Winter is coming! Is it time for a vacation? From white sandy beaches to pristine white snow hills, escaping for a Winter vacation throws open a lot of choices. Thankfully, not all of them need to break the bank. Planning a great winter vacation that is also budget-friendly is easy with careful research and intelligent decisions.

The U.S. has many fantastic vacation destinations, but traveling internationally to someplace that's fun in the winter can be an excellent choice. Quebec City in Canada is one such place. Many other locations within physical and financial reach allow the option of different weather, landscapes, and cultures to choose from as a holiday destination.

To decide the ideal destination for a winter vacation with varied climates and a budget-friendly purse, check out these 10 best cheap winter vacations from the U.S., including Quebec City.

Related: Planning Your Winter Vacation To Mexico? Check Out These 10 Underrated Destinations

10 Quebec City, Canada - A Winter Wonderland

From early December to March, the entire Quebec region has a white blanket of snow with lights, decorations, and enchanting European architecture. From one-of-a-kind Hôtel de Glace, made purely from ice, to the big winter celebration, the city is a winter wonderland unlike any other.

Ice-canoeing, colorful night parades, and snow baths fill the air of Quebec City with a happy and festive fervor. The best part about these highly entertaining activities is they're entirely free. Nightlife in Quebec is vibrant and fun, with live music, lots of bars, colorful parades, and late-night eateries catering to the midnight party crowd.

Hotels in Quebec City are surprisingly affordable for the wonderland that it is. Food and travel are comparable and don't hurt the pocket much, making it a great choice to visit for a winter vacation from the U.S. For the food-conscious traveler, Quebec cuisine primarily uses local products; however, there is a large choice of multi-cuisine diners and restaurants all over the city.

Average Daily Costs While Visiting Quebec City

• Hotel: $90 Budget stay for two
• Meals: $37 for two
• Transport: $16

9 Antigua and Barbuda - Soak In The Sun

Antigua and Barbuda are twin islands in the heart of the Caribbean and boast over 365 beaches, ensuring that every day of the year has its unique sandy retreat. Its constant tropical temperatures are perfect to escape the long winter months of North America. While sun-worshippers can kick their feet up and soak up the rays, the more adventurous can try everything from snorkeling to swimming with stingrays or zip-lining.

The Islands have much more to offer visitors, like the preserved forts that are a testament to centuries of colonial history and bustling local markets brimming with handmade crafts and exotic fruits. Visitors have plenty of unique activities and places in Antigua and Barbuda, like the 17-mile beach, Frigate Bird sanctuary, and some epic ocean lookouts, all free to explore or with nominal charges.

A thriving nightlife scene also keeps the party going on the islands long after the sun goes down. The islands' nightlife here is less of a clubbing set and more of a tropical vibe. While in Antigua and Barbuda, travelers must eat the delicious local food at any beachside street food places or the more dine-in restaurants that offer a more extensive menu.

Average Daily Costs While Visiting Antigua & Barbuda

• Hotel: $142 Budget stay for two
• Meals: $83 for two
• Transportation: $23

8 Cancun, Mexico - Time To Party

Is it a surprise that Cancun is on the list of destinations for a winter vacation? Winter is the busiest season in Cancun because it's the perfect destination for travelers from North America who want to escape the cold. Despite the rise in popularity and tourism in the past few years, Cancun remains relatively affordable to the budget-conscious traveler.

One of the benefits of visiting Cancun during the winter months is the lack of sargassum or seaweed on the beaches. Since beach activities play an essential role in tourism, this is a good time of the year for visiting Cancun. Many great beaches in Cancun include Playa Delfines, Playa Caracol, and Playa Gaviota Azul.

Visiting Chichen Itza (using shared transportation to save money) is a must-do in Cancun, as is the famous underwater museum with more than 300 life-size sculptures in the tropical sea. As a tourist, there are several surprising and unique things to do in Cancun, from visiting historical sites to finding secret rivers and pink lakes; Cancun is a complete entertainer. Cancun has fantastic restaurants and a buzzing nightlife; however, it attracts mainly a younger crowd of teenagers. Families and groups of friends traveling together can always have a great time anywhere.

