These winter vibes are immaculate (Picture: Getty Images)
Sure, London may have just scooped the title as the world’s prettiest Christmas city, but there’s plenty of other destinations to explore over the chillier months.
In fact, TripAdvisor has just named its top trending destinations for winter, as part of its Seasonal Travel Index for 2023, and there’s something for everyone.
So whether you love twinkling city lights at Christmas, or prefer to escape the miserable chills in search of warm and balmy climates, there’s a destination for you on this top 10 list.
Scooping first place is Amsterdam – and it’s hardly a surprise considering the city comes alive in the winter time with its charming Christmas markets and pretty cobbled streets (which look even better with a touch of frost coating them).
Amsterdam gets its glow on at Christmas (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
For those searching for winter sun, Mexico’s Cancun takes second place on the list – ideal for individuals who prefer to enjoy margaritas on a beach, rather than sip mulled wine at a cold festive market.
Third position in the rankings goes to Rovaniemi, in Lapland, which is hardly surprising for a winter roundup. Promising a positively snow-dusted, magical festive experience, this city in Finland is the official hometown of Santa Claus.
Elsewhere on the list, more winter sun places take centre stage with the likes of Mexico’s Playa del Carmen and Punta Cana, in Dominican Republic, rounding off the top five. Alongside spots in Turkey and Cyprus elsewhere in the top 10.
While other cities, such as Istanbul and Paris, also make an appearance. You can see the full list below.
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1. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam at night at Christmas time in the Netherlands (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Amsterdam is less-crowded in winter, but is equally as beautiful, meaning shorter queues at the major museums and attractions. Sounds like a win, win.
2. Cancun, Mexico
Winter sun is calling (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
The winter months are top travel times in Cancun, as this is when weather average temperatures are at their most pleasant, with highs of around 28°C from December to February.
3. Rovaniemi, Lapland
Huskey dogs and sledging anyone? (Picture: Getty Images)
Naturally, Christmas travel to Rovaniemi is extremely popular, so January is actually the more affordable time to go here.
4. Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Beach at Caribbean sea in Playa del Carmen, Mexico (Credits: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Those in search of winter sun will certainly find it here, with the average daily maximum at 27°C and the minimum at 20°C. Far warmer than the UK’s miserable offering.
5. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Get sun all year-round (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Winter in Punta Cana is usually less rainy and humid than other times of year, so is the perfect time to visit.
6. Istanbul, Turkey
Snow-kissed Istanbul (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Skip the summertime queues by heading to this spot off-season – just be sure to pack a warm coat as temperatures don’t tend to go above 11°C.
7. Paris, France
A beautiful winter scene (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Paris is brilliant all-year round, but there’s something magical about seeing the city’s landmarks dusted in snow.
8. Paphos, Cyprus
View of Petra tou Romiou beach (Aphrodite’s birthplace) in Paphos, Cyprus in January (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Cyprus has one of the warmest winters in the Mediterranean, making it the perfect winter destination – and its beaches are just as beautiful all-year round.
9. Tulum, Mexico
Tulum beach is calling (Credits: Getty Images)
From pristine beaches to delicious food, there are so many reasons Tulum is the perfect winter getaway.
10. Antalya, Turkey
Antalya Province of Turkey during at sunset (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Some of this province’s best attractions can be enjoyed throughout the winter months, too. Plus, its yacht-filled Old Harbor and beaches look just as pretty.
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