8 Winter Destinations for Your Next Trip
Soaking in hot springs in Taiwan, discovering historic temples in Cyprus or racing down the slopes in Vals, Switzerland – winter offers spectacular experiences both near and far. Our media partner Travel Magazin presents eight inspiring winter destinations.
Taiwan
A winter trip to Taiwan? Absolutely. The island nation, located about 180 kilometres east of China, is a year-round destination – swimming included. During the cooler months, you can take a dip in the tropical south or unwind in the magical hot springs of the mountain regions. Taiwan combines tradition, modernity, vibrant cities and stunning landscapes in a compact area. In the capital Taipei, the 509-metre “Taipei 101” skyscraper sets an unmistakable accent. And travelling there is easy – for example with Cathay Pacific from Zurich via Hong Kong.
Egypt
Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, Marsa Alam or El Gouna: Egypt’s beaches are perfect for a winter getaway. Divers in particular get their money’s worth thanks to impressive coral reefs, colourful fish and a rich underwater world. In Hurghada, reefs such as El Aruk await; in Marsa Alam, excursions to the Elphinstone Reef are popular; and in Sharm El-Sheikh, tours in the Ras Mohammed National Park are a highlight. Not to forget the notorious “Blue Hole” in Dahab – 110 metres deep with strong currents.
Baden-Baden
Since July 2021, Baden-Baden in Germany’s Black Forest has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Great Spa Towns of Europe”. A spa visit is a must, especially since healing thermal water gushes from twelve springs at depths of around 2000 metres – about 800,000 litres daily at temperatures up to 68°C. Visitors can relax at the Caracalla Spa or the historic Friedrichsbad. A stroll through the picturesque lanes of this famous spa town is equally worthwhile. Thanks to a direct train connection, it is easily reachable from Basel in just 1.5 hours.
Cyprus
Cyprus never disappoints. No wonder the island in the eastern Mediterranean is a popular winter destination for travellers from Switzerland and beyond. With countless dream beaches – from golden sands in Limassol and Ayia Napa to quiet coves in Fig Tree Bay – plus a wealth of history, the island is perfect for those who want more than just lounging on the beach. Step back in time by visiting ancient ruins, historic temples or Byzantine churches that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage. And for a complete contrast to seaside bliss, head to Mount Olympos in the island’s interior – where you can even go skiing.
Poland
Yes, you can ski in Poland. In the Tatra Mountains on the Slovakian border, several smaller ski resorts offer ideal conditions for families and beginners. The most famous area is Kasprowy Wierch near Zakopane, with 15 kilometres of slopes. Winter visitors should also not miss Kraków, the former capital, boasting around 5000 buildings from the Middle Ages, Renaissance and Baroque – and the 40,000-square-metre main market square, Rynek Główny.
Malta
With 300 days of sunshine a year and winter temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C, Europe’s southernmost state offers a wonderfully mild climate. Add to that wild romantic bays and beaches, turquoise waters and highlights such as the Blue Hole and Fungus Rock. Malta is perfect for escaping the cold and grey days of Switzerland. There is plenty to explore in the capital Valletta, and the island of Gozo – reachable by ferry – is also well worth a visit, even though its famous Azure Window natural arch collapsed during a storm a few years ago.
Ruka–Kuusamo
A true winter wonderland awaits in northeastern Finland: Ruka–Kuusamo, one of the snowiest regions in the country. Skiing enthusiasts enjoy perfectly groomed slopes, and after a day in the snow, nothing beats relaxing in a sauna. On clear winter nights, the magical Northern Lights often dance across the sky. The winter of 2025/26 will be especially impressive: the solar cycle reaches its peak, making aurora displays particularly intense – even through April 2026. Edelweiss will offer weekly non-stop flights from Zurich to Kuusamo from 19 December 2025 to 6 March 2026.
Vals, Switzerland
Vals – the name rings a bell. The village is famous throughout Switzerland for its Valser mineral water. Unsurprisingly, water plays a big role here, especially at the renowned “7132 Therme”, designed by award-winning architect Peter Zumthor. In winter, Vals also offers excellent skiing. The Dachberg ski area reaches nearly 3000 metres in altitude, making it one of Graubünden’s highest and most snow-reliable areas. In good weather, the panoramic views stretch from the eastern Alps and the Bernina massif all the way to the mighty four-thousanders of Valais.
More ideas
For more excursion ideas around these winter destinations, visit our media partner Travel Magazin at www.travelmagazin.ch.