The coldest cities in the world

The coldest cities in the world surprise not only because of the number of people who choose to live in them despite the sub-zero temperatures. They also hide hidden treasures that are worth visiting.

Keep these little tips in mind and enjoy them all. From Turkey to Canada, via Russia, China and Kazakhstan. These are the coldest places on the planet.

These are the coldest cities in the world

Erzurum, Turkey

Although January is best avoided when temperatures reach -7.8 degrees Celsius (18 degrees Fahrenheit), it is worth stopping in Erzurum and visiting the Yakutiye Medrese. The city’s architecture and a good Turkish tea will make you forget the cold.

Astana, Kazakhstan

The capital of Kazakhstan, Astana is one of the coldest cities in the world. In February, the thermometers reach a minimum of up to -15.9 degrees Celsius (3.4 degrees Fahrenheit). The 105-meter high Bayterek lookout tower is a mandatory stop. In winter the landscape is very different. Don’t miss the Nur Astana Mosque, the Ak Orda Presidential Palace or the Peace Palace. Fight the cold with a little kompot, a Russian hot drink that Kazakhs warm up.

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Mongolian winters are long and dark, and one of the coldest cities in the world is their capital: Ulaanbaatar. In January and February, it is not uncommon for temperatures there to drop to -24.6 degrees Celsius (-12 degrees Fahrenheit). Milk tea, to which the Mongolians add a little salt, is the traditional way of keeping warm. Traveling to Mongolia in winter isn’t the best option, but if you do, stock up on camel hair clothes.

Helsinki, Finland

Of course, the Nordic countries cannot be missing from a list of the coldest cities in the world. In Helsinki, you can even skate on the Baltic Sea, which freezes over there in winter. Or go skiing in the central park. If you are looking for an extreme and different winter experience, come to Rastila for swimming. In addition, Finnish Lapland is one of the best destinations to see the Northern Lights.

Ottawa, Canada

Canada is one of the coldest countries in the world. Perhaps that is why more than 90% of the forested areas that the Europeans found there during the colonial era have been preserved. You can get very close to nature in Canada, but be careful doing so in winter. Ottawwa reaches -10.2 degrees Celsius (13.6 degrees Fahrenheit). This makes it one of the coldest cities in the world. Coffee with maple syrup is a hot alcoholic beverage that you will surely want to try.

Vladivostok, Russia

Not only is Vladivostok one of the coldest cities in Russia and the world, it is also the easternmost point that the Trans-Siberian Railway reaches. In January, temperatures drop to -13.1 degrees Celsius (8.4 degrees Fahrenheit). A journey on this train is the dream of many railway enthusiasts. If you feel the same way, read our advice on traveling in the cold.

Tips for visiting the coldest cities in the world

If you plan to travel to the coldest cities in the world, here are some things to consider to make the most of your trip.

Protect hands, feet and head

The extremities are the most exposed to the cold and therefore tend to get cold faster. Wear quality gloves and keep your feet warm.

We mention the head because this is where most of the body heat is lost. So put on a hat to keep him warm. And watch your nose too. The blood circulation in the hands, feet and nose deteriorates due to the cold. Hence the danger of freezing.

Proper clothing is better than lots of clothing

One of the most common mistakes made by winter travelers is to stuff their suitcases with too many clothes that are not suitable for the low temperatures they will be facing. Choose suitable materials for the winter, remembering:

The thinnest layers of clothing should fit snugly against the skin.
You must be able to move your joints.

Wear breathable clothing, otherwise you will not only get cold, but also very uncomfortable.

The last layer, the outer one, should be waterproof

Some extra items you could pack

Although in this article we have mentioned some hot drinks to enjoy while visiting the coldest cities in the world, it is better not to leave anything to chance.

Tights or thin leggings. It doesn’t matter if you are a man or a woman. Another layer of pants never hurts.

A thermos flask to fill with your favorite hot drink will also keep you warm.

A bathing suit. No, we haven’t gone insane. The coldest cities in the world often have thermal baths.