of the car.  

Embrace the season with a safe winter road trip, and once you reach your destination, pull out that shovel and spend some time helping the kids build an epic snow fort.  

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 11 family road trip ideas kids will love 
• The most comfortable travel clothes (for the whole family) 
• 15 best all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. 

Dave Parfitt is a freelance travel writer with a Ph.D in neuroscience whose work has appeared in Lonely Planet, AAA, Fox News Travel, US News & World Report, TravelAge West, and FamilyVacationist, among others.

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Ease the Season With These 15 Winter Packing Tips

If there’s one thing that can take the fun out of winter activities, it’s the effort in packing for them. From large-scale items like skis and snowboards to forgetting a simple pair of gloves, it’s easy to be unorganized and lose sight of the spirit of the season. Fortunately, we’ve compiled 15 tips to help ease your winter packing woes.

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Start With the Suitcase

"Use a hard-sided suitcase to save the day during winter, as they can resist water when snow melts," says Travelzoo Head of Publishing Tara Kraft. She adds that you’ll save space in your luggage by packing only high-quality items that can stand up to repeated use on your trip. Merino wool base layers are lightweight and a great starter for any winter pack.

Invest in Packing Cubes

Especially with the volume of winter gear, being able to compress as much as possible is a huge packing advantage. Eagle Creek’s Pack-It line offers a variety of sizes and styles that’ll help cut down the bulk of your bag.

Pack Like an Athlete

Professional snowboarder Robin Van Gyn travels to several competitions each season and has to be smart about what she brings. "Function first, everything else later," she says. She thinks about every possible scenario on a trip and packs accordingly. She uses the "rule of 3s": wearing the same three outfits in different combinations over an entire trip.

Check Airline Baggage Allowances

"Many count a ski and boot bag as one item," says Ski.com CMO Dan Sherman. He adds that packing snow pants, gloves, layers and your jacket in your ski bag offers extra protection for your skis while freeing up valuable space in your regular luggage.

Check With the Hotel Ahead of Time

Many winter resorts have ski rental and concierges onsite stocked and ready for a day on the slopes. In Vail, Colo., the Sonnenalp Ski Concierge has more than 500 demo skis available from all of the top makers for enthusiasts to test out. They also rent jackets and pants along with a host of other amenities, which makes traveling light a real possibility.

Keep Gifts Unwrapped

Since airport security is growing tighter by the day, don’t bother wrapping gifts until you arrive at your destination. What’s the point in spending all that time on the perfect bow if it just has to come undone at the checkpoint?

Keep Things Accessible in the Car

"The best thing is to pack an emergency kit of car care essentials, an extra down jacket and some easy-to-eat food in a plastic tote," says The Manual’s Outdoors Editor Austin Parker, who lives in Salt Lake City. He and his wife also always carry a Jetboil so warm drinks are available at a moment’s notice. A little pre-planning will help make unexpected roadblocks that much easier to handle.

Think Ahead When Packing Wet Gear

Romio Home Expert Jamie Hord suggests traveling with plastic gallon bags to keep wet clothes separate from the dry. Also remember to keep a small hole in the opening at the top of the bag to let air escape and keep sour smells at bay. They’re also a great, waterproof way to carry toiletries to your destination.

When Packing the Car, Safety Matters

"Put heavier items on the bottom of the cargo area and toward the front, and avoid loading SUVs beyond the height of the rear seat backs," says Kelley Blue Book Senior Director, Executive Analyst Rebecca Lindland. It’s important to keep all lines of sight open and clear, especially in trickier driving conditions.

Find a Great Tire Shop

This one matters if you’ll be driving over the mountain passes (or anywhere with dicey weather conditions, really). Check which traction devices fit your car’s tires and buy a set (most stash easily in the trunk). Many reputable tire shops will refund you in the spring if your device is unopened and unused. The peace of mind is worth the investment alone.

Really Think About What’s Necessary

Oversized winter coats are great, but they also take up a ton of space. Consider packing thinner layers to meet your need for warmth, but not weight.

Travel Like an Olympian

2018 Olympic Skier and Dale of Norway ambassador Brad Spence has seen how ski bags are handled, so he packs accordingly. "I also ensure that my helmet and goggles are protected amongst the softer layers in my bag," he says. "I don't need my brain bucket getting damaged!"

Winterproof Boots Before You Go

There’s one quick way to ruin your day on the slopes or the trail: soggy boots. Even if your boots have built-in hydrophobic protection, it doesn’t hurt to add an extra layer, especially for long days outside.

Pack Moisturizers in Carry-Ons

Winter air is notoriously drier and that can wreak havoc on your skin, nose and eyes. Pack mini lotions, eye drops and saline spray into your carry-on to stay fresh during air travel.

Don’t Forget Sun Protection

The winter sun can be just as brutal on the skin as in summer. Pack a solid SPF in face cream and lip balm.

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Planning a Winter Trip? Consider These 7 Noteworthy Places.

Whether you’re bookending 2023 or kicking off 2024, here are appealing places for a trip..

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Sick of shivering in a knitted cap as the snow won’t stop falling? Consider destinations like Hawai‘i, where winter traditions have a tropical twist.

Photo by Kyle Johnson

Summer might be peak travel season, but smarter tourists can dodge those crowds—and high prices—by considering a winter trip. instead. Indeed, some destinations shine as brightly in the colder season, albeit for different reasons, so we’ve rounded up seven of the best around the world to tempt you into traveling in the next few months.

Here are the seven best places to travel this winter.

This winter is a fine time to travel to Hawai’i, when tourism dollars can have a true impact helping the state bounce back from Maui’s devastating wildfires. Governor Josh Green has encouraged visits to the parts of the island that were untouched (though the Banyan Tree, in Lahaina, which was once a core part of the celebrations, is off limits this year).

Elsewhere in the state, Honolulu hosts a City Lights celebration that runs through the end of the year, with a kickoff on December 2, while the Kapolei City Lights runs from December 9 through January 2, with the theme of a Westside Wonderland on the leeward part of the island. If you want to work up a sweat before Christmas indulgences, join the marathon on December 10: the fourth-largest in the country.

Where to stay

• Book now: Romer Waikīkī at the Ambassador

The just opened, 368-room boutique hotel is a reimagining of the rather workaday hotel formerly known as the Ambassador after a $44 million overhaul. The four-star property now has loft bunk bed rooms as well as several locally focused touches, from Big Island–roasted coffee in room to a custom-fit lava rock wall.

How to get there

Southwest is the smart bet to reach the islands. It first launched low-cost flights in 2019, before ramping up to expand to several more destinations on the mainland later, including Phoenix and San Diego.

Festivities for the 66th Vienna Opera Ball will take place at the Vienna State Opera.

Photo by Kateryna Synelnyk/Shutterstock

2. Vienna, Austria

The Wien Museum network comprises 20 different sites across the city, but the best known, on Karlsplatz, is reopening December 2023 after four years of in-depth renovations. The new exhibition space, spanning all three of the building’s floors, will feature a permanent installation on the city’s history, from Roman times on, and a new, “floating” top floor constructed of exposed concrete.

