Winter Routes

The idea of ​​vacation always reminds people of the summer months. Of course, the taste of summer is different. Sea, beach, sun…? Who would not want that! But you don't have to wait for summer to go on holiday. You can also take advantage of the winter months and enjoy the snow to the fullest. We have compiled for you 10 wonderful places where you can enjoy the white snow in winter ☃️

1. Uludag / BURSA

Our country's first and most famous ski resort, Uludag, continues to be popular and ambitious at all times. With a height of 2543 metres, thickness of snow in Uludag in winter reaches 3 meters. A total of 13 main tracks for all levels can be found in Uludag. It is 240 km far from İstanbul,and Ankara is 380 km away. Located 40 km away from the city center of Bursa, there are minibuses leaving frequently for the famous ski resort. Especially at times of festivals in Winter months you can find quite colorful nightlife at Uludağ. Think of many parties, events and concerts. Even bbq on snow ? By the way don't forget to see the beautiful and historical city of Bursa, one of Ottoman capitals, fascinates with its historic heritage and traditional cuisine.

2. Abant / Bolu

In every season of the year Abant is a place that offers fantastic scenery. Especially snowy winter season has views from a postcard, as well as the spring time when pine trees around the lake fills sweet scents into your nostrils. You can take a walk, get on a horse carriage for a romantic ride on the asphalt road around the lake. You can even ride horses and camels. There are bbq points and picnic areas in every corner of the Lake. Abant is very generous in terms of accommodation. In addition to the luxury hotels overlooking the lake, you can also rent bungalow houses. There is even a camp area for about 330 tents. Abant is 3 hours drive from Ankara and 2 from İstanbul. This makes it very attractive for weekend getaways.

3. Yedigöller / BOLU

Yedigöller meaning seven lakes is an indispensable destination for the autumn and winter months. 42 km from Bolu's city centre, Yedigöller is close to both İstanbul and Ankara and offers its visitors an opportunity for great weekend getaway. Yedigöller, as the name suggests, consists of seven different sizes and deep lakes. Yedigöller received the National Park status in 1965. This beautiful region, offering all shades of green and brown, is famous for its marvellous views of the lakes and is a must-see especially for photographers.

4. Palandöken / ERZURUM

Located only 10 minutes from the centre of the city center, Erciyes offers its visitors comfortable accomoditio even in the center. 3185 meters high, Mount Palandöken is under snow in large part of the year. The facility has even an artificial snow system for the times when there is less snow. A total of 21 tracks for different difficulty levels, Palandöken also offers activities like paragliding and paint ball. Palandöken with a offers powder form of snow which is highly regarded by professionals. The biggest disadvantage is the cold and dry air up to -30 degrees. Don't forget to try Erzurum's famous cuisine and cağ kebab on the spot

5. Erciyes / KAYSERI

Mount Erciyes, with a height of 3916 meters, overlooks Central Anatolia. Erciyes, which reminds one of Japan's famous Mount Fuji with its appearance, has been one of the biggest favorites of ski lovers in recent years. It is also very easy to reach Erciyes, which reaches a snow depth of approximately 2 meters during the winter months. You can reach the facility from Kayseri airport in just half an hour. Another great advantage of Erciyes is its prices, which are quite reasonable compared to popular places such as Uludağ. You can rent an entire ski set for only 30 TL per day. Mount Erciyes is only an hour away from the Cappadocia region, to whose formation it made a great contribution. Announcement to those who will draw a route?

6. Bansko / Bulgaria

Chosen Europe's top ski resort and 2014 Winter Olympics host Bansko, gets attention by its closeness to our country and cheaper prices compared to other European resorts. Bansko has a total of 17 ski tracks and is 600 km drive from İstanbul. From the capital Sofia, you can reach after a two-hour journey by plane to this quaint and historic mountain town. The prices in town are very reasonable for both shopping and dining. You can easily find accomodition in the town . One final word, you need a Bulgarian or Schengen visa to visit Bansko.

7. Zermatt / SWITZERLAND

If your choice is a foreign spot, Zermatt on Switzerland Alps can be one of your favorite spots. Zermatt is one of the most ideal spots for skiing as it has a 360 kms of track length offering best options for skiers from every levels. Offering great views of Switzerland Alps, the town of Zermatt gives you a peaceful country atmosphere. The region can be reached by train from Zurich, Geneva and Basel.

8. Chamonix / FRANSA

Located on the outskirts of Mont Blanc, Europe's highest Hill, at French Alps, the town of Chamonix is a paradise for those who love skiing and snowboarding. Being France's oldest ski resort founded in 1924, Chamonix is the first Winter Olympics host. At the peak of the Alps, the region is quite generous with breathtaking views of the Alps for those who love taking photographs.

9. Lapland / FINLAND

Located in northern Finland, Lapland, is a region where you can feel the climate of the arctic up to your bones. Temperatures can fall down to -40 degrees. But Lapland is a place where you can enjoy the taste of winter with snow-covered, wood fire heated huts, spectacular nature, and especially the northern lights. Especially the Christmas time is quite colorful in Lapland. Even a Father Christmas town exists. In Lapland you can tour the beautiful habitat by snow motors and make a ride on slides pulled by Siberian wolves just like the novel White Fang. You can reach Lapland by making a transfer from the capital Helsinki.

10. Prague / CZECH REPUBLIC

With its intact medieval architecture, narrow streets, Vltava River passing through and the romantic atmosphere Prague is the last route that we are going to suggest you. Although Prague is quite cold in Winter time, it is one of the best places that winter looks good. After a tour of this historic city, sipping your coffee in a warm atmosphere at one of the chic cafes of the city will make you happy. You can find scheduled flights from to Prague from İstanbul at very affordable prices.