The winter of 2025-26 is a stellar time of year to embrace some of the loveliest spots on earth, some with stunning snowy handprints, some with fabulous warm island escapes, and some with cities celebrating pre-holiday cheer. The winter of 2025-26 presents an abundance of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. If the sheer beauty of snowy mountains intrigues you, you can spend time skiing or snowboarding, winter sports or sightseeing or chasing the Northern Lights across the wind-whip Arctic sky.
There are too many occasions to never find the wonder and awe of your travels during winter 2025-26 each traveller will find their share of enjoyment and presence, be it thrilling experiences or sports, holiday festivities, or quiet retreats. Your Winter 2025-26 season depicts diversity, wonder, and opportunities for each traveling as well.
This winter you will find the best winter getaway or two that resonate, promote, and feed your soul from within.
We have taken time to provide the best winter getaway destination and why to go at that time of year and what the highlight experiences .
1. Switzerland
Still one of the most recognizable winter destinations on Earth, Switzerland has lovely alpine scenery, luxury resorts, and adorable winter villages that are picture-perfect. In 2025–26, Switzerland has maintained its relevance as one of the primary winter getaway destinations for travellers looking for genuine European charm and world-class amenities. It could be wandering around snowy streets in Zurich or marvellous train rides through the Alps, but Switzerland certainly delivers a delightful winter experience. Towns like Zermatt, Lucerne, and Interlaken can provide skiing opportunities, and immersion with locals in their culture.
- Winter Sports & Activities : Skiing in Zermatt, snowboarding in St. Moritz, hiking on glaciers, cable car rides and skating on the natural rinks, and so much more.
- Festive Experience : Christmas markets in charming towns, sparkly town squares, and welcoming in the New Year while fireworks go off over lakes and mountains. This will be a time of the year you will always remember.
- Visiting Landmarks : The Matterhorn, Chill on Castle, Lake Geneva, Glacier Express.
- Famous Things : Chocolates, luxury watches, cheese fondues and panoramic views of the Alps.
- Culture : A blend of French, Italian, and German in their food, language, and traditions.
Experience magical Swiss winters, book your Switzerland trip now—click here.
2. Lapland
Finland Lapland is quite literally a winter wonderland in every sense – it is one of the most magical and surreal locations to visit in the winter! Known as the “Home of Santa Claus,” it is a popular winter getaway for families and lovers of adventure. With its glass igloo hotels, Northern Lights, and reindeer safaris, Lapland will turn any winter season into a true winter dream.
- Winter Sports & Activities : Dog sledding, reindeer safaris, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and Aurora Borealis night tours.
- Festive Experience : Lapland, as the “Home of Santa Claus,” brings together wonderful Christmas villages, light shows, and festive storytelling that evokes childlike joy for the entire family! A treat to see in a Christmas or winter wonderland atmosphere.
- Must-Visit : Attractions Arctic Circle attractions, the SnowCastle of Kemi, the Santa Claus Village and resorts with glass igloos on-site.
- Famous : For The Northern Lights, Arctic wildlife, snow hotels, and reindeer culture.
- Culture : Rich Sámi culture and heritage, handicrafts, music, and traditions involving reindeer.
3. Banff – Canada
Banff National Park is a winter traveler’s dream, offering stunning scenery and a close-to-nature experience. As a winter escape, Banff is still ranked in 2025-26 for its frozen lakes, snow-capped mountains, and relaxing mountain town vibe.
- Winter Sports & Activities: Ski Lake Louise, skate on frozen lakes, hike canyons, snowshoe.
- Festive Feel: There is more than just snow and skiing. The Banff Christmas Market and winter light festivals bring merriment to this snowy mountain town.
- Visitor Landmarks: Banff National Park, Moraine Lake, Bow Falls, and Banff Upper Hot Springs.
- Notable Naming: Turquoise lakes, wild animals, maple desserts, and mountain views.
- Culture: Mix of outdoor adventure, local art, conservation of nature.
4. Thailand
In case you’re looking for a warm escape from winter, Thailand would definitely be among the best warm escapes to winter in 2025–26. Beaches, temples, markets, and gloriously tropical scenery offering a warm and welcoming escape from winter.
- Winter Activities and Sports : Stay entertained with water activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, trekking in the jungle, zip-lining, and boating excursions.
- Winter Events : Enrich your travel experience through the many festivities of Loy Krathong, Christmas beach party festivities, and New Year celebrations.
- Landmarks & Attractions : The Grand Palace, the ruins of Ayutthaya, temples in Chiang Mai, and the Phi Phi Islands.
- Famous Things : Some notable things to see and do once you are a visitor are food, tuk-tuks, floating markets, long tail boats, and massages.
- Culture : Thai culture involves a Buddhist tradition, hospitality, and colorful celebrations.
Your perfect Thailand getaway awaits—secure your trip today, click here.
5. Maldives
The Maldives are a stunning tropical island and considered one of the best winter getaways for those that enjoy luxury, honeymoons, and beaches. The Maldives has overwater villas and turquoise lagoons, and winter is an ideal season to enjoy its sunny, peaceful weather.
