Washington has many beaches, including those on Puget Sound, the Pacific Ocean, peninsulas, lakes, and islands.
Washington beaches feature grassy dunes, pebbles, rocks, or sand and offer activities like swimming, boating, wildlife observation, tidepool exploration, and gathering driftwood or seashells.
Beachgoers may be kept on the shore by the chilly water, but sunsets on Washington’s west coast provide the ideal cap for a day at the beach.
The most common beach type in Washington, Puget Sound, is gravel, though you can also find it along the coast (such as the Willapa Bay side of Tokeland).
Small-stone beaches aren’t great for volleyball, but they tend to attract more marine life because they offer hiding places from raptors.
They’re a favorite among crabs, and harbor seals graze on mixed gravel beaches.
Beaches In Washington
If you are looking for the best beaches in Washington, we’ve listed some top options here. So, check out the names we are dropping.
Golden Gardens Park, Seattle
With views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, the 80-acre Golden Gardens Park is home to one of the largest beaches in the Seattle area.
Swimming is available at the sandy beach, and hiking, volleyball, fishing, and water sports like sailing, canoeing, and kayaking are all very popular.
On the beach, there are fire pits and a one-acre dog off-leash area available.
This urban park is about five miles to the north of Seattle’s downtown. Visitors can enjoy the grass and sand areas, and lifeguards are on duty during the summer.
In addition to tennis courts, an indoor pool, picnic areas, equipment rentals, restrooms, and a historic bathhouse, the park has basketball courts.
A 2.8-mile path encircling the lake is popular among bikers, skaters, walkers, and joggers.
Madison Park Beach, Seattle
Northeast of Seattle’s downtown, this little park on Lake Washington’s edge offers a small sandy beach, grassy area, parking, tennis courts, restrooms, and lifeguards in the summer.
Benches and a walking path are nearby, and guests can shop or eat at neighborhood eateries.
Alki Beach, Seattle
Alki Beach is a 2.5-mile sandy beach on Elliot Bay in West Seattle, with a long pedestrian walkway.
One of the eight lighthouses on Puget Sound is a replica of the Statue of Liberty, and it is open for tours. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, beach fire pits are open.
Picnic tables, parking, and restrooms are available.
Madrona Park, Seattle
Madrona Park, which is on Lake Washington’s western shore, has picnic spaces, a bathhouse, a swimming beach, and parking.
Together with a grassy shoreline, hiking trails, and views of Mount Rainier, there’s a jogging path alongside the lake.
During the summer, lifeguards are on duty, and the beaches are open until Labor Day. Madrona Park is one of Washington’s least explored beaches.
Jackson Beach, San Juan Island
Approximately two miles from Friday Harbor’s downtown, this lengthy sandy beach is open all year round. A small dock, volleyball courts, fire pits, barbecue grills, restrooms, and a picnic area are all present.
Bioluminescent dinoflagellates, which glow when a kayak paddle touches them, make for an exciting feature.
This phenomenon is only available to guided groups. Individuals must reserve evening events, as the park is closed to visitors.
Fort Worden, Port Townsend
The sandy beach, which is part of Fort Worden State Park on Puget Sound, has access to a boat ramp, kayak and canoe rentals, and views of the Northern Cascades.
Part of the original concrete fortifications still stands from the once-powerful military fort that once guarded the city.
The Marine Science Center exhibits are open to visitors in the summer. There are campgrounds close by, and you can see the lighthouse from the outside.
Long Beach, Long Beach Peninsula
Long Beach calls itself the “World’s Longest Beach.” It stretches 28 miles along the shoreline in Washington’s southwest.
Hikers, bikers, and walkers can enjoy views of the surrounding landscape and art installations along the 8.5-mile Discovery Trail. A half-mile boardwalk leads down to a grassy dune.
The peninsula’s broad, level sands taper to the horizon in both directions. Pacific waves batter it, nearly always too erratic and too chilly for swimming.
It boasts the state’s best boardwalk. The 8.5-mile Discovery Bike Trail meanders among sand dunes, public art, and the restored whale bones.
Long Beach’s fine, soft sand is created by the addition of clay and silt from the Willapa Bay’s large mud flats. It is paler than beaches near river mouths in Washington because of its higher quartz concentration.
Cape Disappointment State Park, Long Beach Peninsula
The park has sandy beaches in Washington, with breathtaking views of Baker Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
Two operational lighthouses, a military fort, and the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, which tells the history of Cape Disappointment, are all part of the historic area.
