The Best Winter Holiday Destinations 2019: Places You Must Visit This Winter
Beat the winter blues with our roundup of the best places to head this winter
Whether you’re after some winter sun, or want a family festive break, winter is a popular time for people to head off on their travels.
Winter in the UK can be bitterly cold and just a little bit miserable in general, so if you feel you need a little bit of vitamin D to get you through the latter end of the year, then check out our list of some of the best winter holiday destinations.
WHERE SHOULD YOU HOLIDAY THIS WINTER?
For those who want a quick getaway during the festive period, Europe has plenty of lively cities that host some of the best Christmas festivities in the world, so a long weekend at the German markets is perfect if you’re short on time before the Christmas holidays really kick in.
The rest of Europe is also great for those who prefer adventure holidays. We recommend heading to the slopes for some of the best winter holiday ski destinations such as Austria or Switzerland and staying in a traditional chalet with log fire to really make the most of the winter weather!
If it’s summer you’re longing for, then you’ve got a little bit further to travel at this time of year, but Australia’s scorching temperatures are totally worth it. Think Christmas BBQs on the beach and beating those January blues with some great sun and surf.
BERLIN
For a truly festive getaway, German Christmas markets are a great place to visit during winter. Just a short hop from the UK, Berlin is a city rife with culture, history and festivity.
Weather will be cool and crisp, so you can wrap up warm and enjoy exploring this wonderful capital with some of the free walking tours on offer. You’ll get to cover everything from the Berlin Wall which divided the city during the Cold War, to significant landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Holocaust Memorial.
BARBADOS
Want to really beat those winter blues? Then head to the Caribbean island of Barbados. Whether you fly or stop off on a cruise into Bridgetown (the capital), it’s easy to get around the island. With some gorgeous beaches and tranquil botanical gardens, this island really is the epitome of luxury.
Catch some rays along Carlisle Bay or explore the stunning limestone stalagmites in Harrison’s Cave, and experiment with some delicious fusion food and fresh seafood dishes. It’s an extremely long flight, at around 12 hours, but December through to April sees dry and sunny weather that makes this one of the best winter holiday destinations for some much-needed vitamin D.
AUSTRIA
If you like the cold, then why not hit the slopes in the European country of Austria? There are plenty of ski resorts to cater for all skill levels and the rugged Alpine terrain is simply stunning, even if you’re not the active type. Instead, chill out in traditional chalets and drink hot cider in the ski bars while you soak up the beautiful snowy surroundings.
Sölden is the best place to go for both slopes and scenic glacier walks, whereas St Anton am Arlberg is known as one of the most popular ski resorts which is ideal for both experienced and novice skiers. If you want more than just snowy mountains, then Kitzbuhel is a traditional alpine town full of little cafes and medieval streets for the non-skiers to explore.
PRAGUE
City breaks are great for when you’re limited on time, and Prague is one of the best winter holiday destinations for those who love exploring a cultural town. With some gorgeous Gothic Architecture and some traditional Christmas markets in the square of the Old Town, this quaint city is full of culture and history.
Walking tours allow you to explore every inch of the city on foot, taking you to both the New and the Old Town, and visiting significant landmarks such as Prague Castle and the astronomical clock. It’s chilly in winter, but the bustling cafe culture is perfect for relaxing after a long day of walking.