10 International Destinations to Add to Your Winter Wonderland Travel List

Enjoy breathtaking views in this Austrian town that looks like it was taken straight out of a fairytale; there are even swans on the lake. With snowfall and cozy cottages to stay in, this town will feel like a dream. Though sightseeing is the main itinerary here, it will be a picturesque pit stop on a Eurotour.

Seriously, Antarctica. I know I’m not the only one whose TikTok “for you page” is blowing up with people trekking out to the southernmost continent on the Earth. While this is not a cheap trip by any stretch of the imagination, if you can afford it, indulge yourself in a vacation with penguins and endless snowcaps — the ultimate winter destination.

Head towards the opposite pole up to Lapland, Finland, Santa’s true home. Here, you can enjoy a cozy cottage equipped with a sauna in the heart of reindeer land. Or, camp in one of these glass igloos and enjoy going to sleep under the northern lights. Just make sure you check out some of the cultural excursions offered by the native Sami people of the land.

Hokkaido is known for its snow during the winter months. Here you can lounge in a lodge, go skiing and take a soak in one of several local hot springs. Take part in the Sapporo Snow Festival or spend the day sightseeing. There’s an abundance of winter activities to do in this winter wonderland part of Japan.

There’s nothing more magical during the holidays than spending time in a true Alpine village. Sitting at the base of the Matterhorn, this town offers plenty of skiing opportunities, scenic train rides and an abundance of hot toddies after spending the whole day in the cold.

If you celebrate Christmas and feel the Christmas spirit, taking a trip to Germany during the winter months is a must-do. Although most major German cities offer Christmas markets, Cologne is infamous for its market. Featuring fun rides, enchanting decorations and delicious food like waffles and latkes, this is not a destination to pass up on if you want to relish the magic of the season.

Of course, Paris is wonderful year-round, but it’s especially special during the winter. The city is less crowded overall during the winter months but decorations are all around along with that heartwarming holiday cheer in the air. Plus, the weather is temperate enough to be tolerable compared to other winter destinations on this list. And what’s better than drinking a decadent hot chocolate in mid-December under the Eiffel Tower?

For the more adventurous of the bunch, travel down to the origin of everyone’s favorite outdoor gear brand, Patagonia. Take in the breathtaking glaciers, pristine lakes and gorgeous mountain terrain. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy during your stay.

Although the frost may come to bite you in this city (without proper winter clothes) there are endless, and I mean endless, activities to participate in. From ice skating to soaking in the thermal baths all the way to exploring Christmas markets, there’s an abundance of excitement in Budapest. Additionally, there’s even a designated Christmas train you can take — “Polar Express” who?

When it comes to Christmas, fairytales and winter wonderlands all wrapped up into one, Bruges really is that girl. The cobblestone streets and historic buildings make this charming Belgian town simply a delight to tour in December when all of the decorations are lining the streets. As an added bonus, it’s Belgium so you can eat your way through your visit with warm waffles, rich Belgian chocolate and refreshing beer to wash it all down.