| 1. Dubai, UAE |
| 2. Bangkok, Thailand |
| 3. Seoul, South Korea |
| 4. Lima, Peru |
| 5. Istanbul, Turkey |
With the arrival of autumn, travellers around the world are looking for the perfect destinations to enjoy winter sun or explore cultural hotspots. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, Priority Pass has you covered.
Drawing on Priority Pass' lounge visit data from the past two years (specifically between September and February) we’ve handpicked the top destinations for autumn and winter travel. From exploring iconic landmarks to discovering local hidden gems, here are our must-visit locations.
1. Dubai, UAE
Why visit in Autumn/Winter?Dubai’s pleasant temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 30°C, make it an ideal destination to escape the winter chill. You can bask in the sunshine, while the summer heat is a distant memory.
Things to Do:
Beyond the obvious wonders like the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, Dubai has some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Visit the Al Fahidi Historic District, where you’ll find a maze of old streets, quaint museums, and traditional Arabian tea houses. For a break from the city’s glitz, spend a day at the Hatta Mountain Reserve for hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking. Foodies should book a table at Al Fanar, one of the best places to sample Emirati cuisine, or visit Bur Dubai’s textile souk for authentic handmade goods and local snacks.
Add adventure, culture, or relaxation to your itinerary and enjoy the very best of Dubai by exploring and booking top-rated activities through Priority Pass’s Destination Deals. Whether it’s a thrilling desert safari, a luxury yacht cruise, or tickets to the Burj Khalifa, we’ve got exclusive offers to make your holiday even more memorable.
Travel Tips:
Try to visit during Dubai Shopping Festival in December and January for unbeatable shopping deals. Make the most of your time at Dubai International Airport with Priority Pass lounges, where you can unwind in Sleep 'n Fly sleep pods or enjoy immersive gaming experiences at Game Space before your flight.
2. Bangkok, Thailand
Why visit in Autumn/Winter?From December onwards, Bangkok’s cool, dry season arrives, making it the best time to explore the city without the heat and humidity. It’s also the perfect period to avoid the monsoon rains.
Things to Do:
Bangkok is a treasure trove of experiences. While tourists flock to the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, dig deeper and explore Talat Noi, one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, filled with eclectic street art and hidden cafés. For a relaxing afternoon, take a boat trip through the Thonburi canals, and immerse yourself in the quiet, traditional lifestyle still thriving on the waterways. Bangkok’s rooftop bars, like Above Eleven and Vertigo, offer unparalleled views of the skyline, while the local night markets, such as Rot Fai Market, are must-visits for street food enthusiasts – for the adventurous foodies make sure you try the roasted scorpions.
From guided temple tours to immersive street food adventures or exploring the city from the river, take advantage of Priority Pass's Destination Deals to enjoy our curated selection of experiences. Explore and book unforgettable experiences to fully immerse yourself in Bangkok's vibrant culture and culinary scene.
Travel Tips:
Make sure you bring breathable clothing and sunscreen as temperatures can still be quite warm during the day. At Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Intl airport, visit the Miracle Lounge for a relaxing retreat before your next flight or stop at the Coral Finest Business Lounge where you can enjoy a 15-minute massage or a cocktail crafted by professional mixologists.
3. Seoul, South Korea
Why visit in Autumn/Winter?Seoul’s winters are cold, but the city is transformed into a magical wonderland. Festive lights decorate the streets, and events such as the Seoul Lantern Festival create a unique seasonal charm.
Things to Do:
Seoul offers an enchanting blend of history and modernity. While the Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village are iconic, consider heading to the Jongmyo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can experience the serene beauty of Korea’s Confucian traditions. For something more modern, visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, an architectural marvel by Zaha Hadid, or explore the quirky fashion district of Hongdae. Winter is the perfect time to savour traditional comfort food such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) or visit Noryangjin Fish Market for the freshest seafood experiences.
Travel Tips:
Seoul can get bitterly cold, so pack warm clothing, including a good winter coat. Travelling to Seoul? Enjoy premium amenities and a peaceful atmosphere at one of our Priority Pass lounges. Before flying home, stop by Matina Lounge at Seoul Incheon International Airport, where you’ll find zones for every type of traveller, from a library area to a kids’ zone, all with the added fun of robots (Mati & Tina) helping clear tables.
4. Lima, Peru
Why visit in Autumn/Winter?Lima enjoys summer from December to March, making it an ideal winter escape for those craving sun, with temperatures hovering between 20°C and 26°C.
Things to Do:
While Miraflores and Barranco are popular with tourists, don’t miss exploring Pueblo Libre, a lesser-known district home to the Larco Museum, which showcases 5,000 years of Peruvian history through ancient artefacts. Food is a huge part of Lima’s identity, and the city is often regarded as the culinary capital of South America. For a special dining experience, try the renowned Maido for Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian fusion) cuisine or Central, frequently listed as one of the world’s best restaurants. Street food tours are also a great way to sample local delicacies like anticuchos (grilled beef heart) and picarones (Peruvian doughnuts).
Travel Tips:
Lima’s traffic can be overwhelming, so plan your city trips during non-peak hours. Before you embark on your adventure to Lima, recharge at our Priority Pass lounges for a seamless travel experience. At Lima Jorge Chavez International Airport, Priority Pass Members can unwind at the Hanaq VIP Lounge or sample locally inspired cuisine at El Salon by Newrest.
5. Istanbul, Turkey
Why visit in Autumn/Winter?Istanbul’s mild autumn makes it an ideal time for sightseeing, while winter brings a dusting of snow, creating a picturesque backdrop for the city’s stunning architecture.
Things to Do:
Discovering Istanbul means immersing yourself in its unique position as the bridge between Europe and Asia. Alongside the famous Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, take a detour to Balat, a colourful neighbourhood known for its steep streets and Ottoman-era houses. Visit Çemberlitaş Hamamı, one of the city’s oldest Turkish baths, for a rejuvenating experience. Winter is also the perfect time to sip Turkish tea in the cosy Café Privato, located near Galata Tower, or to enjoy traditional Turkish breakfast (kahvaltı) with panoramic Bosphorus views.
Travel Tips:
Pack comfortable shoes, as Istanbul’s hilly terrain means a lot of walking. November offers great weather and fewer crowds. At Istanbul Airport, Priority Pass Members can relax in one of three lounges, including the IGA Lounge, which offers an outdoor terrace, international cuisine, and free massages.
From luxurious lounges to hidden gems, these top destinations will make your autumn and winter travels unforgettable. Wherever you choose to explore, Priority Pass ensures that your journey is seamless and enjoyable from start to finish.