6 Wintry Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List: It's time to go play in the snow!
Traveling doesn't have to stop just because winter is in full force! Check out these 7 destinations and start planning your next adventure!
Please note: This post has been updated as of December 2023
The temperature has dropped, the heavy jackets have been dusted off, and the snow is flying. Although winter has arrived, don’t let that fool you - the traveling doesn’t have to stop!
After galavanting around the globe with professional ski racers for the past four years, here are 6 wintry destinations that everyone should be adding to their bucket list.
Note to readers: This post is NOT sponsored. All opinions and experiences are my own.
1. LAKE LOUISE, CANADA
Canada’s Winter Wonderland
Tucked away deep within the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise is best known for a lake named… Louise. One can appreciate the straightforwardness, but it’s important to look beyond the obvious attraction — this small town is much more than the turquoise waters that pour into the valley from the distant Victoria Glacier!
Once the snow starts falling, Lake Louise turns into a wintry wonderland of sorts, albeit a frigid one.
Sip on a cup of hot chocolate as you wander the grounds of the Fairmont Chateau, rent a pair of skates and dance across a frozen lake, or pack your skis and head over to the Lake Louise ski resort for some stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Looking for a slightly larger area? A short 40-minute drive to the southeast lies Banff, a town widely known for Mt. Rundle and Mt. Cascade towering high above the cityscape.
It’s not hard to spend an afternoon perusing the picturesque main street, visiting the various boutiques and restaurants as you go.
Stay:
Fairmont Chateau - This is the priciest option in the area, but also the most luxurious. Dating back to 1890, the 539-room hotel sits directly on the shores of Lake Louise and offers visitors diverse and expansive services, including a spa, gym, free-wifi, horse drawn carriages through the snow, tea time, and more.
Mountaineer Lodge - Significantly cheaper and still conveniently located, the Mountaineer Lodge is a great value-stay. Free wi-fi and breakfast available.
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Lake Louise Ski Resort - Voted the #1 resort in Canada in 2019 and just a short drive from the town center, Lake Louise Ski Area is full of terrain for all ages and levels.
Feeling adventurous? Ride the Glacier Express to the top and make some turns along downhill track, the same run that the world’s best alpine ski racers compete on each year!
Ice Skating on Lake Louise - Glide along the frozen waters or play a pick-up game of ice hockey. Either way, the surrounding white peaks of the Canadian Rockies will create the perfect winter scene. Skate rentals start at $20 for two hours (and a hockey stick will cost $5 extra).
Getting There:
Calgary is the closest airport and only a 2hr. drive away from Lake Louise. Car rentals are widely available, but shuttles also run regularly and can often be arranged through your accommodations.
Lake Louise, Canada
2. KITTILA, FINLAND
Wintry Lapland Wilderness
Kittilä’s location, 110 miles north of the Arctic Circle, means that darkness dominates the winter, so why would anyone want to visit?
Aside from the Levi Ski Resort, which is the largest in all of Finland, and the Lapland wilderness being largely synonymous with Santa’s headquarters, the area also averages around 200 sightings of the Aurora Borealis each year.
It’s certainly not a place to visit if you’re in search of a sunny après after a long day on the slopes, but the tiny town of Kittilä is chock full of experiences and adventure!
The skiing is great, the people are friendly, and the food is delicious, but the real show happens when darkness descends and the Northern Lights illuminate the sky.
The isolation means that it’s not hard to leave the town’s ambient lighting behind and find your slice of winter paradise as you gaze up towards the sky in awe of the Aurora Borealis dancing across the horizon. It’s truly a magical moment and one that I genuinely hope everyone gets to experience in their lifetime.
The best part? It’s easy to do for free. No tours, no fees and, most importantly, no hassle. Simply rent a car and drive out of town!
Need a break from the cold? Head to the cluster of hotels and restaurants that make up the heart of Kittilä and sample a glass of Finnish lakka, an alcoholic drink made from locally sourced cloudberry, or warm up in a sauna, a staple of the country’s culture.
Stay:
Hotel Levi Panorama - For the best views of the surrounding landscapes, book a room at this mountainside hotel. As always, the ski in/ski out access comes at a cost but if it’s in your budget, then why not go for it!
