5 Incredible Destinations to Consider for a Snow-Filled Getaway

Planning a winter holiday can be genuinely exciting, especially if you’re looking for places where snow is pretty much guaranteed, and the atmosphere feels different from a summer break. Whether you enjoy skiing, quiet mountain towns, or simply want a change of scenery, there are plenty of destinations across Europe and beyond that deliver proper winter conditions without overly complicated planning. Here are five reliable options worth adding to your shortlist this season.

1. Iceland – Wild Landscapes, Natural Hot Springs and Winter Adventure

Iceland is one of the most memorable places you can visit during winter. When it’s cold, it’s properly cold; when it snows, it transforms the entire landscape. What makes Iceland appealing is that you don’t have to be an experienced winter traveller to enjoy it. Roads are generally well-maintained, tours are easy to arrange, and activities can be adapted to any comfort level.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed, scenic way to arrive, a cruise to Iceland from the UK is a brilliant option. It takes the hassle out of flying, offers great views along the way, and lets you start your holiday in a calmer mindset. Once in Iceland, you can divide your time between Reykjavik and the countryside. The Golden Circle stays open throughout winter, and geothermal pools, both the well-known ones and smaller local ones, are a welcome part of the experience.

For families or groups, a 4x4 day tour with an experienced driver is the safest way to explore frozen waterfalls, black-sand beaches and volcanic sites. Evenings are generally quiet, and while the Northern Lights aren’t guaranteed, winter gives you the best chance of seeing them.

2. Switzerland – Perfect Skiing, Reliable Facilities and Easy Transport

Switzerland is consistently one of the top choices for winter travellers, especially those who appreciate smooth logistics and well-run resorts. If your priority is high-quality slopes, mountain scenery and comfortable accommodation, the country delivers all of that without much fuss. Villages like Zermatt, Wengen, Saas-Fee and Grindelwald are especially good for a mix of skiing levels.

Many visitors prefer to book Switzerland tour packages simply because it takes the pressure off planning train routes, transfers, and lift passes. The rail network is incredibly efficient, and travelling between towns is usually part of the holiday rather than an inconvenience. This makes it a great choice for those who want to combine a couple of regions in one trip.

If skiing isn’t your main goal, there’s still plenty to do: winter hiking trails, lake cruises that run year-round in certain areas, Christmas markets in December, and easy access to mountain viewpoints by cable car. Switzerland tends to feel safe, clean and well-organised, which helps a lot if you’re travelling with children or older relatives.

3. Finnish Lapland – Reindeer, Snow Forests and Proper Arctic Days

If you want a destination that really embraces winter, Lapland is one of the most reliable options. The region gets deep snow from early winter through spring, and the landscapes are exactly what you’d expect from the Arctic: forests glazed with frost, quiet frozen lakes, and wide open areas where the sky feels enormous.

Rovaniemi is the most convenient place to base yourself, especially for families. It’s tourist-friendly, the airport has good connections, and there are plenty of activities to choose from - husky sledging, reindeer farms, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and Northern Lights excursions. For travellers who want a quieter experience, smaller villages like Saariselkä or Äkäslompolo offer more space and fewer crowds.

Accommodation varies from simple cabins to glass-roofed igloos designed for stargazing. Days tend to be short but cosy, and as long as you pack proper winter clothing (or hire it locally), the cold becomes manageable. This is also a great place for travellers who want a sense of novelty; everything feels different, from the light to the pace of the day.

4. The Dolomites, Italy – Scenic Peaks and Relaxed Mountain Culture

The Dolomites are a strong alternative for anyone who wants snow, great food, and a less formal atmosphere compared to some traditional Alpine resorts. The region is full of mountain villages that feel welcoming without being overly commercial, and the skiing options cover a wide range of abilities. Areas like Val Gardena, Alta Badia and Cortina d’Ampezzo offer excellent facilities and stunning views.

One of the main advantages of choosing the Dolomites is the food culture. Even simple mountain huts serve generous meals, and many of the resorts are family-run or locally owned, which adds a more personal feel. The slopes connect seamlessly thanks to the Dolomiti Superski network seamlessly, and beginners will find gentle areas that aren’t intimidating.

If you’re not skiing, there are snowshoe trails, cable-car viewpoints, sledging runs and easy winter walks. Because the region isn’t as expensive as some of its neighbours, it’s also a realistic option for groups who want a winter break without facing premium Alpine prices.

5. Austria – Traditional Villages, Great Value and Consistent Snow

Austria offers a balance that works well for mixed-interest groups. Resorts like Kitzbühel, St Anton, Söll, and Zell am See provide reliable snow, well-maintained pistes and a friendly, local feel. The atmosphere tends to be welcoming rather than exclusive, which makes Austria a comfortable choice for first-time winter travellers.

The country’s ski schools have a great reputation, so if you’re travelling with children or complete beginners, it’s an easy place to learn. Non-skiers won’t feel left out either—most towns offer winter walking routes, lakeside strolls, spa facilities and accessible mountain viewpoints.

Accommodation in Austria often feels traditional, with lots of small guesthouses and hotels run by families. Food is hearty, portions are generous, and the après-ski scene can be lively in some areas but peaceful in others, depending on what you prefer.

Ready For Your Snowy Escape?

Choosing a winter holiday comes down to the kind of experience you want. If dramatic landscapes and geothermal pools appeal, Iceland is an excellent pick, for clean logistics and world-class skiing, Switzerland works well.

Lapland gives you an unforgettable Arctic atmosphere, the Dolomites offer great food and beautiful scenery, and Austria provides a comfortable, great-value winter break without overcomplicating things.