Countries where it's cheaper to vacation in winter

Winter vacation is a dream for many. Although we love the sight of trees covered in frost, sometimes it's nice to swap them for palm trees, mountains, or museums. The only problem is that prices for such a trip often don't just “bite,” they attack your wallet and torment it as if for the last time. But not everywhere. There are cities and countries where winter is considered the low season. This means there will be fewer tourists, and the cost of the trip will be lower. We've found 8 such destinations and are sharing them with you.

Cyprus

Cyprus in winter is a completely different, but no less attractive side of the island, offering unique opportunities for relaxation. Unlike many European countries, Cyprus in winter boasts relatively warm weather. The average daytime temperature is around 15-18°C, which is excellent for walks and excursions. Sunny days are also not uncommon. In winter, you'll avoid the summer crowds and can calmly visit the main attractions. Plus, prices for flights, accommodation, and some services will be lower. Nicosia and Larnaca are better left until summer due to frequent uncomfortable winds. And in Ayia Napa, there will simply be nothing to do: all establishments close during the low season.

Paphos: a city with a rich history, included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. In winter, you can calmly and comfortably visit the Paphos Archaeological Park with its famous mosaics. Explore the trails of the Akamas Peninsula, enjoying the beauty of nature and sea views. Additionally, Paphos has excellent golf courses where you can play golf year-round. For December 2025, tickets to Paphos can be bought for around 9,000 ₽, and in January, slightly more expensive – from 10,000 ₽.

Troodos: did you know that you can ski in Cyprus? In the Troodos Mountains, there are several ski resorts where the season lasts from January to March. This is a unique opportunity to combine a seaside vacation (even if not for swimming) with winter sports.

Kyrenia: these were all stories about the southern part of Cyprus, but there's also the northern part, where Russians don't need a visa when arriving via Turkey. As throughout Cyprus, winter in Kyrenia is mild. Daytime temperatures usually range around 15-18°C. Kyrenia Castle, one of the most impressive on the island, is open year-round. In winter, you have the opportunity to calmly explore its mighty walls and visit the shipwreck museum. In winter, tickets to Cyprus, to Ercan Airport, will cost 8,000-9,000 ₽ per person.

Italy

Traveling in Italy in winter on a budget is quite realistic if you choose your destination wisely and consider a few tips. Key principles: avoid peak dates (New Year, Christmas, Venice Carnival), choose less touristy cities or regions, look for sales and early bookings. For example, winter is the low season in southern Italy. Prices for accommodation, food, and even flights are significantly lower than in summer. And the fewer tourists, the more authentic your experience of the cities will be. Even without scorching sun.

Sicily: the weather is clear – from 12°C to 16°C, possibly slightly higher on the southern coast. However, at this time, Etna is often covered in snow, and you can ascend by funicular to an altitude of 2,500 meters. Also, in winter, various festivals and events take place in Sicily, such as Saint Agnes in Palermo (January) or Carnival (February). On the downside, it sometimes rains, so it's worth bringing an umbrella and waterproof clothing. 

Bologna: the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, considered Italy's culinary Mecca. So, ditch the jeans, put on some looser joggers, and get ready to taste tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini, and tortelloni. Afterward, burn off those calories with a stroll through Bologna's porticoes. They'll also protect you from the snow. Visit the National Art Gallery, the Museum of the History of Bologna, and other cultural sites. Bologna is located in the center of northern Italy, making it an excellent starting point for day trips to other cities like Parma, Modena, Ferrara, or even Florence (by high-speed train).

Canary Islands

What kind of winter can there be on the "islands of eternal spring"? During these months, the average air temperature simply drops to 20-22°C, and water temperature to 18-19°C. But it's quite possible to catch a hot day (+28!) and lounge on the beach (a claim personally verified by the author). At the same time, Spaniards will be walking around in jackets while others play beach volleyball in just shorts. Prices will definitely be lower, as Europeans consider such weather not warm enough. And tourists from Russia sometimes even swim, and it's fine. The main issue is the Schengen visa, which will need to be obtained before traveling.

