10 Best Winter Vacation Destinations to Get Your Bucket List Going

If reserving your winter breaks for travelling has become an annual ritual, you probably need no introduction to the process of choosing the perfect destination. Endless Google searches, budget estimates, itineraries: phew! So, we did some searching to make things easier for you. Here are some of the best winter vacation destinations that will get your bucket list going:

1. Baden-Baden, Germany

Fancy exploring snow dusted streets on a horse-drawn carriage? Or how about a relaxing spa to let go off all your blues? If a winter vacation speaks luxury to you, Baden-Baden has it all. Apart from Black Forest Hills, blooming parks, and architectural wonders, the place also hosts a stunning Christmas market. Did someone say shopping? Count us in!

2. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Now, when winters spell ice, cold and snow, some of us might look for warm or tropical escapades. Our best bet? Hiking across the surreal mountains, and basking in the lush greenery of terrace farms springing rice in Chiang Mai, Thailand! This winter vacation spot (yes, we’d like to call it so) also lets you reel in some interesting adventure experiences like bamboo rafting and cycling.

3. Transylvania, Romania

Winters in Transylvania are all about fairy-tale landscapes and charming castles, a match made in heaven. Whether it’s the spooky Dracula Castle, or the eco-friendly Clay Castle, everything in Transylvania spells sheer magic. And if the snow gets a little too bold for you, the rich thermal water from the Felix Baths will rejuvenate your senses in no time!

4. Sapporo, Japan

Dreaming of magical, feathery winters? Head to the Hokkaido (an island in Japan), and watch the place cast its glorious spell on you! Sapporo, its capital makes for one of the best winter vacation destinations, with its ski resorts and hot springs. Also, make sure you don’t miss out on the Sapporo Snow Festival that features some spectacular ice sculptures.

5. Kruger National Park, South Africa

How about having some animals for company during your break? If you’re looking to spend time in wilderness, Kruger National Park is just the perfect fit! Mind you though, this spot is an early-winter vacation destination. You can greet lions, leopards, waterbucks on your safari, and take some time out to disconnect from your daily hustle.

6. Gran Canaria, Spain

This tropical getaway is perfect to escape all your winter blues! Look at Gran Canaria as a grand retreat offering the best of nature, adventure, and leisure. You can watch dolphins dance, or just laze around on sunbeds dotting its stunning beaches. But the waves there aren’t limited to beach waters: the dunes of Maspalomas are equally inviting!

7. Hella, Iceland

Watching the Northern Lights dance sits heartily on our travel bucket lists, and so now is the perfect time to get your Hella itinerary going! Apparently, the best time to observe the phenomenon is in winter, with clear skies offering a magnificent canvas. Not just that, the Land of Fire & Ice: Iceland also has some amazing destinations for celebrating Christmas and New Year’s Eve!

8. Auli, India

If you’re looking for exciting winter spots closer home, Auli is one place you would not want to miss. Thick snow slants make this spot an adventurer’s paradise: you can go skiing, trekking, and also take a cable car ride across. With spectacular views of the mighty Himalayas and Maggi bowls making up for biting cold days, Auli should definitely be on your travel bucket lists!

9. Quebec City, Canada

While Canada is a magnet for tourists all year round, there is something extraordinarily charming when the cold sets in. Our favourite winter vacation pick? Quebec City! Whether it’s ice fishing or snow sliding, or even staying in an igloo, the city boasts of winter experiences you’d not want to miss. Even taking a stroll through the snow dusted cityscape can turn into a magical episode!

10. Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Yet another popular winter vacation destination in India, Jodhpur is a glorious town in Rajasthan filled with architectural and cultural splendour. Take a stroll through its streets, visit the Mehrangarh Fort, or try out some local dishes: there’s so much to do in the Blue City. Don’t forget to check out Osian, a spectacular oasis in the Thar Desert!

Well, that rounds up our top picks for winter vacation destinations. Make sure you check Coivd-19 regulations for these places before making any plans. Till then, happy travel dreaming!