We have a ranking of the best winter vacations in the world (according to U.S News & World Report). And proudly, Canada has 2 cities named in this ranking. Those are Quebec City and Whistler. See why our 2 cities are highly rated!
1. Best Winter Vacations By U.S News & World
U.S. News & World Report has released its list of the world’s 21 best winter vacation spots, two of which are in the Great White North. Among the destinations on the list are Honolulu, Costa Rica, Hawaii, St. Lucia, and the Galapagos Islands, to name a few.
U.S. News developed a list of the finest winter holidays based on professional research and reader votes – 50/50, according to the site. Though voters select their favorites, editors rate specific places on a scale of 0 to 5 in various criteria.
These categories include :
- Sights,
- Culture
- People
- Food
- Family
- Nightlife
- Adventure
- Romance
- Value
- Accessibility
According to the ranking, Quebec City and Whistler, BC, deserved the best. Quebec City # 11th, and Whistler # 14th.
This isn’t the first time Whistler has been on a list, especially recently. The winter city destination is one of the most amazing places in the world for couples to holiday in December vacations.
And regarding locations that appeal to outdoor aficionados, Canada has made a few lists. Canada is one of the top destinations for outdoor enthusiasts in 2023. And, if you needed another reason to go to the Great White North, Victoria, BC was recently one of the best cities to visit in 2023. Due to its sustainability efforts and green impact, as well as its stunning natural beauty.
Toronto, ON; Vancouver, BC; and Montreal, QC are the most popular domestic travel destinations for Canadians for those looking for a winter vacation but without outdoor activities.
Canada appears to be one destination to consider when planning next year.
2. What’s so special about Quebec City in winter vacation?
The sight of cobblestone streets and towering churches; the sound of French pleasantries and visitors’ “Oohs;” the aroma of fresh-baked bread and pungent cheese; and the taste of creamy café lattes and buttery croissants. You are in France, according to all of your senses. But they’re mistaken: you’re in Québec.
For a long time, Québec City was overshadowed by its neighbor, Montréal. But the celebration of its 400th birthday in 2008 pushed Québec City back into the spotlight. Since then, visitors have rushed here to experience the allure of this UNESCO World Heritage site for themselves.
As the cradle of New France, Québec City continues to retain its motherland’s culture. Passing inside Old Québec’s defensive walls out of a European painting: 17th- and 18th-century buildings contain bakeries, bistros, and boutiques.
But cobbled squares drowned out by a sea of café tables. And a piece of Québec City’s rich legacy awaits discovery around every turn.
2.1. Rankings
- #1 in Best Cheap Winter Vacations
- #5 in Best Places to Visit in Canada
- #5 in Best Family December Vacations in Canada
2.2. Travel Time Recommendations
June through September and December through February are ideal for visiting Québec City. The city’s social calendar is jam-packed with festivals during the summer and winter months for December vacations.
Summer is the most popular time to come owing to the nicer weather, although the Québécois like the frigid winter winds, shielding themselves with heavy parkas and copious amounts of Tim Horton’s coffee.
Because of the lack of significant events, the spring and fall shoulder seasons see fewer tourists. However, travelers may take advantage of low prices and seasonal perks: Spring is maple syrup season, while October is ablaze with vibrant foliage.
3. What’s so special about Whistler in winter vacation?
Whistler’s amenities fit every season, with snow-capped peaks and powdery steeps, glittering lakes and gushing waterfalls, difficult hiking paths and inviting eateries. However, Whistler Blackcomb remains its most popular attraction, and why shouldn’t it?
The sprawling resort covers more than 8,100 acres of land, receives roughly 40 feet of snowfall yearly, and is home to some of North America’s most lively après-ski places. The entire town, located 75 miles north of Vancouver, exemplifies the ski-chic vibe, holding hundreds of ski and snowboard events and festivals each year. Whistler remains lively during the summer months when more outdoor enthusiasts visit.
Visitors may attempt bobsledding, as well as hiking and biking up the slopes. Those who come to town searching for photo opportunities will not be disappointed. The Coast Mountains provide a picture-perfect setting: the best views are from the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, which connects Whistler and Blackcomb mountains.
Why do so many people want to pack their stuff and head to Whistler?
- Museums
- Art galleries
- Ice skating
- Summer concerts
- Shopping
- Outdoor activities
3.1. Ranking
- #1 in Best Ski Vacations in the World
- #3 in Best Places to Visit in February
- #4 in Best Family Vacations in Canada
3.2. Travel Time Recommendations
Whistler is best visited between June and August and between December and March. Peak skiing conditions are found in the Alps from December through February, with March bringing higher temperatures but still providing superb snow.
Blackcomb Mountain reopens for glacier skiing in June and July, while the remainder of Whistler serves as a base for camping and exploring the great outdoors.
Meanwhile, September, October, and November are ideal for leaf-peeping. April and May have mild weather, making them suitable for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
