Snow changes the way a place feels. Cities slow down. Mountains come alive. Travel becomes quieter and more focused. This guide covers the best places to see snow worldwide. From snowy countries with heavy winters to cities that get a soft seasonal snowfall, each destination offers a different winter experience. You’ll find snowy places to visit for skiing, festivals, scenic views, and calm winter breaks. If you’re planning travel in 2026 and wondering where it snows in the world, this list helps you choose the best snow places to visit based on time, budget, and travel style.
Norway
Norway is one of the best places to see snow in the world, offering long winters, dramatic fjords, and Arctic landscapes. Norway stretches from southern forests to the Arctic Circle, with deep fjords, frozen lakes, and snow-covered mountains. Winter transforms cities and remote regions into classic snowy places ideal for nature-focused travel.
Speciality
- Deep fjords surrounded by snow-covered cliffs
- Northern Lights visible in Arctic regions
- Winter activities like skiing, dog sledging, and snowmobiling
- Historic stave churches and Viking heritage
- Rich wildlife, including reindeer and Arctic fox
Best time to visit
December to April for guaranteed snow and winter experiences. February and March offer heavy snowfall, longer daylight, and strong aurora visibility.
Average Cost to Visit Norway
₹1,00,000 to ₹3,00,000 per person for 7–10 days, including flights, accommodation, and local travel. Flights from India usually take 12 to 15 hours with one stop.
Cotswolds
Located in south-central England, the Cotswolds spans six counties and is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Light snow transforms villages into postcard-worthy scenes. The Cotswolds are one of the most charming snowy places to visit in England
Speciality
- Honey-coloured limestone cottages that glow against the snow
- Villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold
- Rolling hills and open grasslands dusted with snow
- Historic churches, market towns, and country estates
- Scenic walking trails, including the Cotswold Way
Best time to visit
January and February offer the highest chance of snowfall, making it one of the best snow places to visit in the UK.
Average Cost to visit Cotswolds
₹10,000 to ₹25,000 per person for guided day tours from London. A 5–7-day trip costs ₹1,00,000-₹3,00,000 per person, including accommodation, meals, and transportation. Flights from India take about 12 hours and 50 minutes.
Switzerland
Switzerland consistently ranks among the snowiest places in the world and is a top destination for snowfall. Switzerland sits at the heart of Europe, dominated by the Alps and alpine lakes. Winter turns the country into one of the most scenic snowy countries, balancing tradition, precision craftsmanship, and modern infrastructure.
Speciality
- Snow-capped Alpine peaks and glacier views
- World-class ski resorts like Zermatt, Verbier, and St. Moritz
- Winter hiking and panoramic mountain rail journeys
- Swiss chocolate, cheese, fondue, and raclette
- Historic towns, lakeside villages, and UNESCO heritage sites
Best time to visit
December to March for heavy snowfall and winter sports. January and February are ideal for skiing, while December offers festive winter markets. High-altitude areas remain snowy into early April.
Average Cost to Visit Switzerland
₹12,000 to ₹25,000+ per person per day for mid-range travel. A 7–10-day trip can vary widely depending on accommodation and activities. The shortest flight from India takes about 9 hours 5 minutes from New Delhi.
Harbin
Harbin is famous for extreme winters and the largest ice and snow sculpture festival. Located in northeastern China, Harbin is known as the “Ice City” due to its sub-zero temperatures. Winter defines the city, making it one of the world’s most iconic snowy destinations.
Speciality
- Harbin Ice and Snow World, with massive illuminated ice structures
- Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Expo
- Ice Lantern Art Fair and frozen Songhua River carnival
- Skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledging, and winter swimming
- Siberian tiger and Arctic animal viewing nearby
Best time to visit
Late December to mid-February during the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival. January is the coldest month and offers the most dramatic ice displays.
Average Cost to Visit Harbin
₹60,000 to ₹1,20,000+ per person from India, depending on stay and activities. The shortest flight from Hyderabad takes about 14 hours and 30 minutes.
Shirakawa-Go
Shirakawa-go is one of the most picturesque snowy places to visit, known for heavy snowfall and traditional villages blanketed in white. Located in Japan’s mountainous Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Winter snowfall transforms its Gassho-style farmhouses into one of the best places to see snow in Asia.
Speciality
- Gassho-zukuri houses are designed to withstand deep snow
- Thick winter snow covers rooftops and fields
- Limited vehicle access preserving village charm
- Seasonal night illuminations in winter
- Traditional rural life has been preserved for centuries
Best time to visit
January and February feature the heaviest snowfall and the most dramatic winter scenery. Weekday mornings are best to avoid crowds and parking delays.
Average Cost to Visit Shirakawa-Go
₹45,000 to ₹90,000+ for flights from India, plus visa and local expenses. Bus travel from Kanazawa or Takayama costs ₹1,800–₹3,000 one way, while guided tours start around ₹7,000. Accommodation ranges from ₹2,000 to ₹10,000+ per night. Entry to the village is free. The shortest flight from New Delhi takes about 7 hours and 5 minutes.
Vienna
Vienna is one of the best places in Europe to see snow, where light winter snowfall enhances imperial architecture and historic streets. Vienna is Austria’s capital and a leading cultural hub in Europe. In winter, snow-covered palaces, museums, and old-town streets make it one of the most elegant places with snow.