If you opt for a visit around that time, you’ll have the chance to attend one of Vienna’s balls. The headline-grabber, of course, is the Opera Ball on February 8 (unfortunately, ticket orders are now being put on a waiting list), the highlight of the city’s social calendar. But there are other, equally appealing bashes, too: The Kreativball takes place on February 10 and is an evening for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies to celebrate. Or pack a costume for Rudolfina Redoute on February 12, which always has a frisson of mystery, since the dress code requires masks.

• Book now : O11 Boutique Hotel

The 52-room boutique hotel opened in late 2022, offering a refreshingly modern option with contemporary decor heavy on wood, marble, and textile; the Presidential Suite has its own music system and DJ booth for VIP EDM.

National carrier Austrian Airlines connects Vienna with Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. There’s also service from Atlanta on Delta Airlines.

Arrive before the end of 2023 to savor the final few frissons of the yearlong bash that’s been marking the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence from the British.

Courtesy of Getty Images/Unsplash

3. The Bahamas

This winter, this island cluster has been unlocked as an easy getaway for West Coast residents, thanks to a pair of new nonstop flights. First, there’s service from Seattle and Los Angeles on Alaska Airlines, with up to a four-time weekly frequency; JetBlue will operate on the latter route too, with an added appeal—aircraft equipped with its standout Mint class.

On Boxing Day (December 26) and New Year’s Day, the island throws its biggest bashes for Junkaroo, the African-inflected carnival that’s a riot of color, noise, and energy. Downtown Nassau’s Bay Street is the epicenter of celebrations across the country—while you’re there, stop in at the Educulture Junkanoo Museum , where you can see past examples of the elaborate costumes and make your own Junkanoo-style mask (masquerades have been a hallmark since the slavery era).

• Book now: Baha Mar

Those who wouldn’t usually opt for resort-style complexes like this should reconsider, as this is an innovative exception, thanks to the rooms (book an oversize two-bedroom suite at the Grand Hyatt), more than 20 dining options (try the Middle Eastern food at Cleo), and amenities like the near-vertical Thunderball slide at the on-site water park.

Other than those new routes, the main airport in Nassau has an extensive, nonstop network around the East Coast, including Silver Airways from TPA and Delta from BOS.

Tartu’s program of events will nod to its longtime reputation as an academic and cultural hub.

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Thirteen years after the capital, Tallinn, earned the accolade of European Capital of Culture, this tiny Baltic country’s second city, Tartu, will follow, beginning its year-long celebration with a show on the banks of the River Emajoĩgi on January 26.

If you’re smitten enough by these efforts to consider a longer stay, you’re in luck: Estonia’s cannily embraced the global nomad era, via its almost decade-old e-residency program and the new digital nomad-focused visa, which grants permission to live and work there for a year , albeit with a few provisos.

• Book now: Hotel Tartu

Hotel Tartu, in the heart of downtown, includes 112 modernist rooms housed in a recently spiffed-up 1960s building.

There are no direct, nonstop flights to Tallinn (or Tartu) from outside Europe. The handiest long-haul hub is likely in a neighboring country, Finland: Finnair connects Helsinki with New York, Dallas, and Los Angeles. Take a puddle jumper to Tallinn and then use one of the local trains.

Come to Dubai in the winter and expect endlessly sunny days, with daytime temperatures in the upper 70s.

5. Dubai, UAE

December 2 is UAE National Day—this year, it will mark 52 years since the cluster of emirates, including Dubai, was established after the withdrawal of British colonial forces. Learn more about the complicated modern negotiations, and the cultures that thrived here long before that, via a trip to the Etihad Museum, an eight-building complex sitting on the site where the first constitution was signed. From December 15 to January 4, travelers can visit the Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market , which features gingerbread house decorating and a train to the “North Pole"—visiting Santa, though, involves a trip on a traditional Arabic boat, or abra .

Take a day trip to another emirate, too, Sharjah, which we recommended as a must-see spot in 2023 : the art- and architecture-obsessed rulers here have made it a cutting-edge cultural hub.

• Book now: The Lana

There are more than 700 hotels to choose from for a stay in Dubai. For travelers coming in the later part of winter, the Lana is now accepting bookings from February after several abortive attempts at opening. The 30-story tower on the waterfront canal will be a gleaming landmark with 225 rooms—more than a third will be suites, starting in size at just under 540 square feet. There will be seven different restaurants on site plus a rooftop pool.

Dubai’s national carrier Emirates has one of the most extensive long-haul networks in the world, serving a dozen destinations in the United States, including Orlando and Seattle.

This little island is often overshadowed by the wealthier Mustique next door, but Bequia has distinctive charms of its own.

Photo by Nancy Pauwels/Shutterstock

6. Bequia, St. Vincent and Grenadines

Bequia is best known among yachties, a legacy of the pirate-driven era in the region, when its harbor lured the likes of Blackbeard. The first tourists here in the 1960s had a creative vibe, including Bob Dylan (who arrived keen to buy one of the handmade boats for which it was long known).

It retains that off-kilter appeal even now: Take Grenadine Sea Salt, run by erstwhile commercial photographer Jerry Simpson, who designed his own pans to improve on age-old production methods and now offers everything from tasting dinners to tours of his operation on the island. And make sure to take a dip in the waters off Princess Margaret Beach, where the late British royal would come to escape the socially constricting confines of Mustique.

• Book now: Bequia Beach Hotel

Swedish entrepreneur Bengt Morstedt operates the Bequia Beach Hotel, an upscale, laid-back option. He’s opening a series of luxury villa rentals now, too, under the Grenadine Hills banner, including one addition set to debut in early 2024.

If you stay at Bequia Beach Hotel, the property can arrange transfers. Otherwise, there are two options: head to AIA airport in St. Vincent, then hop a ferry for about an hour, or connect on SVG Air from Barbados.

Consider a trip to Park City, especially if the forecasts for above-average snowfall prove accurate.

Photo by Benjamin R./Unsplash

7. Park City, Utah

The Sundance Film Festival officially hits middle age this winter, as it celebrates the 40th edition since it was founded by Robert Redford. The new director, Eugene Hernandez , makes his debut with this edition and will bring his touch to the programming. This year’s opening night gala will honor alums, including blockbuster auteur Christopher Nolan, though the focus of the 10-day bash is always the awards show, which takes place on January 26.

If you’re square-eyed from too much screen time, consider a trip to the slopes nearby. Per the NOAA, there’s a greater than 50 percent chance of the El Niño phenom emerging as very strong, a rarity that’s happened only a fistful of times since 1950. The impact on Park City of that proving true? Ample powder on slopes nearby, including Deer Valley and Park City Mountain, which have a combined 7,300 acres of ski-focused terrain.

• Book now: Pendry Park City

The 153-room boutique hotel was a splashy addition to the landscape here when it opened in Canyons Village early in 2022. It has its own on-site outfitter for outdoor activities, as well as a raft of see-and-be-seen spots like the lobby bar Après Pendry.

Salt Lake City, Delta’s western hub, is a 30-minute drive away and offers ample direct flights around the country.

