The quiet of freshly fallen snow covers the horizon. It’s as if you’ve stepped into an enchanting fairytale land!
A "winter wonderland" is special for its magnificent, serene beauty, where snow and ice transform the landscape into a magical scene. Snow-covered trees, sparkling icicles, and frosty vistas create a sense of tranquillity, turning the world into a peaceful, almost otherworldly place.
The magic also lies in the comforting contrast between the cold outdoors and the warmth of indoor spaces. These winter landscapes often come with the charm of the holiday season, complete with festive lights, cosy gatherings, and the joy of seasonal activities such as ice skating, skiing, and building snowmen.
Feed into the nostalgia and imagination - after all, you’re in a fairytale!
For anyone seeking to spend the year-end holidays in minus-degree weather, you found the correct list! Scroll down to check which destination suits your definition of a magical winter wonderland.
Banff, Canada
Banff in the Canadian Rockies is a winter wonderland of majestic mountains and superb skiing. You can hit the slopes at Sunshine Village or Lake Louise Ski Resort. Then, rejuvenate yourself in the Banff Upper Hot Springs overlooking the snow-capped vista. Yearn for more winter magic? Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy landscape!
Chamonix, France
Chamonix, in the French Alps, is an idyllic winter sports destination where skiing, snowboarding, and mountain adventures exude galore. Hit the slopes at Les Grands Montets or Brevent-Flegere. Ride the Aiguille du Midi Cable Car to get lost in the Mont Blanc. Or, try ice climbing or snowshoeing through alpine forests.
Innsbruck, Austria
Are you looking for a winter sports paradise? Innsbruck is the place to be; combining urban charm with world-class skiing in the Austrian Alps. You can hit the slopes at Nordkette or Patscherkofel. And when you’re tired from skiing, there’s always the Imperial Palace and Golden Roof waiting for you! More so is the ride through Hungerburg Funicular noted for its breathtaking Alpine views.
Interlaken, Switzerland
Get lovely views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks while you ski or snowboard at Jungfrau Ski Region and ride the Jungfraujoch train to the "Top of Europe." Go high up and above by paragliding or snowshoeing in the Swiss Alps.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Nestled in the Himalayas are spectacular winter treks and adventures with sensational views and snow-covered landscapes. Trek the Annapurna or Langtang regions to immerse first-hand. Or, take a bird's eye view by paragliding over the Kathmandu Valley. Animal lovers can traverse through Chitwan National Park to spot wildlife.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto’s winter charm comes alive with serene temples, snow-covered gardens, and unforgettable cultural experiences tied to Japan’s New Year traditions. Some activities you can include in your itinerary are visiting the snowy Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), strolling through the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and immersing in a traditional New Year’s tea ceremony.
Lake Placid, New York
Get off the Big Apple’s dazzling city charms and strike through a go-to winter sports destination with Olympic history, ski slopes, and adrenaline-pumping activities. Visit the Olympic Ski Jump Complex for starters. Then, ski or toboggan on Whiteface Mountain.
Patagonia, Chile
A Chilean Patagonia in winter is a must-see for adventurers. Trek to Torres del Paine, explore glaciers, cruise the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, and enjoy local Patagonian cuisine in the remote village of Puerto Natales. Don’t forget to taste local lamb at Café Kaiken.
Prague, The Czech Republic
Prague is a winter fairy tale with snow-covered medieval architecture (the Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, for instance) and the bustling Christmas Market in Old Town Square. Its festive ambience is an absolute cosy winter city break. Slip in your breezy days with a traditional Czech chimney cake called Trdelník.
Reykjavik, Iceland
The Northern Lights illuminate Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik. The city is the gateway to Iceland’s dramatic glaciers, waterfalls, and geysers, all transformed by the winter magic. Taking a Northern Lights tour to chase the aurora is a no-brainer. But also go unwind in the Blue Lagoon surrounded by snow and explore the Golden Circle, including Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir while you’re there!
Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi, Santa Claus’ official hometown, is a top winter spot for families and couples looking for a true Lapland adventure. Exploring the Santa Claus Village and ultimately meeting the jolly man himself is obvious. So is embarking on a snowmobile safari through Lapland’s snowy forests. After a long day, get comfortable in a glass igloo to catch the Northern Lights from your bed.
Salzburg, Austria
The stunning baroque architecture, Alpine views, and festive Christmas markets make Salzburg a winter dream. Brace the chills at the Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic winter views and the Salzburg Christmas Market. When it gets too cold outside, you can always catch a performance at the Mozart Concert Hall.
Seoul, South Korea
Seoul has become a winter wonderland with its snowy temples and palaces, plus a lively festival scene. One place to revel in heritage and nature is the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Strut your skills by ice skating at Seoul Plaza. Indulging in seasonal street food, such as Hotteok and Bungeoppang, is highly addicting!
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn turns into a winter fairy tale with its medieval Old Town covered in snow. Walk along the medieval Toompea Castle walls. Check out the Tallinn Christmas Market in Town Hall Square. Then, find a bowl of Estonian stew in a traditional tavern to warm up.
Tromsø, Norway
Also known as the “Gateway to the Arctic”, this city is a top destination for Northern Lights and winter thrills such as dog sledding with Sámi guides and reindeer safaris. Other than these thrilling activities is the Arctic Cathedral, noted for its stunning winter panorama.
Zermatt, Switzerland
The magical winter escape is tucked away in the Swiss Alps, where world-class skiing meets jaw-dropping views of the legendary Matterhorn. With its car-free streets and charming chalets, it’s the perfect spot for a peaceful getaway in style. Go skiing or snowboarding at Europe’s highest ski spot, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Then hop on the Gornergrat Railway for epic Alpine views. After all of the activities, treat yourself to Swiss fondue in a cosy mountain restaurant.