In addition to building sandcastles and driftwood forts, beachgoers can hike through coastal forests and explore tide pools. The water is a little too cold for swimming, but there’s still plenty to do.
This miniature version of Waikiki Beach seems to have welcomed all visitors since it opened.
Despite how beautiful the cove and black river sand are, the name doesn’t refer to a paradisiacal place but rather to the passing of a Hawaiian sailor who lived nearby.
Half Moon Bay, Westport Light State Park, Westport
The 560-acre day-use park has grassy dunes and beaches on Half Moon Bay and the Pacific Ocean, plus picnic areas, restrooms, grills, a lighthouse, and a coastal forest.
Moreover, a 1.3-mile paved path separates Half Moon Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Nearby activities include fishing, surfing, and exploring the Westport Lighthouse.
Moreover, dogs are welcome on the beach, and camping is available nearby.
Griffiths-Priday Ocean State Park, Ocean Shores
The mouths of the Copalis River and Connor Creek are where you’ll find this state park on the Pacific Coast.
Walking trails, a boardwalk, and grassy sand dunes all lead to the sandy beach, which is frequently empty. Seashells, migrating birds, and the neighboring Copalis National Wildlife Refuge are all attractions for nature enthusiasts.
Many people come here to dig for shellfish, and dogs are welcome. There are picnic tables and restrooms.
Luther Burbank Park, Mercer Island
Nearly a mile of Lake Washington waterfront is available for swimming, boating, and fishing at this 77-acre park.
The park has walking trails, tennis courts, picnic areas, grills, a kids’ playground, and restrooms (during summer). From October through April, dogs on leashes are welcome on the beach.
Mercer Island also offers off-leash areas. You can check out Luther Burbank Park if you are looking for quieter beaches in Washington state.
West Beach and Sunset Beach, Washington Park, Anacortes
Located in Washington Park on the western tip of Fidalgo Island along the Swinomish Channel, there are two beaches: West Beach and Sunset Beach.
There are picnic areas, restrooms, a playground, a boat launch, and beachside fire pit barbecues at Sunset Beach. It comprises 220 acres.
West Beach has campsites, a small rocky area, tide pools, and breathtaking views.
Lake Sammamish State Park, Issaquah
This day-use park has a playground, walking trails through forests and wetlands, and two lakefront beaches.
At Tibbets Beach, you can rent equipment for water sports, reserve an outdoor kitchen, and use a picnic area. This 530-acre park hosts annual events, including boat parades, concerts, and nature walks.
Dogs on leashes are allowed in the park but not in areas designated as swimming beaches. If you are looking for beaches in Washington, Lake Sammamish is another option.
Idylwood Beach Park, Redmond
The Idylwood Beach Park is on the northwest coast of Lake Sammamish and has a lot to offer. It has a bathhouse, swimming beach, picnic tables, restrooms, a small boat ramp, a fishing pier, and picnic shelters.
The park spans 17 acres. It provides the only free recreational access to Lake Sammamish. This popular park also has playground equipment, volleyball courts, fishing, and barbecue pits.
Cama Beach
On Camano Island, the beach is all about boats. The most popular sound-front spot has an uphill parking lot and is hidden from view.
Situated near the water, the Center for Wooden Boats and its vintage vessels take center stage. Luxurious cedar cabins resembling a sleepaway camp surround it.
The place rents out boats and hosts weekend workshops for building toy boats. Because the shoreline is extremely rocky, sea travel is the preferred option.
North Bay
This park on San Juan Island, like many other beaches in Washington, is home to bleached-white driftwood.
It forms a barrier between a grassy bluff and dark, dense sand. Guided groups are usually the only ones allowed after the park closes at dusk.
North Bay, located just south of Friday Harbor, just outshines everything else. At night, bioluminescent dinoflagellates light up the water when in contact with a kayak paddle, making the trip even more memorable.
Kitsap County Park’s Beach
This Kitsap County park’s beach is a three-quarter-mile walk (all downhill, but that means an uphill stroll on the return trip).
The waves are very calm because Vashon Island feels like it is almost touching the narrow finger of Colvos Passage. The required hike keeps the beach comparatively deserted.
Crescent Bay
Imagine the craggy islands along Washington’s coast, minus the ferocious waves. The most striking areas of this county park on the northern edge of the Olympic Peninsula are tucked inland.
Moreover, old military bunkers lie buried deep under the overgrown forest, and many are hidden behind overgrown trails.
