Have you ever wondered what it feels like to be in the coldest country in the world? Imagine standing among snow-covered mountains, feeling icy winds, and experiencing temperatures that can drop as low as -68°C (-90°F) in places like Oymyakon, Russia- the coldest inhabited spot on Earth.
Despite the freezing weather, these countries offer stunning natural beauty and unique adventures, from dog sledding in Svalbard to skiing in Kyrgyzstan.
Top 10 Coldest Countries in the World
This blog will take you through the top 10 coldest countries in the world, sharing what makes each one special and why they deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
1. Canada (-5.35°C/22.37°F)
Canada claims the title of the coldest country in the world, with huge territories extending up into the Arctic. Visitors can enjoy some pretty amazing winter experiences here, like watching the Northern Lights across the Yukon sky or joining locals at Quebec's Winter Carnival.
For those looking for adventure, there's dog sledding across fresh snow or ice fishing on frozen lakes. Canada’s national parks turn into winter wonderlands, you might even spot moose or bears if you're lucky.
Best Time to Visit: November to March is ideal for winter sports and Northern Lights viewing, with December and January offering the coldest and most magical snowy landscapes.
2. Russia (-5.10°C/22.82°F)
Russia’s enormous landmass experiences some of the most extreme temperatures on Earth, particularly across Siberia. Lake Baikal becomes a natural wonder during the winter months as its crystal-clear ice creates mystical blue formations.
The Trans-Siberian Railway offers the ultimate cold-weather journey, while cities like St. Petersburg showcases Russian culture and how they have created magnificent cultural treasures despite the harsh climate.
Local winter traditions include ice swimming, banya (Russian sauna) sessions, and hearty cuisine perfectly suited to cold weather.
Fun Fact: Oymyakon, Russia, holds the record for the lowest temperature ever recorded in a permanently inhabited place: -67.8°C (-89.96°F).
3. Mongolia (-0.70°C/30.74°F)
Mongolia is the third coldest country in the world, with winter temperatures often dropping to -40°C (-40°F). Known for its vast steppes and nomadic culture, Mongolia offers a unique experience of living close to nature. Winters are harsh, but the country’s open landscapes and clear blue skies create stunning views.
Visitors can stay in traditional gers (yurts), explore the Gobi Desert’s winter beauty, or attend the annual Ice Festival on Lake Khovsgol, where locals showcase ice sculpting and traditional games.
Best Time to Visit: November to March is the coldest period, perfect for witnessing Mongolia’s snowy landscapes and participating in winter festivals.
4. Norway (1.50°C/34.70°F)
Norway transforms into a snow-covered paradise during the winter months. The dramatic Lofoten Islands become even more spectacular when covered with snow. Tromsø, often called the “Gateway to the Arctic,” is one of the best places to witness the Northern Lights.
Norway’s winter infrastructure makes cold-weather travel surprisingly comfortable, from cozy mountain lodges to efficient transport systems.
Locals embrace the concept of “koselig” (coziness) through candlelight, warm drinks, and gatherings that make even the darkest winter days feel special. Norway is a key destination when exploring the coldest countries in the world.
Best Time to Visit: December to March offers the best chances to see the Northern Lights and enjoy winter sports.
5. Kyrgyzstan (1.55°C/34.79°F)
Kyrgyzstan remains relatively undiscovered by most, offering adventurous travelers untouched mountain landscapes without the crowds. The country’s Soviet-era ski resorts provide surprisingly good conditions at a fraction of European prices.
Winter visitors often experience legendary Central Asian hospitality, with locals eager to share warming cups of tea and hearty traditional dishes. The snow-covered Tian Shan mountains create stunning backdrops for winter photography and outdoor adventures.
Fun Fact: Kyrgyzstan’s ski resorts, like Karakol, are known for their powder snow and affordable prices compared to the European Alps.
6. Finland (1.70°C/35.06°F)
Finland embraces its cold climate with remarkable creativity. Lapland is famous as the official home of Santa Claus and offers activities like reindeer sleigh rides, husky safaris, and ice fishing, while the glass igloos and ice hotels transform frigid temperatures into unique accommodation experiences.
Beyond these, visitors can enjoy thrilling snowmobile rides, cross-country skiing across snowy trails, and even Arctic swimming for the brave-hearted. Finland’s innovative ways to enjoy it could make it the most fun and coldest country in the world.
Best Time to Visit: December to February is the peak winter season, perfect for Christmas festivities and Northern Lights viewing.
7. Iceland (1.75°C/35.15°F)
Known for its glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs, Iceland offers a unique mix of icy landscapes and warm natural baths. The Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, with its floating icebergs, is one of the country’s most stunning sights during winter.
Road trips along Iceland’s south coast give black sand beaches next to white snow, creating stunning and almost unreal views. In winter, the dark skies make it the best time to see the Northern Lights, especially since there is no midnight sun like in summer.
Fun Fact: Iceland’s geothermal pools, like the Blue Lagoon, provide warm relaxation even in freezing temperatures.
8. Tajikistan (2.00°C/35.60°F)
Tajikistan is perfect for adventurous travelers looking to explore the stunning Pamir Mountains without the crowds and high prices found in other places. The ancient Silk Road routes look magical when covered in snow, and traditional villages feel like they’re frozen in time under the winter sky.
While the facilities may be simple, visitors are often welcomed warmly by local families who share homemade bread and endless cups of tea around cozy wood-burning stoves. The country’s rugged and beautiful landscape stands out even more against the clear, cold winter backdrop.
Best Time to Visit: December to February offers the best snowy mountain scenery and quiet, authentic experiences.
9. Sweden (2.10°C/35.78°F)
The combination of cozy traditions and stunning natural beauty makes Sweden a wonderful place to experience winter. Each year, the ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi is rebuilt with fresh ice sculptures and creative designs from different artists.
In Stockholm, the archipelago turns magical in winter as the water and islands freeze in unique patterns, making ferry rides especially scenic. Outside the cities, you can try cross-country skiing, ice skating, or hiking through snowy forests.
Who wouldn’t wish to visit this coldest country in the world?
Fun Fact: The ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi is rebuilt every year using thousands of tons of ice and snow, making it a living work of art.
10. Estonia (5.10°C/41.18°F)
Estonia rounds out the top ten coldest countries. Its medieval towns, such as Tallinn, look magical when dusted with snow. Estonia’s forests and national parks provide excellent winter hiking and cross-country skiing opportunities. The country’s rich history and charming architecture make it a cozy and inviting cold-weather destination.
Best Time to Visit: December to February offers snowy landscapes and festive holiday markets in Tallinn’s Old Town.
Final Thoughts: Which is the Coldest Country in the world?
As we approach the end of our journey through the coldest countries in the world, it’s clear that the answer to “which is the coldest country in the world” depends on how you measure it.
By average annual temperature, Canada usually claims the top spot, with its vast northern regions experiencing some of the most consistently frigid conditions on the planet. However, Russia’s Oymyakon stands out for recording some of the lowest temperatures ever seen in any inhabited place, earning it the nickname “Pole of Cold”.
These coldest countries in the world reward travelers with uncrowded attractions, unique seasonal activities, and perspectives on cultures that have not just survived but thrived in extreme environments.
Before booking your cold-weather adventure, check visa requirements for your destination country. Visa2fly can handle all necessary visa arrangements, allowing you to focus on preparing for the remarkable experiences that await you in these winter wonderlands.