12 Winter Vacation Ideas for Families

Finland is a winter wonderland tailor-made for family adventures.

Enjoy the cozy ambiance beneath a glass-roofed igloo, gazing at the Northern Lights dancing overhead, or zoom across frozen lakes on a husky-pulled sled. The kids can even write letters to Santa at his official post office in Rovaniemi among wandering reindeer and the festive seasonal atmosphere.

From snowshoeing through pristine forests to trying your hand at ice fishing, Finland offers endless opportunities for memory-making as a family in an enchanting setting.

Finland Vacation Idea

Winter Lapland Tour: Glass Igloo, Husky Safari, Snowmobiles, & the Aurora offers an enchanting winter wonderland experience for families, combining unique accommodations with thrilling Arctic adventures. From sleeping under the Northern Lights in a glass igloo to racing across snowy landscapes on dog sleds, this tour captures the magic of Finnish Lapland.

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Costa Rica is the perfect destination for families craving warmth and wildlife adventures in the heart of winter. Join in your kids' excitement when you spot colorful toucans in the rainforest canopy or watch sea turtles nest on moonlit beaches.

Zipline through lush jungles, soak in natural hot springs, and even learn to surf on gentle waves. Costa Rica's commitment to eco-tourism means you'll find plenty of family-friendly lodges and activities that teach you about conservation while having an unforgettable time, thus offering the ideal mix of education and fun in the sun.

Costa Rica Vacation Idea

Costa Rica is a tropical paradise perfect for winter family getaways and the Superb Costa Rica Getaway: Tropical Paradise & Wildlife tour showcases the best of natural diversity. Explore lush rainforests, encounter exotic wildlife, and relax on pristine beaches, creating unforgettable memories in a warm and welcoming environment.

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Costa Rica Family Vacations & Tours • Costa Rica Travel Guide

While the Northern Hemisphere experiences the cold from December to February, Australia basks in the summer sun. This massive country offers endless possibilities for family adventures like snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, spotting kangaroos and koalas in the wild, or learning to throw a boomerang with Aboriginal guides.

Cities like Sydney and Melbourne burst with family-friendly opportunities, from museums to penguin-clad beaches, while the Outback promises unforgettable stargazing and stories. Whether you're lounging on a secluded island beach, surfing world-class waves, or exploring ancient rainforests, Australia guarantees an exciting winter vacation for your family.

Australia Vacation Idea

Discover the Coast, Rainforests, & Outback of Australia in 18 Days is an epic family adventure that spans the continent's diverse landscapes and unique experiences. From snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef to spotting kangaroos in the wild, this tour offers an exciting escape from winter, while showcasing Australia's natural wonders and vibrant culture.

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Australia Family Vacations • Australia Travel Guide

Japan seamlessly blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology, perfect for curious kids and culture-loving parents. Soak in steamy outdoor hot springs known as onsen while surrounded by snowcapped mountains or watch your children’s faces light up as they try on authentic colorful kimonos.

Hit the slopes at world-class ski resorts, then warm up with a hearty bowl of ramen. In cities like Tokyo, you can explore futuristic robotics museums or peaceful Zen gardens in a place like Kyoto. Japan offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventures and cultural immersion that will captivate the whole family.

Japan Vacation Idea

Japan is a fascinating destination for winter family travel, and the Cultural Trip to Japan with Hokkaido Ski Experience combines traditional culture with exciting winter activities. Immerse yourself in ancient traditions, explore Tokyo’s futuristic cityscape, and hit the slopes in Hokkaido, creating a perfect blend of cultural discovery and outdoor adventure.

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If your family craves jaw-dropping landscapes and exciting activities, New Zealand is a giant, natural playground during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer months between December and February. You can travel through otherworldly glowworm caves, jet-boat between towering cliffs, or learn about Māori culture from local guides.

From The Lord of the Rings filming locations to searching for wild penguins and passing dolphins, you can enjoy tranquil beaches and rugged mountains while discovering the ways New Zealand packs incredible diversity into a relatively small area.

New Zealand Vacation Idea

North Island New Zealand Tour: Cities to Volcanoes offers your family an unforgettable winter escape to a land of diverse scenery and thrills. From exploring bustling cities to hiking through volcanic terrain, this tour showcases the natural beauty and unique experiences that make New Zealand a perfect family destination.

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: New Zealand Family Itineraries • New Zealand Travel Guide

Switzerland is the quintessential winter storybook, where the charming alpine landscape frames fairy-tale homes, punctuated by the aromas of cozy seasonal cuisine. Travel through the Alps on scenic train rides, sled down gentle slopes while skiing, or indulge in world-famous Swiss chocolate.

Your family will love exploring medieval castles and trying their hands at making local cheese. Whether looking for an adventure on the slopes or wandering through quaint mountain villages with homes resembling gingerbread houses, Switzerland offers you and your family the perfect blend of outdoor fun and cultural charm in winter.

Switzerland Vacation Idea

Bask in breathtaking alpine scenery and charming culture during the Beautiful Switzerland: 16-Day Family Tour. From scenic train rides through snowcapped mountains to exploring medieval castles, this tour offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences for all ages.