Gran Canaria: this island is rightly called a "continent in miniature," and its unique features are especially vivid in winter. In one trip, you'll see the dunes of Maspalomas, majestic mountains, pine forests, picturesque gorges, unique rock formations like Roque Nublo, and beaches. In winter, the ocean is warm enough for various types of surfing – wind and kite. The island has several excellent golf courses that operate year-round. Tickets to Las Palmas with a layover for January are available for around 13,000 ₽.

Lanzarote: an island created by volcanoes. In winter, when there's no overheating, you can comfortably explore the surreal, "moon-like" landscapes of Timanfaya Park, the underground caves and lakes of La Cueva de los Verdes and Jameos del Agua, and the La Geria vineyards, growing in volcanic ash craters. The easiest way to reach the island is by transferring on a neighboring one – either Gran Canaria or Tenerife.

Mauritius

First, let's clarify the terms. Winter in Mauritius is the period from May to September, when it's summer in our latitudes. Consequently, during our winter, it's summer there. However, from November to April, Mauritius also experiences a rainy season, which is why it made our list. Not all tourists are willing to tolerate even brief rainfall during their not-so-long vacation. December is considered the peak season here, but in January-February, the tourist flow might be slightly lower. A trip to the island will involve several transfers, as there are no direct connections with Russia. For late January 2026, you can buy tickets to Mauritius on Kupi.com for approximately 37,000-40,000 ₽.

Le Morne: Mount Le Morne Brabant, towering over the peninsula, is a symbol of Mauritius and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. So, this place is a must-visit for any trip to Mauritius. And nearby, there are also beaches with fine, white sand and crystal-clear, turquoise water. This is a must-have for complete relaxation.

Port Louis: a place where Indian, African, French, Chinese, and Creole influences coexist. This is reflected in the city's architecture, cuisine, traditions, and atmosphere. You must see the Casa del Ewen (Bishop's Palace), the Parliament building, and Fort Adelaide. The best place to try local food is the central market, and for shopping, the Caudan Waterfront.

Japan

Most tourists try to visit Japan from late March to early May, during the cherry blossom season. In summer, the islands can be too hot and humid due to the rainy season. However, you can combine sightseeing with a beach holiday on Okinawa. Winter, on the other hand, is considered the low season for tourists, which can be used for savings (of course, excluding the New Year holidays when prices soar everywhere). During this time, you can head to local ski resorts or visit winter festivals. 

Hokkaido: for an active winter holiday – this is the place. Hokkaido's resorts offer slopes for all skill levels, from gentle inclines to challenging freeride zones. The main reason is the famous japow (Japanese powder), or Japanese powder snow. Thanks to its unique geographical location and cold winds from Siberia, incredibly light, dry, and deep snow falls here, which skiers and snowboarders adore. And in Sapporo, the Snow Festival takes place in February. During it, you can see huge, incredibly detailed sculptures made of snow and ice, ice labyrinths, and light shows. In the second half of January, tickets to Tokyo will cost approximately 20,000 ₽ one way. From there, you can fly to Hokkaido quite affordably on domestic airlines or take a high-speed train.

Nagano: there are also ski resorts here, but there's a more unique reason to fly to Honshu island – the snow monkey park. Here you can see Japanese macaques descending from the mountains to warm themselves in natural hot springs (onsens) among snow-covered trees. And then follow their example by staying in a traditional ryokan or a modern hotel with its own spa complex. In winter, bathing in an open-air onsen when there's snow all around is pure luxury.

China

The main thing here is to avoid the peak dates of Chinese New Year and popular ski resorts. Therefore, it's better to choose southern provinces or central cities. The beaches of Hainan Island remain on the list for those who can't imagine a vacation without the sea. Throughout winter 2025-2026, Russian citizens will not need a visa to visit China, so don't put off your trip while this act of generosity is in effect.

Guangzhou: compared to summer, winter here is significantly drier, with more sunny days. So, walks around the city will be as pleasant as possible, without exhausting heat and high humidity. Must-sees include the Temple of Six Banyan Trees, Shamian Island, and Yuexiu Park. Guangzhou has direct flights , and ticket prices for the second half of January start from 24,000 ₽.

