Brrrr! It might be getting cold outside, but that’s no reason to stay indoors with the family. In fact, winter is the perfect time to pack your bags and set off for a magical adventure making memories together. Whether you’re craving frosty fun like snow tubing and ice skating or dreaming of warm places to visit with white sand beaches, there are winter family vacations and family tours for everyone.
From budget-friendly national parks to luxury mountain retreats to islands in the sun, here are a dozen ideas for your winter family vacations this year.
Banff, Canada


Snow-dusted mountains so perfect they look photoshopped, frozen lakes buzizng with ice skaters, and cozy cafes to retreat to – Banff in Canada is a dreamy destination for your next winter family vacation. Tucked in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff serves up epic adventures like snow tubing, cross-country skiing, and gondola rides with unreal mountain views. And when you’re done with the snow, warm up in the Banff Upper Hot Springs or wander the postcard-perfect town.
Rovaniemi, Finland


This is the “official” hometown of Santa Claus, and we’re sure the kids would love to meet the big man in the red suit (and experience unique winter activities!). This Arctic gem is the ultimate destination for winter family vacations and it has a true fairytale feeling! Imagine dashing through the snow on a reindeer sleigh, snow tubing under the northern lights, or meeting the jolly man himself at Santa Claus Village.
READ NEXT: 20 Best Winter Vacation Ideas
Costa Rica


Swap snow for sunshine with a winter family vacation to Costa Rica! This tropical paradise is packed with adventures ideal for families. On Trafalgar’s Monkeys, Jungles, and Volcanoes family tour, you’ll zipline through lush rainforests, soak in hot springs near the majestic Arenal Volcano, and spot playful monkeys swinging through the trees. Warm weather might be a welcome change this time of year, so leave the snow boots at home and pack your swimsuits for a jungle adventure tubing down rivers or walking across sky-high suspension bridges.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona


Trade the snowy slopes for crisp and cool sunny days in Arizona. This time of year at the Grand Canyon you’ll find fewer crowds and the same beautiful desert views and trails. Funnily enough, the Grand Canyon can be dusted with a few inches of snow in wintertime, thanks to dramatic storms that dump snowfall before sunny blue-sky days create a beautiful contrast between the snow, sky and red rock. Join Trafalgar’s Pioneer Adventures of the Old West family tour to make the most of your trip. Beyond the trails you’ll learn about Native American history and go stargazing under Arizona’s glittering night sky.
Australia


While the Northern Hemisphere shivers, Down Under is basking in summer vibes. Here you can go snorkeling on the UNESCO World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef (good luck finding Nemo!), explore lush rainforests like the Daintree, and meeting cuddly koalas at wildlife parks. Sydney is a super family-friendly city with plenty to see and do, from beach days at Bondi to climbing the iconic Harbour Bridge. If you have the time, swap the coast for the Outback and see the contrasts of the red center.
Scotland


Edinburgh comes alive in winter with its cobbled streets, moody architecture, and historic charms. Take the kids to join Trafalgar’s Castles and Kilts family tour, where you’ll dive into Scotland’s rich history, exploring towering castles, ancient ruins, and picturesque lochs. In the capital you’ll storm the famous Edinburgh Castle, sitting high atop the rock, and stroll down the Royal Mile learning about its stories and legends. Cozy up by a roaring fire and let the stories of Scotland unfold!
Maui, Hawaii


Say aloha to Hawaii, where sun, sand, and family fun make this the perfect winter getaway. Yes, winter chill barely touches this tropical paradise where you can spend your days in flip-flops. Take the family snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, hiking to hidden waterfalls, or enjoy the sun at the beach.
READ NEXT: These are the 20 best winter sun destinations to experience this year
Jackson Hole, Wyoming


If it is snow sports that you’re after, Jackson Hole in Wyoming is one of the best family winter vacation spots. Set in the heart of the Teton Mountains, this winter wonderland has downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. You can take a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge, have a go at snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, and build a snowman together.
Rome, Italy


Italy is always a good idea, even in the depths of winter. You’ll experience the top sights without the summer crowds, and guides will bring the past to life as you step through ancient ruins and iconic sights. Step back in time with Trafalgar’s Gladiators, Gondolas & Gold family tour, where you’ll walk in the footsteps of emperors, explore the Colosseum, and discover the secrets of Roman gladiators (and pretend to be one yourself!). From the Roman Forum to the Pantheon, you’ll be time travelers with a touch of “la dolce vita”.
Iceland


No matter the season, Iceland is a place of incredible natural beauty. If you visit in winter, you’ll see the volcanic landscape frozen in time, with ancient glaciers and snowy terrain – but the real reason you’ll here is to catch the Northern Lights dancing across the sky. When you’re not exploring the winter wonderland the capital Reykjavik has plenty to do for families, from quirky museums to cozy cafes.
READ NEXT: 5 winter travel bucket list experiences as voted by Trafalgar guests
Yellowstone National Park


Steaming geysers, frosty landscapes, and rugged wilderness make Yellowstone National Park a unique place to visit in winter. On Trafalgar’s Wild West, Cowboys and Buffalos family tour, you’ll explore the park’s most iconic features, like Old Faithful, spot bison roaming through snow-covered fields, and experience the thrills of snowshoeing and winter wildlife watching.
Quebec City, Canada


With cobblestone streets lined with festive lights, historic stone buildings covered in snow, and ice skating at Place d’Youville, Quebec City brings European charm to North America. You can’t miss the annual Winter Carnival, which falls in February, is a must-see, with its parade, ice sculptures, and toboggan rides down the famous Terrasse Dufferin. For a more serene adventure, explore the nearby Montmorency Falls, frozen in place.
READ NEXT: Cosy up with the family for the holidays in these 8 winter wonderland cities
San Diego, California


While the rest of the country shivers, this southern Californian coastal city stays relatively warm! For winter family vacations on a budget, hop over and defrost in the winter sunshine with a long-weekend visit. Start at the world-famous San Diego Zoo, one of the best in the world. Then hit the beach to build sandcastles or catch some winter surf. Families can take a harbor tour, visit LEGOLAND, or stroll through Balboa Park’s museums and gardens.
That’s our pick of the best winter family vacations. Would you add any other destinations? Leave us a comment…