10 Magical Winter Getaways for Couples

Updated January 17, 2025

By Jaclyn McElroy

Winter offers a special kind of magic, especially when you're enjoying it with someone special. Whether you're drawn to snowy mountains, charming villages, or serene retreats, these ten destinations offer an ideal mix of cozy charm, romance, and unforgettable experiences. Let’s explore winter getaways across the globe that promise to turn your cold-weather escape into a magical retreat.

The Swiss Alps, Switzerland – A Winter Wonderland of Luxury and Adventure
The Swiss Alps are a dream destination for winter-loving couples. For an iconic stay, book a room at Badrutt's Palace Hotel in St. Moritz, a legendary five-star hotel with world-class service and breathtaking views of the Alps. Spend your days skiing or snowboarding at Corviglia Ski Resort, where you’ll find trails for all levels and panoramic vistas. Afterward, indulge in après-ski at the Kulm Hotel’s rooftop bar with stunning mountain views. For a unique experience, take a scenic ride on the Glacier Express for an unforgettable view of snow-capped peaks and charming villages. End the day with a luxurious dinner at La Marmite, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering Alpine gourmet cuisine. The blend of outdoor adventure, luxury accommodations, and fine dining makes this an unforgettable getaway for couples.

Lapland, Finland – A Cozy, Enchanting Retreat in the Arctic Circle
For a truly magical winter experience, head to Lapland, where the snowy landscape offers both adventure and relaxation. Stay at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, known for its iconic glass igloos that allow you to sleep under the Northern Lights. For a more rustic, cozy experience, book a stay in a log cabin at Levi Spirit and enjoy private saunas and outdoor hot tubs. Spend your days snowshoeing or husky sledding through pristine forests, or take a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride at Sámi Wilderness Adventures. Don’t miss a visit to Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa and experience the joy of the season. For a cozy, romantic dinner, head to Restaurant Nili in Rovaniemi, where you can enjoy traditional Finnish dishes such as roasted reindeer and wild salmon. Lapland is a place where winter wonderland dreams come true.

Quebec City, Canada – A Fairytale Getaway in a Winter Wonderland
Step into a storybook in Quebec City, where Old World charm meets winter magic. Stay at the Château Frontenac, a historic landmark that offers luxurious rooms with incredible views of the snow-covered city. Explore the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, which are lined with boutique shops and cozy cafés. Take a romantic carriage ride through the snow-dusted streets, or walk the Fortifications of Quebec for a unique perspective of the city. For dinner, indulge in classic French-Canadian cuisine at Le Continental, offering an upscale atmosphere and traditional dishes like foie gras and table-side Caesar salad. Afterward, cozy up with a drink at Café du Parvis, a hidden gem known for its artisanal cocktails. Quebec City’s romantic atmosphere and European charm are perfect for couples looking for a cozy winter escape.

Lake Bled, Slovenia – A Picture-Perfect Winter Retreat
Lake Bled offers an enchanting setting for a winter getaway, with its iconic church sitting on an island in the middle of a crystal-clear lake. Book a stay at the Grand Hotel Toplice, which boasts stunning lake views and a luxurious spa. Take a traditional Pletna boat ride to the island and ring the church bell for good luck before hiking to Bled Castle for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For a cozy, romantic dining experience, enjoy a traditional Slovenian meal at Restavracija 1906 inside the castle, with sweeping views of the snow-covered landscape. For an indulgent wellness experience, visit the Bled Rose Hotel, which offers a luxurious spa with thermal pools and rejuvenating treatments perfect for couples. Lake Bled offers the perfect blend of romance, nature, and wellness.

Banff, Canada – An Adventure Lover’s Dream in the Canadian Rockies
Banff is a winter wonderland that offers adventure by day and relaxation by night. Stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs, a luxurious castle-like hotel nestled in the mountains, with exceptional amenities and stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. Explore the slopes at Lake Louise Ski Resort, where you can enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding, or take a scenic gondola ride for breathtaking views. After a day of adventure, unwind with a soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, where you can relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters while taking in the surrounding mountain views. For dinner, head to The Bison Restaurant, known for its locally sourced, organic dishes and cozy ambiance. Banff is the perfect destination for couples looking to mix adventure with cozy relaxation.