- Winter Sports & Activities : Snorkeling, diving, sunset cruises, parasailing, and sailing operations on catamarans.
- Festive Experience : Many resorts offer a sophisticated Christmas dinner, personal beach parties, and unforgettable New Year’s celebrations under the stars.
- Visiting Activities : The glowing beach on Vaadhoo, Male’s Grand Mosque, underwater restaurants, and overwater villa resorts.
- Famous Things : Grace and beaches, coral reefs, overwater villa resorts, and luxury resorts.
- Culture : The culture reflects influences from South Asia and Arabic society through its dance, food, and crafts.
6. Dubai, UAE
Sunshine, modern attractions, and Arabian hospitality has made Dubai a popular best winter getaway for the winter of 2025–26. The mild climate and endless opportunities for fun are attracting travelers from around the globe.
- Winter Sports and Activities : Desert safaris, dune bashing, sandboarding, skydiving, jet skiing, and indoor skiing.
- Festive Vibe : The Dubai Shopping Festival, Global Village, and amazing fireworks display at Burj Khalifa makes winter fun.
- Famous Attractions : Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah, Global Village and the Al Fahidi souks.
- Famous Things : Sky scrapers, gold markets, shopping, and futuristic architecture.
- Culture : Arabian heritage with modern innovation.
7. Mexico
Mexico is a vibrant and colorful winter destination that offers beaches, culture, food, and festivities. It has the culture and warmth of tradition from the turquoise Caribbean waters of Cancun to the Mayan ruins in Mexico City in the winter months.
- Winter Activities and Sports : Surfing, scuba diving, hiking, whale watching.
- Festive Vibe : Christmas posadas, colorful street parades, and great New Year’s celebrations all offer lively energy to the country.
- Points of Interest : Chichen Itza, Tulum, museums, cenotes, and colonial towns.
- Famous for : Tacos, tequila, Mayan pyramids, mariachi music, street art.
- Culture : A blend of Indigenous and Spanish heritage.
Make your Mexico getaway unforgettable—reserve your trip today, click here.
8. Norway
Norway is a magical escape and a top winter getaway spot famed for its fjords, snowy landscapes, and Northern Lights, and the serene adventure vibe makes it a desired destination in 2025-26.
- Winter Sports & Activities : Skiing, dog sledding, ice fishing, and/or aurora safaris.
- Festive Experience : The Christmas markets, celebrations of St. Lucia, and winter concerts create that cozy Scandinavian festive spirit.
- Visiting Landmarks : The Oslo Opera House, Arctic Cathedral, Lofoten Islands, and Geirangerfjord.
- Famous Things : The aurora borealis, fjords, Viking culture, and scenic railways.
- Culture : Nature-based traditions, folklore, and warm winter customs.
9. France
France is romance, culture, and adds a charming winter. This country is a classic best winter getaway destination or winter resort, from Paris to the French Alps, with festivals, lights, and famous food during winter.
- Winter Sports & Activities : Skiing in Chamonix, Courchevel , Val d’Isère , Wintle strolls, and ice skating.
- Celebration : The enchanting displays of lights throughout festive buildings, holiday markets, seasonal gathering events, and a chic New Year’s Eve celebration could make New York the most magical winter destination for 2025-26.
- Winter Sports : Ice-skating at Rockefeller Center, skiing in the vicinity, and winter walking about Central Park.
- Attractions : Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Times Square, and Brooklyn Bridge
- Famous Features : Skyscrapers, museums, street food, parades, and fashion.
- Culture : Food, music, art, and lifestyles.
10. New York, USA
Known as one of the most vibrant winter cities, New York City has the potential to be a best winter getaway for 2025–26 and presents a festive atmosphere with its lights, shopping, food, and world-class entertainment.
- Winter Sports & Activities : Ice skating at Rockefeller Center, skiing in the nearby Catskill and Adirondack Mountains, or taking winter walks in Central Park.
- Festive Experience : The sparkle of the Christmas decorations, holiday markets, and the world-renowned dropping of the ball on New Year’s Eve.
- Visiting Landmarks : Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge.
- Famous Things : Skyscrapers, museums, street food, parades, and fashion.
- Culture : A global mix of cuisines, music, art, and lifestyle.
Conclusion:
In winter 2025–26, the possibilities to discover and explore some of the best winter getaway destinations in the world are endless. From the snow-capped Alps in Switzerland, to the Arctic wonder of Lapland, and the gorgeous beaches of Thailand, to the festive lights in New York each destination has its own spirit of adventure, culture, key landmarks, and seasonal celebrations to offer. Whether you’re attracted to the romance of France, the nature of Norway and Banff, or the luxurious experience of the Maldives, this season will certainly provide memories for a lifetime of travel.
The winter of 2025–26 is a perfect time to experience incredible landscapes, festive spirit, winter activities, and rich traditions of a global experience, wherever your travels take you.
Want to explore more chilly escapes? Check out our fresh winter blogs on Tripvarsity
