Winter Wonderland: 14 Most Beautiful Winter Destinations in the World

Dorathy Gass | December 10, 2018

While winter can be associated with cold, slush, dreary weather, and gloom, it can also be the perfect time to travel the world and take in some incredible wintery scenery! There a plenty of incredible cities across the globe that simply come alive during the coldest time of the year.

So, bundle up, grab a thermos of hot chocolate, and make sure you have some warm mittens on, and a cozy hat. Below are 14 of the most beautiful winter destinations to travel worldwide.

Winter Destinations

14. Jigokudani Monkey Park, Japan

While visiting the Jigokudani Monkey Park in Japan any time of the year can be an incredible experience, it is a must for travelers who would like to take part in the mesmerizing experience of watching the Japanese macaque (also known as “snow monkeys”) frolick about in the natural beauty of hot springs – the snow monkeys are particularly photographic between January and February.

There’s also plenty of wintery fun in and around the park, including a snow tour, snowshoeing, skiing, and tobogganing.

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

13. Banff National Park, Canada

Established in 1885, Banff National Park is the oldest national park in the Great White North. Located near the Rocky Mountains in Calgary, Alberta, winter travelers to this area are treated to awe-inspiring views of snow-covered mountains, glaciers, ice fields, and wonderous wintery landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the outdoors by skiing, hiking, snowshoeing tobogganing, and more.

Every year the region hosts an Ice Magic Festival – visitors can check out amazing carved ice sculptures right in front of the Chateau Lake Louise hotel. The event will be held from January 16^th to 27^th.

There’s also plenty of culinary options close by the park, and tons of fun shopping to partake in while resting up from all the outdoor fun Banff National Park has to offer.

Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

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