More winter travel ideas

• 6 Cold-Weather Places to Visit in the Winter
• 7 Warm, Sunny Places for a Winter Holiday Trip
• Great Road Trips to Take This Winter

40 Best Winter Activities to Do Indoors or Outside

Whether there's snow on the ground or not, there are a ton of fun things to do when it gets colder.

Science shows that keeping busy can help stave off the blues , because your brain can't dwell on the doldrums when it's distracted by something else. That's why we rounded up a selection of the best winter activities to keep you busy this season. Whether you see the snow start to fall and can't wait to grab your winter boots and get out there, or would rather hide from it all with some distracting indoor fun (like these cute indoor activities for kids ), we've got something for you. Whether you're indoors or outside, don't forget to snap a few photos to pair with a great wintery Instagram caption .

And if we forgot some of your favorite techniques to make the most of one quarter of the seasons, let us know in the comments. Maybe you can convince me that winter weather isn't so bad after all.

Build a Snowman

Take a cue from Frozen and ask your kids, "do you wanna build a snowman?" For an extra element of fun, turn it into a competition to see who can construct the most creative Frosty.

Remember when we were all baking bread in 2020? Throw it back and get a loaf in the oven. It'll make your house smell amazing, and there's nothing quite so magical as watching dough rise.

RELATED: How to Make a Sourdough Starter From Scratch

Plan a Vacation

When it's snowing outside, think ahead to summer by planning a warm-weather vacation. Even if it's pure fantasy, looking at beach houses, tropical getaways or faraway shores will put your brain in a sunnier spot.

RELATED: 38 Best Family Vacations That Everyone Will Love, From Babies and Toddlers to Teens

Take an Art Class

Paint and sip nights are popular for a reason: There's no feeling quite like creating your own masterpiece. If painting isn't your thing, give sculpting, sketching or pottery-throwing a shot.

Go See a Show

Hit up the cinema, a local theater company or musical performance to get out of the cold and get into some culture. If you don't have any near you or prefer to stay at home, stream a performance on YouTube instead.

When was the last time you went bowling? It's retro chic, relatively inexpensive, you get to wear silly shoes and striking out is actually a good thing. We call that a win!

Visit an Escape Room

They may not be as trendy as a few years ago, but escape rooms are still a great way to engage your brain and build teamwork skills. Many of them have themes too, so you can pretend you're a part of your favorite fandom.

Make Fondue

You don't need a lot of fancy equipment to make fondue, but consider this your excuse to get a fondue pot if you've been looking for one. Slice up some fruit and crusty bread, grab some crackers or even veggies and cubed meat and get to dipping in your choice of cheese, chocolate or even hot oil.

RELATED: 8 Best Fondue Pots for 2022

Try Knitting or Crocheting

It's already scarf, hat and sweater weather, so you might as well learn to make them yourself. Even if you don't consider yourself crafty, knitting can be a fun activity to keep your hands busy.

RELATED: How to Work a Knit Stitch for Total Beginners

Boiling up a pot of soup makes a great cold weather activity, not to mention a fantastic way to clear out your fridge or cabinets. Don't forget to grab some crusty bread for soaking up the broth.

RELATED: Soup Recipes to Keep You Cozy

Play Video Games

Move over, teenagers. Video games are fun for all ages. Whether you go down an RPG rabbit hole, engage in a little hand-to-hand combat or race around a track, some friendly competition can heat things up inside, no matter what the weather's doing.

Go Sledding

Sledding packs a wintery double whammy: Not only is sailing down a snowy hill the perfect blend of exciting and terrifying, but hiking back up to go another round is great cardio exercise. Don't forget to stop for cocoa to warm up afterward.

Build a Fort

All it takes is some sheets and blankets to create the ultimate fort. Get in touch with your inner child and realize how comforting and fun it can be to have a secret hideout with your kids.

Build a Fire

If you have a fireplace, get it started up and enjoy the one-of-a-kind smell that comes from a homemade fire. Under the right conditions, you'll be able to build one outside on a chilly night.

Try Ice Skating

The first date I ever went on was to a local ice skating rink, and I won't tell you the soundtrack, lest you learn just how long ago that was. Ice skating will help you work up a sweat and learn a new skill, even if you start out about as graceful as an elephant on ice.

Have a Snowball Fight

Make the most of the white stuff by bundling up and heading outside for a snowball fight. It's better exercise than you'd expect, and sure to end in giggles.

Make a Scrapbook

You don't need to be the craftiest person to display your treasured memories in a creative way. In this digital age, just printing out your favorite snapshots and putting them in an album feels special.

Camp in the Snow

While winter camping requires more gear than it does in warm weather, getting outdoors has its own rewards any time of year. Think sipping hot coffee by a roaring fire, cooking yummy camping meals and cuddling for warmth.

RELATED: 36 Coolest Camping Gifts for Your Outdoorsy Friends and Family

Drink Hot Cocoa

Nothing warms you up quite like a steaming mug of hot cocoa. Turn it into an activity by setting up a hot cocoa bar with mini marshmallows, candy canes, chocolate shavings and your favorite candies for topping.

Read a Good Book

Make yourself a cup of tea, grab a comfy blanket and cozy up with a good book. Escaping into another world feels especially great when there's a snowstorm roaring outside.

RELATED: The 50 Best New Books of 2022 That You Won't Be Able to Put Down

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13 Beautiful Winter Drives Around the United States

There’s a lot to see on these winter road trips, from iconic national parks to covered bridges and a centuries-old fort.

Winter can be an ideal time to explore America's open roads. Cruising through a landscape blanketed with a fresh coat of snow is a dreamy way to travel during what, for many destinations, is the off-season. The fact that winter usually sees fewer tourists on the road certainly doesn't hurt.

Of course, winter driving comes with its own set of precautions. Snow makes the scenery pop, but it also makes the roads slick. And slick roads are challenging to navigate when you're in unfamiliar territory. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends stocking your ride with a basic winter survival kit containing an ice scraper, jumper cables, and road flares, a flashlight, batteries, snacks, water, and a first-aid kit. (Tire chains couldn't hurt either.) Always confirm that your vehicle is up to date on maintenance before embarking on a winter drive.

Ready to hit the road? Read on for 13 of the most beautiful winter drives in the U.S., from Florida to Alaska.

Arches National Park Road, Utah

Starting point: Arches National Park entrance

The route: 36 miles round trip on the park's scenic drive

What to expect: Beautiful any time of year, Arches National Park 's natural sandstone sculptures assume an ethereal quality when covered in a layer of snow and bathed in soft winter light — much to the delight of desert photographers. The National Park Service keeps the scenic drive plowed, though the process could take several hours right after a snowfall.

The paved Arches National Park Road , an out-and-back route, provides easy access to park attractions like the historic cabin Wolfe Ranch; the Windows Section , home to some of the park's largest arches; and the Delicate Arch viewpoint, the best-known attraction in the park.

Where to stop: Park in the Windows Section to stretch your legs on a half-hour stroll beneath North Window or Double Arch. About four miles further on the drive, stop at Wolfe Ranch and pretend you've traveled back to the 1800s. From here, you can hike a mile and a half uphill to Delicate Arch, but beware of ice on the trail.

