Top Cold-Weather Winter Travel Destinations

Cold weather travel is a delight that often gets overlooked. Here at Seeker. we love cozying up by the fireplace in a snow-covered cottage, exploring the gorgeous pearly views of icy tundra, and walking through an impeccably-decorated Manhattan pretending we are starring in our very own Lifetime holiday film. We selected some of the most dreamy and wintery destinations around the world. How many have you been to?

New York, Antarctica, Vail Mountain, Patagonia, Park City, Big Sky, Aspen, Nagano, Warren, Quebec City, Banff, Lake Tahoe, Steamboat Springs, Saint Moritz, Copenhagen, Hallstatt, Saint Petersburg, Edinburgh, Nuremberg, Saariselkä, Prague, Belgium, Tallinn, Lake Bled, Reykjavík, Duluth, Juneau, Moscow, Bergen, Ouray

• New York, United States

  
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  New York City is a prime destination for cold-weather enthusiasts, with attractions like the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue. Visitors can also explore Central Park's winter wonderland, warm up with a hot drink at a cozy cafe, or catch a Broadway show. Additionally, there are plenty of winter sports options, including ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding, just outside the city.

• Antarctica

  
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  Antarctica, the world's southernmost continent, is an otherworldly destination for cold-weather enthusiasts. Visitors can scale icebergs, hike the snow-capped mountains, and observe colonies of penguins in their natural habitat. The stunning landscape, home to some of the most unique wildlife on the planet, provides an unparalleled adventure that few other destinations can match. Travelers to Antarctica should prepare for extreme weather conditions, but the frozen beauty of the continent makes it well worth it.

• Vail Mountain, United States

  
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  Vail Mountain in Colorado is a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts. With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, it offers a range of activities for visitors, from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and snowmobiling. The picturesque Rockies backdrop makes this mountain an unforgettable experience for those looking to enjoy the winter wonderland.

• Patagonia

  
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• Park City, United States

  
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  Park City is a charming and vibrant town in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah that boasts world-class skiing and snowboarding, as well as a range of other winter activities such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and snowmobiling. Visitors can explore the historic Main Street's trendy art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants after a day on the slopes. With its ideal location, stunning scenery, and endless winter adventures, Park City is a top cold-weather winter travel destination.

• Big Sky, United States

  
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  Big Sky, Montana is a winter wonderland for adventurous travelers seeking a cold-weather escape. Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to hit the slopes and explore miles of powder-covered terrain. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, and ice fishing. With scenic mountain vistas and cozy lodges, Big Sky is the perfect destination for those looking to embrace the magic of winter.

• Aspen, United States

  
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  Aspen, Colorado is a world-renowned destination for winter sports enthusiasts. With four popular ski resorts, including Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk, visitors can enjoy some of the best skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling in the country. Beyond winter sports, Aspen also offers upscale shopping, dining, and cultural events, making it a top destination for those seeking a luxurious winter vacation. The stunning natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains adds to the allure of Aspen, creating an unforgettable winter travel experience.

• Nagano, Japan

  
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  Nagano is a beautiful winter destination in Japan that boasts some of the best ski resorts in the world. From ski jumping and snowboarding to skating, visitors can enjoy a wide array of winter activities while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Don't miss out on visiting the famous snow monkeys that enjoy onsen hot springs to keep warm during the winter months. Overall, Nagano is an unforgettable winter wonderland for those who love adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

• Warren, United States

  
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  Come to Warren, Vermont if you're looking for a quintessential winter wonderland experience. This picturesque town offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice-skating. Warm up with some hot cocoa at one of the cozy cafes or hit up the local craft stores for some unique Vermont-made souvenirs.

• Quebec City in Quebec City, Canada

  
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  Quebec City is a charming French-speaking city that is perfect for a winter getaway. The city's historic old town is enchanting when covered in snow, with cobblestone streets, stone walls and chateau-style buildings. Visitors can explore the city's European heritage, indulge in hearty French-Canadian cuisine, and take part in winter activities such as ice skating, sledding, skiing, and snowshoeing.

