Instead of running away from winter, why not embrace the season instead? Whether you dream of chasing the northern lights, sledding with huskies or spending the night in an igloo, there are many exciting ways to enjoy the magic of winter.

Sleep in a glass igloo under the northern lights

In Finland’s Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, you can sleep in a heated glass igloo that offers panoramic views of the northern sky. Imagine lying on a cozy bed as the aurora borealis dances above you, creating a spectacle of greens, purples, and blues. During the day, explore the surrounding snow-covered forests on skis or snowmobiles or visit a traditional Sami village to learn about Indigenous culture.

See polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba

Churchill, Manitoba, known as the “polar bear capital of the world,” offers one of the best opportunities to see polar bears in their natural habitat. Hop aboard a tundra buggy for a guided tour, where you’ll safely observe these magnificent creatures as they roam the icy terrain. October and November are prime months to visit, as the bears gather along the shores of Hudson Bay waiting for the sea ice to form. In addition to polar bears, you might spot Arctic foxes and snowy owls, making it a wildlife lover’s dream.

Chase the northern lights in Iceland

Iceland is a top destination for witnessing the aurora borealis, and guided tours take you far from city lights to maximize your chances. Many tours include stops at iconic locations like Thingvellir National Park or Kirkjufell Mountain, where the vibrant lights reflect off stunning landscapes. After the light show, unwind in one of Iceland’s famous geothermal hot springs, such as the Blue Lagoon or Secret Lagoon, where the warm waters soothe your body while the cold air surrounds you.

Go dog sledding in the Norwegian Arctic

Dog sledding in Tromsø, Norway, is a quintessential Arctic adventure. You’ll be guided by a team of huskies through serene, snow-covered landscapes, surrounded by majestic fjords and towering mountains. Whether you prefer to sit back and enjoy the ride or learn to mush your own team, the experience is exhilarating. Many tours also include a chance to meet the dogs, hear their stories and warm up afterward with a cup of hot chocolate in a traditional Sami lavvu tent.

Stay at the original ice hotel in Sweden

Located in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, the Icehotel is an architectural wonder constructed entirely from ice and snow each winter. Each room is designed by different artists, featuring intricate carvings and sculptures. Guests can sleep on beds made of ice, insulated by reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags. The hotel offers unique activities like ice-sculpting classes, snowmobile safaris, and northern lights tours. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can visit the Icehotel for a guided tour and a drink at the ice bar. While it might the original ice hotel, there are many others, like these.

Go ice fishing in the Canadian Arctic

Ice fishing is a much different experience than traditional fishing. It involves cutting a hole in the ice and dropping a lure into the water to jig for fish. The hardiest fishermen will drill multiple holes and set up lines in each while waiting for their catch, but most cozy up instead in warmed mobile huts where half of the fun is socializing with your fellow fishermen.

Explore Antarctica on an expedition cruise

An expedition cruise to Antarctica is the ultimate bucket-list experience. You’ll traverse the icy waters of the Southern Ocean, where towering icebergs and pristine landscapes await. Daily excursions include Zodiac boat tours and guided hikes on the continent itself, where you can observe penguin colonies, seals and even whales. The remoteness and otherworldly beauty of Antarctica make it a once-in-a-lifetime journey for adventurous travellers. Most visits happen during the Northern Hemisphere’s winter when it is summer time in Antarctica.

Watch snow monkeys in Japan’s hot springs

Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture is home to the famous snow monkeys, or Japanese macaques, that bathe in natural hot springs during the winter. The sight of these playful primates relaxing in the steaming water, surrounded by snow-draped trees, is both charming and surreal. The park is easily accessible from nearby ski resorts, making it a perfect addition to a winter holiday in Japan.

Visit the Ilulissat Icefjord in Greenland

The Ilulissat Icefjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Greenland’s most stunning natural wonders. This Arctic gem is home to towering icebergs that drift through the fjord after breaking off from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier. Visitors can explore the area on guided boat tours, kayak excursions or scenic flights, each offering a unique perspective on the dramatic ice landscape. The small town of Ilulissat serves as a charming base for your adventure, with its colourful houses and rich Inuit culture.

Ski or snowboard in New Zealand’s Southern Alps

While New Zealand’s winter falls during the Northern Hemisphere’s summer, the Southern Alps offer world-class skiing and snowboarding from June to October. Resorts like Whakapapa and Cardrona feature pristine slopes, modern facilities and stunning alpine views. The Southern Alps also boast unique experiences like heli-skiing, where you’re dropped on untouched terrain for an exhilarating ride down. After a day on the slopes, unwind in a cosy lodge or explore the vibrant après-ski scene.