Hullu Poro Levi - Located a stone’s throw away from the town center and complete with a sauna, gym, and multiple restaurants, Hullu Poro offers comfortable accommodations at a fraction of the price.
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Chase the Northern Lights - Rent a car from the Kittilä airport, track the forecast, and go hunt this spectacle on your own! It will be an adventure that you’ll remember for the rest of your life and you may even get lucky enough to bump into a herd of reindeer along the side of the road!
Ski Levi - You don’t have to travel far from the airport to reach the resort (15min, to be exact) and once there, don’t be shocked to have the slopes all to yourself as you ski in and out of the Lapland forrest!
Getting There:
Driving from Helsinki will take 11+ hours, so it’s best to fly into Kittilä. Regularly scheduled shuttle buses are widely available to transport visitors the short distance town.
3. INNSBRUCK, AUSTRIA
Tyrol’s Capital City
I’ve had the privilege of visiting Innsbruck on multiple occasions, but my fondest memory is exploring this Austrian city during Christmas.
There’s just something so majestic about sipping on a glass of mulled wine under the evening glow of the snowcapped peaks.
This is also the perfect winter destination if you’re not excited by the thought of endless amounts of snow sports.
Instead, shop along the famed Maria Theresien Strasse, climb to the top of the Innsbruck City Tower for panoramic views, or get your wintry fix by riding to the top of the Nordkette, commonly known as the “Jewel of the Alps,” and sip on a cappuccino as you soak up the sunshine high above the city.
During the holiday season, the old town transforms into an inviting Christmas Market, complete with evening brass instrument performances of classic carols from the surrounding rooftops. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
For a list of things to do in Innsbruck, check out this post:
Stay:
Best Western Plus Goldener Adler - If you’re set on staying in the old town, this Best Western Plus is as central as it gets and is located in one of the oldest buildings in all of Innsbruck.
Barenwirth Hotel - For a more relaxing and peaceful experience, be sure to check out the Barenwirth Hotel which is located in the nearby village of Patsch. The area is full of walking paths amongst the surrounding peaks and regularly scheduled buses make it easy to reach the city center.
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Explore the Bergisel Ski Jump - Situated high above the city as a reminder of their olympic hosting days (1964 and 1976), the Bergisel Ski Jump is still in use for competitions today. Visitors can ride to the top, look down, and imagine what it might be like to jump towards the city below. Quite a unique perspective!
Ride the Hungerburg Funicular - Departing straight from the city center, the funicular takes riders to a viewing platform above the city and, if looking for more altitude, is the first mode of transportation on the way up to the Hafelekar Peak.
Getting There:
Fly into Innsbruck’s Kranebitten Airport or arrive via train. If you have a short stopover here, luggage storage is available at most major transportation hubs and is a convenient way to drop your bags and explore the city.
Innsbruck, Austria
4. BETHEL, MAINE (U.S.A.)
Quaint New England Town
Settled in 1774, this charming New England town is often overshadowed by the likes of Killington and Stowe over in Vermont, but it serves as a great place for a winter getaway!
At first glance, it may seem like a sleepy village, but dig a little deeper and I guarantee you’ll find much more.
The town itself is located a mere 10 minutes from the Sunday River ski resort where visitors can enjoy some of the Main’s best terrain. The area also offers a plethora of other activities including dog sledding, tubing, nordic skiing, snowmobiling, and more!
After a long day on the slopes, be sure to stop by Sunday River Brewing on the way down from the mountain and sample a flight of their locally made beers.
Stay:
Bethel Inn - Opening its doors in 1913, visitors can certainly feel the history that radiates all around this building. Complete with snowshoeing trails in the winter, it’s conveniently located a stone’s throw away from the town’s main road, Broad Street. Be on the lookout for the elusive female spirit that is said to wander the hallways!
The Chapman Inn - I’m listing this hotel for all of the paranormal enthusiasts out there. The Chapman Inn consistently appears on a list of the most haunted hotels in Maine, many visitors reporting sightings of a female spirit and a black as well as hearing voices throughout the night.
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Sunday River Ski Resort - With skiing, tubing, sledding, and more, Sunday River is home to a seemingly endless amount of winter activities for all ages!
Getting There:
Only a short drive from both Manchester, NH (2.5 hrs) and Boston, MA (3 hrs), it’s relatively simple to get in and out of this wintry destination, so there’s no reason to not check it out!