Average Daily Costs While Visiting Cancun

• Hotel: $42 Budget stay for two
• Meals: $26 for two
• Transportation: $16

Related: 10 Things To Do In Madrid, Spain During The Winter Holidays

7 Seville, Spain - Splash Some Spanish Sunshine

Seville, Spain, has a Mediterranean climate and lower winter temperatures, making it an ideal time to get out and explore the city without wilting in the summer heat. The city has so many things to do, from spectacular architecture and festive celebrations to flamenco shows and delicious tapas, that it almost needs a guide to explore Seville.

Although warm and balmy, Seville can have some cold days and nights during winter, so it might be a good idea to pack a few warm clothes, just in case. After that, it's time to head out. Check out the Plaza de España, one of Seville's main attractions, head to the Roman city remains of Italica, and explore the Pueblos Blancos (the enchanting white villages in Andalucia). Most of these attractions are free, and the costs to travel to them are quite nominal.

No Seville winter break is complete without experiencing a Flamenco show like Casa de la Memoria and El Palacio Andaluz; both have different show options to choose the most budget-friendly show. Seville's laid-back atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a leisurely lunch – or bar hop from place to place! – while sampling local foods, which are relatively inexpensive.

Average Daily Costs While Visiting Seville

• Hotel: $49 Budget stay for two
• Meals: $39 for two
• Transportation: $19

6 Ottawa, Canada - Winter Magic

The Ottawa region transforms into a magical destination of snowy landscapes and lively urban areas each winter. Canada's capital is the perfect destination for a great winter vacation, with many free outdoor activities such as ice skating, snowshoeing, and skiing and cozy attractions, shops, and restaurants.

Strolling around Ottawa's downtown in winter can be a fascinating experience with the lights and multimedia shows on display, as can visiting the Ottawa Christmas market and skating through the skating trail in Gatineau Park (chargeable nominal fee of $14 - $18). The February festival of Winterlude is among the most popular winter attractions in Ottawa and a worthy reason to plan a trip.

There are also many indoor museums and art galleries to visit that are entirely free. Ottawa is surprisingly affordable, and budget travelers can plan an extended winter vacation to make maximum use of their dollars.

Average Daily Costs While Visiting Ottawa

• Hotel: $97 Budget stay for two
• Meals: $17 for two
• Transportation: $7.25

Related: The Most Stunning Caribbean Beaches To Visit This Winter

5 Montego Bay, Jamaica - Tropical Paradise

With its warm weather, blue skies, and beautiful beaches, Montego Bay in Jamaica is one of the best places for Americans to escape the winter blues. It can also be an excellent place for a budget-friendly vacation for all the right reasons. Offering some of the best beaches in the world, picturesque views, nearby lush rainforests, and historical remnants, Montego Bay can be an incredible vacation for solo and group travelers.

Doctors Cave Beach and Buccaneer Beach, which is a small quiet beach, are perfect places for an authentic Jamaican beach experience; visitors can also try the delicious local cuisine at the restaurants and bars that line the coastline. History lovers can head to the historic Fort Montego, remnants of an old British fort built in the 18th century near downtown Montego. These are all activities that are free to do.

Montego Bay offers various beach bars, sports bars, nightclubs, lounges, and more to experience Jamaica's nightlife. Pier 1 is one of the many spots in Montego Bay that's great to hang out during the day and evening when it transforms into a nightlife party place.

Average Daily Costs While Visiting Montego Bay

• Hotel: $100 Budget stay for two
• Meals: $84 for two
• Transportation: $15

4 Tallinn, Estonia - North Pole Magic

The capital of Estonia, Tallinn, is often called the most beautiful city in the Baltics. A trip to Tallinn in winter may be a bit cold, but it is worthwhile and relatively affordable compared to many of its European neighbors. Estonia is often overlooked as a European destination for vacations, but it's like a fairy-tale land that doesn't exist, except that it does! Sledding with huskies, ice fishing, ice skating, and even walking behind the frozen Jägala waterfall (an absolute must-do) are all commonplace and free activities in Tallinn.

