Road Scholar’s Top 5 Winter Getaway Destinations

Why Winter Travel Is Perfect for Seniors

Winter getaways for seniors are an excellent opportunity to enjoy off-season travel with fewer crowds and potential cost savings. During this time of year, typically characterized by cold weather and a slow pace, seniors can add a touch of excitement to their daily routines with an exciting adventure that breaks up the lulls of winter. Here’s what makes warm winter getaways perfect for seniors:

• Fewer Crowds: Winter destinations typically feature smaller crowds and less tourists compared to peak seasons during the summer, making it easy to explore one-of-a-kind cities and regions in places like Europe, Latin America, the U.S. and Canada. The reduced number of visitors allows for more relaxed sightseeing and a peaceful atmosphere. You can enjoy landmarks, museums and activities without having to deal with long lines or overwhelming crowds.
• Cost Savings: Because the best winter getaways are less crowded, seniors with flexible schedules can take advantage of off-peak travel deals on lodging, transportation and experiences to enjoy a more affordable vacation without compromising quality.
• Health Benefits: When the temperatures drop and wintry conditions roll in, it can be easy to forget to stay active. Booking a travel experience can help you stay physically active while exploring landmarks and partaking in outdoor adventures. Winter getaways also provide the chance to explore a region with warmer, sunnier weather, which can improve your mood and overall well-being.
• Educational and Cultural Experiences: During the winter months, you can immerse yourself in unique cultural and educational experiences around the world. Explore the Christmas markets in Germany, ring in the New Year in Australia or attend a winter carnival in Québec. No matter the destination, you can enjoy an authentic and educational trip that allows you to interact with locals and try new things.

Top Winter Getaway Destinations

Looking for fun places to go in the winter? You’re in the right place. Ditch icy roads and snow flurries for warm winter excursions that allow you to discover new cultures, geography, and cuisine. Take a look at our roundup of the best winter getaways below.

1. Tanzania

Africa is an extremely diverse continent, and Tanzania is just one of the many countries that make this part of the world so unique. In Tanzania, you can find crystal clear waters, one of the tallest mountains in the world, and some of the world’s rarest wildlife. This winter, pack your bags and your finest outdoor adventure gear, as Tanzania will be action-packed.

If you’re looking for warmth this winter, Tanzania is the place to be. During the winter months, Tanzania has average temperatures ranging from 85°F to 95°F. Luckily, you can find yourself on the sandy beaches of Dar el Salaam or the island of Zanzibar. Tanzania is also home to the Serengeti, which is a diverse ecosystem in the northern part of the country where you can do your best to spot the Big Five: the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and African buffalo.

Not only are you able to say you’ve seen some of the most unique animals in the world, but Tanzania is also home to Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain. If you’re up for a challenge, you can book a hiking excursion to reach the summit, which towers 19,341 feet into the air.

2. Italy

If the scorching temperatures of Tanzania don’t appeal to you, consider a winter getaway in Italy, where winters provide mild temperatures that require a long-sleeved shirt at most. Italy is known for many things—pizza, ancient ruins, coastal waters— you name it. And if you’re looking to experience Italy’s culture and cuisine, winter is the best time to do it. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy shorter lines and cheaper prices, allowing you to get the most bang for your buck.

If Italy’s calling your name, consider making pit stops at some of these notable cities and towns:

• Florence: Known for its culture, Florence gives visitors the opportunity to explore Renaissance art and architecture at museums like the Uffizi Gallery and the Palazzo Pitti.
• Milan: Have an eye for fashion? There’s no better winter getaway destination than Milan, where you can enjoy comfortable temperatures and exclusive shopping, as well as art and history at places like the Duomo Cathedral.
• Venice: Relax on a gondola as a gondolier paddles you through the narrow canals of one of Italy’s most iconic cities. In Venice, you can view Renaissance and Gothic palaces and marvel at the Byzantine mosaics in St. Mark’s Basilica.
• Sicily: If you want to spend your winter getaway indulging in comfort food, take a trip to Sicily, where you can learn the time-honored art of Sicilian cooking all while enjoying the notes and flavors of your favorite glass of wine.
• Rome: History enthusiasts can’t take a trip to Italy without visiting Rome, where you can discover the workings of this ancient city, including its historic rise and fall.

3. Costa Rica

One of the most fun places to go in the winter is Costa Rica. Experience the national motto “Pura Vida” first-hand by relaxing on white-sand beaches and traversing through lush rainforests. This small country makes it easy to escape your winter woes, as you can learn from your expert guide about the exotic wildlife that crawls, runs, or flies through the rainforest, or interact with locals to learn more about what makes this one of the happiest countries on Earth. 

Some of the top things to do in Costa Rica include:

• Experiencing the Fiestas Palmares in January, which is a two-week celebration with concerts and horse parades
• Exploring the rainforests in Corcovado National Park or Piedras Blancas National Park
• Visiting cultural institutions in the capital city of San Jose like the National Museum of Costa Rica and the Museo del Jade
• Relaxing on tropical beaches like Hermosa Beach and Tamarindo Beach

4. Southern United States

The United States has one of the most diverse landscapes in the world, and wintertime is one of the best times to visit. If you’re looking for a local winter getaway, plan a trip to explore the Southern U.S. Unlike its northern counterparts known for frigid temperatures and monstrous snowstorms, the South experiences mild winters, perfect for getting outdoors and discovering local landscapes and geography.

