Top Winter Travel Destinations for Seniors in 2026
Winter travel is a great way to unwind and regroup after the busy holiday season. But figuring out where to go can be tough, so Nifty 50+ reached out to Tamara Lidbom, owner of Anytime Travel Agency in Peoria, Arizona, for suggestions. Lidbom specializes in booking trips abroad for seniors, and she shared her top picks for 50+ travelers looking to book vacations for winter 2026.
Best for Seniors on a Budget: Portugal
When clients tell Lidbom they want to be mindful of cost, she focuses on destinations where their money works harder without diminishing their travel experience.
“Portugal is currently a standout for me,” Lidbom told Nifty 50+. “They have mild winters, walkable towns and incredible food. The boutique hotels here have a luxurious feel without the elevated price tag.”
Best for Active Travel: Costa Rica
If you’re looking for adventure with all the creature comforts, Costa Rica might be your ideal winter destination, even if you’re not a thrill-seeker.
“Adventure does not have to be high impact,” Lidbom explained. “Activities here could include gentle walks through the rainforest, wildlife cruises, hot springs [and] jeep tours for volcano and wildlife viewings.”
Best for Solo Seniors: Scotland
Welcoming locals, winter festivals in charming towns and stunning landscapes put Scotland at the top of Lidbom’s list for solo travel, whether you prefer a self-drive trip or a small-group tour.
“The plus to a guided tour is that they have immersive experiences,” she said. “You sit back and enjoy the trip.”
Lidbom added that some tour operators reduce or waive single supplements — the extra fees charged to individual travelers who book double-occupancy accommodations.
Best for Multi-Generational Travel: Riviera Maya
Non-stop flights and all-inclusive resorts make Riviera Maya an easy and fun destination for multiple generations traveling together.
Riviera Maya is located on the Yucatan Peninsula, which has plenty of family activities, from pirate-show dinner cruises to historical sites and adventure parks.
“This destination offers that sweet blend of ease, sunshine and options for every age group,” Lidbom said.
Best for a Bucket-List Trip: South Africa
Lidbom found it difficult to choose just one bucket-list destination because of the variety of visions her clients have for their once-in-a-lifetime travel.
South African safaris still top the list, she said, but northern lights journeys to Iceland and Norway are also popular. The latter offers balance that Lidbom loves for travelers ages 50 and up.
“There’s the thrill of chasing the lights, but the days are filled with easy, beautiful experiences: geothermal spas, gourmet Nordic cuisine and guided tours. That is a bucket list in my opinion.”
Best for Escaping Winter Weather: Hawaii
“Hawaii remains the gold standard for those warm winter escapes, especially for those who do not want to travel internationally,” Lidbom said.
“Each island has its own personality, from Kauai and Maui’s relaxed luxury to the Island of Hawaii’s volcanic sites and black sand beaches,” she continued, noting that Hawaii offers a chance to slow down, relax and enjoy.
Best for Fun in the Snow: Banff and Lake Louise
Lidbom recommends Banff and Lake Louise in Canada for travelers who enjoy winter travel because of snow, not despite it. This trip provides gondola rides, mountain scenery and charming winter lodges like you might find in Switzerland, without the long flight.
Lidbom also likes this destination because it lets seniors choose their activity levels. The more fit might hit the slopes, while the less athletically inclined can try snowshoeing or a sleigh ride.
“Sitting in a chalet with a fire and a hot chocolate sounds good to me, too,” Lidbom said.
More from Nifty50+
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- From Florida to NY – 7 great places to travel with extended family
- Traveling in Your 50s: Should You Go Now or Wait?
- 3 generations going on vacation? Let’s set some ground rules first
