Winter Holidays: Your Guide to the Best Winter Wonderland Destinations

Winter Holidays carry a special kind of magic. Fresh snow softens the world, lights glow warmer, and time seems to slow just enough for you to catch your breath. You want the hush of a forest, the sparkle of a city square, or the thrill of a mountain run. You want winter to feel like winter. And you want it planned well.

How to Choose the Right Winter Escape

Start with the feeling you want. Do you imagine Northern Lights, storybook markets, or ski-in, ski-out ease? Your answer sets the tone for everything that follows. Keep it simple.

Then match that feeling to your travel style:

• Families: short flights, easy transfers, warm pools, and simple activities.
• Couples: quiet stays, glass igloos, spas, slow dinners, and privacy.
• Adventurers: husky sledding, snowmobiling, glacier hikes, and long nights under the stars.
• Culture lovers: old towns, grand architecture, and seasonal food stalls.
• Winter sun seekers: warm beaches, easy all-inclusive hotels, and direct flights.

Build around daylight hours, average temperatures, and travel time. Think about your budget. Pick a base with good dining and gentle walks for down days. Small choices add up. They really do.

When to Travel for Maximum Snow or Light

December brings festive sparkle and busy calendars. Early January is quieter and often better value. February is crisp, bright, and ideal for families outside half term. March can be perfect for longer days and softer light. Plan to arrive with time to rest before big activities. Your body will thank you.

If you’re chasing the aurora, aim for clear, dark nights and low cloud forecasts. Rural bases help. So do multiple nights. That increases your odds.

Ask yourself one key question: what would make your perfect winter escape feel complete? Let that answer steer your dates. Keep it focused.

Jamie Says:

“The best winter memories aren’t bought off the shelf — they’re crafted around you. Tell us what ‘magical’ looks like, and we’ll build your trip around that feeling.”

What You Get When You Book with Jamie Wake Travel

We’re an independent UK travel agency. We give you time, clarity, and choice. You speak to people who listen. That matters.

• Protected Trust Services (PTS) membership: your funds are secure in a trust account until your holiday is fulfilled.
• ATOL protection (where applicable): if your holiday includes a flight and qualifies, your package is financially protected.
• Supplier Failure Insurance (SFI) on all tailor-made holidays: you’re covered if a ground supplier fails.
• Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance (SAFI) on all tailor-made holidays: you’re covered if an airline ceases trading.
• Personal support from planning to your return: real humans, clear documents, and swift help if plans change.

Add our buying power with trusted tour operators and specialist partners. Add the freedom to tailor every detail. It’s calm in a busy season. It feels good.

How We Tailor Winter Holidays Around You

We start with a short call to learn your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and budget. We suggest the right base, then layer activities in a logical flow. Travel time first, recovery second, headline experiences third. This order works.



For families, we compress transfers and keep snow time playful. For couples, we build pockets of silence. For friends, we add shared thrills with space for solo moments. We also plan smart routes: loop itineraries that cut backtracking and save energy. It’s thoughtful design. It pays off.

The Best Winter Wonderland Destinations

Below you’ll find hand-picked places that deliver on scenery, experiences, and value at different times in the season. Choose what fits your style. Then let us tune it further.

Lapland, Finland — Rovaniemi, Levi and Saariselkä

Think deep snow, reindeer sleighs, and Santa’s hometown. Winter Holidays here in Lapland are a classic for a reason. Families love short activity bursts, gentle runs, and warm lodges. Couples love glass igloos and aurora nights. It just feels right.

Hotel to consider: Arctic TreeHouse Hotel (Rovaniemi). Cocoon-like suites, pine forest views, and a cosy restaurant that’s perfect after the cold. Short transfers keep days simple. Sleep comes easy.

Ask us about current offers and late-season values. We often unlock special rates or value-adds at this property and similar stays.

Tromsø and Senja, Norway

Arctic city life meets wild islands and fjords. Cafés glow late, boats line the harbour, and the mountains rise fast from the sea. Winter Holidays here focus on aurora chasing, whale watching in season, and big landscapes. The vibe is relaxed.

Hotel to consider: Clarion Hotel The Edge (Tromsø). Central, modern, and handy for early starts. Rooftop views help you read the evening sky. Walk everywhere. It’s easy.

Ask us about bundled excursions and shoulder-season savings. We can package the hotel with small-group tours, gear, and airport transfers to keep things smooth.

Abisko and Kiruna, Swedish Lapland

Abisko is famous for clear skies and a high chance of aurora. The valley funnels clouds away. Days bring snowshoeing, cross-country trails, and crisp silence. Nights feel electric. Winter Holidays don’t get more focused than this.

Hotel to consider: Abisko Mountain Lodge. Friendly, warm, and set for serious aurora hunters. Good guides. Honest food. Great sleep.



