The Top 10 Family-Friendly Winter Wonderland Destinations

Christmas is right around the corner. The UK’s weather is turning colder, the skies are getting darker earlier, and there’s no better way to break up the winter than a festive break.

At SkyParkSecure, we decided to create the ultimate family-friendly winter wonderland index, to determine the best city breaks for families to take during the colder months. To do this, we took multiple factors into account, from family-friendly hotels and restaurants, through to free attractions, and much more.

“London, the UK’s famous capital, is one of the best winter holiday destinations. It tops our list as the best family friendly winter destination for good reason. It has the most family-friendly hotels and second most restaurants. You’ll also find the most activities for kids and over a thousand attractions with free entry.”

Read on to discover the best cities in the world to take your kids. Wherever you go, don’t forget to book your airport parking once you’ve sorted your flights! For more advice on festive and travel, check out the best European Christmas markets and how to save while travelling with family.

Top 10 Winter Holidays for Families

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1. London, UK

• Nearest Airport: London Heathrow (LHR) is the busiest and best connected.
• Famous Attractions: Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, West End Theatres.
• Winter Weather: Between 4 to 10 degrees Celsius. Frequent rain.
• Packing Recommendations: Bring a windproof and rainproof coat. London weather can change quickly.
• Budget: (££££). Accommodation is the main expense. Many attractions are free, but dining in tourist areas can push up the budget.

London, the UK’s famous capital, is one of the best winter holiday destinations. Known for its political powerhouses and royal heritage, the city hosts Christmas light displays and festive pop-ups in the colder months. While London is always busy, the streets are much easier to navigate without the summer heat and crowds.

It’s home to iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament. If you’re visiting on a UK staycation, you’ll have no trouble with travel. The capital has several airports and direct rail lines from all over the country. Onward travel is also an option, as London’s airports offer flights to all sorts of destinations worldwide.

It tops our list as the best family friendly winter destination for good reason. It has the most family-friendly hotels (4,425) and second most restaurants (5,883). You’ll also find the most activities for kids (707) and over 1000 attractions with free entry.

5 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Once you’ve settled in, take an afternoon walk through Covent Garden. The area is a perfect introduction to festive London. The Christmas decorations are a must-see. Finish the evening by catching a world-class West End show.
• Day 2: Spend the morning exploring the Tower of London. Escape the chill by finding a traditional pub by the river. Ideally, a slow-cooked Sunday roast by a crackling fire.
• Day 3: Dedicate the mid-day hours to the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square, taking refuge in its magnificent halls and art collection. Grab a hot chocolate to warm your hands!
• Day 4: Book the Sky Garden for views of the city and the River Thames. After, walk along the South Bank. You can browse the charming Christmas market stalls and enjoy the festive street food near the London Eye.
• Day 5: Spend your final morning browsing the collections at the British Museum. Have a farewell afternoon tea or a quick snack like a hot sausage roll before making your way back to the airport.

2. Tokyo, Japan

• Nearest Airport: Haneda Airport (HND).
• Famous Attractions: Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Skytree.
• Winter Weather: Between 2°C and 12°C. Tokyo winters tend to be dry and sunny.
• Packing Recommendations: Bring thermal layers, and comfortable shoes for long city walks.
• Budget: (£££££) Flights are the most expensive factor. Public transport and convenience store food can be inexpensive, but restaurants can be quite high-end.

Tokyo, the neon-soaked capital of Japan, is in the Kanto region. It’s famed for its distinct neighbourhoods, from the flair of Shibuya to the ancient charm of Asakusa. The city comes alive with the world’s most spectacular Winter Illuminations from November to February.

Getting to Tokyo from the UK is a commitment, however. To fly direct from the UK, depart from Heathrow Airport, or expect a layover in Shanghai or Hong Kong.

The atmosphere of Tokyo in winter is unforgettable. The cold, dry air often creates intensely clear skies. This not only sharpens the skyscrapers, but makes a glimpse of the distant Mount Fuji more likely. Despite the bustle, there’s a cozy sense of refuge found in lantern-lit izakayas and warm metro cars.

Tokyo comes a close second for winter family destinations. With 2,858 kid-friendly hotels, it has the third most on our list. The city also boasts 367 activities that are good for kids, as well as 803 attractions with free entry.