5. WENGEN, SWITZERLAND
The Best of the Swiss Alps
Wengen is the epitome of living in a snow globe if ever there was one. Accessible only by train and hiking trails, this Swiss Alpine Village is known for its car-less streets, chalets, and spectacular views of the surrounding Alps.
It’s certainly not the cheapest destination on this list, but you can bet that you’ll be treated to some incredible skiing, good food, and an all-around memorable winter experience.
Be sure to take a ride up to Europe’s highest train station, the Jungfraujoch, or plan your trip around the Wengen World Cup, arguably the greatest spectacle on the professional ski racing circuit. With a beer in hand, watch as skiers risk it all for a shot at glory in the shadows of the mighty Monach Peak.
Don’t forget about the parties back in town once the final racer has crossed the finish line!
Need a break from Wengen? Head back down the mountainside and explore the Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald, two of Switzerland’s most picturesque villages.
Stay:
Hotel Regina - A four-star boutique experience, this quaint Victorian hotel is located near the train station and offers visitors all of the comforts that they could ever desire, including a spa, wine bar, and more. It’s worth the splurge!
Hotel Bernerhof - Need something a bit cheaper? The Hotel Bernerhof is likely the best bang for your buck.
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Visit the Jungfraujoch - Take a walk through the ice palace, stand in awe at the Sphinx Observation Deck, or hit a golf ball off of Europe’s highest train station! Follow the link for everything you need to know.
Snow Fun Park - If skiing isn’t your thing, that’s ok! Head up to the Snow Fun Park for a tubing or sledding experience you won’t soon forget!
Getting There:
Arriving via train is the best way, but if traveling by car then park at the garage in Lauterbrunnen and hop on the rails from there.
Wengen, Switzerland
6. SAALFELDEN, AUSTRIA
Austria’s Epicenter of Winter Sports
Compared to other places in Austria and nearby Switzerland, Saalfelden may be considered by some as “off the beaten path,” but it’s certainly not a place you’ll want to overlook.
Located just an hour away from Salzburg, this area dates back to neolithic times and is an epicenter for winter sports.
Test your skills on the rodelbahn track as you race down the mountain using nothing but a wooden toboggan (helmet and goggles recommended, but not required), cross country ski along the walking paths turned trails or hit the alpine slopes.
Skiing is Austria’s most popular sport which means there will be plenty of options around, but I’d recommend Hinterreit for a more local experience.
No gondolas, no chairlifts, no lines. Simply a snow-covered farm with a couple of t-bars, cows in the stables, and an inviting family-friendly atmosphere.
Once sufficiently tired from a day of fun, be sure to head to the Bauernhof Brandstatthof Apartments at the top of the road for a well deserved afternoon schnitzel.
Stay:
Sport Chalet Maria Alm - Apartment accommodation with a full kitchen located in the neighboring town of Maria Alm. Complete with a sauna, gym and friendly staff.
Play:
Ski at Hinterreit - A family run area that’s friendly for all levels. You’ll find no gondolas or chairlifts here, only a great and casual skiing experience!
Rodel in neighboring Leogang - Buckle up for a wild ride… and maybe take a shot or two of schnapps to calm the inner voice that’s telling you to turn around and walk back down!
Getting There:
Salzburg is the closest airport, however Saalfelden is easily accessible via train from cities such as Innsbruck, Munich, and Zurich.
Rodeling in Saalfelden, Austria
Have you been to any of these destinations before? Do you have memorable winter trips of your own? Let me know in the comments below!
Until next time, stay safe & happy travels.
Here’s how I stay warm during my winter travels!
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Zurich City Guide: 12 things to do in Switzerland's largest city
Whether it's 5 hours or 5 days, here are some different ways to make the most out of your time in Zurich, Switzerland. Be sure to pack an appetite!
Please note: All information below is up to date as of May 2023
Work has kept me on the move for the better part of the past four years, bouncing between towns and villages around the world every few days. My restless feet have never been known to balk at the chance to explore a new place, so I’ve grown accustomed to taking myself on whirlwind tours of wherever I might find myself.
Zurich is a place I’ve been to on a few different occasions, each lasting less than 24 hours. It’s a city full of history, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine, so it’s easy to find something for everyone.
