Looking for the perfect destination for your 2026 winter break? Choosing a winter getaway isn't just about temperature, but above all, what brings you and your family the most joy. The 2026 winter break will begin on January 19th and last until March 1st. Students will break in three rounds, and the latest data shows a fascinating trend – Poles are increasingly forgoing mountain slopes in favor of winter holidays by the sea! The seaside already accounts for 49.8% of all winter break bookings, while the mountains have seen a decline in interest from 44.9% to 42%. The average cost of a stay on the Baltic Sea is currently around 1900-2000 PLN, and accommodations in Świnoujście, Kołobrzeg, or Mielno can be found for 340-380 PLN per night. This shows how important winter break is for family vacations? As many as half of all bookings are for stays with children. A staggering 86% of Poles have travel plans for 2026, but where's the best place to go for your 2026 vacation ? Do you dream of skiing in the mountains or relaxing in seaside water parks? In this guide, you'll learn which winter vacation destinations in Poland and abroad are the most popular, and how to plan the perfect winter getaway for you and your family.
The best winter break destinations in Poland in 2026
The 2026 winter break dates have been divided into three periods: January 19 to February 1, February 2 to 15, and February 16 to March 1. Choosing the right date can affect price and availability, so it's worth planning your trip now. Winter break is the perfect time to escape your daily routine and spend time in a unique place. Poland offers a wide variety of destinations, perfect for families with children, couples, and groups of friends. Mountains, spas, and even seaside towns can surprise you with their climate and attractions in winter. The right destination allows you to combine active relaxation with relaxation. It's worth considering not only the region's popularity but also the available attractions and the nature of the trip.
Zakopane – a classic winter holiday
The capital of the Polish Tatra Mountains is a destination that never goes out of style. Zakopane offers winter packages starting from PLN 210 per person per night for a 6-7-day stay. Contrary to popular belief about high prices, Zakopane offers a better price than Szczyrk or Białka Tatrzańska – hotel prices start at PLN 3,156, and private accommodations at PLN 2,376. Children under 3 often stay free, while older children (4-7) receive a 50% discount. When packing for your mountain trip, pack warm, layered clothes, winter boots, and ski accessories.
Świeradów-Zdrój and the Beskid Mountains – peace and relaxation
Looking for a more peaceful getaway away from the crowds? Świeradów-Zdrój is famous for its radon waters, unique in Europe, and the healing properties of spruce extracts. A stay in this region also offers the opportunity to enjoy Single Track, Run Track, and cross-country skiing trails. The Beskid Mountains offer tranquility and numerous attractions for the entire family – from ski slopes to relaxing wellness areas. Hotels in this area tempt with packages including children's entertainment, evenings with live music, and bonfires with sausage roasting. It's worth bringing winter sports equipment and a swimsuit for the pool.
Holidays on the Baltic Sea – Świnoujście, Kołobrzeg, Mielno 
More and more people are choosing winter holidays by the sea , forgoing crowded mountain resorts. Winter beaches have their own charm – peace, quiet, and the air contains more iodine than in summer. Świnoujście delights in winter with its distinctive Stawa Młyny (Młyny Staircase), spa park, and picturesque promenades. In Kołobrzeg, families can enjoy entertainment lasting up to six hours a day and modern water parks. Mielno offers wide, empty beaches and a rich entertainment program. When preparing for a winter seaside getaway, pack a waterproof jacket for wind protection, a warm scarf, and a hat.
Where to go on holiday with children? The best family hotels
Traveling with children? Family-friendly hotels are an excellent base for the 2026 winter break . The best properties offer amenities such as cots, bathtubs, and bottle warmers. When searching for the perfect family hotel, consider playrooms with entertainment staff, swimming pools with paddling pools, children's menus, and dedicated entertainment programs. Among the best-rated hotels are those by the sea (Mielno, Kołobrzeg), in the mountains (Zakopane, Karpacz), and in Masuria, which offer both winter and water attractions. When traveling with children, bring their favorite toys, books, and board games for the evenings.