Speciality
- Imperial palaces like Schönbrunn, Hofburg, and Belvedere
- World-class museums, including Kunsthistorisches and Albertina
- Classical music heritage and Vienna State Opera
- Historic landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral
- Traditional cafés, markets, and winter city walks
Best time to visit
January and February offer the highest chance of snowfall, placing Vienna among the best snow places to visit for urban winter experiences.
Average Cost to Visit Vienna
₹70,000 to ₹1,50,000+ per person, depending on travel style. Flights start at around ₹35,000, with 7–10-day trips priced based on accommodation and activities. The shortest flight from Mumbai takes about 10 hoursand 35 minutes.
Paris
Paris is one of the most iconic places with snow, where occasional winter snowfall softens historic streets and landmarks. Paris is the capital of France and a global centre for art, fashion, and history. During winter, light snow transforms the city into one of the most romantic snowy places in the world.
Speciality
- Iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe
- World-class museums, including the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay
- Historic neighbourhoods such as Montmartre and Le Marais
- Seine River cruises with winter city views
- Renowned cafés, bakeries, and French cuisine
Best time to visit
December to February offers the highest chance of snowfall. January is the coldest month and provides the best opportunity to see Paris under snow.
Average Cost to Visit Paris
₹1,30,000 to ₹2,50,000 per person, including flights, stay, and local expenses. 7-day budget trips can start at around ₹70,000 to ₹1,00,000. The shortest flight from New Delhi takes about 9 hours and 30 minutes.
Prague
Prague is a classic choice for a snowy destination. Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Snow-covered streets, spires, and castles make it one of the best places to see snow in Central Europe.
Speciality
- Medieval architecture with Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles
- Prague Castle, overlooking the city skyline
- Historic squares and narrow cobbled lanes
- Charles Bridge in winter snow
- Strong music, theatre, and cultural scene
Best time to visit
Late December through February offers the best chance of snowfall, making it one of the best places to visit for winter snow in Europe.
Average Cost to Visit Prague
₹90,000 to ₹1,60,000+ per person for a 7-day trip from India. Flights range from ₹35,000 to ₹60,000+, with budget accommodation around ₹4,000 to ₹8,000 per night. The shortest flight from Mumbai takes about 11 hours and 20 minutes.
Bhutan
Bhutan is one of the most peaceful snowy places to visit, offering Himalayan landscapes, quiet valleys, and spiritual sites under winter snow. Bhutan is a Himalayan kingdom known for its preserved traditions and natural beauty. Winter snowfall in the higher regions makes it one of the most scenic places in India.
Speciality
- Snow-capped Himalayan peaks and mountain passes
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched above Paro Valley
- Historic dzongs like Punakha Dzong
- Winter trekking routes and high-altitude viewpoints
- Traditional festivals, monasteries, and local cuisine
Best time to visit
December to February for snowfall, especially in Bumthang, the Haa Valley, and high passes such as Dochula and Chele La. Paro and Thimphu may receive light snow with clear skies.
Average Cost to Visit Bhutan
₹30,000 to ₹70,000+ per person for a 6–8 day trip. Flights from Bagdogra or Guwahati to Paro take about 1 hour.
Gulmarg
Gulmarg is one of the best places to see snow in India. It ranks among the snowiest places in the Himalayas and is a top destination for winter travel. Located in Jammu and Kashmir, Gulmarg is a high-altitude hill station surrounded by the Pir Panjal range. Winter transforms the region into one of the most reliable snowfall regions in India.
Speciality
- Gulmarg Gondola, one of the world’s highest cable cars
- Skiing and snowboarding at Apharwat Peak
- Thick winter snow is ideal for snow sports
- Scenic meadows like Khilanmarg under snow
- Cultural landmarks such as St. Mary’s Church and Baba Reshi Shrine
Best time to visit
December to February is the peak snowfall period and winter sports season, making it one of the best places to visit for snow in India.
Average Cost to Visit Gulmarg
₹8,000 to ₹15,000 per person for a 3–4 day budget trip. Mid-range packages range from ₹25,000 to ₹40,000+ for 4–5 days
Plan Snow Trips Without the Planning Stress
WanderTrust turns long weekends and holidays in 2026 into smooth, well-planned travel experiences. Whether you have a short break or a longer holiday, we design trips that match your time, mood, and travel style.
We help travellers explore snowy places without the burden of planning. You can choose a surprise trip in which the destination is revealed just before departure, or opt for a fully customised itinerary planned in advance.
WanderTrust started with surprise travel experiences. Today, we also create personalised domestic and international trips, giving you the freedom to choose between spontaneity and control.
What we offer
- Surprise trips for travellers who enjoy uncertainty
- Customised trips based on your preferences
- Domestic and international itineraries
- Short breaks aligned with India’s long weekend calendar
How it works
- Share your travel preferences
- We plan the itinerary
- You travel and unwind
Frequently Asked Questions
Countries like Norway, Switzerland, Japan, and parts of China receive reliable winter snowfall.
Switzerland, Prague, Vienna, and Gulmarg are ideal destinations for first-time skiers.
Harbin, Norway’s Arctic regions, and Japan’s mountain villages receive heavy snowfall.
Costs vary widely. Destinations such as Gulmarg and Bhutan are more affordable than European destinations.
December to February is the best period for most snowy places worldwide.