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Switzerland Tours & Vacations • Switzerland Travel Guide

Canada in winter transforms into a snowy paradise with endless opportunities for family fun. Bundle up and explore the charming streets of Quebec City, where cobblestone lanes and European architecture make you feel like you've stepped into a Christmas landscape. In Banff National Park, you can find world-class skiing, dog sledding, and ice skating on frozen lakes beneath towering peaks, while polar bears are visible in their natural habitat in Manitoba. From bustling cities to pristine wilderness, Canada in winter has experiences with which the whole family can fall in love.

Mexico can feel like the perfect alternative to the cold in winter with the promise of warm beaches, rich culture, and family-friendly discoveries. Beyond the white-sand beaches, you can find snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, explore ancient Mayan ruins perched dramatically on seaside cliffs, or learn to surf while overlooking pristine waters.

You can also witness the staggering population of monarch butterflies that call Mexico home between December and February. Vibrant culture springs to life through colorful markets, lively festivals, and delicious cuisine, making Mexico the ideal destination for families seeking warmth, relaxation, and a splash of adventure during winter.

Thailand can feel like the perfect blend of stunning beaches, lush jungles, and fascinating culture for families looking to escape the cold during the winter months.

This Southeast Asian gem offers something for every age and interest, whether touring the surprising canals of Bangkok on longtail boats, exploring glittering palace grounds, or visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries outside of Chiang Mai.

From cooking classes to mastering the art of pad thai and the crystal-clear waters of Phuket and Koh Samui, which are perfect for snorkeling, the warm weather, friendly people, and opportunities for relaxation and adventure make Thailand a fabulous winter destination for your family.

Thailand Vacation Idea

17-Day Luxury Family Vacation: Adventures in Thailand & Laos is an ideal winter getaway, offering warm weather and diverse experiences for the whole family. From exploring ancient temples to relaxing on pristine beaches, this tour combines cultural immersion with tropical relaxation.

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Thailand Family Vacations & Tours • Thailand Travel Guide

Iceland becomes an otherworldly destination in winter, perfect for sparking your family’s imagination and sense of adventure. Soak in geothermal hot springs while surrounded by snowcapped mountains. Take a Super Jeep tour across black-sand beaches and towering glaciers. Explore ice caves or go whale watching in the North Atlantic. In the long stretch of night, you can hunt for glimpses of the ethereal Northern Lights as they dance across the sky to create a memory your family will always treasure. With a welcoming culture and exciting scenery, Iceland is an ideal destination for families in winter.

Iceland Vacation Idea

Explore a magical winter playground for families during the Touching the Northern Lights: A Winter Tour of Iceland trip. Experience the natural phenomenon or wander through ice caves and more, all set against dramatic scenery known for fire and ice.

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Iceland Tours & Vacations • Iceland Travel Guide

Belize is a small Central American country that packs a lot of possibilities when it comes to family-friendly winter getaways.

Combine outdoor adventures with beach relaxation and jungle excursions with cultural immersion. Explore ancient Mayan ruins hidden deep in the lush foliage, zipline through emerald rainforest canopies in search of monkeys or sloths, and tube through underground cave systems with a connection to local history.

With world-class snorkeling and diving along the world’s second-largest barrier reef and the chance to spot sea turtles, sharks, and manatees, you can enjoy Belize’s relaxed ambiance and tropical warmth when exploring during a family winter vacation.

Belize Vacation Idea

A Perfect Family Vacation in Belize offers an exciting tropical escape filled with adventures on land and sea. You can visit ancient ruins, snorkel in the crystal-clear water, and discover the country's rich biodiversity, making it an ideal destination for those seeking warmth and excitement.

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Belize Family Vacations • Belize Travel Guide

Italy in winter holds its own special magic. From charming Christmas markets to world-class skiing in the Alps, Italy offers a perfect blend of culture and outdoor fun for the whole family to enjoy in winter.

Glide along Venice's canals during the quieter and more atmospheric months from December to February. Explore Rome's ancient wonders without the summer crowds. In Florence, warm up with thick hot chocolate and freshly baked pastries after admiring the Renaissance masterpieces of the Uffizi Museum

The Dolomites offer some of Europe's best skiing and snowboarding, while the spirit of the season shines bright in Naples and artisanal nativity scenes. No matter where you go, you'll be treated to legendary cuisine, warm hospitality, and the festive spirit that makes winter in Italy special for your family.

Italy Vacation Idea

Enjoy the magic of an Italian Christmas, from festive markets to holiday customs, during your 14-Day Italian Christmas Itinerary: Winter Beauty & Festive Traditions. This tour offers a unique perspective on Italy's iconic destinations, blending cultural experiences with seasonal charm to create an unforgettable winter family vacation.

More Sample Itineraries & Travel Tips: Italy Tours & Vacations • Italy Travel Guide

From the festive Christmas markets and Alpine skiing of Italy to the warm beaches and vibrant culture of Thailand or the snowy wilderness and charming cities of Canada, there's a perfect winter destination for your family.

For more inspiration to help plan your family winter vacation, explore our comprehensive information on where to go by season or find new ideas with our family vacations and tours.