Seward Highway, Alaska

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Starting point: Anchorage, Alaska

The route: About 50 miles on the Seward Highway from Anchorage to Portage

What to expect: Find the epitome of beautiful winter scenery among the snowcapped peaks of Chugach National Forest as you travel along Alaska's Seward Highway. Finish the journey at the ghost town of Portage or steel your nerves — and make sure you have chains — for the remainder of the drive all the way to Seward, another 80 miles past Portage.

Although Alaska is known for its cold and snowy climate, the Seward Highway is a highly trafficked route that stays relatively clear through the winter. The drive from Anchorage to Portage takes only about an hour — two and a half hours if you go all the way to Seward — so it can absolutely be done in a day.

Where to stop: The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center provides a close-up view of native fauna — like reindeer, lynx, moose, and grizzlies — that have been injured and can no longer survive in the wild. The tiny settlement of Whittier (about halfway between Anchorage and Seward) is known as "the town under one roof" because most of its residents live in the same 14-story building (which also houses the post office, police station, convenience store, and health clinic). Its remoteness and notably small population (of about 250 people) have turned it into a tourist attraction.

Yosemite Valley Loop, California

Don Smith/Alamy

Starting point: Groveland, California

The route: CA-120/Big Oak Flat Road from Groveland to El Portal Road in Yosemite, then El Portal Road to Southside Drive, looping around to Northside Drive and ending back at El Portal Road, about 45 miles

What to expect: Driving through Yosemite Valley in the off-season reveals an awe-strikingly silent winter wonderland. Snowfalls coat its granite monoliths, and cold temperatures turn parts of Yosemite Falls to ice. The park has many annual winter road closures , but Yosemite Valley and Wawona remain accessible by car all year. Specifically, Wawona Road (Highway 41), El Portal Road (Highway 140), Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 from the west), and Hetch Hetchy Road are open year-round but subject to weather-related closures.

Where to stop: The adventurous set can enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing at Badger Pass Ski Area, accessible from mid-December through early April. The road to get to it is maintained, but tire chains are often required. Besides that, make sure to stop under El Capitan in the Valley and admire its grandeur.

Covered Bridge Circuit Through Parke County, Indiana

Starting point: Rockville, Indiana

The route: Bridgeton Road from Rockville to Bridgeton, High Banks and Rosedale roads to Rosedale, Coxville Road to Mecca, then Mecca Road and U.S. Highway 41 back to Rockville, totaling about 45 miles

What to expect: With 31 historic covered bridges, Parke County is known as the "Covered Bridge Capital of the World," and perhaps the best time to see them is after it snows. The bridges, many of them built in the 1800s and still in use, cross icy rivers and streams, contrasting gorgeously with meadows blanketed in white. There are many different routes you can take, but this loop showcases eight bridges and takes about an hour and a half.

Where to stop: Along the route, pause to admire the McAllister Covered Bridge, built in 1914; Neet Covered Bridge; Bridgeton Covered Bridge; Roseville Covered Bridge, the longest of the eight; Mecca Bridge, the oldest (completed in 1873); Phillip's Bridge, the shortest; Sim Smith Bridge, supposedly haunted; and Melcher Bridge. If you fancy a snack midway, stop in Rosedale for biscuits and gravy or a slice of pie at Comar's Cafe .

Skyline Drive Through Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Starting point: Front Royal or Rockfish Gap, Virginia

The route: 105 miles between Front Royal and Rockfish Gap on Skyline Drive

What to expect: The Blue Ridge Mountains are arguably the prettiest peaks in the eastern United States, and Skyline Drive carries travelers right along their crest. It's the only public road through Shenandoah National Park (though portions may close during inclement weather). In the winter , many of Shenandoah's 500-plus miles of trails remain open for snowshoe and ski enthusiasts keen to see crystallized waterfalls and other iced-over sites.

Where to stop: Stick to the 35-mph speed limit and pick any of the 75 overlooks along the drive for sprawling views of the Shenandoah Valley to the west or the Piedmont Mountains to the east. Watch for wildlife, too — though many animals hibernate, foxes and bobcats remain active all winter.

Million Dollar Highway, Colorado

Starting point: Ouray or Silverton, Colorado

The route: 24 miles on U.S. 550 between Ouray and Silverton

What to expect: Is this Colorado road called the Million Dollar Highway for its million-dollar views? Or because an early traveler was so spooked by the route's steep climbs and hairpin turns that he claimed he would never travel it again, not even for a million dollars? Perhaps it's because the road reportedly cost a million dollars a mile to build. Whatever the reason, there's no denying the dramatic drive – part of the San Juan Skyway, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway – offers priceless mountain vistas.

Keep in mind that the highway, or sections of it, can close due to snow. During the winter, snow chains are recommended as it's a mountainous route with many steep cliffs and sharp turns.

Where to stop: Pull over at any of the designated viewpoints to take in natural wonders like Bear Creek Falls and the iron-rich peaks of Red Mountain. If you plan to stick around for more exploring, make the historic town of Silverton your basecamp. A bit off the route but still worth a visit is the ghost town and former mining hub of Animas Forks.

Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee to Asheville, North Carolina

Starting point: Gatlinburg, Tennessee

The route: About 120 miles on U.S. Highway 441 and the Blue Ridge Parkway

What to expect: This drive takes you through the stunning alpine wilderness of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Pisgah National Forest. From Gatlinburg, stop along U.S. 441 at Newfound Gap and Clingmans Dome for panoramic views, then hop on the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Stretch your legs on a winter hike to the Devil's Courthouse summit before continuing the journey to Asheville.

Where to stop: Play for a day at Ober Mountain , a mountainside amusement park with skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and more — the 2.1-mile Aerial Tramway from downtown Gatlinburg to the top is a scenic treat in itself. On the Blue Ridge Parkway, you'll get your pick of more than 50 scenic pullouts with mountain views. On the other side, in Asheville, a tour of the 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate is a must.

Route 100, Vermont

Dennis Curran/VermontVacation.com

Starting point: Stowe, Vermont

The route: 142 miles on VT-100

What to expect: Most roads that traverse this beautiful state are scenic, but Vermont Route 100 (VT-100) is arguably the best of the lot. It puts road-trippers in the perfect position for exploring the charming villages of Wilmington and Weston and touring the Mad River Valley and Moss Glen Falls. Winter is an excellent time to visit this part of Vermont, big on skiing and winter sports. Even if you aren't in the mood for outdoor adventure, the atmosphere is cozy and lively as ever.

Where to stop: Almost every village on the route offers a quaint country store, but Weston's old-timey Vermont Country Store is the ultimate pit stop for practical souvenirs and unique regional treats. And it may be winter, but the Ben & Jerry's factory in Waterbury is nevertheless a must-visit.

High Road to Taos Scenic Byway, New Mexico

Starting point: Chimayo, New Mexico

The route: 49 miles through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains between Chimayo and Taos on NM-76, aka the High Road

What to expect: An hour-long journey into the high desert will reward you with sights of snow-dusted junipers and piñon pines as you travel past the wood-carving village of Cordova, marveling at the snow-capped Truchas Peak rising 13,102 feet high in the distance. Start at Nambé Pueblo , a centuries-old Indigenous community just south of Chimayo, for a dose of history.