Kunming: the "City of Eternal Spring." Winter here is very mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below +5°C, usually ranging from +10°C to +18°C. From October to March, thousands of Siberian gulls fly to Dianchi Lake and Green Lake Park for wintering. This sight is amazing and even touching. You can even feed them by hand, and the photos turn out absolutely incredible. Although winter is not the peak blooming season like spring, you can still find blooming camellias, azaleas, and other flowers that create a feeling of spring in the middle of winter.

Caucasian Mineral Waters

No desire to leave the country? Welcome to the Caucasus! Winter in KMV (Caucasian Mineral Waters) is quite mild, with regular thaws. This means you won't face any acclimatization issues and can enjoy your vacation from the very first minute. Moreover, there's plenty of sun, mountain air, and springs with healing water, which will make your trip beneficial as well. Here you have a choice of several charming cities, compactly located in one resort area. This allows for easy movement from one to another and gradually exploring all the most interesting sights. You can focus on wellness without being distracted by summer entertainment. And the drinking galleries and sanatoriums, by the way, are perfectly heated.

Pyatigorsk: famous for its mineral springs, which are used to treat various ailments. Here you can take walks along the terrenkurs (walking trails) and climb to the top of Mashuk. In winter, you can book a room in a sanatorium for 3,500 rubles per day per person. And some complexes offer promotions and discounts for holidays during the New Year period. Our choice: sanatoriums "Mashuk," "Zori Stavropolya," or "Pyatigorsky Narzan" with their own spa center.

Zheleznovodsk: the smallest and, perhaps, the coziest of the Caucasian Mineral Waters cities. It is famous for its hot calcium-sodium carbonic waters, such as "Slavyanovskaya" and "Smirnovskaya." The heart of the city is the resort park with many alleys and gazebos. Its hallmark is the picturesque Cascade Staircase, leading from the pump rooms to the decorative lake. Prices here are even more democratic; for example, in the "Dolina Narzanov" sanatorium in January, a room for one person will cost only 2,600 ₽. The "Salyut" sanatorium will be slightly more expensive – 6,000 ₽ for two.

Essentuki: one of the leading mud therapy centers in Russia. Sulfide-silt mud from Lake Tambukan is actively used here, which has powerful anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and resorptive effects. The famous N.A. Semashko Mud Bath is not only a medical institution but also a stunning architectural monument, so be sure to visit it. As well as the F.I. Chaliapin Concert Hall and the Gallery of Spring No. 17. The Kras Hotel resort pension is located just 100 meters from the main drinking gallery "Essentuki-4." A room there in winter costs just over 4,000 ₽ per day for two adults. The "Victoria" sanatorium already lowers prices in November and offers a 20% discount for stays in December 2025. But note: the minimum number of nights is five.

Sochi

Of course, the main reason to go to Sochi in winter is skiing. Krasnaya Polyana is responsible for the country's most modern, convenient, and popular winter resort. And even if skiing and snowboarding aren't your thing, you'll easily find something to do in the mountains. But if you set aside snowy adventures and head down to the sea, you can get a great vacation and a beneficial salty breeze to boot. We've already told you what to see in Sochi in winter, but let's add a couple more ideas to the list.

Firstly, the Sochi Arboretum. Even in winter, there are many flowering plants, exotic trees (palms, cypresses, eucalyptuses), and bamboo groves. Take the cable car to the upper part and walk down, enjoying the panoramic views.

Secondly, Riviera Park. Yes, some attractions are closed at this time. But there are still cypress alleys, gazebos, ponds, flowerbeds, and other decorations that can be viewed for free.

Thirdly, the Olympic venues. In winter, you can see them without crowds of people. We recommend renting a bicycle or scooter and riding around the stadiums, hockey arenas, and the "Formula-1" track. And then, at the hotel, you can solidify your impressions with the eponymous film. All that’s left is to find your flights to Sochi on Kupi.com!