While summer holidays are seen as the holiday holy grail, especially for families with school-age children in tow, we think there's a lot to be said for winter holidays. Whether you want a snowy wonderland to get in the mood for (or come down from) the festive period; a winter sports-focused excursion; or a culture-filled city adventure, winter has a lot to offer. Scandinavia is a stand-out winter holiday destination and transforms into a true winter wonderland come December, making Stockholm, Gothenburg and Oslo ideal for a wintery dose of culture. For those who are looking to fully embrace the colder conditions, Europe is brimming with snow-clad mountainsides and world-class ski resorts. Or head further afield to the aptly nicknamed ‘Powder Highway’ in British Columbia, a snowy paradise for winter sports’ worshippers.

winter holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

Winter Holidays by country

Winter Holidays Guide

Practical advice and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday

Winter sun destinations tend to steal the limelight when it comes to planning winter holidays. However, if you're desperate to break out the winter wardrobe (and if the idea of spending the festive season in the sunshine is heretical), then there are destinations aplenty where you can enjoy a true winter wonderland. Europe is an obvious choice, with Scandinavia almost guaranteed to be snowy and, if not, at least cold enough to invite cosy coffees and cakes in a cute café. Denmark's cool capital Copenhagen and Sweden's biggest city Stockholm are both packed to the rafters with culture for a winter city break, or head further north – and even into neighbouring Norway and Finland – and you'll find yourself in the Arctic Circle.


Europe’s snow-carpeted countryside is a prime example of pristine nature. From the northern Fjords of Norway to the adventure playgrounds of Lapland (both Swedish and Finnish), winter holidays are sure to be a huge hit. Zip through the forest mushing huskies; explore your surroundings with a spot of snowshoeing or snowmobiling; go Northern Lights hunting; or even head to the home of Father Christmas. Alternatively, travellers who have had their fill of Europe's snowy mountains and traditional Christmas markets might want to visit our Canadian friends. Whistler is an ever-popular choice for skiers, but the whole province of British Colombia is ripe for exploring, as is nearby Yukon, one of our all-time favourite destinations for those who want to get off the beaten track.


If you’re still not convinced by the cooler climes and cosy nights of winter holidays, then destinations such as Sri Lanka, Thailand and Australia issue a clarion call to sunseekers, and our travel experts can assist in organising winter sun holidays. Afterall, getting a good dose of Vitamin D and enjoying the great outdoors without thousands of layers on is an infinitely effective balm for the soul (and skin).

Related Ideas



100% tailor-made holidays

Understanding Your Needs

Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday

Personalisation

We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities

Our Services

All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges