While many travelers flock to warm-weather destinations to escape the chill, there’s a growing group of adventurers who embrace the cold. Cold-weather destinations offer something unique — stark landscapes, winter sports, and experiences that simply can’t be found in tropical climates.
If you’re someone who loves the idea of bundling up and exploring some of the world’s most frozen corners, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences that go beyond just the occasional winter chill. Ready to brave the cold?
The Svalbard Islands, Norway
The tiny town of Churchill has long been known as polar bear central for visitors to Canada’s Manitoba province. But, Norway has rapidly gained notoriety as the place to spot these magnificent creatures. The Svalbard (literally “cold coasts”) Islands are a remote archipelago located halfway between the North Pole and the Norwegian mainland. They are a place of surreal, pristine beauty dotted with the remnants of old mining towns and truly unique arctic wildlife.
But, they’re perhaps best known as :The Realm of the Polar Bear.” Hurtigruten offers all-in-one package deals aboard its luxury cruiseliners with stops throughout mainland Norway and the outlying islands. Passengers have the opportunity to tick a variety of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities off their bucket lists, including polar bear spotting, traveling along ancient Viking routes, and photographing the northern lights. Also of note: Longyearbyen, the islands’ de facto capital, is home to the famous Global Seed Vault.
The North Pole, Alaska
If you’re looking for a festive retreat, North Pole, Alaska, is one of the most charming cold-weather destinations you can visit. Just outside of Fairbanks, this small town is decked out in Christmas decorations all year long, making it feel like the holiday season never ends. Winter is especially cozy here, and the Hotel North Pole, right in the heart of town, is the perfect place to stay.
You can’t visit the North Pole without stopping by the Santa Claus House, where a giant 40-foot Santa statue greets you. Inside, you’ll find everything from Christmas decor to unique made-in-Alaska gifts.
You can also head over to Arctic Harvest Farm Distillery, just outside of town. They craft delicious whiskey, vodka, and honey ‘shine that will warm you right up. Additionally, North Pole, Alaska is a great place to catch a glimpse of the northern lights!
Alberta, Canada
While we rarely hear about them in the U.S., Canada is arguably home to the most breathtaking national parks in North America. And the province of Alberta is home to the most awe-inspiring parks in Canada, which, for Albertans, is a point worth bragging about. If Banff and Jasper National Parks aren’t near the top of your lifetime to-do list, it’s time to update it. These two adjacent parks are the twin flagships in Canada’s
Truly adventurous travelers will want to experience the staggering beauty of both parks on foot. However, the destination can be challenging even in the most ideal weather conditions. Look to a proper road trip through Alberta and beyond to experience the best natural beauty that Western Canada has to offer.
Big Sky, Montana
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains of south Montana lies the small community of Big Sky. The area is known as much for its picturesque mountain vistas as it is for its 5,800 acres of skiable terrain. Oh, and for being one of the coldest places in the U.S.
Lapland, Finland
With an alluring combination of world-class ski resorts, untamed wilderness, and quaint village life, Finland’s northern region of Lapland is about as close to a winter fantasy as any tourist might hope to experience. Not to mention that the area is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights, which dance across the Finnish sky 200 nights a year.
Given that the area is freezing all year round, the “best” time to visit is really up to the traveler. Visiting Lapland during the summer provides tourists with 24-hour sunlight, which produces the phenomenon known as “Midnight Sun.” For those looking for a more introspective experience, traveling during the winter is great for its pervasive darkness.
Tallinn, Estonia
The Estonian capital of Tallinn is a charming destination all year round but really comes alive during the frigid winter months. Then, snow blankets the medieval city and makes it appear as a world pulled straight from the pages of a fairy tale.
But this UNESCO World Heritage Site isn’t just an ancient marvel — it’s also home to the highest number of startups per person in all of Europe. This means visitors can take in both historical architecture and plenty of modern attractions, including a vibrant tech and nightlife scene.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland, is a fantastic cold-weather destination, especially during the winter months when the city takes on a magical, cozy atmosphere. While the days are short and filled with darkness, the city’s twinkling lights, warm cafes, and welcoming atmosphere make it feel cozy and inviting. Plus, visiting during the off-season means fewer tourists, giving you the chance to experience the city like a local.
Winter in Reykjavik is full of exciting events, including the Dark Days Music Festival in January and the Winter Lights Festival in early February. For those who love winter sports, the Bláfjöll Ski Resort is just a short 30-minute drive from the city. It’s Iceland’s top skiing spot and a favorite among locals and tourists.