Here are the 12 top things to do when visiting Switzerland’s largest city. Spoiler alert: bring your appetite.
1. LINDENHOF PARK
Located within Zurich’s Altstadt (old town), Lindenhof Park offers panoramic views over the River Limmat and sits on top of the city’s remaining Roman medieval wall. The square also happens to be the site of the Roman and Carolingian era kaiserpfalz, the emperor’s castle, in which the city was built around.
Grab a beer and a pretzel, take a seat on the wall, and enjoy the views in the evening glow. It’s a popular thing to do in Zurich for both locals and tourists alike!
Lindenhof Park - Zurich, Switzerland
2. FIFA WORLD CUP MUSEUM
What better place to learn about Europe’s most popular sport than where the headquarters of the Federation Internationale de Football Association, otherwise known as FIFA, is located?
Opened in 2016, the FIFA World Football Museum takes visitors on a journey through the sport’s history with over 1,000 exhibits, photographs, and texts. It certainly doesn’t hurt that entry is free when you use your Zurich Museum Card.
If you don’t have one, it’s no problem! A ticket will cost you CHF 24 (just over $24) and can be purchased online by clicking here. It makes for a great rainy-day activity!
Address: Seestrasse 27, 8002 Zurich, Switzerland
Hours: 10am-6pm. Closed on Mondays, so plan ahead!
Website: www.fifamuseum.com
3. RESTAURANT LE DEZALEY
Add a hearty portion of Emmenthaler cheese to a moderately aged Gruyère, melt it down, put together a plate of charcuterie, and what do you get? One heck of a meal!
Tucked away in Zurich’s old town, Le Dezaley has been serving up some of the best Swiss dishes in all of the city since opening its doors in 1903, but there’s one main reason to visit: the fondue.
Despite feeling as though you’ve uncovered a hidden gem, the consensus is that the chefs at Le Dezaley do fondue better than anyone else around, so your safest bet to ensure access is to reserve a table ahead of time which, conveniently enough, can be done online by clicking here.
Wherever you choose to go, devouring cheese fondue is a must-do during your time in Zurich! Bonus points if you can say “Swiss dish” ten times fast.
Address: Romergasse 7-9, 8001 Zurich
Hours: 11:30am - 2:00pm & 6:00pm - 12:00am, closed on Sundays
Website: www.le-dezaley.ch
4. OLD TOWN
Also known as Altstadt, this quaint and car-free part of Zurich is where history began for Switzerland’s largest city. It’s here where you’ll find some of the most important landmarks, such as the Fraumunster Church which was built in 853 by the German King Louis for his daughter, Hildegard.
The church is now home to a set of five stained glass windows from world-renowned artist Marc Chagall and serves as a popular destination for tourists.
If shopping is more your thing, make your way over to the Niederdorf District and browse the selection of eclectic boutiques.
Wandering isn’t for everyone, and that’s ok. Luckily there are free tours of the city that lead visitors around to all of the major cultural spots and are available in multiple languages. Visit Free Walk Zurich’s website for more information.
5. RIVER LIMMAT CRUISE
All you need is an hour to spare to discover Zurich from the water.
Embarking from the National Museum, the River Limmat Cruise offers a cheap way to float past famous landmarks around the city, such as the Grossmunster Church and Town Hall, as you make your way to Lake Zurich. The glass-roofed boats guarantee an incredible view regardless of your seat.
Be sure to check dates and timetables in advance as tours are only offered between April and October. The best part? prices start at CHF 6.80 (USD 7.50)!
Address: Zurich Landesmuseum Schiffsteg, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland
Timetables: Click here.
Special Note: The company’s website specifically mentions that boats are not suitable for wheelchairs.
Zurich, Switzerland as seen from the River Limmat
6. LINDT CHOCOLATE FACTORY
This is your chance to live like Willy Wonka.
The Lindt factory offers a glimpse into how different chocolates are made as well as a variety of classes so that you can learn to make your delectable dessert under the tutelage of a master chocolatier.
A new 20,000 square meter facility, The Lindt Chocolate World, will open in 2020 and serve as the chocolate lover’s version of Disney Land, containing the world’s largest Lindt store and chocolate fountain in addition to interactive exhibits and a research facility amongst other things.
Surely this will quickly rise to the top of things to do in Zurich once it opens. I’m drooling already!