Tide pools form the eastern end of the water, and a sandy stretch hugs the relatively calm Crescent Bay. Far off in the distance is Vancouver Island.
Quileute Oceanside Resort
Sea stacks, or little islands with a few scraggly trees at the top and basking sea lions at the base, are due to rock columns just offshore.
About two miles north of Rialto’s parking lot, Hole-in-the-Wall is a naturally occurring sea arch in a headland on this section of the national park that is only accessible at low tide.
The Quileute Oceanside Resort is next to La Push’s dully named First Beach, south of Rialto.
Olympic National Park
Even with its magnificently isolated beaches, the Olympic National Park still has some gems near the parking lot.
Ruby Beach’s broad sands are just a quarter mile from Highway 101, and the distance between pavement and dunes at Kalaloch, to the south, is just a few feet.
In addition, the Tower of Wisdom is collapsing. It’s one of the few spots in the park where dogs are allowed, so keep an eye out for bald eagles and look down on leash-wearing pets.
Tokeland
Smugglers used the hotel’s hidden spot behind the fireplace to hide undocumented workers, and there are plenty of antiques and rooms with floral wallpaper in this 127-year-old establishment.
The Victorian-era farmhouse is one of the few businesses in a quiet residential waterfront community, and it looks out over the serene, kelp-filled coast of Willapa Bay.
Seaview
The Depot restaurant is a welcome diversion on a coast known more for bins of saltwater taffy and hand-caught razor clams than for fine dining.
The old Clamshell Railroad station has plenty of tables, with chef and owner Michael Lalewicz cooking local oysters and combining wild razor clams and Willapa Bay clams into a flavorful chowder.
Wrapping Up
Washington’s beaches, with their unparalleled beauty and ecological significance, stand as a testament to the delicate balance between human joy and environmental responsibility.
So, whether you’re drawn to the windswept shores of the Pacific or the calm bays of the Salish Sea, Washington’s beaches invite all to connect with nature and savor the timeless allure of the coastal landscape.
The unmatched beauty, as well as the ecological significance of Washington’s beaches, serves as a testament to the fine line that must be drawn between environmental responsibility and human enjoyment.
Therefore, beaches in Washington invite everyone to connect with nature and enjoy the timeless allure of the coastal landscape, whether they are drawn to the windswept shores of the Pacific or the serene bays of the Salish Sea.
Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.
Banff National Park is a world-class location famous for its mountain ranges, wildlife, and glacially-fed lakes. It’s so remarkable it became a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization World Heritage Site. It acquired the honor in the early 80s for its exceptionality. Today, Banff is the ultimate destination for holidaygoers who want to explore, relax, or both!
If you’re planning a trip to Banff this summer or early fall, or you’re planning for a future vacation, then we encourage you to consider visiting several lakes during your travels. You won’t regret it!
1. Lake Louise
We’re starting with the most well-known lake, Lake Louise. Located 45 minutes northwest of Banff, Lake Louise gets its name from the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria, Princess Louise. This bright blue, tree-lined lake (and its famous Chateau) has jutting mountain peaks surrounding it. It also features the snow-capped Victoria Glacier in the background.
During late spring, summer, and early fall, various hiking and mountain biking trails are available for exploration around Lake Louise. And if you have time, a hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House is a must.
Horseback riding is also an option here. At Chateau, visitors can spend a half day or a whole day in the saddle discovering the Timberline Trails that wrap around the lake. There is also Paradise Valley and other scenic routes where you can rent canoes at the Chateau, too.
2. Moraine Lake
For many, Moraine Lake is the top contender for the most beautiful lake in Banff. Here, you can hike several trails — there are options at Moraine Lake for all hiking abilities. The most popular short hike is the Rockpile trail — which is phenomenal at sunrise. If you're an early riser, we encourage you to add this to your holiday 'to-do' list. Visitors to Moraine Lake can also rock climb, rent canoes, and bring their inflatable SUPs to paddle across the water.
The road to Moraine Lake was closed to private vehicles at the end of 2022. Fortunately, shuttle services as offered by Morainelakebus now commute visitors to and from the lake, with buses starting as early as 4 a.m. for those eager to catch sight of the famous sunrise! An extra bonus for this provider is that some of their services also stop at number one on our list, Lake Louise.
3. Lake Minnewanka
Located within the Montane Eco Region, Lake Minnewanka —also known as the ‘Lake of the Spirits’ — is the largest lake in Banff; it’s 18 kilometers long and approximately 100 meters deep.
