Best Winter Travel in Europe

Germany

Germany is a favorite winter travel destination in Europe, famous for its historic Christmas markets, like Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, one of the oldest in the world. These markets offer everything from homemade crafts like nutcrackers and nativity scenes to mulled wine and bratwurst, not to mention festive music, twinkling lights, and holiday cheer.

Germany is rich in history and culture, making it an unforgettable winter vacation to scratch off your bucket list.

Take a winter vacation in Germany with Colette's Enchanting Christmas Markets tour, where you will experience the best of Europe’s holiday markets (and more) across Germany, France, and Switzerland.

London & Paris

On Collette's London and Paris featuring New Year’s Eve in Paris tour, ring in the new year with a guided journey through two of Europe's most iconic cities. See Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and more, all decked out for the holidays. Then cross over the Channel and get to know Paris with a local guide and plenty of time to explore this iconic city on your own.

Italy

The best part about visiting Italy in winter? Fewer tourists, mild temperatures, and more time and space to explore the culture. From the historic streets of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice, winter in Italy has a charm all its own.

Explore bucket list destinations like the Colosseum and the Vatican without the crowds. Take a hands-on cooking class and learn how to make homemade pasta. Wander the streets of Florence and explore its world-famous museums.

Collette's Best of Italy and Reflections of Italy featuring Verona and Lake Como in winter tours offer a perfect itinerary for winter travelers looking to experience Italy's rich history and culture.

Warm Places to Travel in Winter

Australia & New Zealand

Australia and New Zealand are unique places to visit in winter, offering experiences you will not find anywhere else. You can visit a Maori village in New Zealand to learn about the country’s oldest culture. You will see the haka dance there, taste traditional Maori food, and hear stories passed down through generations. A cruise through Milford Sound lets you see dramatic cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and native wildlife up close.

In Australia, visiting Uluru (Ayers Rock) at sunset is unforgettable. This massive red rock changes color as the sun sets, and it’s a sacred place for the local Anangu people. You can also explore the Great Barrier Reef, snorkeling through clear waters filled with colorful coral and fish. Collette's Australia and New Zealand Uncovered tour will offer you unique experiences that make Australia and New Zealand perfect for a winter trip full of culture and natural beauty.

Morocco

Morocco’s winters are mild with temperatures reaching the mid-60s near the coast, making it a perfect time to explore. Take a walk through the busy markets of Marrakech, venture out to the Sahara Desert, and discover the incredible architecture and artwork of the country’s mosques and palaces.

Check out Collette’s small group Colors of Morocco tour for an immersive exploration of the country’s landscapes and culture.

Unique Winter Travel Experiences

Finland

On Collette’s Northern Lights of Finland tour, visit the official home of Santa Claus, and learn about the origins of this Christmas folklore. Gain insight into the Sami Indigenous culture during a moonlight reindeer safari through the snowy woods of Kakslauttanen. And overnight in a glass igloo under the stars and fall asleep, even under the northern lights.

Thailand

Thailand is an excellent place to visit during the winters. Since the country does not get crazily cold, therefore, visiting its exotic beaches allows you to rewind. Thailand presents various experiences, from the busy streets of Bangkok to the calm and relaxing beaches of Phuket.

Discover old temples, savor world-class street food, or lie on a beach with perfectly clear waters on Collette's Wonders of Thailand tour.

Best Places to Travel in Winter in the USA

New York City

Even during the chilly winter months, New York City radiates its own type of warmth, especially during the holidays. From ice skating in Rockefeller Center to window shopping the city’s iconic holiday storefronts, it is not hard to see why New York City’s been the backdrop for countless beloved holiday-themed movies.

Collette’s Spotlight on New York City Holiday tour takes travelers to the heart of the Big Apple’s most famous attractions — like Greenwich Village, the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, and a Broadway Show in Times Square — and with built-in free time to shop, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spread the holiday cheer and take home some souvenirs for the people you love.

New Orleans

New Orleans is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, rich cultural heritage, and distinctive musical traditions. It is also a wonderful place to travel in the USA during winter. Between the city’s mild temperatures and world-famous Mardi Gras celebrations, it is no wonder travelers flock here in the winter for a lively escape.

The most well-known NOLA neighborhood is the French Quarter, the historic heart of the city. Here you will find the jazz clubs of Bourbon Street, street performers in Jackson Square, and gourmet food and crafts at the French Market. But there is much more to see beyond the city’s popular tourist destinations. From the colorful shotgun homes and cottages of Marigny and Bywater to the galleries and museums of the Warehouse district, there is much to explore here.

Experience the magic of New Orleans on Collette's America's Music Cities Holiday tour — including an authentic Creole-inspired dinner and a stop at one of the city’s most famous jazz clubs.

Book Your Winter Travel with Collette

Whether you are chasing the thrill of the northern lights, the magic of the European Christmas markets, or the warmth of tropical destinations, you can enjoy traveling to the best places in winter with Collette's guided tours.

Ready to learn more? Contact your local travel advisor and ask for Collette.