Address: Seestrasse 204 , 8802 Kilchberg
Website: www.lindt.ch/en/
7. UNIVERSITY OF ZURICH BOTANICAL GARDENS
Travel around the globe without ever stepping foot outside of Zurich!
From alpine flowers to Mediterranean plants, there’s plenty to see, smell, and explore at the University of Zurich’s Botanical Gardens.
In total, the facility houses 9,000 plant species as well as 3 tropical domes. Entry is free and the greenhouses make for a great way to get your nature fix during a cloudy day! Visit during spring for the best viewing.
Address: Zolilkerstrasse 107, 8008 Zurich
Hours: 7am - 7pm during the week in the summer (8am-6pm on weekends), hours may vary during the off-season
** Tropical greenhouses are open from 9:30am - 5:00pm during summer months, hours may vary during the off-season
Website: Zurich Botanical Gardens
8. KARLSTURM TOWER
For sweeping views across the rooftops of Zurich, head over to the Karlsturm Tower and pay CHF 5 (or free for Zurich Card holders) to climb the 187 stairs to the top.
Part of the Grossmunster Church, this famous landmark is a former monastery that was built on top of the graves of the city’s patron saints, Felix and Regula.
With its rich history and panoramic views, this is a must-do activity in Zurich!
Address: Grossmunster, Grossmunster Platz, 8001 Zurich
Hours: Opens 10am, Monday-Saturday and 12:30pm on Sundays
Website: www.grossmuenster.ch
Zurich from above
9. LAKE ZURICH
The most expansive scenery around Lake Zurich can be found at the Burkliterasse, located at the end of the Bahnhofstrasse shopping street.
On a clear day, you’ll be able to see as far as the Swiss Alps!
Itching to get out on the water? This is where the Lake Zurich Navigation Company offers daily cruises that range from 1.5-4 hours in length. Spice things up and book a trip aboard the cheese fondue boat or break out the spandex and hop on the 80s party cruise!
Address: Burkliplatz, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland
Cruise Cost: Varies based on chosen package
Website: Lake Zurich Navigation Company
10. STERNEN GRILL BRATS
Locals and foreigners agree: Sternen Grill is home to Zurich’s best sausage.
Some say it’s the soft bread roll that puts it over the top while others are infatuated with the delicious spicy mustard. Either way, it’s worth the visit.
Seating is available, but my recommendation is to grab a takeaway, cross the street to the Sechselautenplatz and savor your brat while sitting lakeside beneath the shadows of the Opernhaus Zurich.
Roasted chicken is also available for purchase, so don’t worry if brats aren’t your thing.
Address: Theaterstrasse 22, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland
Hours: 10:30am - 11:45pm, daily
11. SWISS NATIONAL MUSEUM
Located along the River Limmat and mere minutes from the train station, this museum is the most frequently visited in all of Switzerland.
Exhibitions usher visitors chronologically through ancient times, Middle Ages, and into the 20th century. Entry is free with the Zurich Museum Card or CHF 10 without it.
This is also where the River Limmat cruise boats depart, so not only is it a great way to learn about Switzerland’s history but then you can get out and explore it!
Address: Museumstrasse 2, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland
Hours: 10:00am - 5:00pm, closed on Mondays
Website: www.landesmuseum.ch/en
12. CHINAGARTEN
An underrated yet great thing to visit in Zurich is the city’s Chinese Gardens, especially if you’re in search of peace and tranquility.
The garden was a gift from Zurich’s sister city, Kunming, as a way to express gratitude for the Swiss’ efforts in providing technical and scientific support towards the expansion of drinking water supplies and urban drainage.
Certainly a beautiful place with a meaningful story behind it.
Address: Bellerivestrasse 138, 8008 Zurich
Entry Fee: CHF 4
Hours: 11:00am - 7:00pm
** The garden is closed in winter months
Website: Zurich Chinagarten
Whether you have 2 hours or 2 days to wander the city, it’s worth getting out and about to experience the Swiss culture.
Snack on a pretzel, sample some chocolate, and learn about the history as you go!
Have any other recommendations for Zurich that I might have missed? Feel free to leave a comment below. I enjoy hearing from you all!
Thanks for following along with Toone’s Travels! As always, stay safe & happy travels.
Check out these tours through GetYourGuide:
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