Where to stop: Santuario de Chimayo , near the starting point of this drive, stands on what some consider sacred ground with miraculous healing powers. San José de Gracia de Las Trampas is a National Historic Landmark along the High Road. Closer to Taos, San Francisco de Asís Mission Church dates back more than 200 years.

Highway 57 in Door County North, Wisconsin

Starting point: Green Bay, Wisconsin

The route: 85 miles on Wisconsin Highway 57 from Green Bay to Gills Rock

What to expect: Door County North provides the Upper Midwest with its own Cape Cod experience: Think coastal towns, local shops, and family-owned restaurants that invite a heartwarming winter escape. The popular hour, 45-minute winter drive between Green Bay and Gills Rock ping-pongs between the eastern and western shores of the peninsula. After passing through a handful of small, historic towns, you'll land at the top.

Where to stop: Take every opportunity to stop and soak in the sites of Lake Michigan. On the eastern shore, you'll find the tallest dunes in Wisconsin at Whitefish Dunes State Park and some extraordinary cliffside ice formations at the nearby Cave Point County Park . At Newport State Park , on Lake Michigan near Gills Rock, you can cross-country ski on more than 26 miles of trails. Newport is also a designated Dark Sky Park , and long winter nights are great for stargazing.

Lake Tahoe Loop, California and Nevada

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Starting point: Incline Village, Nevada, or South Lake Tahoe, California

The route: 72 miles around the perimeter of Lake Tahoe on NV-28, U.S. 50, and CA-89

What to expect: Sierra Nevada peaks are reflected in one of the deepest lakes in North America, casting breathtaking scenes on its glassy surface — an especially resplendent sight in winter. It takes about two hours to drive the perimeter of Lake Tahoe without stopping, but plan extra time for whatever beauty captures your attention along the way. The route on the eastern side of Lake Tahoe (in Nevada) is a National Scenic Byway, considered one of the most beautiful drives in the U.S.

Where to stop: Sand Harbor , part of the 14,300-acre Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, is an ideal place to dip your toes into the icy lake (it never freezes) before hitting the trails for a winter walk, snowshoe, or ski. Additionally, stop near the state line closest to South Lake Tahoe for a scenic gondola ride to Heavenly Ski Resort , home to a viewing platform offering epic bird's-eye views of the lake along with tubing and ice skating.

Lakes to Locks Passage, New York

Starting point: Waterford or Whitehall, New York

The route: 60 miles on U.S. 4 between Waterford and Whitehall

What to expect: This National Scenic Byway travels north–south for 190 miles through northeastern New York State, but the stretch between Waterford and Whitehall is especially beautiful. When the temperature drops below freezing, the lakes and ponds along this National Scenic Byway turn into ice-fishing destinations.

More into birds than fish? This winter drive passes through the Atlantic Flyway, so keep an eye out for overwintering dark-eyed juncos, evening grosbeaks, and purple finches.

Where to stop: Enjoy views of the Hudson River and the Champlain Canal along the drive. At Saratoga National Historical Park , stop at the Schuyler Estate , built in 1777 as the home of General Philip Schuyler, Alexander Hamilton's father-in-law. It's where the wedding of Hamilton and General Schuyler's daughter Elizabeth took place in 1780.

Interstate 95 to U.S. 1, Florida

Starting point: St. Augustine, Florida

The route: About 470 miles; take I-95 from St. Augustine to Miami before switching to U.S. 1 from Miami to Key West

What to expect: Not up to battling winter road hazards? Skip chilly temperatures and enjoy Florida's glorious take on winter. For a scenic drive that showcases the best of the Sunshine State, head south along its Atlantic coast from St. Augustine — the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States — all the way to Key West , the southernmost point of the continental U.S. You'll find sand in place of snow and palms instead of pines.

Where to stop: Explore must-see highlights like historic St. Augustine, including the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument , the oldest masonry fortification in the continental U.S. The route passes by the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Miami (make sure to stop for a cortadito in Little Havana for a perfect behind-the-wheel pick-me-up), and the Florida Keys , where you'll cross the famous Seven Mile Bridge on your way to Key West.

Wander-Lush

Winter in Zagreb, Croatia: 19 Fun Off-season Activities

19 of the best things to do in Zagreb in winter –  including cold-weather activities, Christmas festivities and offbeat off-season experiences.

I’m a huge fan of off-season travel. But even I was a bit skeptical about visiting Croatia during winter .

When our 6-month overland journey through the Balkans routed us through Croatia at the end of February – peak winter – we had no choice but to make the most of it.

After exploring beautiful Istria and enjoying the peace and quiet in Rovinj and Pula , we opted to spend a fortnight in Zagreb.

I soon found that frosty weather was no barrier to enjoying the best of Croatia’s capital. In fact, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Zagreb as an ideal winter city break destination .

There are stunning mountain landscapes and ski resorts on the outskirts of Zagreb – but I decided to stick to the city and explore the Upper and Lower Towns from top to bottom.

Here are my favourite things to do when visiting Zagreb in winter, plus a few handy travel tips.

• Also read: The best places to visit in Croatia in winter – Zagreb city and beyond.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Zagreb essentials

How to get to the city from the airport: Pre-book a private airport transfer . Where to stay in Zagreb: Chillout Hostel (budget); Annie’s Bed & Breakfast (boutique on a budget); Hotel Capital (historic high-end). Best Zagreb walking tour: 2.5-hour hidden gems tour with a local guide , including a ride on the funicular. Must-see museum: The Museum of Broken Relationships – pre-purchase tickets here and skip the line. Best foodie experience: Culinary walking tour with food and wine tasting . Best winter day trip: Full-day tour of Croatian Istria , including Pula, Rovinj and Porec.

How cold does it get in winter in Zagreb?

Zagreb has four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and frosty, with temperatures averaging 0-3°C during the day, dipping to a few degrees below freezing overnight.

Snow usually falls from early December, but heavy snow is becoming less common every year. When I visited Zagreb in February the skies were clear and blue – not a hint of snow or rain in sight.

Although it’s very chilly, one of the best things about visiting Zagreb in winter is that it’s normally quite dry. Remember this is Europe’s ninth wettest capital so it’s not uncommon for rain to interfere with your plans!

But February is the driest month of the year, so you’re likely to encounter those same clear skies and crisp temperatures I did rather than grey clouds.

19 wonderful things to do in Zagreb in winter

Keep in mind that most of the activities and experiences on this list can be enjoyed in any season.

1. Explore the two sides of old Zagreb

Zagreb might be one of the smallest capitals in the region by population, but it’s also one of the oldest. For most of its history, Zagreb was not one city at all but two separate settlements: Kaptol , the eastern side, was traditionally the domain of the clergymen while sprawling Gradec to the west was inhabited by merchants and craftsmen. It wasn’t until 1851 that Zagreb was united.

The man responsible for consolidating the city was Ban Josip Jelačić, an army lieutenant and politician who was born in Petrovaradin (part of modern-day Novi Sad in Serbia ). His statue stands proudly in Ban Jelacic Square , Zagreb’s main piazza.