Rotorua, New Zealand – A Cozy Spa Retreat in the Heart of Nature
Rotorua offers couples a peaceful, nature-filled winter retreat with a focus on relaxation and rejuvenation. Stay at the Polynesian Spa, a luxury resort known for its natural geothermal hot springs. Book a private hot pool experience, where you can soak in mineral-rich waters while overlooking the serene landscape. For a nature-filled adventure, take a walk through the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley, home to steaming geysers and bubbling mud pools. For a cozy, romantic dinner, head to Atticus Finch, an upscale restaurant offering delicious New Zealand-inspired dishes and fine wine. Rotorua’s combination of wellness, nature, and luxury makes it a perfect destination for couples seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Hvar, Croatia – Cozy Luxury and Fine Dining in the Adriatic
For a winter getaway that combines cozy luxury with incredible dining, Hvar is a top choice. Book a stay at the Palace Elisabeth, a stunning five-star hotel with a rich history and sea views. While winter crowds are thinner, you can still enjoy the cozy charm of this Mediterranean island. For a romantic dinner, indulge in fresh seafood at Restaurant Adriana, where you can enjoy dishes such as lobster and Mediterranean lamb while overlooking the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Explore the charming town of Hvar with its cobblestone streets, or take a scenic drive along the coastline to Stari Grad, a quieter village that offers stunning winter vistas. With its blend of luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and Mediterranean charm, Hvar provides an unforgettable escape for couples.

Chamonix, France – Adventure and Cozy Charm in the Alps
Chamonix is a world-renowned ski resort that offers both thrilling adventure and cozy relaxation. Stay at the Les Granges d'en Haut, a boutique hotel that offers luxurious chalets with views of Mont Blanc and a full-service spa. Ski or snowboard on the famous slopes of Mont Blanc or take the Aiguille du Midi cable car for spectacular views of the surrounding Alps. After a day on the slopes, unwind with a couples’ massage at Le Spa de l’hôtel Mont-Blanc, which offers a serene environment and luxury treatments. For dinner, enjoy classic French alpine cuisine at La Calèche, a cozy, rustic restaurant that serves hearty meals like fondue and raclette. Chamonix offers the perfect mix of adventure and cozy luxury for couples seeking a winter getaway.

Zermatt, Switzerland – A Winter Wonderland with Cozy Luxury
Zermatt is one of the most iconic winter destinations in the world, offering incredible skiing, luxury accommodations, and stunning alpine views. Stay at the Schlosshotel Fässberg, a five-star hotel that offers world-class service and views of the Matterhorn. Spend your days skiing or snowboarding on the slopes of the Matterhorn Glacier or take a scenic train ride on the Glacier Express. For a romantic dinner, book a table at Chez Vrony, a charming mountain restaurant with locally sourced Swiss cuisine and spectacular views of the Matterhorn. Afterward, relax in the hotel’s luxurious spa, which includes a steam room and wellness treatments for couples. Zermatt’s combination of adventure, cozy accommodations, and stunning views makes it an ideal winter destination.

Salzburg, Austria – Romantic Charm and Classical Elegance
Salzburg offers a unique winter experience with its classical elegance and romantic atmosphere. Stay at the Hotel Elefant, a historic property that blends traditional Austrian charm with modern luxury, just steps away from Salzburg’s Old Town. Explore the city’s historic sites, such as Hohensalzburg Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding Alps, or take a romantic walk through the Mirabell Gardens, dusted in snow. For a cozy, elegant dinner, enjoy Austrian specialties at Restaurant St. Peter Stifts Kulinarium, one of the oldest restaurants in Europe. End your evening with a classical concert at the Salzburg Mozarteum, where you can enjoy the city’s rich musical history. Salzburg’s romantic charm, classical elegance, and cozy atmosphere make it the perfect winter escape.

These destinations provide a perfect balance of adventure, wellness, luxury, and romance, making them ideal for couples looking to create magical winter memories. Whether you're skiing in the Alps, soaking in hot springs in New Zealand, or enjoying gourmet dining in Croatia, these getaways offer something for every couple seeking a cozy, unforgettable escape. Ready to start planning your winter retreat? Let us help you craft the perfect itinerary for your romantic getaway.