#1 Rome
A winter visit to Rome means you’ll encounter smaller crowds and lower room rates, not to mention festive decorations around the holidays. Plus, with fewer travelers to compete with, you can squeeze in more sightseeing and snag reservations at the city’s top restaurants.
#2 Quebec City
The cobblestone streets will probably be covered in snow, but that shouldn’t discourage you from exploring neighborhoods like Old Québec and Quartier Petit-Champlain. The city celebrates its way through the frigid temperatures with events and festivals that last from Christmastime to Carnaval in February.
#3 Auckland
Winter in the Northern Hemisphere means summer in the Southern Hemisphere: Auckland, New Zealand, experiences pleasant temps in the 60s and 70s and plenty of sun from December through February. While it’s expensive to fly here, once you arrive there are ample free things to enjoy, ranging from pristine beaches to sprawling parks.
#4 Seville
Spend your days seeing the impressive parks, cathedrals and plazas before cozying up with a glass of wine and tapas at night on a winter vacation to Seville, Spain. You’ll have fewer tourists to deal with, and lodging options are much more affordable than during the warmer months.
#5 Costa Rica
This peak tourist season boasts ample sunshine, making it an ideal time to explore the country’s lush rainforests and lounge on its tropical beaches. That said, the dry season is the most popular time to visit. Luckily, the U.S. dollar goes a long way here, and there are plenty of free things to do.
#6 Banff
Winter in Banff is characterized by snow and skiing. This Canadian destination enjoys excellent skiing conditions and an under-the-radar reputation. What’s more, lodging and lift ticket prices are a bargain compared to other ski spots in North America, but you’ll need to book them a few months in advance to ensure availability.
#7 Bangkok
Warm weather, low humidity and affordable room rates make Bangkok an exceptional winter vacation for those who hate snow. Temps range from the 60s and 70s at night up to the 80s and 90s during the day. Plus, you can book four- and five-star hotels for less than $125 a night.