• Banff, Canada

  
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  Banff, located in the beautiful Canadian Rockies, is a premier winter travel destination known for its stunning natural beauty and unmatched outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding at three world-renowned resorts, as well as ice skating, dog sledding, and snowshoeing. The charming town also offers plenty of cozy accommodations, restaurants, and shopping options to make your winter vacation unforgettable.

• Lake Tahoe, United States

  
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  Lake Tahoe, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is a stunning winter destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 22,000 acres of skiing and snowboarding terrain, gorgeous snowy landscapes, and picturesque villages, visitors can enjoy activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, ice-skating, and snowshoeing. Additionally, Lake Tahoe offers cozy cabins and resorts for those looking for a warm retreat after a long day of exploring.

• Steamboat Springs, United States

  
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  Steamboat Springs, Colorado is a premier destination for cold-weather activities. Home to one of the largest ski resorts in North America, the town offers over 165 trails for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy. Visitors can also experience the famous natural hot springs or go on a snowmobile tour through the picturesque landscapes of the Rocky Mountains.

• Saint Moritz, Switzerland

  
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  Saint Moritz, located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, is one of the top cold-weather winter travel destinations in the world. Known for its luxurious resorts, upscale shopping, and world-class skiing, visitors can experience breathtaking mountain vistas, exhilarating outdoor activities, and indulge in fine dining and relaxation at some of the best spas in the region. Expect to be charmed by the quintessential Swiss village ambiance, with historic architecture and picturesque frozen lakes that complement the modern amenities of a world-class resort town.

• Copenhagen in Copenhagen, Denmark

  
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  Copenhagen, Denmark is a charming winter destination filled with colorful architecture, warm cafes, and cozy winter markets. Visitors can enjoy ice skating at Tivoli Gardens or exploring the beautiful 18th-century Rosenborg Castle. For a unique winter experience, try the Danish tradition of hygge, which involves creating a cozy atmosphere with candles, blankets, and warm drinks.

• Hallstatt, Austria

  
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  Hallstatt is a picturesque town located in Upper Austria and is known for its stunning alpine scenery, ancient salt mines, and well-preserved historic buildings. With its cozy and cozy atmosphere, the town makes for an ideal winter getaway for visitors looking for a perfect balance between relaxation and exploration. Visitors are sure to enjoy the stunning views, festive holiday markets, and unique winter activities like ice-skating and skiing.

• Saint Petersburg

  
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  Saint Petersburg, also known as the "Venice of the North," is a stunning cold-weather destination that comes alive in winter. Visitors can explore the breathtaking Palace Square, take a tour of the famous Hermitage Museum, and marvel at the stunning Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood. The city is also known for its cozy cafes, festive Christmas markets, and ice-skating rinks, making it the perfect winter getaway.

• Edinburgh in Edinburgh, Scotland

  
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  Edinburgh, Scotland is a must-visit destination during the winter season, as the city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive celebrations and stunning scenery. Take a stroll through Princes Street Gardens for amazing views of Edinburgh Castle and the Christmas markets, indulge in traditional Scottish dishes and drinks, and explore the historic Old Town. Embrace the chilly weather and embrace the Scottish culture in this beautiful city.

• Nuremberg, Germany

  
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  Nuremberg is a charming city located in the heart of Bavaria, Germany that offers a wonderful dose of holiday cheer during the winter season. With a variety of Christmas markets, including the world-famous Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, visitors are treated to a festive atmosphere complete with mulled wine, gingerbread, and stollen. The city also boasts a rich history, which can be explored through its impressive castle, museums, and medieval architecture, making it an ideal destination for winter travel.

• Saariselkä, Finland

  
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  Saariselkä is a magical winter wonderland situated in the heart of Finland's Lapland region. Visitors can anticipate hitting the slopes for some skiing or snowboarding, and enjoying activities such as husky sledding, snowmobiling, and reindeer safaris. The town also boasts of the stunning Northern Lights, making it a top cold-weather winter travel destination.