The Zagreb of today still has two distinct ‘halves’. The Lower and Upper Towns each have their own monuments and points of interest, but generally speaking the Upper Town has a more historic feel while the Lower Town is known for its cosmopolitan cafes and shopping streets .

In winter, you’ll likely find the alleys and squares of the historic Upper Town all but empty. Don’t miss seeing the Stone Gate (Kamenita vrata) and St. Mark’s Cathedral . More on Zagreb’s iconic church in a moment.

2. Ride the world’s shortest funicular

There are two ways to reach the elevated Upper Town: By stairs, or by funicular. This isn’t any old funicular, though – spanning just 66 metres, Zagrebačka uspinjač is the shortest public transport funicular in the world.

Twin blue wagons have been crawling up this hillside since the track opened in 1890. For 0.66 EUR one-way you can enjoy the one-minute jaunt – the service runs every 10 minutes or so starting from 6.30am.

The 52% inclination also makes this one of the world’s steepest funiculars , so hold onto your hat.

3. Climb the Lotrscak Tower for a view of St Mark’s

What better way to warm up on a chilly winter’s day than by climbing a long flight of stairs! The narrow wooden case that leads up the Lotrscak Tower in Upper Town has one big reward waiting at the top: Panoramic views of historic Zagreb , including a close-up look at the colourful roof tiles on St Mark’s.

Built in the 13th century, Crkva sv. Marka is one of the oldest buildings in Zagreb. The parish church’s southern portal is considered its most important feature: Look out for the carving of St. Mark and the Lion above the door.

But the most eye-catching angle is of course the church’s roof. Designed by Viennese architect Friedrich Schmidt, it’s laid with colourful tiles depicting two coats of arms: One for the city of Zagreb, and the other for the Kingdom of Croatia, Slavonia and Dalmatia.

The best views of the roof can be found from the narrow observation deck atop the Lotrscak Tower (Kula Lotrščak). You can also see the spires of the stunning Zagreb Cathedral in the middle-distance.

When scaling the stairs, keep an eye on the time: Every day at 12pm midday a cannon inside the tower is fired , marking go-time for Zagreb’s church bell ringers.

It’s a tradition that has been observed since 1877. If you happen to be on the stairs or the deck when the cannon goes off, cover your ears as the boom is very loud!

4. Step inside the stunning St Catherine’s

Adjacent to St Mark’s Church and square, St Catherine’s can also be seen from the Lotrscak Tower. It has a completely different look, with a simple white-washed Baroque facade . It’s very similar in appearance to St George’s Parish in the Istrian town of Piran .

Devastated by fire twice, it was restored using funds from local nobles who were allowed to display their family coat-of-arms inside the church as a thank-you. The richly decorated interior is a warm and inviting sanctuary after the blustery square.

5. Wander the Hauntingly beautiful Mirogoj Cemetery 

Located on the northern outskirts of Zagreb, Mirogoj Cemetery – Croatia’s national pantheon – is one of Zagreb’s most important historical and architectural landmarks. Spending an afternoon in this eerie wonderland is one of the most unique things to do in Croatia .

Built in a Neoclassical style in 1876-1929, Mirogoj is a vast complex of green spaces and graveyards knitted together with Italian-style arcades, pavilions and chapels .

Interestingly, persons of any creed have always been permitted to be buried here. Thus through the ages, some of Croatia’s most illustrious artists, scientists and politicians have been laid to rest at Mirogoj, commemorated with elaborate headstones and sculptures .

High walls clad with green ivy, sapphire-coloured domes and crumbling columns give Mirogoj an otherworldly atmosphere. It’s surprisingly green in winter – and oh so quiet, which further adds to the ambiance.

Entrance to Mirogoj is free. You can reach the cemetery by city bus from the stop outside St Catherine’s in around 30 minutes.

6. Walk the Green Horseshoe in winter in Zagreb

When you look at a map of Zagreb, you’ll notice a sequence of parks arranged in a U-shape in the Lower Town. The Green Horseshoe of Zagreb consists of eight parks, fountains and gardens – and it’s surely the loveliest walking route in the city.

Starting from Zrinjevac, stroll anti-clockwise through the Botanical Garden, Marulic place and Marshal Tito place, barely setting foot on concrete at all. Along the way, you’ll see some of the city’s most important buildings, including the Croatian National Theatre and the Esplanade Hotel .

While not exactly green in winter, the parks are beautiful nonetheless – especially the section with silvery gum trees, remnants and fall foliage and a pretty wrought-iron bandstand .

Walking the Green Horseshoe is the best way to bask in crisp winter air and get a tour of downtown Zagreb at the same time.

7. Go underground at the Gric Tunnel

If it’s really cold out, seek shelter underground. One of Zagreb’s more unusual attractions, the Gric Tunnel (Tunel Grič) is an old WWII bomb shelter that runs under the city.

In the 1990s it famously hosted one of Croatia’s first ever raves. Today, the tunnel is still a symbol of subculture and like some of the old bunkers in Tirana and the tunnels in Berat , it has been repurposed as an art gallery and public event space.

There are multiple entry points including one on Mesnička Street and another on Stjepan Radić Street. Some of the entrances are decorated with colourful street murals . As you walk the 350-metre-long tunnel, look out for the old signage that still hangs on some of the walls. You’ll eventually come to the central hall, a voluminous cathedral-like space where exhibitions are held.

The Gric Tunnel is open daily between 9am and 10pm.

8. Stop by the pretty Kallina House

From the underground gritty to the downright pretty, Kallina House (Kuća Kallina) takes the cake for one of my favourite pieces of architecture in the Balkans. (Also on the shortlist: Vurnik House in Ljubljana and the Raichle Palace in Northern Serbia’s Subotica.)

I must have walked past Kallina House a dozen times during my stay in Zagreb and I couldn’t help but pause on the corner every time.

Built in 1904, the residential building is a wonderful example of Secessionist architecture , with a ceramic tile facade decorated with beautiful Art Nouveau floral patterns and elaborate iron balconies.

You can find Kallina House at the corner of Masarykova and Gundulićeva streets.

9. Shop for winter produce at the Dolac Market

Back in the historic Upper Town, the Dolac Market is Zagreb’s main farmers’ market . Every day, tables spread out through the piazza under bright-red umbrellas, boasting a smorgasbord of produce from all over Croatia. In winter, you’ll see mountains of apples, nuts and root vegetables among other goodies.

Whatever you do, don’t miss the downstairs indoor section of the market where the cheese and cured meats are sold.

Amidst the fray of the Dolac, you’ll notice a bronze statue poised stoically at the top of the stairs. Zagreb loves its statues, and Kumica Barica (‘Little Godmother’) is the most beloved of all.

The name is a colloquial term for peasant women from this region of Croatia who in years gone by would bring their produce to the Dolac. If you look closely, you’ll see the staircase is painted with red apples which appear to be rolling out of the basket propped on her head.

The Dolac is open from 7am daily and winds up at around 3pm. For the most colour and variety, it’s best to visit before 1pm.