5 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: After arrival and check-in, head straight for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku. You can use the free observation deck for a 360-degree view of the vast city and, if the sky is clear, a perfect sunset glimpse of Mount Fuji.
• Day 2: Next, head to the Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest temple. The bright red architecture looks especially striking against the crisp winter sky. Find a local restaurant for a classic Japanese winter meal. Consider a steaming bowl of Ramen or a warming serving of Oden.
• Day 3: No trip to Japan is complete without a visit to the high-energy Harajuku district. In the evening, head to the fashionable Roppongi Hills area to experience Tokyo’s most elegant Winter Illuminations.
• Day 4: Start the day with an early visit to the Tsukiji Outer Market to sample fresh produce and street foods. It’s a lively experience that provides great energy for the day. Spend the afternoon in the Ginza district for upmarket shopping.
• Day 5: Enjoy a relaxing visit to the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, to see a mix of French and classic Japanese garden styles. Before transferring to the airport, grab a final meal to set you up for the journey.

3. Paris, France

• Nearest Airport: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is the largest and most convenient. Paris Orly (ORY) is closest to the centre.
• Famous Attractions: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre Dame.
• Winter Weather: From 3°C to 7°C. Winters are chilly and damp.
• Packing Recommendations: A warm coat with waterproof boots. An umbrella works well against the frequent but gentle rain.
• Budget: (££££) Similar to London. Central accommodation is pricey, but public transport and street food can be very affordable. Fine dining and museum visits can be more costly.

Paris, situated on the River Seine in northern France, is a global beacon of art, fashion and romance. Known as The City of Lights, it earns this title especially during winter, when its grand boulevards and iconic landmarks. The Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel tower are just two of many.

Paris was the first European city to adopt street lighting, and it continues to stand out with stunning Christmas illuminations.

This is the time when the city feels most truly Parisian, with locals reclaiming their favourite bistros and boulevards. Free from the summer crowds and peak tourist season, many places are quieter and cheaper across the city. 1,000 attractions offer free entry, as well as the second most activities ideal for kids (528). Families can also dine like kings here. Paris boasts the most family-friendly restaurants, at a staggering 5,982.

5 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: After settling into your hotel, head to the Champs-Élysées as the sun sets. Stroll along the famous boulevard, with trees wrapped in seasonal lights to the Arc de Triomphe. Then, enjoy a Parisian dinner in a traditional bistro.
• Day 2: Spend the morning in the Louvre Museum. Visiting in winter means fewer crowds, and a calmer experience with masterpieces like the Mona Lisa. Later, take a covered Bateaux Mouches cruise along the Seine River. Seeing the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame from a boat as the lights turn on is a must in winter.
• Day 3: Take the Metro up to Montmartre. Along the cobbled streets, visit the beautiful Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Around the area, you can find sweeping views of the city under clear winter light.
• Day 4: Explore the Latin Quarter and its book-lined streets. Pop into the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore while you’re there. Spend the afternoon at the Tuileries Garden Christmas Market, a festive village with craft stalls, artisan food, and the chance to enjoy a piping hot cup of vin chaud.
• Day 5: Indulge in a final morning visit to a Parisian patisserie or boulangerie for a hot chocolate and a freshly baked Croissant or Pain au Chocolat. Enjoy a walk through the charming streets of the Marais district, known for its unique boutiques and historic courtyards. Finally, transfer back to CDG, ORY, or Gare du Nord for your departure.

4. Hong Kong

• Nearest Airport: Hong Kong International (HKG).
• Famous Attractions: Victoria Peak, Tian Tan, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade.
• Winter Weather: 14°C to 19°C. Cool, dry, and often sunny. Clear skies perfect for sightseeing.
• Packing Recommendations: Bring thin layers for mild weather. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and warmer clothes should be brought if you plan to go hiking. Mountain trails can be chillier.
• Budget: (££££) Flights and accommodation will be the main expense, similarly to Japan. However, food is highly affordable, and public transport is inexpensive.

Hong Kong is a powerful global financial hub. It has a world-famous skyline and thriving natural harbour. British colonial history meets Chinese tradition here, resulting in a unique fusion of cultures. A fun fact: Hong Kong’s not just a concrete jungle, as around 40% of its land area is for country parks and nature reserves.

Getting to Hong Kong from the UK needs a long-haul flight, but frequent direct trips from London Heathrow (LHR) make the journey manageable.

