Amazing International Places to Visit in Winter
Your guide to winter holiday trips nonstop from Houston airports
Winter is an ideal time to travel internationally, and flying from the Houston Airport System makes global winter getaways easier than ever. With extensive nonstop international service from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), travelers can reach cultural capitals, warm-weather escapes, and festive European cities without connections.
Whether you’re looking for holiday traditions abroad, tropical sunshine, or once-in-a-lifetime experiences, here are some of the best international places to visit in Winter, all reachable nonstop from Houston.
Which international destinations are worth visiting in Winter?
1. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City is a vibrant international destination year-round, and Winter adds a festive layer to its culture. With nonstop flights from Houston, travelers can experience holiday celebrations, historic plazas decorated with lights, seasonal food traditions, and world-class museums. Mild weather makes Winter perfect for exploring neighborhoods like Centro Histórico, Coyoacán, and Polanco. Mexico City is ideal for travelers seeking culture, cuisine, and history without winter cold.
2. Tokyo, Japan
Winter in Tokyo blends modern energy with traditional seasonal beauty. Nonstop flights from Houston make this bucket-list destination more accessible than ever. Travelers can enjoy dazzling winter illuminations, festive shopping districts, peaceful temples, and incredible seasonal cuisine. While snow is rare in Tokyo, the crisp winter air and holiday atmosphere make Winter one of the best times to visit Japan’s capital.
3. Cancún, Mexico
For travelers craving sunshine, Cancún is a top Winter pick. Nonstop flights from Houston take you directly to warm beaches, turquoise waters, and resort-style relaxation. Winter weather is ideal. Warm, dry, and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring nearby ruins. With festive holiday events and peak beach conditions, Cancún remains one of the most popular international winter escapes.
4. Costa Rica
Winter marks the start of Costa Rica’s dry season, making it one of the best times to visit. Nonstop flights from Houston connect travelers to lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and eco-adventures. Whether you’re zip-lining through the canopy, spotting wildlife, or relaxing along the coast, Costa Rica offers a nature-filled Winter getaway with warm temperatures and endless outdoor activities.
5. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam shines during Winter with its cozy atmosphere and seasonal charm. Flying nonstop from Houston allows travelers to experience holiday markets, winter lights, and festive canals without the stress of connections. Winter brings cooler weather, fewer crowds, and cultural highlights like museums, cafés, and seasonal events. Amsterdam is perfect for travelers looking for a classic European winter city with a relaxed, walkable vibe.
Where is a unique international destination to visit in Winter?
If you want a Winter experience that feels truly different, these destinations stand out:
- Tokyo, Japan – A mix of modern winter illuminations and timeless traditions.
- Costa Rica – Tropical landscapes, wildlife, and adventure at the start of dry season.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands – A festive European city with winter charm and cultural depth.
Each offers a distinctive way to experience Winter abroad, all with nonstop flights from Houston.
Plan Your International Winter Getaway Through Houston
With one of the strongest international flight networks in the country, the Houston Airport System makes Winter travel seamless. From tropical beaches to global capitals and European winter cities, nonstop flights from IAH help you spend less time in transit and more time enjoying your destination.
Whether you’re escaping the cold, embracing it, or discovering a new culture, your international Winter adventure begins in Houston.
Explore all nonstop international destinations from Houston airports and start planning your winter getaway today.