Winter is a season that offers a special charm and the opportunity to enjoy fairy-tale landscapes, winter sports and warm moments with a cup of hot chocolate. If you are thinking about where you could spend an unforgettable vacation, we have several recommendations for where to travel in winter and enjoy a real winter idyll.
This list includes the most famous world destinations. Among them is ours, which is on the list of many world travelers for winter holidays precisely because of its special beauty in all seasons. They say that it is especially magical to visit this Croatian pearl, which is known to the whole world, in winter.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt, located in the heart of the Alps, is a paradise for skiing enthusiasts. With slopes that offer incredible views of the Matterhorn, one of the most famous peaks in the world, Zermatt offers not only great skiing conditions, but also a stay in a charming mountain village that enchants with its tradition.
The ski resort in Zermatt is often rated as one of the best in the world, with a variety of slopes suitable for all levels of skiers, from beginners to experienced professionals. What makes it special are the panoramic views it offers of the Matterhorn, creating a skiing experience that is something very special.
On the other hand, Zermatt also offers a wide range of luxury accommodation, top restaurants and exclusive shops, giving visitors a complete experience of Alpine elegance. During the winter season, the area also offers a variety of activities such as helicopter rides, hiking on the Gornergrat trail and sleigh rides. Zermatt is the ideal place to explore the untouched beauty of the Alps.
Aspen, United States of America
For lovers of skiing and luxury, Aspen in Colorado offers the ultimate experience. This ski paradise attracts people from all over the world for its outstanding slopes, known for their variety and adaptability to all levels of skiers. Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass represent an impressive ski complex with more than 300 slopes that delight both recreational skiers and experienced professionals.
In addition to skiing, there are also numerous other activities such as hot air ballooning or sledding. Aspen is not only synonymous with top winter sports, but also with luxury vacations. Exclusive hotels, villas and boutique accommodation provide visitors with not only comfort but also spectacular views of the mountain peaks. Well-known restaurants and shops offer authentic experiences of the local culinary scene and shopping.
For art and culture lovers, Aspen hosts a variety of events, concerts and art exhibitions throughout the winter months, creating a rich and dynamic cultural experience. All in all, Aspen stands out as a destination that perfectly combines top winter activities, luxury vacations and an unforgettable mountain experience. This is a place where adventure, relaxation and elegance meet, giving visitors a unique experience they will remember forever.
Banff National Park, Canada
For lovers of untouched nature and wild beauty, Banff National Park in Canada offers an incredible experience of winter magic. Located in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, the national park offers spectacular mountain views along with winter fun, sleigh rides, and the opportunity to observe wildlife.
The central focus of Banff National Park's winter magic is its endless white-snow-covered mountain slopes, ideal for skiers of all levels. With trails that weave through spectacular landscapes, visitors can enjoy unique skiing adventures, whether they are beginners or experienced skiers.
The winter idyll includes boating on frozen lakes and visiting frozen waterfalls, breathtaking scenes, and is especially magical during the winter season due to its numerous thermal springs and geothermal areas. Enjoying a warm bath with a view of beautiful mountain peaks or walking by snow-capped geysers will provide visitors with an unforgettable experience of relaxation and connection with nature.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Finland, the land of a thousand lakes and forests, becomes real magic during the winter months. Rovaniemi, located on the polar circle, is known as home of Santa Claus. In addition, Rovaniemi is perfectly positioned for observation aurora borealis, creating an incredible spectacle of light plays in the Arctic sky. Organized tours and locations outside the city offer optimal conditions for this magical phenomenon that will leave visitors breathless.
Winter activities include sleigh rides, hiking on snow trails and reindeer riding. During the winter season, the city also offers special events such as Christmas markets, where visitors can enjoy traditional Finnish food, crafts and Christmas activities.
Given its proximity to the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi also offers the opportunity to experience polar day and night, creating a special atmosphere that further enriches the stay. This unique city in the north of Finland is not just a destination, but a real adventure that takes your breath away and leaves memories that will last a lifetime.
Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
At home at its best - winter in Croatia has a special charm, a National park Plitvice Lakes it becomes fairy-tale magical when it is covered by snow, ice and hoarfrost. Located in untouched nature, it hides beautiful waterfalls, emerald lakes and promenades that leave no one indifferent. And that is exactly why we included our oldest national park in the answer "Where to travel in winter?"
In the winter months, the Plitvička Jezera become a real fairy tale covered with snow. The crystal clear water flowing over the travertine barriers creates an incredible contrast with the white blanket around the lake. Walking along the paths through fairy-tale forests allows visitors to enjoy the silence that winter brings, while the waterfalls freeze into picturesque sculptures. Plitvička Jezera in winter offers a unique experience of the harmony of nature, silence and distinctive beauty that leaves you breathless.
To enter the Plitvice Lakes in winter, be sure to follow the recommendations on the National Park website. Currently, the Upper Lakes are closed to visitors, and The lower lakes are open. The tour is possible with increased caution and adequate footwear due to the ice on the trails.
Panoramic vehicles operate according to the schedule on the line St2 - St1 and vice versa. Electric ships, on the other hand, operate according to the schedule on line P1 – P3 and vice versa. Before arrival, it is recommended to check the condition of the Park by calling +385 53 751 015.
Regardless of the destination you choose, wintering in Croatia or somewhere else, these places will provide you with unforgettable experiences, whether you enjoy untouched nature, winter sports or a winter atmosphere. Before traveling, be sure to check the current information about travel conditions and events at the selected destinations. With our suggestions for where to travel in winter, we wish you happy exploring!
Cover photo: Mike Kilcoyne/ Unsplash