In Hong Kong’s winter, the humid heat gives way to a crisp, dry climate. This grants clearer views and reveals the stunning mountain backdrop. It’s a prime time for exploration, when hiking trails are pleasant and the city’s neon night life feels less overwhelming. The season feels like a celebration of dualities. The stunning green peaks in the morning, and the buzzing markets in the evening.

Choose from 2,110 family-friendly restaurants, with the average meal costing just £18.84 for four. Hong Kong is known for being extremely safe, and it has the seventh lowest crime rates on our list, with a score of 21.7. Ideal when you’re travelling with children.

5 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Take the tram up to Victoria Peak just before sunset to watch the city light up and the harbour vista glow. Then descend to the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade on the Kowloon side to see the nightly Symphony of Lights show across Victoria Harbour.
• Day 2: Spend the mid-day exploring the traditional streets and atmosphere of the Man Mo Temple in Sheung Wan, followed by browsing the antique shops and galleries of Hollywood Road. Have your evening meal at Temple Street Night Market. Find some authentic Cantonese street food like curry fish balls or claypot rice (Bao Zai Fan), and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
• Day 3: Adventurous travellers can walk the Dragon’s Back hiking trail for clean air and coastal views. Reward your efforts with a laid-back meal and drinks in the seaside town of Stanley, known for its European-style market.
• Day 4: Take an excursion to Lantau Island and see the massive Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) and the Po Lin Monastery. Conclude the day with a visit to fishing village of Tai O and sample some local dried seafood and snacks.
• Day 5: Enjoy a final, Hong Kong meal. Perhaps Dim Sum at a traditional teahouse, savouring warming dumplings and tea to stave off the morning chill. Spend your last few hours exploring the Nan Lian Garden.

5. Prague, Czechia

• Nearest Airport: Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG).
• Famous Attractions: Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Prague Castle.
• Winter Weather: -3°C to 2°C. Snowfall is common in December.
• Packing Recommendations: Prague is genuinely cold in the winter, so warm clothes are a must. Insulated boots with good grip will help with wet cobblestones and icy patches.
• Budget: (££). Flights and hotels are much more affordable than other European capitals. Food and beer are very well priced.

Prague, the capital of Czechia, is celebrated worldwide as the “City of a Hundred Spires”. Famous for its Prague Castle complex and the medieval Charles Bridge, the city’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has survived centuries of conflict largely intact.

For UK travellers, Prague is easy to get to even in the winter. There are flights from most major airports taking just under two hours – and direct flights can even be taken from smaller locations such as Newcastle Airport and East Midlands Airport. This makes it an easy and beautiful jump into Central Europe.

The winter atmosphere in Prague is very romantic. With fewer people and a high chance of snow, it’s the perfect time to visit. If the chill proves too cold, there are plenty of tavernas and restaurants to dive into, with well-priced and hearty Czech meals. This period is when the city earns its fairy-tale reputation. It’s a time that encourages you to slow down and appreciate the timeless grandeur of Gothic and Baroque architecture.

It’s ideal for families, with the fifth highest number of family-friendly hotels (2,496), and the fifth most activities for kids (306).

5 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: After checking in, head straight for the magnificent Old Town Square. Try timing your arrival to show the Astronomical Clock at the top of the hour. As evening falls, find a cozy, traditional hospoda (pub) for a delicious, warming bowl of Czech Goulash served in a bread bowl, washed down with a local Pilsner.
• Day 2: Dedicate the morning explore to Prague Castle. You’ll also see the towering spires of St. Vitus Cathedral and the colourful cottages of Golden Lane. The crowds are thinnest just after opening. In the late afternoon, take a walk across the Charles Bridge for golden hour views of the river. If you’re not too tired, climb up the Old Town Bridge Tower.
• Day 3: Spend the morning in the historic Jewish Quarter (Josefov). Visit the synagogues and the poignant Old Jewish Cemetery. Pre-booking tickets is highly recommended. Once done, retreat from the cold into one of Prague’s Art Nouveau Cafés. Treat yourself to a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and a traditional Czech pastry.
• Day 4: Explore a local market, such as the year-round Havelská Market or the seasonal Christmas Markets (if open). Trdelnik is a must-try and a winter staple, available at plenty of stalls.
• Day 5: Tour the Baroque Klementinum Library Hall. This famous library looks straight out of a Dark Academia moodboard, a perfect showcase of Prague’s scholarly heritage.