The southern area of the U.S. is home to several notable national parks, including Death Valley and Joshua Tree National Parks in California, the Grand Canyon, Zion, and Bryce Canyon National Parks in Utah, and the Everglades National Park in Florida. 

In addition to National Park excursions, you can visit smaller cities like Savannah, Georgia, or Charleston, South Carolina, to enjoy some southern hospitality and local history.

5. Greece

To round off our list of the best winter getaways, we have Greece. There’s no need to worry about surprise snowstorms or frigid temperatures. Here, you can relax by the seaside in coastal villages like Mykonos, Parga, and Pylos. Or, you can venture to ancient cities like Athens and Rhodes where you can learn about Greek mythology and study Neoclassic architecture. 

By visiting Greece in the quieter months, you can enjoy shorter lines at popular landmarks like Acropolis or Parthenon.

6. Spain

Escape the colder months with a trip to Spain, which is noted as one of the best winter getaways for seniors. This European nation is ripe with adventure, thanks to a milder climate and comfortable temperatures that make for a relaxing travel experience. Coastal escapes to Spain’s Mediterranean coast, particularly areas like Costa del Sol, allow seniors to enjoy relaxing strolls down the promenades while taking in the fresh air and indulging in local cuisine.

Spain is also home to several winter festivals, including Three Kings Day (Día de los Reyes Magos) on January 6, which brings in parades, live music, and cultural events. During these celebrations throughout the country, you can watch major cities like Madrid and Barcelona transform with festive lights and markets that create a joyous atmosphere.

Winter in Spain is also great for seniors because of its extensive and accessible public transportation network that connects major cities like Seville, Barcelona and Madrid, allowing for easy exploration. From exploring the Prado Museum in Madrid to the Picasso Museum in Málaga or Roman ruins in Mérida, there are endless experiences for seniors to enjoy throughout Spain.

7. Colorado

Visiting Colorado in the winter offers a beautiful blend of scenic beauty, outdoor adventure and relaxing activities. Colorado is one of the best winter getaways for seniors because they can experience a true winter wonderland with snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes and pine forests blanketed in snow. Photography tours are especially popular in the winter, as these excursions allow program participants to capture the awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife braving the frigid conditions in their natural habitat.

Colorado is also one of the best winter getaways for seniors, thanks to therapeutic natural elements like hot springs. While the air may be cold, hot springs offer reprieve and relaxation from the chilly temperatures in destinations like Glenwood Hot Springs and Pagosa Hot Springs, helping alleviate joint pain and improve circulation.

There are countless low-impact winter activities seniors can partake in, too. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and scenic train rides are all fan favorites, allowing seniors to take in the sights of Colorado’s beautiful landscapes from a unique perspective. Snowshoe down trails in Rocky Mountains National Park, hop aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad or enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride in ski resort towns like Breckenridge and Vail.

Tips for Planning Your Winter Getaway

Winter getaways for seniors are an excellent opportunity to explore a new area of the world while forging lasting friendships and creating lifelong memories. However, taking time to plan carefully is essential. Here are some key senior travel tips to keep in mind as you plan your next adventure:

• Choose the Right Destination: As you browse winter getaways, make sure to align your travel preferences with the destination. Consider factors like weather, activities and accessibility. If you enjoy winter sports, a cozy atmosphere and snow-covered landscapes, areas like Colorado or Canada would be ideal. On the other hand, warmer destinations like Costa Rica may be more suitable for seniors seeking warm winter getaways.
• Health and Safety: Maintaining your health and safety during winter travel is crucial. Make sure to stay hydrated, as cool air can be deceptively drying. Additionally, make sure to prepare for altitude, know your local healthcare options and consider travel insurance to ensure your trip is protected in the event of an emergency.
• Packing Essentials: For a cold weather adventure, ensure you pack plenty of layers and accessories like hats, gloves and scarves to stay warm in the cold. Insulated boots and a waterproof and windproof outer layer can keep you comfortable. For warm weather getaways, pack sun protection like a hat, sunglasses and sunblock, along with moisture-wicking garments to keep you cool. Regardless of your destination, make sure to have your necessary medications and any other travel necessities and toiletries. 

Why Choose Road Scholar for Your Winter Travel

So, why choose our trips at Road Scholar? Our winter getaways for seniors feature expert-led tours and inclusive packages for a seamless travel experience. You’ll join a diverse cohort of like-minded travelers eager to learn more about the world. Through spirited conversations and discovery, you’ll be able to forge deep connections that will last well beyond your trip. Find an adventure today and review testimonials from past travelers who’ve enjoyed their excursions with Road Scholar.

Explore Winter Getaway Destinations with Road Scholar

At Road Scholar, we can bring you to some of the top winter getaway destinations across the globe. In our experiential learning groups, you can learn and discover with a diverse cohort to get a deeper understanding of the cultures and traditions around the world. Before packing your bags, review our senior travel tips to get fully prepared and find a travel program that brings you on a winter getaway you’re most interested in.