At Lake Minnewanka, you can explore footpaths and trails or sit back on a guided boat cruise to learn all about the lake’s rich history. Minnewanka is considered an area of cultural and historical significance; artifacts dating back over 14,000 years have been found here.
For scuba enthusiasts, Lake Minnewanka is one of two that you can explore in Banff National Park (the second being Two Jack Lake).
4. Bow Lake
If you’re driving along the Icefields Parkway, then a stop at Bow Lake is a must. It's a great spot to stretch your legs, as well as take phenomenal photos of the lake with Crowfoot Mountain and the Wapta Icefield in the background.
If you have the time, this area is fantastic for hiking, mountaineering, as well as scrambling — with tons of wildflowers filling the trails in the summer months.
The Top Lakes to Visit
When you’re in the Banff area, it's possible to visit multiple lakes throughout your stay — there are many more in addition to the four mentioned here. Each offers something unique from the other, and you're sure to have an unbelievable time — whether you visit for adventure or bring a picnic, sit back, and take in the beautiful scenery.
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Summers are warm.
However, Scorching heat in certain places has highlighted them as heat wave zones.
With heat wave temperatures across many areas worldwide, we are reminded that climate change is a global phenomenon.
A significant health risk, heat wave zones make it difficult for people to travel, stay, enjoy, or perform professional liabilities.
I will identify certain important factors that influence travel plans, health risks, and ways in which you can be safe from heat waves.
The conditions that are being observed across the world in some beautiful vacation-worthy locations are serious!
They can impact your health and lifestyle.
So, read the article to learn about the dangerous conditions that will likely affect your travel plans.
Things To Keep In Mind While Traveling To Heat Wave Zones!
Across the world, many places are currently heating up!
Several tourist destinations and other places in Asia, Europe and the United States have heat wave temperatures.
Officials in countries like France and Italy in Europe have issued health warnings.
I am not saying it is highly risky, but the probability of the situation becoming risky is high!
If you are visiting one of the heat wave zones, you may not be able to stick to your original plan.
Let's explore further the precautions you might take to be safe when you visit or have to visit a heat wave zone!
What Are Heat Waves?
The increasing global temperature has led to people experiencing some of the hottest days!
According to the weather reports, the heat intensifying in several countries worldwide has led to people fainting, sunburns, and health concerns such as sunstroke.
It is identified as a heat wave, especially when the temperature in June 2023 was recorded as the warmest in the global records.
The increasing heat wave temperatures have significantly impacted water supplies, agriculture, ecosystems, energy, human health, and economies.
One of the major reasons for heat waves has been greenhouse gas emissions, which need to be cut off as soon as possible.
Climate change is a serious threat; we must take it seriously to survive and help our future generations.
What Are The Regions With Heat Wave Zones?
In Europe, the temperature in Rome reached 104°F in July, while in Sardinia, it was 112°F.
In at least 23 cities in Italy, there have been red alerts for the weather as the heat wave is potentially becoming a threat in recent times.
Tourists have been passing out, creating awareness of global climate change and crisis.
Now, Death Valley in Nevada, running along a section of the border of Central California, is identified as the "hottest place on earth"!
The National Weather Service reported that the temperature reached 128°F in July 2023, a clear cause for concern.
People living in Los Angeles are having serious health concerns!
According to the weather forecast, the capital of Arizona, Phoenix, has seen a rise in temperature to114°F while Florida and Texas are equally heating up!
La Palma, located in the Canary Islands, has been riddled with wildfires recently, leading to the evacuation of 4,000 people from their homes.
The popular tourist destination, the Acropolis in Athens, was shut down at the beginning of July this year during midday!
It is peak time for tourist visits, but because the authorities informed us the temperature could rise to 111.2°F within a week, it was closed!
In China, the recorded temperature in northwestern Xinjiang province was 126°F.
Places worldwide have been hampered by the heat wave temperatures, impacting people's lifestyles, tourism, and the country's economy.
Is It Safe To Travel To Heat Wave Zones?
As travelers, you should check the upcoming weather and climate of the location that you are visiting!
If you visit one of the places I have stated regarding increasing temperature, you must keep a tab on the daily temperature.
Your sightseeing might go differently than planned if a situation occurs when one of the monuments or places you will be visiting is shut down due to increasing temperature.
If you suffer from chronic health conditions, you should not go out, especially in the scorching heat!