10. Rummage for treasure at the Hrelic Flea Market (Jakusevac)

A different but no less plentiful market, the Hrelic Flea Market or Jakuševac doesn’t trade in fruit and veg but rather in clothing, furniture, antiques, knickknacks, car parts – and just about anything else you can imagine. It’s one of the largest and most interesting flea markets I’ve seen anywhere in the world.

If you live in Zagreb, this is where you come to buy – well, everything. There is a Croatian saying to describe the offerings – ‘From needle to locomotive’ – and you can indeed find anything your heart or home desires here.

Old Yugoslav memorabilia, records, and a wonderful array of vintage clothing make for great Zagreb souvenirs. If you forgot to pack your winter coat, this is the place to pick up a swish jacket.

The Jakusevac market takes place every Sunday from 7am until noon. Again, it’s best to arrive early if you want to see it in full swing. It’s located in southern Zagreb on the bank of the Sava River and can be reached by bus from the centre followed by a short walk along a ridge (just follow the crowds – you can’t go wrong).

11. Browse the award-winning Zagreb Christmas Market (November-January)

If you’re visiting Zagreb over the holiday period then you won’t want to miss the city’s legendary Christmas market, part of a larger annual festival known as Advent in Zagreb .

Starting from early November and lasting until the first days of January, Advent was voted Europe’s Best Christmas Fair for three years between 2016-18.

Alongside the sprawling craft and food market, Advent includes a range of cultural activities and performances as well as extravagant light displays that sweep the entire city into a festival mood.

Licitar painted biscuits , a Croatian culinary tradition , are among the many treats sold from the quaint wooden market huts.

12. Join a Christmas walking tour with Secret Zagreb

If you want to embrace the winter atmosphere in Zagreb, an offbeat city tour with Secret Zagreb, one of my favourite female-led tour companies , is in order.

Secret Zagreb offers a special Christmas-themed walking tour throughout the months of November, December and January.

True to their penchant for the original and the alternative, you’ll be immersed in the city’s holiday spirit as you visit Christmas displays and learn about folk traditions and quirky winter customs along the way.

The tour lasts for 2 hours and prices start from 47 EUR. See details and reserve a place here on the Secret Zagreb website .

13. Pop into a few of Zagreb’s many museums

Zagreb is brimming with interesting museums and galleries to pique any interest, from vintage cars to folk art. Among the more intriguing institutions are the Museum of Torture and of course the famous Museum of Broken Relationships .

The latter is a must-do in Zagreb, if only to experience one of the world’s quirkiest curatorial concepts in person. If you don’t know the premise: Everyday objects in the rotating exhibition are crowdsourced from people around the world, all united by the fact that they symbolise the demise of a relationship.

From the hilarious to the heartbreaking, each accompanying story is riveting – you simply have to read them all from start to finish.

The museum is open daily from 10am-9pm during winter. There’s often a long queue to get in , so I recommend you pre-purchase skip the line tickets to avoid having to wait out in the cold.

14. Gaze up at the Zagreb Oktogon

Who doesn’t love a good neo-classical passageway, especially when it gives you an excuse to dive into a toasty warm shopping arcade for a while. The Zagreb Oktogon features a stunning glass octagonal atrium (not dissimilar to the Galleria Umberto in Naples ) connected by two covered passageways that stretch from Petar Preradović Square to Ilica Street.

Built in 1900, the Oktogon was part of the First Croatian Savings Bank building, designed by prolific architect Josip Vancaš whose work can also be found in Ljubljana and Sarajevo .

Come for the photo opportunities, stay for the street music performers , cute boutiques and most of all the knödels (potato dumplings) served at a little cafe inside.

15. Take a trip around the sun with Nine Views

Another alternative Zagreb attraction, Nine Views is a scaled model of the solar system dispersed throughout the city streets. While away a sunny winter afternoon by pinning down all the planets – the ultimate Zagreb treasure hunt .

The origins of the public art project date back to 1971, when Croatian artist Ivan Kožarić installed his sculpture ‘The Grounded Sun’ (‘Prizemljeno Sunce’) – a huge metallic orb – in the centre of Zagreb.

In 2004, artist Davor Preis decided to build on the concept by adding the planets to the mix, giving Zagreb its own down-to-earth ‘Grounded Solar System’.

The permanent installation consists of spherical sculptures representing the nine planets (including Pluto), each rendered to scale and placed at the correct distance from the sun as they fall in the real solar system. To get the measurements spot-on, some had to be installed in unexpected locations , including on building facades and in underground passageways.

Because they’re proportional, some are teeny tiny and easy to miss compared with the 2-metre-diameter sun. See if you can find all the minuscule metal plaques, each bearing the planet’s name and dimensions. You can find a full list of the locations here .

16. Eat hearty Croatian food

Soul-warming Croatian food is nourishing and perfect for winter. Seasonal favourites include Sarma (cabbage stuffed with minced meat, rice and spices), Rastika (collard greens stew with pancetta) and my personal favourite Zagrebacki strukli , a cottage cheese strudel that’s either oven-baked or boiled. La Štruk specialises in this Zagreb delicacy and is the best place to try both sweet (blueberry) and savory (truffle) versions.

Then there’s the perennial Balkan favourite that transcends seasons and borders, Cevapi (minced meat patties served with pita bread and chopped onions).

In winter, go for an extra scoop of Ajvar red pepper spread – that’s sure to heat things up! My favourite Cevapi in Zagreb is at Plac Kitchen & Grill under the Dolac Market.

17. Warm up with a Rakija on Ivana Tkalcica Street

Rakija, a heady 40% proof clear spirit , is another tradition shared among the Balkan nations. Nowhere is it revered quite as much as Croatia. The national drink is distilled from fruit, walnuts, herbs, lavender or even honey (the latter being an Istrian specialty) and served in tiny glasses called Biska.

One shot is enough to warm your body, mind and spirit. Ivana Tkalčića Street (or ‘Bar Street’) is the place to try it. My go-to spot is Rakhia Bar , a popular drinking hole with a dozen different flavours of firewater on hand.

18. See a show at the Croatian National Theatre

Croatia’s National Theatre, locally known as HNK Zagreb, is the stomping ground of the country’s best theatre, opera and ballet performers. First established in 1860, it later moved to its current location in a delightful canary-yellow building on Republic Square .

(As a fun bit of history, Austro-Hungarian emperor Franz Joseph attended the unveiling of the building in 1895.)

The theatre has been a fixture of Zagreb ever since, hosting a year-round rota of opera, drama and ballet . After a brief pause in 2020/21, performances have resumed.

If you’re lucky enough to be in town when a show is on, don’t miss your chance – setting eyes on the luxe theatre interior , with its red velvet curtains and detailed balconies, is worth the price of a ticket alone.

Speaking of, prices start from just 14 EUR. Check the schedule here on the official website .

19. Follow the lamp lighters through the Old Town at dusk

Remember when I said that Zagreb’s Upper Town has a more historical vibe? Well there’s no better example of this than the 200 gas lanterns that illuminate the cobbled streets.

Zagreb is the only city in the world where gas lanterns are still lit manually every evening. A team of ‘Lantern Lighters’ are charged with this important task and usually walk around ununiformed.