• Prague

  
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  Prague, the charming capital of the Czech Republic, is a must-visit destination for winter travelers. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with stunning medieval architecture framed by snow-covered streets. Visitors can enjoy ice-skating under the lights of the Old Town Square or warm up with a cup of mulled wine in one of the cozy cafes. With cultural landmarks like Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, this enchanting city is sure to leave visitors with unforgettable memories.

• Belgium in Bruges, Belgium

  
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  Belgium's Bruges Flanders is a picturesque fairy-tale destination that should be on every winter traveler's bucket list. The city is known for its charming old-world architecture, winding canals, and cozy Christmas markets. In addition to snuggly sweater weather, visitors can try local specialties like hot cocoa, Flemish stew, and chocolate truffles.

• Tallinn, Estonia

  
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  Tallinn, Harju County in Estonia is a top cold-weather winter travel destination that promises visitors a magical winter wonderland experience. Walk along the cobblestone streets of Tallinn’s Old Town, enjoy warm mulled wine at Christmas markets, and take a sleigh ride through the snowy countryside. The city’s Gothic architecture, historic streets, and frozen Baltic Sea create a winter wonderland that is truly enchanting.

• Lake Bled in Bled, Slovenia

  
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  Lake Bled in Bled, Radovljica, Slovenia is a winter wonderland destination, perfect for visitors who love to indulge in cold-weather activities. The frozen lake provides an ideal setting for ice skating or enjoying a horse-drawn carriage ride. Take in the breathtaking views of the Julian Alps while sipping on a warm cup of hot chocolate.

• Reykjavík in Reykjavík, Iceland

  
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  Reykjavík is a perfect destination for cold-weather winter travel. The city is vibrant during the winter season, covered with snow and filled with fun activities like northern lights tours, snowmobiling, and skiing. Visitors can experience hot springs, winter festivals, and indulge in Icelandic cuisine.

• Duluth, United States

  
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  Duluth, Minnesota offers visitors an exciting and adventurous experience during the winter season. Situated on the breathtaking shores of Lake Superior, visitors can enjoy skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, dog sledding, and snowmobiling. The city also boasts a lively cultural scene, featuring museums, galleries, and theaters that provide entertainment during the snowy weather.

• Juneau, United States

  
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  Juneau, capital of Alaska, is a fascinating destination for winter tourism. The cold weather does not deter visitors from exploring the Mendenhall Glacier, hiking in the Tongass National Forest, or taking a whale watching tour. The city is also known for its lively cultural scene, with galleries, theaters, and museums showcasing local art, history, and traditions.

• Moscow

  
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  As the capital city of Russia, Moscow is a top cold-weather winter travel destination with its stunning architecture, lively cultural scene, and abundance of winter activities. Visitors can enjoy ice skating in Red Square, exploring the famous Christmas markets, browsing the world-class museums, and warming up with a hearty bowl of borscht in traditional Russian restaurants. With its festive atmosphere and snowy landscapes, Moscow is sure to enchant any winter traveler.

• Bergen in Norway, Norway

  
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  Bergen is a picturesque Norwegian city that sits amidst the cold and wintery landscapes of Hordaland. Visitors can enjoy snow-capped mountains and ski slopes, as well as explore the city's charming streets, historic buildings, and world-class museums. From the vibrant fish market to the famous Bryggen Wharf, Bergen offers the perfect blend of culture and winter adventure.

• Ouray, United States

  
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  Ouray, situated in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, is the ideal destination for winter travel enthusiasts. Known as the "Switzerland of America," Ouray offers a truly unique and breathtaking winter wonderland experience. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, from ice climbing to skiing, hot spring soaking, and snowmobiling, amongst others. With its charming small-town vibe and awe-inspiring natural surroundings, Ouray is a must-visit destination for those craving an unforgettable winter adventure.