If you are visiting from professional liability, you must carry out certain steps to cope with the heat.
Remember that the temperature starts building from 11 a.m.
Hence, try to enter a building or where your work is within that time frame.
Read along further to learn about your steps to stay safe!
What Are The Things To Do If You Travel To Heat Wave Zones?
In the evening, the temperature will come down.
Hence, it would be best to keep yourself cool in the daytime.
The first thing is to wash your face and arms, including your armpits and wrists.
So your body temperature can feel a bit cooler.
You can repeat the action as much as possible the whole day!
If you are visiting Europe, you've got it easy!
There are fountains in Europe. Apart from that, you need to take cool showers and air-dry yourself!
It will keep the temperature of your body down.
In some countries, such as Italy, residents are asked to stay in an air-conditioned environment for at least 3 hours a day.
Try to find a cool restaurant, gallery, or museum if you are visiting one of these countries to stay in air conditioning for some time.
Try to wear clothing that is made of cool fabric, such as cotton!
It is even better if the material is light and loose from your clothing.
Try to use sunscreen as much as possible.
Recently, people have been using manual and electric handheld fans to keep their face and body cool as much as possible.
Another important thing that you must do is use heat wave sunglasses when outside!
Drink more beverages and fill up on food, such as fruits, salads, and veggies!
Also, ensure that you must have insurance covering all your medical expenses before traveling.
What Are The Health Risks?
Heatwave zones have several health risks, such as heatstroke or sunstroke!
In this condition, your body cannot maintain a safe temperature, especially when exposed to hot weather.
The body temperature must not exceed 103 degrees Fahrenheit, but in sunstroke, it does.
There is also a chance of getting pale skin, muscle cramps, sweating, and exhaustion.
Currently, the US heat wave is one of the serious concerns for business travelers!
You might get red and blotchy skin if you stay in the sun for too long!
You have to drink fluids regularly.
Chances of dizziness, headaches, and sweating when visiting heat wave zones are high!
Finishing Up…
Overall, climate change has led to health risks along with issues where people cannot avoid these situations.
With increasing temperatures in certain places across the world, people, children, and senior citizens cannot cope with the increasing temperatures.
People with chronic health conditions such as allergies to skin, asthma, upset stomachs, and headaches are facing more issues, especially when traveling to heatwave zones.
I suggest following the tips and consulting a doctor if the situation worsens.
Let us know your thoughts about this situation and how to be safe in heat wave temperatures!
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With the nip in the air and Christmas bells ringing, the best places to travel in Europe gears up for the visitors.
Also, the “Europe Winter Tourism Market” is massive, and Austria, Italy, Germany, and Switzerland are some of the key destinations or revenue earners in this regard.
Further, winter tourism in Europe is beyond indulging in the drizzles of snow and relishing the best food. It has a deeper economic significance in the continent.
Did you know that the revenue from winter tourism in Europe is 1-2% of the GDP of European countries?
So, when you visit the best places to travel in Europe in winter, you contribute to the overall economy of the place and the country.
Moreover, winter brings out the best in Europe, with glimpses of the Northern Lights, skiing in the Alps, Christmas festivities, and many more!
You Cannot Miss The Best Places To Travel In Europe In Winter
A wintry day in Europe is blissful, and it’s a great time to travel to this continent if you want to avoid the crowd.
Furthermore, the beautiful landscape of Europe looks dreamier with the blanket of snow in winter.
So, let’s take a flight to the best places to travel in Europe in winter.
1. Rovaniemi, Finland
Best Place to Stay: Santa Claus Holiday Village
Finland Tourism Package from the USA: 1100-1500€
Ho! Ho! Ho! Winter comes with the invitation to fly to the official hometown of Santa Claus.
It is the best place to indulge in Christmas festivities, and you will also love the reindeer farms here.
Furthermore, you can participate in the following activities when visiting Rovaniemi in winter.
Ice skating
Snow sledding
Northern Light Safaris
However, Rovaniemi will not disappoint you even if you want to spend a quiet winter vacation here. You can cozy up by the fire and have the best glogg ever.
Are you a foodie like me? You can indulge in some smoky salmon and ice cream.
The chef’s kiss will be watching the snow-clad forests through the windows of your hotel room.
2. Prague, Czech Republic
Best Place to Stay: Hermitage Hotel Prague
Czech Republic Tourism Package from the USA: 2000-3000€
With St. Nicholas Church as the center of attraction during winter and Christmas, Prague decks up with fresh coats. The Church of Our Lady before Týn and St.
