The Winter Sun Report is your shortcut to planning with confidence, so you can find the best places to travel in winter. Discover clever timings, better-value and useful insights to help you decide where and when to go.
Clever alternatives
Make your money go further
With lots of people eyeing up the same places, it pays to look elsewhere. These cheaper, handpicked alternative winter holiday destinations serve up similar sunshine, scenery or city vibes, often with lower prices, fewer crowds and a bit more room to explore.
Smarter places to travel this winter
Clever alternative destinations to go in 2026
Under-the-radar destinations
Winter holiday destinations without the crowds
The places everyone’s searching for are only part of the story. We’ve uncovered destinations quietly waiting to be discovered when choosing cool places to go in winter – full of character, lighter on crowds and ready to surprise you.
Top 10 lesser-known destinations for 2026
Milos, Greece
Nagoya, Japan
Ottawa, Canada
Medan, Indonesia
Denver, United States
Busan, South Korea
Mackay, Australia
Padang, Indonesia
Casablanca, Morocco
Fukuoka, Japan
Try our 'Underrated Destinations' filter to discover amazing lesser known places that don’t come with the larger crowds and queues.
Search for Underrated DestinationsMost popular destinations
The must-see spots dominating the charts
Some places are popular for a reason. These are seeing high interest, loved for their standout sights and all-round holiday appeal. If you’re looking where to go for winter vacation that’s tried and tested, start here, with tips on when to go and how to save.
Queenstown, New Zealand
New Zealand's capital of action and adventure
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Sydney, Australia
Phuket, Thailand
Nadi, Fiji
Milan, Italy
Manila, Philippines
Cairns, Australia
Honolulu, Hawaii
Osaka, Japan
June and September are winter’s quieter overachievers. You still get the sunshine, but with lower prices, shorter queues and a much easier shot at that dinner reservation. It’s the best of winter holidays, with a bit more breathing room.
The cheapest destinations to go in June 2026
Launceston, Australia — average flight price: $235
Sydney, Australia — average flight price: $244
Melbourne, Australia — average flight price: $263
Sunshine Coast, Australia — average flight price: $267
Hobart, Australia — average flight price: $325
Hamilton, New Zealand — average flight price: $333
Uluru, Australia — average flight price: $394
Port Vila, Vanuatu — average flight price: $510
Denpasar, Indonesia — average flight price: $551
Christchurch, New Zealand — average flight price: $557
The cheapest destinations to go in September 2026
Gold Coast, Australia — average flight price: $259
Hervey Bay, Australia — average flight price: $338
Adelaide, Australia — average flight price: $390
Cairns, Australia — average flight price: $393
Townsville, Australia — average flight price: $470
Proserpine, Australia — average flight price: $472
Hamilton Island, Australia — average flight price: $475
Auckland, New Zealand — average flight price: $555
Coffs Harbour, Australia — average flight price: $568
Wellington, New Zealand — average flight price: $581
Information and indicative prices as of March 2026, based on Skyscanner data. Prices converted from AUD using April rates. Please check final prices and travel guidance before booking.
Travel with confidence this winter. If you’re facing travel disruption, we’re here to help you understand your options and plan your next step. Know the facts.
Tools to help you save
From solo travel inspiration to family winter holiday ideas on a budget, there are easier ways to spot price reductions and track fares.
Make winter sun stretch on and on...
From travels around Italy and India with Accidentally Wes Anderson, to discovering amazing places with Explore Everywhere, there are lots of ways to keep that winter sun feeling going.