Ask us about expert-led photography nights and multi-night aurora passes. We’ll tailor your sequence for the best odds without overloading your schedule.

Reykjavik and the South Coast, Iceland

This is where waterfalls ice over, black-sand beaches meet snow, and hot springs steam in the cold air. You can tour the Golden Circle by day and warm up in a geothermal lagoon later. Winter Holidays here blend adventure with easy comforts. It feels balanced.

Hotel to consider: Silica Hotel (Blue Lagoon area). Calm rooms, private lagoon access for guests, and gentle mornings before day trips. It’s a soothing base.



Ask us about combining Reykjavik with a quiet countryside lodge. Two bases add variety and cut daily driving times, especially in shorter daylight.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Car-free streets, the Matterhorn standing guard, and long, well-groomed pistes. The village glows with candle-lit restaurants and polished hotels. Winter Holidays here are about precision and atmosphere. Even non-skiers find easy beauty.

Hotel to consider: Hotel Matterhorn Focus. Boutique design, mountain views, and a spa that resets tired legs. Arrivals are seamless with porter support.

Ask us about lift-pass combos for your ski holiday and spa-inclusive stays. We can also add guided glacier walks for confident walkers on clear days.

Salzburg and the Salzkammergut, Austria

Mozart’s city turns into a candle-lit scene in winter. The Salzach river reflects lights, and lakes in the Salzkammergut sit still and silver. Christmas markets feel intimate. Winter Holidays here mix culture, concerts, and light snow play. It’s gentle and rich.

Hotel to consider: Hotel Goldener Hirsch, a Luxury Collection Hotel. Historic charm, central location, and staff who make everything easy. Evenings feel special.

Ask us about concert tickets, lakeside day trips, and short ski add-ons. We can also align your dates with Advent markets for extra sparkle.

Prague, Czech Republic

Spired towers, cobbles dusted with snow, and river mist at dawn. The Old Town Square comes alive with stalls and carols. Winter Holidays in Prague are affordable and atmospheric. Walk slowly. Then find a warm café.

Hotel to consider: Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel. Monastic calm, refined rooms, and a quiet courtyard that softens the city pace. It’s a haven.



Ask us about river-view upgrades and early-entry city tours. We time routes to avoid crowd pockets and keep mornings peaceful.

Tallinn, Estonia

Medieval walls, candle-lit doorways, and a compact Old Town that’s perfect for winter walks. Snow adds a fairy-tale layer. Winter Holidays here are budget-friendly, photogenic, and delicious. Think cinnamon buns and hot soups. Simple pleasures.

Hotel to consider: Hotel Telegraaf. Cosy rooms, small spa, and a great spot for quick market visits. It fits the season well.



Ask us about warm-up spa packages and private guides who reveal quiet courtyards you’d miss alone. Little touches change the trip.

Quebec City, Canada

Stone walls, horse-drawn sleighs, and French charm under a dusting of snow. Petit-Champlain looks theatrical in winter. Winter Holidays here feel classic and cosy. Add ice skating, maple treats, and a day trip to frozen falls. It’s lovely.

Hotel to consider: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Iconic skyline, grand interiors, and easy walks to the old quarter. It’s the postcard come to life.



Ask us about suite offers and guided food tours that warm up the coldest nights. We can also build a Montreal add-on by rail.

Banff and Lake Louise, Canada

Peaks rise straight from frozen lakes. The snow is deep, dry, and bright. Winter Holidays here deliver big-sky views and friendly mountain towns. Ski, soak, skate, and breathe. It’s pure mountain time.

Hotel to consider: Fairmont Banff Springs. A grand base with pools, hot tubs, and easy shuttle links to the slopes. Days run smoothly.



Ask us about tri-area ski passes and sleigh ride evenings. We plan rest days with hot springs to keep energy high across the week.

Hokkaido, Japan

Sapporo’s snow festival, steaming bowls of ramen, and powder that skiers dream about. Niseko’s slopes are famous, and quiet onsens reset your rhythm. Winter Holidays here feel fresh and different. The food alone is worth the flight.

Hotel to consider: Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono. Ski-to-door ease, strong dining, and serene views. It’s a refined mountain stay.



Ask us about festival dates, rail passes, and guided food walks in Sapporo. We can add Tokyo or Kyoto for contrast after the snow.

The Dolomites, Italy — Val Gardena and Alta Badia

Jagged peaks turn rose-gold at dusk. Villages hum with wine bars and wood-panelled dining rooms. Winter Holidayshere bring scenic pistes and soul-soothing food. It’s beauty and balance.

Hotel to consider: Hotel Adler Dolomiti (Ortisei). A large spa, central location, and easy access to the Alpe di Siusi. Smoother days, happier legs.