6. Taipei, Taiwan

• Nearest Airport: Taipei Songshan (TSA).
• Famous Attractions: Taipei 101, National Palace Museum, Beitou Hot Springs, Raohe Street Night Market.
• Winter Weather: Around 14°C to 18°C. Mild temperatures, but often damp and cloudy.
• Packing Recommendations: A light travel umbrella and a waterproof bag cover.
• Budget: (££££) While long-haul flights drive the budget up, food and transport costs are very reasonable in Taipei.

Another long-haul gem, Taipei, is sixth on our list. The capital of Taiwan is a metropolis known for the iconic Taipei 101, and its street food culture. Like many Asian destinations on our list, you’ll find traditional temples scattered across the modern streets. The city is a gateway to the volcanic Beitou hot spring area. These natural geothermal baths are a perfect winter activity.

The UK to Taiwan is a long-haul journey, with direct flights lasting around 15 hours and connections taking longer. However, the reward is a uniquely cool and hospitable, urban escape. The winter atmosphere in Taipei brings a comfortable chill with culinary warmth. While skies are often grey and damp, you’ll find plenty of warmth around food stalls, busy metro stations and hot springs.

Taipei has the lowest crime rates on our list, at 14.9. Once you’re there, it’s incredibly cheap too, with the average meal for four costing £16.16, and public transport at £2.52.

5 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: After arriving and settling in, head to the Taipei 101 skyscraper. Take the ultra-fast elevator to the observation deck for a sweeping view over the city. Then check out a local favourite like the Raohe Street Night Market.
• Day 2: Spend the morning at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. Watch the changing of the guard ceremony in the cool morning air. Retreat indoors to the National Palace Museum, home to one of the world’s finest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts.
• Day 3: Take the convenient MRT to the Beitou district and explore the geothermal valley and the Beitou Hot Spring Museum. Perhaps spend the afternoon soaking in one of Beitou’s many hot springs.
• Day 4: Take a day trip out of the city to the historic gold mining town of Jiufen Old Street. The winding lanes and teahouses which inspired Spirited Away, are beautiful in the winter. In the evening, explore the hip, trendy, and brightly-lit Ximending district, often called the “Harajuku of Taipei,” for unique shopping and youth culture.
• Day 5: Enjoy a final, traditional warming meal to fortify yourself for the long journey home. Before you go, pick up some edible souvenirs like the famous Pineapple Cakes at a local bakery.

7. New York City, New York, USA

• Nearest Airport: Newark Liberty (EWR) has the fastest and most reliable transport. JFK International is a strong alternative.
• Famous Attractions: Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Broadway Theatres, Fifth Avenue, The Met.
• Winter Weather: -3°C to 4°C. Cold and often windy, with occasional snowfall.
• Packing Recommendations: Insulated outerwear is a must. Bring a waterproof puffer or parka, and good boots for when the streets get slushy.
• Budget: (£££££). New York is one of the world’s most expensive cities. Accommodation and Broadway tickets are pricey, and food options vary.

New York City makes it into seventh place, with 2,393 family-friendly restaurants, 439 kid-friendly activities, and 907 attractions with free entry. From the Empire State Building to One World Trade, the city transforms into a real spectacle during the cold months. Most famous at Christmas time is the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, which dates back to 1931.

Getting to the ‘city that never sleeps’ from the UK is a long but rewarding journey. Flight time is around 7 to 8 hours, with direct services available from London to both JFK and EWR.

The winter atmosphere in NYC is fiercely cold and very energetic. The feeling is one of unstoppable forward motion and festive spirit, particularly in Midtown. The streets are lively and bustling, and people take shelter in warm spaces like classic diners and bars. Fifth Avenue is home to iconic window displays which give the city its famous Hallmark Christmas reputation.

