Winter Wonderlands You Didn’t Know Were Just Near You

Who says winter has to be grey and dull? The holiday season is already in full swing, and it’s up to you to ensure that this Christmas holiday is more fun than the last. If you haven’t made any plans for the holidays yet, then you’re in luck. If you have made plans, you might just change them and head out on one of these epic Winter Wonderland adventures instead.

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

When you see pictures of Copenhagen in the winter, you have high expectations of fairytale castles covered in snow and streets that look like those adventurous, never-ending roads from children’s books. Arriving at the great Danish Capital, you’ll be delighted to find that it’s all you wished for and more. From ice skating to winter bathing, and festive markets, you will instantly fall in love with the city.

In the heart of Copenhagen, the romantic Tivoli Gardens amusement park has opened its doors to visitors since 1843. A magical place where Walt Disney himself gathered some inspiration to emulate in his own theme park. It’s the second oldest amusement park in the world, but you’d never guess it, and its location in the gardens is even more enchanting. Unlimited rides, Christmas markets, mind-blowing shows, and top-notch restaurants are at your disposal. Ride on the 100-year-old rollercoaster or the double-decker carousels, cozy up by the fireplace in the traditional Christmas market huts, or watch a star-studded performance of The Nutcracker. No matter what age, this place will leave you in awe. Come evening, the garden is a sight to behold. Take a walk around to admire the Christmas lights and holiday decor, and be sure you take a few pictures while you’re at it.

The Tivoli Gardens is so magical, and you definitely won’t want to leave come night time. Luckily, you don’t have to! More magic awaits at the Nimb Hotel. Located in the Tivoli Gardens, the Moorish- style hotel complements the garden’s fairytale-like atmosphere, with its marble walls, lit up by thousands of softly glowing light bulbs, and crystal chandeliers that invite you to a whole new world.

LONDON, ENGLAND

No city embraces the festive season quite like London, and Christmas here is nothing short of magical. From the last weeks of November, Christmas trees are already springing up in every corner, and you can feel the holiday spirit everywhere. From the shimmering lights and decorations on the streets, carolers serenading from house to house, and Christmas markets found at every turn, it’s enough to melt any old Scrooge’s heart.

Take a brisk walk along to Hyde Park, and you’ll come across a magnificent Winter Wonderland festival. If you want to experience the festival at its best, we advise you to come here at night. The lights and the decor will blow you away, it’s truly a sight to see. There’s so much to do, try ice skating on London’s largest outdoor rink, watching mesmerizing shows, or you could stop by the Christmas markets for some hot cocoa and gifts for every stocking at home.

To get the best of both worlds, check into the Bulgari Hotel London. After a long day out in Hyde park, you’ll need good food and a whole lot of pampering and this hotel is the perfect place to find both.

QUEBEC, CANADA

Quebec is such a picture-perfect city, and while it may be very snowy, that’s all part of the appeal. When you wander through the streets in winter, you’ll feel as though it’s always Christmas here. There’s a certain warmth despite the snow-covered roads, and every street feels like a pathway to a new adventure.

One of the best times to visit Quebec is in early February, just in time for the Quebec Winter carnival. The carnival runs for 17 days and you don’t want to miss the big parades and outdoor concerts. It’s a great family vacation destination, with fairs and Ferris wheels for children. You could also watch ice sculptures being carved or have fun ice skating, just ten minutes from the carnival grounds at Place D’Youville.

To enjoy Quebec, you’ll want to be close to the city. The Ritz Carlton, Montreal would be a great choice. You’ll be close to the festivities and enjoy a peaceful drive between Montreal and Quebec, allowing you to appreciate both cities.

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN

Seeing Stockholm in Winter is definitely something that should be top of your bucket list. However, while it may not be as flashy as other cities in winter, it is still beautiful in winter with many activities to indulge in. From centuries-old traditions to cozy Christmas markets, Stockholm is perfect for having a good time.

A timeless winter activity in Stockholm is ice skating, and with its many ponds, rinks, and squares, it’s nice to go out on the ice here. Spend ample time at the rink at Kungsträdgården park. The park festivities ignite in the evening with a disco. For something totally different, consider joining an ice-skating tour, which takes you out onto the glassy waterways around Stockholm to enjoy some beautiful views.

There’s no place like home, and after a busy day, retiring to the warmth of your bed is the comforting thought. For a totally unique hotel experience, the Ett hem hotel welcomes you to feel at home even while you’re on vacation. It doesn’t get cozier than at this anywhere else in Stockholm, this quaint hotel gives a whole new meaning to the term home away from home.

GSTAAD, SWITZERLAND

Snow can transform anywhere into a Winter Wonderland, but in some places, the snow just adds a unique touch to an already beautiful city. The charming Swiss village of Gstaad is one such place.

The number one thing to do in Gstaad is to hit the slopes for a ski or snowboarding day out. The ski slope areas range between challenging to intermediate, and there’s astonishing scenery to enjoy while you’re at it. We suggest heading up to Glacier 3000 for a unique experience on the slopes.

For an unforgettable visit to Gstaad, stay at the Gstaad Palace Hotel. Between the time you spend gawking at the breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and basking in the hotel’s old World elegance, you are very likely to meet someone famous.

NEW YORK, AMERICA

Winter in Newyork is honestly one of the best times to enjoy the city. There is so much to do, make sure you get warm and summon your spirit of adventure.

The skating rink at Rockefeller Center is a city icon, and if you’re spending winter in NewYork it’s definitely a must-do, and the tree lighting ceremony stands out of the crowd. Lace-up your skates and enjoy a day out on the ice. You’ll find New Yorkers and city visitors alike swirling and twirling through the bustling crowds and sparkling lights.

Take your holiday to New York one step further and check-in at the Park Hyatt, NewYork. Their holiday offers and packages are definitely worth returning to after long days out in the city.

VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Vienna is synonymous with Christmas markets and this destination is one of our absolute favorites. From cozy Christmas markets to the famous concerts and shows, this is definitely a place you want to be on vacation in winter.

Vienna is filled with Christmas markets and the best time to visit the markets is at night when it’s lit up, and you can smell the Christmas cheer. A must-see is Wiener Christkindlmarkt, Vienna’s largest Christmas market, situated in front of City Hall. It is beautiful and you will find yourself spoilt for choice here. Ice skating is another interesting thing to do in Vienna. You can choose between modern indoor skating or go on the outdoor ice rinks with beautiful backdrops that will be the envy of your Instagram feed.

We’d like to say this is a recommendation, but this hotel does not need that. A landmark on its own, the Hotel Sacher, Vienna has been one of Austria’s most dazzling hotels since the 1800s. Enjoy all the many attractions Vienna holds for the festive season and return to a stylish and restful retreat at the end of the day where history and elegance create magical memories for you.

For more travel inspiration, stay tuned…