Our travel dreams tend to swing between two very different kinds of winter vacation ideas, snowy wonderlands and tropical beaches, whenever cold weather strikes. Some days we dream of a trip to a snow covered european village or a ski vacation, other days we mock the freezing temperatures and begin plotting our next beach vacation.
Well we carefully picked for you 17 best winter vacations for you to plan your getaway this winter, trying to include cheap winter vacations aswell as those lavish ones you might want to try.

17. Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt Austria, a small alpine village tucked between Salzburg and Vienna is perhaps best known for having supposedly been the inspiration for the scenery in Disney’s Frozen films. Thanks to its picturesque lake views and adorable Old Town, this UNESCO World Heritage site is also a well liked day trip location.

16. Lyon, France

The popular Festival of Lights in Lyon, France, is reason enough to visit this vibrant town in the Auvergne Rhône Alpes area. Every winter the Lyonnaise tradition honours Mother Mary by having candles outside each home’s window, illuminating the entire city in a single bonded glow. Also, the Basilica of Fourvière and the Place des Terreaux will be hosting light shows that both tourists and locals will find memorable.

15. Big Bear Lake, California

The beloved Bear Mountain ski resort and the kid friendly Snow Summit ski resort have made the little city of Big Bear Lake a popular winter travel destination. The ski town’s business area, Big Bear Lake Village, is dotted with family run stores, eateries, and boutiques. It’s a perfect spot to take advantage of the winter months and warm up in the town’s cute places. So consider it, some time here with your partner of family could be the best winter vacations you’ve had in a while.

14. Condon , Montana

Even though Condon, Montana begins and ends at Holland Peak Ranch, it’s still an unforgettable visit. No matter the season, the relaxing retreat formed by 3 luxurious houses and more than 1,000 acres of gorgeous prairies, is a top destination. The peaceful, separate town of Condon is the ideal location to get away from the busy world and enjoy a cool, relaxed time off.

13. Banff, Canada

Lake Louise, an alpine lake famous for its colouring, is located in this picture perfect resort town in Banff National Park, tucked between Mount Rundle and Mount Cascade. It looks sapphire, lapis, or aquamarine depending on the light. Enjoy the crispiest, cleanest mountain air, skiing, and hot springs located there.

12. Saariselka, Finland

The biggest attraction in this village in northern Finland is the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, where you can rent a glass igloo and enjoy some of the best views of the Northern Lights ever. For those seeking a cosier, more traditional feel, log cabins are offered and for those looking for even more Olaf, snow igloos are available too.

11. Alta Badia, Italian Alps

For those who want to ski till they get exhausted and then stuff themselves with South Tyrolean specialties and wines in charming mountain huts and restaurants, a vacation in one of Alta Badia’s six villages is ideal.
With easy access to more than 80 miles of local pistes, the ski resort is one of the biggest in the area.

10. Reykjavik, Iceland

It would be impossible to talk about winter travel destinations without mentioning gorgeous Iceland. Picking Reykjavik, the nation’s capital, for a vacation destination will lead you to breathtaking scenery that you are sure to never forget.
Wintertime brings regular displays of the Northern Lights and the unusual falling of glittering snow, which lights up the night sky.
Reykjavik offers a full schedule of cultural events throughout the winter, along with a special schedule for Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations, completing the spectacle. You can go to the Winter Lights festival in February, which uses sporting events and artistic displays in celebration of the return of light after an extended period of darkness.
Fascinating national parks, geothermal spas, and breathtaking wilderness can all be found in Reykjavik. In the middle of the tourist season, a night in Reykjavik can run you anywhere from $70 to several thousand dollars.

9. Switzerland Alps

Where should we to begin for Switzerland. The country is well known for its scenic villages, an abundance of lakes, and lavish ski resorts located among the Alps, one of the most striking mountain ranges in the world, things which make this country one of the best winter vacations choices.
Since winter sports enthusiasts adore this country, let us shed some light on where to go based on your preferences.
The Andermatt skiing resort is the place to go if you want the best powder.
For a fair price, you can find lodging in the small town of Andermatt, or you can treat yourself to the luxury of the Chedi hotel, which charges $3,000 per night.
Try the Zermatt if you’re looking for a party resort. It offers wine bars, big party spaces, and nightclubs like Bern and St. Moritz where you can dance till the wee hours of the morning.
The fascinating sites of the Swiss National Park, Lake Geneva, the Rhine Falls, and the Jungfrau region,all of which are absolutely must sees make this country the ideal winter getaway, especially for a family holiday.