Vitus Cathedral are some other popular churches to visit in Prague during Christmas.
Furthermore, Christmas has a different fervor in Prague, thanks to the Christmas markets here. It supposedly has the best Christmas Market in the world outside Germany.
In the upcoming winter, Prague Christmas Markets will remain open from 30th November 2024 to 6th January 2025.
You will get the best wooden toys, ceramics, and candles here.
Looking for some gastronomic delight? Prague has Palatschinke and mulled wine that you will cherish.
3. Vienna, Austria
Best Place to Stay: Hotel Sacher Wien
Austria Tourism Package from the USA: 1500-2500€
Vienna, the winner of the “Most Livable City in the World,” is one of the best places to travel in Europe this winter.
BBC conferred this title to Vienna three years in a row.
Further, in winter, Vienna transforms into a site of outdoor operas and hot chocolates.
Attending the operas in the freezing cold is an experience, and with thousands of people attending the event, you will feel the palpable festive energy here.
Moreover, you can appease the connoisseur in you by attending the classical musical concerts here.
Also, behold the snow-clad beauty of the St. Charles Church and Schönbrunn Palace.
It’s dreamy and will offer you the best frames for capturing.
4. Tallinn, Estonia
Best Place to Stay: Metropol Spa Hotel
Estonia Tourism Package from the USA: Around 4500€
Tallinn has an amazing location on the Baltic Sea and the most amazing historical centers.
You can explore the following historical centers when in Tallinn.
Town Hall Square
Olevsite Church
Great Guild Hall
Further, the turreted castles of Tallin stand tall with their unmatched architecture.
Toompea Castle is probably the most famous castle among them. You will also love exploring Kadriog Palace and Pikk Herman.
These castles are beautiful year-round. However, they appear to be straight from the pages of fantasy tales under the wrap of snow.
5. Zermatt, Switzerland
Best Place to Stay: Hotel Firefly
Switzerland Tourism Package from the USA: Around 2000€
Zermatt, at the foothill of the Matterhorn, becomes the paradise of skiers in winter.
The coverage of fresh snow and the best scenic views make Zermatt everyone’s favorite, even on the chilliest days.
After you have a fulfilling winter day outdoors, you can indulge in the much-needed warmth and comfort in the spa of Hotel Firefly.
Also, Zermatt is the ideal place to try Alpine cuisines and lemon martini.
Moreover, if you want to try outdoor pursuits other than skiing, you can try hiking.
Even if you are not interested in hiking to the higher mountains, you can explore Zermatt and the surrounding villages.
You can even take a helicopter ride around Matterhorn to have the best views of the glaciers.
If you are on the verge of ending your trip to Zermatt, don’t try to collect some handmade souvenirs.
6. Zagreb, Croatia
Best Place to Stay: Garden Hotel
Croatia Tourism Package from USA: Around 1500€
Zagreb exudes the quintessential Central European vibe and is a favorite of dark academia fans.
Winter transforms it into a wonderland with the Advent in Zagreb festival. You will find the best brandy and homemade sausages here.
You also explore the Christmas markets and appreciate the lights galore throughout the entire locality to indulge in its festive fervor.
Are you looking for more adventure in Zagreb? You can plan a trip to the Plitvice Lakes National Park.
It has waterfalls and 16 terrace lakes. In winter, all these waterbodies get frozen and offer you the most surreal view.
Moreover, with the Croatian National Theatre at the epicenter, Zagreb is important for the cultural landscape of Croatia and Europe.
You must make a note that Croatian National Theatre is one of the most beautiful theatres in the world.
The Croatian Museum of Naive Art, Zagreb City Museum, and Maksimir Park are some other places of interest in Zagreb.
7. Bergen, Norway
Best Place to Stay: Citybox Bergen
Norway Tourism Package from the USA: 2600-6500€
Bergen has the ideal Norweigan vibe with colorful wooden buildings. You can enjoy the beautiful view of the fjords and harbor from these aesthetic buildings.
And who does not know of the Northern Light in Norway in winter?
Late November to January is the best time to experience the magic of Northern Light in Bergen, Norway.
The longest nights become bright as you observe this astronomical wonder in the sky.
With your nights becoming lit with the Northern Lights, you can spend your daytime in Norway doing winter hiking, skiing, and sledding.
You can even go on a Wildlife or Wild Safari and experience the wonder of nature.
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