Ask us about Sella Ronda circuits, private guides, and sled runs under the stars. We can also arrange snow-shoe taster days for non-skiers.

Scottish Highlands and the Cairngorms, UK

A closer-to-home winter that still feels wild. Pine forests, quiet lochs, and red deer on snowy hillsides. Winter Holidayshere can blend cosy inns with short hill walks and distillery pauses. No passport queues. Easy wins.

Hotel to consider: Fife Arms, Braemar. Eclectic art, roaring fires, and strong local flavours. It’s memorable and warm.



Ask us about sleeper-train arrivals, private guides, and simple winter skills days. We’ll also map low-effort scenic stops for icy mornings.

Vienna, Austria

Elegant streets, grand cafés, and markets that glow in city squares. Music drifts from churches at dusk. Winter Holidayshere are slow, cultured, and sweet. Sachertorte helps.

Hotel to consider: Hotel Sacher Wien. Polished service, deep comfort, and a perfect spot for evening strolls. It’s effortlessly central.



Ask us about concert bookings, waltz lessons, and day trips to the Wachau Valley when skies are clear. We time it well.

Nuremberg and Rothenburg, Germany

Two towns that feel built for December. Wooden stalls, carved toys, and spicy gingerbread fill the air with scent and colour. Winter Holidays here suit families and market lovers. Keep days gentle. Walk, sip, smile.

Hotel to consider: Hotel Eisenhut (Rothenburg). Timbered charm and quiet corners near the main square. It’s a calm base.



Ask us about regional rail passes and a second base in Nuremberg for variety. We’ll shape a neat loop with no wasted time.

Lake Bled and the Julian Alps, Slovenia

A glassy lake, a tiny island church, and light snow on the mountains. It feels like a fairy tale set. Winter Holidays here focus on walks, hot drinks, and slow days. It’s peaceful.

Hotel to consider: Grand Hotel Toplice. Lakeside views, a classic pool, and balconies that catch pastel sunsets. Very restful.



Ask us about Ljubljana add-ons and Triglav National Park snow-shoe days. We’ll keep transfers short and scenic.

Rila Mountains and Bansko, Bulgaria

Great value skiing with a lively town at the base. Runs suit mixed groups, and off-days are easy to plan. Winter Holidayshere stretch your budget without cutting joy. That’s the win.

Hotel to consider: Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena. Steps from the gondola, warm spa, and family-friendly rooms. It’s practical and pleasant.



Ask us about lift-pass bundles, ski hire, and half-term timings that make sense for UK schools. We’ll thread your week neatly.

New York City, USA

Skating under towers, window displays on Fifth Avenue, and hot dogs in the cold. Central Park looks beautiful after fresh snow. Winter Holidays here in New York play like a movie. Short days, big memories.

Hotel to consider: The Beekman. Historic bones, striking lobby, and great connections downtown. It’s stylish without fuss.

Ask us about timed museum entries, show tickets, and quiet neighbourhood food tours. We’ll add structure so the city never overwhelms.

Smart Planning Tips That Save Time and Stress

• Layer your days: big ticket activity, gentle reset, flexible evening. It keeps energy high.
• Stay near what you want: base yourself close to markets, gondolas, or the harbour. Short walks, fewer transfers.
• Book key slots early: glass igloos, whale trips, and spa evenings can sell out. We’ll hold what matters.
• Use daylight well: start early, nap in the blue hour, then head out for lights.
• Pack simple and warm: merino layers, a mid-weight down, waterproof boots, and hand warmers.
• Plan for weather: have a plan B for wind days or heavy snow. Options keep morale high.
• Add rest: one fully blank afternoon can save the whole week. Leave room to breathe.

These small habits change the trip. They really do.

If you want to include a safe, beginner-friendly winter activity like snowshoeing or a guided sled ride, check national park winter sports guidance from the U.S. National Park Service. It offers helpful details on season, safety, and suitability for different age groups.

Why Our Tailor-Made Approach Works in Winter

Winter rewards good sequencing. Transfers that avoid icy night driving. Hotel choices that cut walking in the cold. Dining that fits your schedule and mood. We consider these details from the start. You feel it on day one.

We also track seasonal patterns from our suppliers and destination partners. That means smarter date picks and smoother runs. Then we add your priorities. That’s the final polish. It makes the trip yours.

Ready to Plan Your Winter?

Your Winter Holidays should fit like a favourite coat. Warm where it counts. Light where it can be. Tell us the feeling you want and the time you have. We’ll do the rest with care.

Prefer to design it yourself? You can now create and book your own bespoke holidays on the Jamie Wake Travel website — the search function is available on every page — and build something that’s as unique as you are. If you’d rather leave the planning to us, we’re only a call or message away. To talk it through, phone 01495 400005 or send us a holiday enquiry and we’ll start shaping your plan today.

Frequently Asked Questions