Thinking about winter, thoughts immediately involuntarily arise about big snowfalls, fun on the ski slopes, and the Christmas holidays. Year after year, the winter season is attracting more and more interest from tourists who choose a thought-provoking period to discover the most characteristic face of some destinations. From Northern Europe to America, we have selected seven tourist destinations that are worth visiting. From cities drowning in endless snowy swamps to modern megacities and historical capitals. A round-the-world trip to seven destinations that deserve to be opened in winter. Here are the directions that cannot be missed.
Lapland, Finland
Let’s start our round-the-world trip with the main winter destination: Lapland. This idyllic Finnish region is known all over the world for its completely snow-covered landscapes, where trees seem to turn into ice sculptures and where silence reigns. In Arctic Finland, snow falls in early October, and covers the entire territory in November. In the middle of winter, Lapland plunges into complete darkness, a two-month period when the sun does not rise. Rovaniemi, the city of Santa Claus, is the most popular place in Lapland, fascinating and able to entertain all its visitors.
North Conway, New Hampshire
North Conway is as quaint and picturesque as New England villages—ask anyone in New Hampshire. In winter, the village comes alive as winter sports enthusiasts flood the area to get to White Mountain National Forest, Echo Lake State Park, and Cranmore Mountain. Don’t miss the 1874 railway station and the scenic Conway Railway, which offers beautiful views of the Moat Mountain range, the Saco River, and rugged farmland.
Quebec, Canada
This elegant city is located in the heart of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The charm of the Old World is manifested in a modern new look, combining colonial and modern North American styles. Narrow cobbled streets, quaint boutiques, and some of Quebec’s oldest houses overlook Petit Champlain Street and Place Royal. Undoubtedly, an ideal place for a romantic walk.
Prague, Czech Republic
An evergreen city was capable of surprising visitors throughout the year. Majestic Baroque buildings combined with Art Deco decorations dot the historic center, immersing visitors in an evocative medieval atmosphere among imposing cathedrals, ancient monasteries, and characteristic markets. In particular, it is worth visiting Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. In winter, the historical center of Prague is mostly covered with snow, offering breathtaking views.
Strasbourg, France
Defined as the “European capital of Christmas”, Strasbourg is an absolute must-see destination during the winter season. The very first Alsatian-style Christkindelsmrik was the first Christmas market in Europe, which opened its doors back in 1570. Today, this market is considered a real gem of the city: more than 300 stalls dot the historic center of the city along the Grand Ile, focusing on thousands of twinkling lights, decorated trees, and unmistakable sounds of Christmas melodies.
New York
A city of timeless charm: New York is one of the places not to be missed among those worth visiting in winter. When you get to the city, don’t miss the famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. The Giant Spruce Midtown Hotel towers over the famous Rock Ice Rink. After walking a few blocks, you will not miss the Winter Village of Bryant Park. Not to mention the urban atmosphere in general, with gorgeous snowflakes covering the entire center of New York in white, offering breathtaking views.
Reykjavik, Iceland
We finish the trip with luxury in the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik.
The starting point to get to the famous Blue Lagoon, a hot spring of mineral water consisting of geothermal pools. The capital of Iceland is the starting point for admiring the wonders that Iceland has to offer, such as the Northern Lights or the dark coast of Seltjarnarnes, just a 20-minute drive northwest of Reykjavik. Otherwise, the Icelandic territory preserves a very rich natural heritage of excellence, consisting of waterfalls, huge unpolluted territories, and extensive panoramas.
Thanks for the roundup. Being from Canada meant I spent a lot of winters in Banff, which is neve boring and just as beautiful as you see in insta pics. Lapland and Christmas markets in countries like Germany, Austria or the Czech Republic have been on my shortlist for a while now.
I’m not one for exotic destinations, I thrive in colder weather, fall and winter are my jams. Winters in Amsterdam, Netherlands feel like a never ending fairytale. And guys, people skate on the frozen canals that intertwine all around! I only got two or two meters on the ice and felt like a clear no so I backed off but if you’re the ‘daredevil’ type, go ahead! As an alternative, go for a bike ride in the snowed-down city, best bike ride I’ve ever had!