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An aerial view of the oceanfront in Nice, France.
5 Surprisingly great winter trips
Kristyn LuJanuary 3, 2025
As soon as January arrives, I inevitably notice that my calendar is a blank slate and start planning my next vacation. But after the spending spree of the holidays, I am not very inclined to pay very much for said vacation. This was how I found myself in the middle of Milan during a particularly rainy February a few years ago (don’t worry, it was still glamorous). It also inspired me to share my list of five destinations that are surprisingly great during winter.
Dominica
A list of the top winter travel destinations wouldn’t be complete without a spot in the Caribbean sun. Instead of the usual all-inclusive scene littered with tourists during winter months, the island of Dominica offers a little more adventure, with activities including diving, snorkeling, hiking and canyoning. Of course, there are also many beaches to choose from, and in Dominica you’re not just “going to the beach.” Each one offers something unique, from the fine, black sand of Mero Beach to Champagne Beach, a popular snorkeling site that’s named for its underwater bubbles created by volcanic activity.
Munich, Germany
Munich is not a secretly temperate destination. But I love a snowy winter wonderland, especially if said wonderland is famous for beer, bratwurst, castles and palaces. Neuschwanstein Castle — the real-life castle that inspired Cinderella’s — is a popular day trip from Munich and one of many historical and architectural sites in the city and nearby. For an authentic beer hall experience, Hofbräuhaus is Munich’s go-to spot. Looking to stay awhile? Munich is central to many European ski resorts in Germany, Italy and Austria.
Key West, Florida
Many consider Florida a prime winter destination, but heading there before spring break means the same tropical Florida weather (minus the rain; February is the Keys’ least rainy month) with fewer crowds. When you’re not lounging oceanside, check out the Florida Keys Seafood Festival or the Key West Art and Craft Festival, along with food-focused walking tours, sailing excursions and more. Locals recommend staying in Old Town for a spot central to the action.
Nice, France
Summer in the French Riviera is all about luxury. Just look at the Cannes Film Festival or Monaco Grand Prix. But there’s a slower side of France’s southern coast, and as a bonus, the off-season experience is a fraction of the price. Traveling to Nice in the winter will still get you 70-degree days, quaint cobblestone strolls, luxury shopping and outstanding rotisserie chicken at La Rossetisserie. Visit the famous Marché aux Fleurs (flower market), or walk on the Promenade des Anglais along the calm Mediterranean water.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston’s mild winters set the scene for a truly blissful long weekend. I’ve done it twice, once for my brother’s wedding and once for a romantic, kid-free getaway with my husband. Moderate temperatures make sightseeing a breeze. Wander around the historic town or take a sunset cruise with Charleston Harbor Tours. And after, swing by 167 Raw Oyster Bar — ideally between peak mealtimes —for some east coast oysters and rosé. Complete a quest for your favorite shrimp and grits, and you’ve got yourself the perfect long weekend.