Get inspired with winter vacation ideas
With many of the world’s top destinations experiencing a summer season with sunny, balmy weather during the northern winter, you have your choice of ski vacation or beach trip during December, January, and February. Whether you want to hit the slopes and explore Christmas markets or relax on the beach and snorkel in tropical reefs, you can have it all with an exotic vacation. From the shores of the Caribbean to the ski resorts of Europe, take a look at the best winter vacation destinations and get inspiration for your next holiday trip with family or friends.
Miami for sun-drenched beaches
Summers in Florida can be unpleasantly hot, but the mild winter offers ideal temperatures for outdoor experiences and an escape from the chilly north. Miami, one of Florida’s southernmost cities, offers sun and warm temperatures throughout the winter for days at the beach and nights on the town. You can relax on the luxurious shores and soak up the sun, tour Everglades National Park to see alligators and panthers, or sample Cuban cuisine at one of the waterfront restaurants. Miami has a lot of unique attractions as well, such as the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens and the Miami Seaquarium.
St. Lucia for picturesque beaches
With a tropical climate and picturesque beaches, St. Lucia offers a balmy escape from a cold winter. The island is filled with volcanic beaches and luxury resorts for your stay, so you can spend your days relaxing under the hot sun and enjoying the coastal views. Outdoor adventure is popular in St. Lucia, especially with the renowned dive sites and the dense rainforest inland that’s home to exotic wildlife.
Lucerne for family snow activities
If you like skiing and snowboarding, Lucerne is one of the best places in Switzerland for a ski retreat in winter for friends or family. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, winter sports like snowshoeing, ice fishing, sleigh riding, and sledding are available at local resorts. Brimming with alpine charm, Lucerne’s city is enchanting with its festive Christmas lights, holiday markets, and distant snow-covered peaks.
Breckenridge for skiing and snowboarding
One of Colorado’s premier ski areas, Breckenridge is home to the spectacular Breckenridge Ski Resort and numerous other winter sports areas. You can ski, snowboard, snowshoe, fat bike, and more at the resorts, making them ideal for winter adventurers or for families. You’ll find a lot of other fun winter activities in Breckenridge, such as attending the annual snow sculpture competition and shopping at the charming boutiques in the town’s main thoroughfare.
Curacao is paradise to escape winter
Located off the coast of Venezuela, Curacao is an island paradise of white-sand beaches with azure seas. Offering the picturesque landscape of beaches, rainforests, and coral reefs like the rest of the Caribbean, Curacao is a haven for outdoor adventures like hiking, climbing, fishing, and diving. If you want to live the high life, Curacao has numerous waterfront bars and restaurants for dining and nightlife with coastal views.
Rio de Janeiro for family beach days
Rio de Janeiro experiences its summer season in December, January, and February, so you can escape the cold and enjoy balmy weather and beach days. The city is home to some of the best beaches in Brazil, including the famous Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, where you can swim and sunbathe. Winter is also a good time to hike and explore the Tijuca National Park’s tropical rainforest and hidden waterways.
Seville for city sightseeing
Seville benefits from Spain’s mild winters and low winter season for a lovely holiday vacation experience. Without the hot temperatures and burning sun, you can take your time exploring the sights of the city, such as the Catedral de Sevilla, La Giralda, and the Royal Alcazar of Seville. On a warm day, take a stroll through Parque de Maria Luisa and relax in the scenic plazas with friends or the kids.
Quebec City for an enchanting family vacation
Even with its chilly weather, the incredible festivities and enchantment of Quebec City make it an ideal winter vacation destination. The city is decked out in festive Christmas decorations throughout December, and several events take place in winter, such as the Mois Multi art festival and Carnaval de Quebec. Quartier Petit-Champlain, a neighbourhood with a European aesthetic and cobbled streets, looks especially stunning with Christmas lights.
