We know that winter tours often sell out faster than “Twilight” movies. However, the top winter tours are always the best and stand out among the others. Here is a collection of these top winter tours and why crowds flock to them. These tours are the focal point of the winter season and send a message to the world.
1. Switzerland’s Glacier Express
Nothing says winter more than the snowy Swiss Alps. As the months start to get colder, Switzerland’s Alpine region transforms from a hiking oasis to a winter wonderland. The best way to see this beautiful region of the world is from the famous Glacier Express train ride. Taking tourists through 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, the train tour stops overnight in St. Moritz, as well as Zermatt to see the Matterhorn. The family-friendly journey features beautiful scenery and the opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside during stops.
Photo credit: Trey Ratcliff
2. Egyptian Grand Tour
Winter presents an excellent time to explore typically warmer climates in comfort. Take advantage of the temperate desert climate and escape the cold by embarking on an Egyptian Grand Tour. The tour begins in Cairo, where visitors can take day trips to the biblical Mount Sinai and to see the pyramids of Giza. After a few days of sightseeing, tour goers embark on a cruise down the Nile River. Enjoying the beautiful weather along the way, the cruise stops at ancient ruins in Alexandria, Memphis, Luxor, the Valley of the Kings and more.
Photo credit: Dennis Jarvis
3. Best of the West
Sometimes the best tours are in your own backyard. West coast tours are popular in the US thanks to the region’s warmer temperatures. Start out in cosmopolitan San Francisco, taking time to explore the city’s distinct neighbourhoods, and even choose to take a trip to the infamous Alcatraz Island. L.A. is the next stop on the tour where tourists can mingle with the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and relax at Venice Beach to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. After that, the tour heads to the American Southwest with stops in fabulous Las Vegas for world-class partying and the iconic Grand Canyon.
Photo credit: Thomas Hawk
4. Finnish Lapland – Aurora Borealis
Finnish Lapland offers a host of winter activities for the whole family, with tours regularly selling out. In addition to skiing, families can stay at a hotel made of ice, and try dog sledding or view the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). Other activities include reindeer safaris, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and exploring the Arctic villages which dot the landscape to gain insight into a unique way of life. A true winter playground, a tour of the Finnish Lapland will be sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Photo credit: Visit Finland
5. European Capitals Without the Tourists
While many choose to visit Europe’s great cities during the spring and summer, the continent takes on a whole new feel in the winter. Lower visitor numbers also mean fewer crowds and less waiting in line to see major sights and attractions. European capital tours allow visitors to get the best out of visits to London, Paris, Berlin, Brussels, Amsterdam, Vienna and Rome. With that comes the opportunity to view the Eiffel Tower or the Brandenburg Gate under a light dusting of snow and explore ancient Roman ruins without fighting through crowds. Many cities of Europe also hold atmospheric Christmas markets, with more than a nod at traditional seasonal pursuits, foods and paraphernalia.
Photo credit: Trey Ratcliff
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