5 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: After check-in, head straight to Midtown to see the iconic sights. Check out the giant Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree before wandering down Fifth Avenue to see the store window displays. Enjoy a classic New York dinner in a bustling neighbourhood like the Theater District or Chelsea.
• Day 2: Explore the snow-dusted landscape of Central Park. Visit the beautiful Wollman Rink to watch or partake in the famous outdoor ice-skating experience, surrounded by skyscrapers. Retreat from the cold to the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), the largest museum in the Western Hemisphere for a cultural indoor escape.
• Day 3: Take the subway downtown to explore the financial district and pay a somber, reflective visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Refuel with a classic New York winter meal: a Hot Pastrami on Rye sandwich from a legendary deli.
• Day 4: Visit the Bryant Park Winter Village, a popular market that offers a free-to-use ice rink (if you bring your own skates). Find dozens of charming holiday shops for gift browsing.
• Day 5: Take a morning walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. Enjoy a final quick meal, perhaps a classic New York bagel, before making the transfer to your airport.

8. Edinburgh, UK

• Nearest Airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI).
• Famous Attractions: Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat.
• Winter Weather: Between 1°C to 7°C. Cold, windy, and often overcast.
• Packing Recommendations: Wind and waterproof coats are essential. Solid hiking boots are especially helpful if you intend to visit Arthur’s Seat.
• Budget: (£££). Hotels, food and drinks are expensive, particularly during the Fringe Festival and Hogmanay. Pub meals and side streets tend to offer better value.

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is built across seven hills. Edinburgh Castle perches above the city, drawing travellers from all over the world. It’s a city steeped in history. Its medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town are both UNESCO World Heritage sites, especially beautiful to walk through in winter. The cold drives people into the ancient pubs and cafes, where the hospitality is famously comforting.

For visitors from the rest of the UK, access is easy, with rail links connecting it to most major cities. Those flying in can land at Edinburgh Airport, which is well equipped with transfer options. Flights to Edinburgh are available from most of the UK’s major airports and even smaller locations such as Bristol Airport and Belfast City Airport offer direct access.

It’s the eighth winter destination for families on our list, with 909 family-friendly hotels to choose from. There are also 477 free attractions, and over 899 restaurants to choose from.

5 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Settle in with a walk down the Royal Mile, the historic thoroughfare leading from the Castle. Down the many side streets, you can find plenty of quaint, decorated shops. As darkness falls (early!), enjoy a traditional, festive dinner in the Grassmarket area, under the shadowy view of the castle rock.
• Day 2: Take the morning to explore Edinburgh Castle. Step inside the Great Hall and see the Honours of Scotland (the Crown Jewels) before the crowds become too dense. Warm up in the National Museum of Scotland, which houses ancient Scottish artefacts, before grabbing a coffee in the atrium.
• Day 3: Explore the elegant Georgian streets of the New Town, draped in winter displays. Head to the Princes Street Gardens to explore the Christmas Market (if open). Catch a ride on the Big Wheel and warm up with a mug of mulled wine.
• Day 4: Wrap up warm and climb Calton Hill for an easy ascent and views of the Old Town, the Firth of Forth, and the dramatic monuments. Go underground for a spooky tour of The Real Mary King’s Close. This is a preserved network of hidden streets beneath the Royal Mile.
• Day 5: Dedicate your final morning to the foot of the Royal Mile, visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the King’s official residence in Scotland. For a final Scottish treat, try a Whisky Tasting experience at a specialist bar or the Scotch Whisky Experience.

9. Dubrovnik, Croatia

• Nearest Airport: Dubrovnik Airport (DBV).
• Famous Attractions: City Walls, Stradun, Old Port, Cable Car.
• Winter Weather: Typically, around 4°C to 12°C. Milder compared to Central Europe, but rain and winds pick up occasionally.
• Packing Recommendations: Layers are important. Bring a windproof jacket for cooler days, but bring lighter clothes for when the weather is milder.
• Budget: (££). Accommodation and dining prices drop outside the summer season, making December a great time to visit.

Dubrovnik is located on the southern coast of Croatia. It’s quickly becoming a popular destination for British tourists, famous for its picturesque limestone buildings and its role as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones.

The city has an impressive history of its own, however, with its former role in the Republic of Ragusa and maritime influence. Expect limestone and terracotta architecture that gives the city an ancient feel, and clean sea air to soak in. Dubrovnik is incredibly safe, with the second lowest crime rates on our list and the ninth lowest pollution levels, with a score of 23.45.

Tourism quietens down in the winter months. Local restaurants get cheaper, and there’s much more space to enjoy the beautiful limestone streets of the Old Town. Dubrovnik returns to its authentic self, and this lull makes winter a great time to visit.

