When the weather turns chilly, we frequently think about two very different kinds of winter getaways: snowy wonderlands and tropical beaches. On some days, we fantasize of going on a ski trip or visiting a village covered in snow in Europe, while on other days, we start making plans for our upcoming beach holiday while hating the bitterly cold weather. That roughly sums up how our lives are from December through March each year. Repeat that cycle around 50 times.
If you experience these dueling pangs of wanderlust, then you’re in luck—we’ve rounded up 30 of the best winter vacations, divided equally between cold- and warm-weather destinations, for you to dream about visiting ASAP. Because who says you have to choose just one?
best Winter Escapes We’re Dreaming of This Year
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
Brazil is famous for its beaches, but with great popularity comes great tourist numbers. To leave the crowds behind, head 220 miles off Brazil’s northeastern coast to the stunning 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.
Yellowstone National Park
The oldest of all U.S. national parks (established in 1872) is still one of the most spectacular places to visit in the entire country. Famous sites include the Old Faithful geyser and the Grand Prismatic Spring, but truly, every single acre of the park is worth seeing in person. Visit during the winter to avoid the crowds and see the landscapes filled with steam from the thermal features.
Cape Town
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—which rival major European and American metropolises—are at their best. Plus, it’s growing season in South Africa’s winelands, from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek to Swartland, all of which are just a short road trip away.
Greenland
Greenland is icy, mysterious, and one of the most naturally beautiful places on the planet. The world’s biggest non-continental island is so much more than glaciers (although 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.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is a city 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 every February in the Suan Buak Hat public garden, every street in the old city is covered in flowers and plants for three days.
Dolomites, Italy
Think of the Dolomites as the cozy cousin to the Alps’ glitzy ski towns. The area’s powdery slopes can be accessed via the 86-mile Great Dolomites Road, one of the world’s most beautiful alpine drives—and a perfect day trip from Venice.
Zakynthos, Greece
It seems as if all the Greek islands are framed by that killer shade of emerald blue, but there’s something about the waters at Navagio Bay on the tiny island of Zakynthos that will make your heart skip a beat. Perhaps it’s the sheer seclusion and protected 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.
Hokkaido, Japan
The Japanese island of Hokkaido is a poster child for untouched geological beauties (think volcanoes, national parks, and lakes), most of which become even more stunning come wintertime. One notable example is the ethereal Blue Pond, whose protruding trees and azure waters pull off layers of ice quite exquisitely.
Hawaii
Few places in the world inspire as much wanderlust as the islands of Hawaii. Home to eight national parks, more than 400 beaches, and countless scenic hikes, the state is a gold mine of staggering natural beauty. Visit Oahu for epic surf breaks, Maui for superb beaches, and Kauai for lush jungles and staggering cliffs—but really, you can’t go wrong with any specific island.
Finnish Lapland
Lapland is Finland’s northernmost region, and probably one of the most idyllic winter scenes you’ll ever come across. 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.
Miami
Most people head to Miami in early December for Art Basel Miami Beach, a glittering event (scheduled for December 1 to 3 in 2022) that lures both fashionistas and the arterati—but there are plenty of reasons to visit beyond that. Namely? A booming hotel and design scene, and outposts of big-deal international restaurants like Uruguay’s Quinto La Huella.
Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
In recent years, Whistler (one of the best ski resorts in North America) 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.
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