Cold Winter Destinations

For those who love crisp air, snowy landscapes, and the magic of winter lights, some destinations truly shine when the temperature drops. With average winter temperatures between -10 and 5 °C, these cities offer everything from twinkling holiday markets to quiet snowfall over historic landmarks. And the best part? With Swaphouse, you can skip expensive hotels and swap homes with a traveler eager to explore your hometown. Below, we highlight just a few of the best cold-weather destinations—but don’t forget to scroll down for even more frosty escapes. Grab your warmest coat, lace up your boots, and get ready to experience winter at its most magical.

If you’re looking for a city that fully embraces winter, Berlin is the place to be. With temperatures ranging from 0–2 °C, the city’s famous Christmas markets light up the streets, offering glühwein (mulled wine), sizzling bratwurst, and twinkling holiday decor. Even after the festive season ends, Berlin’s mix of world-class museums, underground culture, and cozy cafés makes it an ideal cold-weather getaway. Swapping homes here means you can stay in a trendy local neighborhood, giving you easy access to both historic sites and Berlin’s vibrant nightlife.

For a fairytale winter escape, Prague is a dream come true. With temperatures around -1 to 0 °C, the city’s cobblestone streets, Gothic architecture, and snow-dusted bridges create a magical atmosphere. Take a sunset walk across Charles Bridge, then warm up with a traditional Czech trdelník pastry and a cup of hot honey wine. A home swap in Prague allows you to wake up in a charming historic district, experiencing the city as a local rather than just a tourist.

Meanwhile, Montreal delivers a true winter wonderland, with temperatures between -10 and -5 °C. If you love ice skating, snowy cityscapes, and hearty comfort food, this is the perfect cold-weather retreat. The underground city offers a cozy escape from the frost, while a bowl of poutine and a maple-infused cocktail will keep you warm even on the coldest nights. Staying in a swapped apartment lets you experience Montreal’s winter magic without paying steep hotel prices.

If you’re after Nordic charm, Stockholm welcomes winter travelers with -3 to -1 °C days and a stunning waterfront covered in snow. The city’s island-hopping ferries, candlelit cafés, and Scandinavian saunas make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in colder months. And since Sweden embraces lagom—the idea of finding balance—you’ll get the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and indoor coziness. With a home swap, you can live like a true local, maybe even in a classic Stockholm apartment with panoramic views.

These are just a handful of the incredible cold-weather destinations waiting to be explored. Keep scrolling for even more cities where you can embrace the chill, sip hot drinks by the fire, and discover the magic of winter. And remember—with Swaphouse, experiencing a cold-weather getaway doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.