8. Quebec, Canada

You can spend the night sleeping on a block of ice in the Attalla glass, just ten minutes outside of Quebec City. Every year in January, the hotel is constructed out of snow and ice, and it remains intact until March. For about $1,000 per night for two, you can have the most amazing experiences ever. The hotel has 44 themed rooms. For an even more enjoyable experience, premium models even include a fireplace in the centre. Don’t worry, it won’t cause the ice to melt. There is a lovely chapel for weddings or vow renewal ceremonies, as well as a Nordic leisure area with outdoor spas and saunas.

7. Breckenridge, Colorado

According to the general public, Breckenridge, is the best place to visit in Colorado, the best ski resort in the United States, and the second best ski resort in the world. Amazing ski slopes and warm hospitality can be found in Breckenridge.
You can spend the nights relaxing at the city’s bars and restaurants and the days exploring up and down the mountain.
Some of the greatest hotels in Colorado, like One Ski Hill Place, Beaver Run Resort and Conference Centre, or Crystal Peak Lodge, are great places to stay if you want the whole experience.
There are many things to do, like spas and relaxation areas, by yourself or with the whole family, like bowling and swimming pools. For instance, the rates for two people in December range from $250 to $500 per night. You could also go hiking or mountain climbing in the area if you were to visit in the summer.

6. Park City, Utah

To make it somewhat simpler for you to locate this one on the map, located in the historic western town, Park City is a world class mountain destination situated east of Salt Lake City in the western state of Utah. This place is perfect for you if you love winter sports. The Canyons Resort and Park City Mountain Resort merged a while ago to form the biggest ski resort in North America. Everything you need to enjoy your vacation, from lovely restaurants and comfortable accommodations to slopes with various levels of difficulty, is available there.
Look no further if you want to experience some of the best winter vacations in the us.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

From the mountains now we travel down to some of the most stunning cities to visit in the winter, starting with Copenhagen. While you can spend the entire winter in a hot sauna and attend the Christmas market in December, the fairytale castles are a truly amazing sight to witness. The majority of the castles that are close to the city can be seen on scheduled tours and since Denmark was previously a monarchy, well there are plenty of them. There are free museums and lovely cafes to warm your spirit with a hot drink. The snow enhances the castle site, making the experience even more memorable.

4. Tokyo, Japan

Going on to our top list, we have Tokyo. It’s said that taking a hot spring bath is the ideal way to spend a Japanese winter holiday.
When you visit Tokyo, be sure to take in the contrast between the traditional Japanese gardens which are still green, and the explosive and colourful christmas celebrations. Very rarely does the temperature drop below freezing, and if you’re lucky, you might catch sight of the Ume plum tree blossoms in February.
All things considered, Tokyo is a city unlike any other to visit in the winter.

3. Budapest, Hungary

You might not be able to ski in the Hungarian capital, but it is perfect for ice skating in a fantastic atmosphere. A nutcracker performance at the Hungarian State Opera House can extend the life of that enviroment . Don’t miss the city ice rink, which is surrounded by an impressive castle.
Apart from tasting delicious, the food and coffee shops are truly exceptional. All I’m trying to say is that Budapest should be at the top of your list if you’re thinking about visiting any European cities this winter, as it offers everything you could possibly want.

2. Prague, Czech Republic

Wintertime in Europe, especially around Christmas, has a unique level that leaves memories. Perhaps it’s the heavy snowfall and rich history that surrounds the entire region, which has been preserved in everything from the buildings to the customs and traditions.
Czech Republic’s Prague has the same. Attending the candy giveaway on St. Nicholas Eve is one of the most fun things to do there.
Nicholas the Saint from Czechia goes around the streets on December 5th, giving good children treats.
In the evening, you can catch a glimpse of him in the old town square, and if you’ve been good, well expect a treat.

1. Vienna, Austria

It’s difficult to deny that Vienna is the most amazing city to visit, especially during the Christmas season. Wintertime there is like love at first sight. Perhaps Santa Claus lives at the North Pole, but Vienna is absolutely the birthplace of the Christmas spirit. Vienna is a charming destination with its car free city centre, incredible history that has been perfectly preserved, impressive architecture, and accents of art and fashion displayed all over the city, especially during their annual Christmas market.
If you get tired of all the shopping and cultural activities, you can escape to one of the nearby skiing resorts, or go to a cafe to take in the beauty of the city from a warmer place. Other activities include visiting St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and attending a concert at the Vienna State Opera.
A hotel room in Austria may run upwards of 100 dollars per night for two people.