While there aren’t as many direct flights from the UK during wintertime – except from London Stansted Airport – there are plenty of connections available and the journey is still fairly straightforward.

5 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Head to the heart of the Old Town, the Stradun. Take a slow stroll from Pile Gate to the Old Port and take in the architecture. You can visit the famous Onofrio’s Fountain along the way. As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a local konoba (tavern) for a hearty winter dish like Pašticada (slow-cooked beef stew) or fresh black cuttlefish risotto.
• Day 2: Start your day by walking the perimeter of the Dubrovnik City Walls. You’ll get the best light and sea views if you set out early. In the afternoon, climb the steps to Fort Lovrijenac (St. Lawrence Fortress). This perches on a sea cliff, with even more scenic views of the city walls. The fortress has plenty of history to learn from too.
• Day 3: After yesterday’s walking, enjoy a quiet afternoon in the Old Town. Take in the stunning Gothic-Renaissance architecture of the Rector’s Palace and the adjacent Dubrovnik Cathedral.
• Day 4: Visit the Franciscan Monastery, located just inside the Pile Gate. This 14th-century building has a beautiful courtyard to pause in. Inside is one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe, dating all the way back to 1391. Afterwards, escape the main tourist areas for a quiet walk around the smaller Lapad Bay area. Watch the waves crash on the quieter coastline and experience a genuine slice of local life.
• Day 5: History buffs should head to Sponza Palace, once the customs house and mint of the Republic, which now hosts historical archives. In the afternoon, find a cozy spot on the Stradun for a final coffee or a glass of Croatian wine.

10. Seoul, South Korea

• Nearest Airport: Incheon International Airport (ICN).
• Famous Attractions: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, N Seoul Tower.
• Winter Weather: Around -5°C to 4°C. Fluctuations are common and temperatures often dip below freezing.
• Packing Recommendations: Winter gear is non-negotiable. Bring a warm jacket, thermal underclothes, and wool socks. Dress in layers for the warmer indoor spaces.
• Budget: (££££). Flights and hotels are costly. Day to day costs are much more reasonable, as cheap food and transport are easy to find.

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is situated on the Han River. It’s a global hub for technology and K-Culture. It’s a city where buildings both ancient and modern stand side by side, with skyscrapers and preserved palaces of the Joseon Dynasty. It’s very cold in winter, but the city’s street food scene kicks into gear with steaming hot snacks to warm up with.

To get to Seoul from the UK, you’ll need a long-haul flight of around 10 to 12 hours. Direct routes from London to ICN are available, but those flying from other cities will most likely encounter layovers. London remains the easiest city to fly from.

When snow falls, the traditional Hanok villages and palace courtyards make a picture-perfect “White Wonderland.” This season is all about warmth and comfort, from a piping hot bowl of stew to the glow of the city’s light displays.

5-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: After settling in, visit the traditional Insadong district, browsing the local art galleries and souvenir shops, followed by a deeply warming dinner of Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup).
• Day 2: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the grandest of the Joseon palaces. Aim for a snowy morning, as it’s particularly beautiful under a fresh dusting of white.
• Day 3: Start the day at Gwangjang Market. Sample street foods like Bindae-tteok (mung bean pancakes) and Mayak Gimbap, and buy some local delicacies. Afterwards, visit a Korean bath house for a full-body warm-up.
• Day 4: Explore the sleek architecture of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a futuristic monument with fascinating exhibitions and a festive light show during the evening.
• Day 5: Spend your final morning in the artsy student district of Hongdae. Visit a themed cafe, or find a final street food vendor to get a warming snack for the journey.

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Methodology

Seed List:

• https://www.elledecor.com/life-culture/travel/g2821/cold-winter-vacations/
• https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/the-most-beautiful-winter-escapes-in-the-world
• https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-winter-family-vacations-8356377
• https://familytraveller.com/ski-holidays/family-winter-breaks/
• https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-winter-destinations-europe
• https://baby-magazine.telegraph.co.uk/eight-festive-getaways-special-christmas/

Sources:

• Crime Index, Pollution Index, Food Costs (Multiplied by 4), and Transport Costs (Multiplied by 4): https://www.numbeo.com
• Hotels, Restaurants, and Family and Free Activities: https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/

Scored using a normalisation formula, all Numbeo factors were scored as lowest=best, whilst TripAdvisor factors were scores as highest=best.