Where to go on winter break abroad? The trendiest choices
When planning your 2026 winter break abroad, consider what you expect from your vacation. Do you want to escape the Polish winter to warmer climes, or perhaps you dream of Alpine skiing? The destination you choose has a huge impact on the overall experience and your future memories. A holiday abroad offers the opportunity to experience new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes completely different from those you're used to. It's also a good opportunity to tailor your trip to your own travel style—from leisurely relaxation to intense sightseeing. A well-planned vacation will allow you to make the most of your free time and avoid unnecessary stress. It's also worth considering your budget, availability of transport, and attractions suitable for all participants.
Rhodes and Cyprus – winter warmth in Europe
If you're looking to escape the cold but don't want to fly overseas, Rhodes is a great choice. Winter on this Greek island means a mild Mediterranean climate with average temperatures of 16-17°C in January and February. The island is famous for its impressive historical sites, including the UNESCO-listed Medieval City of Rhodes. Pack a light raincoat, comfortable walking shoes, and a warmer sweater for the evenings. Cyprus in winter is also a great option, with temperatures around 14-18°C. You'll find unique attractions here, such as flamingos in Larnaca Salt Lake, which dries up in the summer. You'll appreciate a leisurely visit to the historical sites without the crowds, and you can even ski in the Troodos Mountains from January to March.
Alps – skiing holidays in Austria and the Czech Republic
For winter sports enthusiasts, we recommend Austria – a true skiing paradise. Tyrol offers excellent resorts like Kitzbühel, Ischgl, Sölden, and St. Anton. The season runs from November to April, and even year-round on the Hintertux Glacier. Bring appropriate ski or snowboard equipment and warm layers. For families with children, the Czech Republic is a budget-friendly alternative. The Krkonoše Mountains and Šumava offer excellent skiing conditions at affordable prices. You'll find slopes for both beginners and advanced skiers.
Lisbon and southern Europe – urban atmosphere and sun
Lisbon in January boasts a mild climate, with temperatures around 14°C and an average of 5 hours of sunshine per day. The biggest benefits are fewer tourist crowds and lower prices than in the summer season. January is also Carnival season, with colorful characters lining the streets. Bring light clothing and a raincoat in case of rain.
Dominican Republic and Mexico – Tropical Break 2026
The Dominican Republic is an all-inclusive Caribbean paradise. The highlight is a trip to Saona Island for $90 ($45 for children), with its white beaches and turquoise waters. Pack a swimsuit, sunscreen, and light clothing. Mexico in January delights with temperatures around 22°C and eight hours of sunshine a day. The water, at 21°C, is ideal for swimming and water sports. It's a great time to explore ancient Mayan and Aztec ruins or relax on the beaches of Cancun and Acapulco.
Exotic destinations for the 2026 holidays – for those craving sun
Dreaming of escaping the Polish winter? Exotic destinations for your 2026 winter break offer not only warmth but, above all, unforgettable experiences that will stay with you for years. A winter break in an exotic country allows you to recharge your batteries when Poland lacks sun and energy. It's the perfect time to swap thick jackets for lightweight clothing and slow down the pace of everyday life. Exotic destinations tempt not only with the weather but also with a wealth of cultures, flavors, and landscapes. Every day can become a new adventure – from relaxing on the beach to discovering local traditions. Such a trip promotes regeneration for both body and mind. For many people, a vacation in warm countries is also an opportunity to fulfill travel dreams put off for years. By choosing an exotic destination, you're investing in memories that will warm you long after your return.
Maldives – luxury and romance
Can you imagine waking up with a view of a turquoise ocean? The Maldives is a paradise archipelago consisting of 26 atolls and over 1,000 islands, only 200 of which are inhabited. The best time to relax is from January to April, when the weather is at its driest and sunniest. By choosing the Maldives , you're giving yourself the gift of luxurious water villas, where every day begins with spectacular sunrises. The water is around 27°C, and the sun shines for eight hours a day. Pack your suitcase with: light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and snorkeling gear.
Thailand – culture, beaches and cuisine
Thailand is a place where your senses will be in overdrive. Phuket Island offers picturesque bays with azure waters and the opportunity to snorkel among coral reefs. Did you know that Thai cuisine is considered among the best in the world? Try Pad Thai , curry, and aromatic soups that will turn every meal into a true adventure. The average temperature in January is around 33°C. When preparing for this trip, pack: breathable clothing, sandals, and mosquito repellent.
