As travel veterans we’ve spent years zipping around the globe, digging up hidden gems, and chatting with local experts to uncover the real experiences that often fly under the radar. If you’re planning your winter experiences and want to skip the tourist traps (goodbye, overcrowded ski resorts), you’re in the right place.
We’ve got the inside scoop on five killer winter experiences that only locals know about. These aren’t the cookie-cutter adventures you’ll find in any guidebook. No, these are the local-favorite, secret-spot gems—things you won’t hear about unless you’ve got a solid connection with a local travel expert. So, let’s dive into these authentic winter experiences, curated by our destination experts who live and breathe travel year-round.
Why Local Travel Tips Are Essential for Your Winter Experiences
When you have access to local travel experts, you’re not just visiting a place, you’re experiencing it the way locals do. You’ll be able to unlock the real experiences—stuff that isn’t plastered all over Instagram or shoved into top-10 lists. Ready to break free from the cookie-cutter spots and get the inside scoop? Let’s get to it.
1. The Underrated Snowshoe Trails of Quebec, Canada
While Montreal and Quebec City tend to steal the spotlight during winter, the locals know that the best way to see Quebec in its frosty glory is on snowshoes. Just a short drive from the city, in places like the Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier, you’ll find miles of serene, untracked snowshoeing paths where you’ll hardly encounter another soul. Picture this: you and the wilderness, some deep snow, towering trees blanketed in white, and the only sound is the crunch of your snowshoes.
Why the locals love it: The peace, the seclusion, and the chance to experience nature without the throngs of tourists. And don’t get us started on the cozy lodge you can retreat to after your snowy trek—it’s the ultimate winter getaway vibe.
Pro Tip: Grab a local guide to take you off the beaten path to some hidden trails. They’ll help you navigate the best spots and share stories about the landscape that only locals know.
Book a snowshoe tour with local guides in Quebec here
2. The “Secret” Ice Bars of Iceland
Iceland is a dream destination any time of year, but winter in the land of fire and ice? Chef’s kiss. Sure, you’ve heard of the ice hotels and the big-name resorts, but locals know where to find the best ice bars in Reykjavik—places where the drinks are as cool as the décor. These icy bars aren’t packed with tourists; they’re more like intimate, hidden gems where the bartenders are locals, the drinks are inventive, and the ice sculptures are straight-up next-level.
Why the locals love it: It’s the perfect place to sip a cocktail made from Icelandic ingredients and listen to live music from local bands. Plus, the atmosphere is totally unique—think intricate ice carvings and a vibe that’s hard to replicate.
Pro Tip: Head to Kaffibarinn or The Ice Bar Reykjavik, and be sure to try a local favorite like a Brennivín cocktail (an Icelandic schnapps).
Learn more about Iceland’s winter experiences here
3. Winter Hiking in Patagonia, Chile
Now, we know what you’re thinking: Patagonia is always on the “must-see” lists, but did you know that winter (June-August) is the best time to visit? The crowds are light, and the scenic hikes in places like Torres del Paine are even more magical when covered in snow. Plus, the local guides will take you to less-explored trails that are hidden in the winter months—trails so remote that you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a nature documentary.
Why the locals love it: The tranquility of winter in Patagonia means you can truly experience the wilderness—from the glacier lakes to the snow-capped peaks—without being bombarded by tourists snapping selfies every five seconds.
Pro Tip: Go on a guided winter hike with a local expert to learn about the natural history of the park, and catch some of those elusive wildlife sightings (think pumas, guanacos, and condors).
Check out winter hikes with local guides in Patagonia
4. Hidden Hot Springs in the Swiss Alps
Switzerland may be known for its expensive ski resorts, but if you’re willing to get off the beaten path, locals can point you to some of the most amazing (and lesser-known) hot springs in the Swiss Alps. Picture this: you’re soaking in natural thermal baths surrounded by snow-covered mountains, while the steam rises into the crisp mountain air. These hot springs offer a unique way to relax, especially in winter when the air is frigid, and the hot water feels like pure bliss.
Why the locals love it: It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Plus, the hidden spots (like Therme Vals) aren’t overrun with tourists, which makes the experience feel more like a secret escape.
Pro Tip: Many of these hidden gems are only accessible by foot or local transport, so be sure to consult a local guide who can help you navigate the paths.
Book a tour to the secret hot springs of Switzerland
5. Secret Christmas Markets in Prague
Everyone knows about the Christmas markets in Prague’s Old Town Square, but here’s the thing—locals know the best markets are hidden away in the quieter neighborhoods. For a more authentic and less crowded experience, head to markets like the one in Vinohrady, a trendy area known for its craft beer bars, cozy cafes, and local artisans. You’ll find handmade gifts, local treats, and mulled wine that rivals any tourist trap.
Why the locals love it: It’s a more authentic, intimate experience—you won’t have to fight crowds to sip on your svařák (Czech mulled wine) or nibble on a trdelník (sweet pastry). Plus, you get a real taste of Prague’s winter charm.
Pro Tip: Skip the over-crowded areas and take a local guide who knows about the lesser-known markets for a true Prague Christmas experience.
Explore Prague’s hidden Christmas markets here
Unlock Local Travel Tips with Cerca
Want to get insider travel tips like these for your next winter getaway? That’s where Cerca comes in. As a travel platform focused on connecting you with local experts, Cerca helps you unlock experiences that most tourists never even know about. Whether you’re looking for hidden hiking spots in the Swiss Alps, secret ice bars in Reykjavik, or that perfect cozy café in Quebec, Cerca has got you covered.
Don’t waste time browsing generic lists online. Sign up with Cerca, get connected with our local travel experts, and start planning your next winter adventure with the best insider knowledge out there.
Start your journey with Cerca here
Conclusion
The winter experiences we’ve shared here are the real deal—the kind of adventures you can only get when you have the help of local travel experts who know the land like the back of their hand. Forget the usual tourist traps and tap into the magic of winter travel like never before. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