As the winter sun starts to set, see if you can spot a lantern lighter with their long stick. Each lantern is numbered with a small plaque – they start from Number 1 near the cathedral and progress from there – so you can try to follow their route .

If you’re too late, come back at dawn when the lantern lighters return to snuff out the flickering flames one by one.

Where to stay in Zagreb

Budget: Chillout Hostel is located close to Bar Street and offers dorm accommodation and budget-friendly double rooms with private bathrooms. The onsite restaurant/bar is very popular and they organise regular tours and pub crawls, making it a great choice for solo travellers .

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Mid-range: Boutique on a budget, Annie’s Bed & Breakfast is superbly styled with big and bright double rooms. The communal area is similarly spacious and light-filled – perfect for lazy winter mornings – and the complimentary breakfast is highly rated. The Lower Town location is convenient to most major landmarks.

High-end: Hotel Capital is a historic property walking distance from Ban Jelacic Square. The Art Deco design perfectly combines heritage elegance and modern flourishes. My top choice if you want to splash out.

Have you ever spent winter in Zagreb? What are your favourite things to do in Croatia’s capital?

More winter Balkans inspiration

• The best places to go in Croatia in winter
• Visiting Rovinj & Pula in the off season
• Things to do in Bucharest, Romania in winter
• Tips for visiting Bulgaria in winter
• Bulgaria winter road trip itinerary
• Balkans road trip itinerary inspiration

Thanks for your article

Thank you for the fabulous rundown of winter options for Zagreb. Most blogs provide typical info with links for tours and hotels but this was super helpful. We’ve been winter traveling in Croatia for a month and headed to Zagreb tomorrow. Many landmarks were on our list but your post added others we weren’t even aware of (Jakuševec market, here we come). Awesome. If buying tickets for any attraction, we’ll definitely go through you. Safe travels!

Hi Kay – thank you so much for the comment and feedback. I’m really glad to hear the guide was helpful. That’s very much appreciated!

Have a wonderful time in Zagreb! Safe travels!

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20 style tips for the end of winter and beginning of spring

Posted: March 6, 2024 | Last updated: March 22, 2024

It's not easy to transition from a winter to a spring wardrobe, but these 20 style tips should make it a little easier. 

Layer, layer, layer

Around this time of year, the weather is incredibly unpredictable. Dress as practically as possible by wearing a look made of loads of layers. You’ll be able to shed or add layers as the day goes on, and you’ll look put together no matter what. 

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Rock short-sleeved sweaters

There aren’t many times of the year when it’s both seasonally and stylishly appropriate to wear a short-sleeved sweater, so take advantage of it in late winter when the sun is peeking out and early spring when it’s still too cold for your actual spring wardrobe. You’ll be glad you did. 

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Make it monochromatic

Monochromatic looks are super chic, and late winter/early spring is the perfect time for cool-toned neutral monochromatic looks. Try out a stone gray or a pale yellow look, or stick to what you know and wear white or beige. 

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Utilize tights

Tights are a great accessory from early fall to early spring, bringing a bit of added warmth. By layering with tights, you can begin incorporating some of your spring pieces into your wardrobe earlier than usual. 

Wear winter outfits sans tights

On the flip side, you can remove tights from your wardrobe as spring comes into play. Wear a typical winter outfit without the tights to signal that warmer weather is coming. If you want that extra coverage on your legs, get a few more wears out of your over-the-knee boots before all the snow melts. 

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Show one set of limbs or the other

Only showing your arms or legs is a classic styling tip in any season, but it’s especially appropriate when transitioning from winter to spring. It’s too warm to be fully covered but not quite warm enough to be fully exposed. Pick one set of limbs or the other for a balanced look and feel. 

Wear sneakers

Sneakers can be worn every season, but they’re suitable footwear when transitioning from winter to spring. A clean pair of sneakers will give a fresh vibe to your ‘fit, making the transition from winter to spring feel effortless. 

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Choose lightweight fabrics

Put away your cashmere and wool and break out your linen and chiffon. Mix and match if it’s still too cool for all lightweight fabrics. A cashmere sweater with linen pants is incredibly chic, and you won’t feel like you’re too springy or wintry. 

Skip the coat

One of the easiest ways to dress in late winter/early spring is by wearing a winter outfit without a coat. If you’re in full-on winter fabrics, you’ll feel warm enough without carrying a coat, and you’ll look like you’re preparing for spring. Plus, it’ll take the thought out of deciding which coat to wear. 

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Get into pastels

Is there any better time than spring to wear pastels? These shades are quintessential spring, and they can be utilized when transitioning from winter to spring by pairing a pastel piece with darker, wintry colors. It’ll be a welcome juxtaposition for a few weeks while you’re moving away from your burgundies and navies. 

Throw on a trench coat

Spring is the trench coat’s time to shine. Let it do its thing by acting as a layering piece or the entire outfit. It can be worn with open-toed shoes or boots, and it can be styled with springy or wintry accessories. It’s the ultimate transitional piece. 

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Get more use out of your blazer

Blazers are great layering pieces when the weather starts getting a bit warmer. If you’re ready to break out your lightweight T-shirts and light-washed denim, a blazer is perfect to toss on top to make the look seasonally appropriate. 

Dozens of vest types can be styled well at the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Whether puffy and cropped or long and furry, a vest is an easy piece to layer and is great for transitional weather. It can be used as outerwear and removed once inside or be styled as part of an entire look and kept on all day. 

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Keep on the winter accessories

Don’t stow away your earmuffs and scarves just yet. There may still be a few days when you want a little more coverage on your extremities without hauling your parka around. For a chic look on those days, just use your winter accessories instead of wearing a coat. 

Return to white

If you stick to the “no white after Labor Day” rule and don’t want to risk wearing winter whites in a slushy climate, now is the time to get some use out of your white wardrobe. A bright white piece makes for a crisp look, perfect this time of year. 

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Get a few more wears out of your sweater dress

Sweater dresses can be difficult to style, especially as winter comes to an end, but if you want to get a few more wears out of yours, style with spring pieces. Layer one with a trench coat or pair with some open-toed heels. Try wearing a sweater dress with sneakers or with boots and no coat. 

Break out the button-downs

Button-down shirts are excellent pieces for warm weather, but they make great transitional pieces, too. They’re easy to layer with, but they can be worn on their own, too. Pair them with denim or trousers on a cooler spring day or with a skirt or shorts when it gets a little warmer. 

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Wear long-sleeved crop tops

Long-sleeved crop tops have a very, very short season. In the winter, your midriff gets too cold. In the summer, your arms get too hot. In the spring, they’re just right. Now is the time to wear them, so take advantage. 

Rock some cowboy boots

Cowboy boots are the long-sleeved crop tops of footwear. They can be miserably hot to wear in the summer, but they might not provide enough coverage or warmth in the winter. Spring is the perfect time to wear them. 

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Pair miniskirts with long coats

A long coat and miniskirt is an undeniably chic look, but it isn’t practical most of the year. Too early in the winter and it’s too cold for a miniskirt, too late in spring and it’s too warm for a long coat. Strike the balance in late winter/early spring for a fashion-forward ‘fit. 

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