Kenya – safaris and beaches on the Indian Ocean
If you're looking for a thrill-packed vacation, Kenya combines two distinct adventures in one place. For your 2026 vacation , head to Masai Mara or Amboseli National Parks, where you'll encounter Africa's "Big Five": lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard. After unforgettable moments in the savannah, relax on the white beaches of Diani or Malindi, where the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean reach a temperature of 28°C. When planning this extraordinary trip, pack: light clothing, a hat, binoculars, a camera, and insect repellent.
What to take on winter break?
Wondering what to pack for your 2026 winter break ? Properly preparing your luggage is key to a successful vacation. Whether you choose the mountains, the sea, or 
Exotic destinations, there are a few items you should always have with you. A well-thought-out packing list will help you avoid stress and unnecessary expenses at the destination. Proper equipment affects not only comfort but also safety during your trip. It's worth matching the contents of your suitcase to your planned activities and weather conditions. This way, nothing will surprise you, and your vacation will go exactly as you planned. Packing wisely is the first step to a truly successful winter getaway.
A practical list of essentials
Documents and insurance - Personal documents are an absolute must for any trip. Bring your ID card, and if traveling outside the EU, be sure to bring your passport. Travel insurance is an investment that can save you from enormous costs – studies show that although 80% of Poles declare they have it, one in three tourists travel without it. If you're planning an active holiday in the mountains, choose ski insurance with a winter sports option. It costs about twice as much as standard insurance, but in the mountains, a rescue operation can cost up to several thousand euros!
Winter and summer clothes – match them to your destination - When planning your luggage, consider the weather at your destination:
For a trip to the mountains, prepare:
- thermal underwear - the basis of warm clothing
- thick ski socks
- gloves - take two pairs just in case
- a hat and jackets and trousers with a membrane
For a beach trip, pack:
- swimsuit
- sunscreen - especially important in the mountains and by the sea
- light clothes
Cosmetics and a travel first aid kit – Your winter cosmetics kit should include a cold cream , lip balm , and shea butter hand cream . Frost and wind can be merciless on skin. Pack your first aid kit with painkillers , motion sickness remedies , antidiarrheal medications , and plasters . It's better to be safe than sorry than to have to search for a pharmacy in a foreign country later.
Sports equipment – skis, diving mask – Going skiing? Check that your equipment is in good working order – keep the edges sharp and the base lubricated . For holidays in warm countries, bring your own diving mask – it's a matter of hygiene and comfort.
Travel gadgets – power bank, adapter, book – A power bank is essential for winter trips – batteries drain much faster in low temperatures. When traveling abroad, don't forget a travel adapter that fits the outlets in the given country. If you're traveling with a school-age child, remember to use the mSchool ID in the mObywatel app. It can be useful for discounts.
Choosing the perfect destination for your 2026 winter break is an investment in family memories that will last for years. Planning now will ensure you have the best deals and convenient dates, whether you choose a vacation by the Polish seaside, the slopes of Zakopane , or the exotic Dominican Republic . The growing popularity of the Baltic Sea during the winter season is justified. Empty beaches, iodine-rich air, and modern water parks are a perfect alternative to crowded mountain resorts. At the same time, the mountains continue to tempt winter enthusiasts with attractive prices and a wide range of activities for families with children. Dreaming of sunshine in the middle of winter? Exotic destinations offer not only warmth but, above all, unforgettable experiences. But remember the basics: always bring the appropriate documents, purchase travel insurance, and pack a travel first aid kit. When preparing your suitcase, match its contents to your chosen destination. For a trip to the mountains , pack thermal clothing, two pairs of gloves, and thick socks. For a seaside vacation, you'll need a waterproof coat to protect you from the wind and a warm scarf. For an exotic getaway, pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and light, airy clothing. Winter break is a time for building family memories and taking a break from everyday life. Whether you choose Zakopane or the Maldives , the most important thing is spending this time with loved ones and recharging your batteries for the coming months. Don't delay! Start planning your dream winter getaway for 2026 today.