Tallinn is cold in winter, with temperatures staying sub-zero at all times. Still, it is entirely accessible, and visitors can take advantage of the many great bars, restaurants, and hot cups of coffee in the cafes there. The Tallinn Town Hall Square Christmas market is so magical that it feels like the North Pole!

The most traditional Estonian and local foods, such as sprats (fish), verivorst (blood sausage), rosolje (potato and beetroot salad), and dumplings, are lip-smackingly delicious or something a little sweeter - find some mulled wine and gingerbread at the market! Nothing is quite as wintry and festive as an ice skating rink in the middle of a beautiful city like Tallinn, so visitors must check out the Uisuplats Ice Rink.

Average Daily Costs While Visiting Tallinn

• Hotel: $40 Budget stay for two
• Meals: $38 for two
• Transportation: $13

3 Vilnius, Lithuania - A White Dream

It gets pretty cold in Vilnius, Lithuania, or freezing around the winter months of January and February. Still, a winter vacation means lots of cold and snow for some. Lithuania is a great place to experience the dream of a white Christmas, so December might be the best time to visit for those who want a winter and Christmas vacation.

Some super cool things to do in Lithuania during winter include skating on Lake Galve or a little historic town and lake resort called Trakai, hot air ballooning, visiting the festive markets, and warming up in a steam bath before taking a very quick dip in a nearby frozen lake (not for the faint-hearted). Lithuania's food includes lots of root veg, carbs, meat, and dairy, which are almost necessary after all the physical activities in the cold. Vilnius is a superbly preserved Old Town known for its Baroque architecture and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994.

Remarkably affordable hotels and other entertainment options make Vilnius a top attraction for cheap winter vacations for Americans.

Average Daily Costs While Visiting Vilnius

• Hotel: $33 Budget stay for two
• Meals: $42 for two
• Transportation: $9

Related: This is Why A Winter Holiday In Belize Is Worth Trying

2 Puerto Rico - Sunny Winter Destination

Puerto Rico offers everything needed for a warm and affordable winter vacation, from sunny weather and stunning beaches to historic sites and exciting nightlife. With over 700 miles of coastline, Puerto Rico enjoys plenty of sun, sea, and sand, making it a perfect winter vacation destination with many beach activities.

Most beaches are free to enter and offer public amenities like showers, picnic areas, and lifeguard stations. Ancient caves and historic forts are some of the top tourist attractions in Puerto Rico. Visiting El Morro Fort and San Cristobal Fort while traveling through San Juan's streets is a popular activity for visitors to admire the Spanish colonial history and architecture. Most attractions are free, while some may charge a nominal fee to access.

A trip to Puerto Rico is incomplete without trying some of the island's delicious food, like Tostones (fried plantains) to traditional dishes and Mofongo (mashed plantains with garlic), and Arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas); there's always something available for everyone. Nightlife in Puerto Rico ranges from buzzing hotel nightclubs to low-key beach bars to roadside chinchorros (food stands) that transform into lively and free-to-attend dance parties after dark.

Average Daily Costs While Visiting Puerto Rico

• Hotel: $121 Budget stay for two
• Meals: $39 for two
• Transportation: $18

1 Berlin, Germany - Holiday With History

Berlin, Germany, goes all out for the winter holiday season. From affordable airfares to cheaper hotels, festive streets, and delectable world cuisines, winter in Berlin can be the best option for a cheap and fantastic winter vacation.

It gets cold in Berlin during winter (0 to -10 C), so warm clothes and boots must be plenty for the trip. Ideally, a hotel near the subway station is an intelligent way to go, so time is not spent waiting for a bus or taxi in the cold.

Berlin is a city steeped in history. Palaces, churches, and World War II buildings are the prime attractions in this historical city. The former Berlin Wall is now the world's longest open art gallery; this and many such amazing visual stories can be all a part of a winter vacation here.

A vibrant city, Berlin is full of fun activities and things to do. With traditional holiday lights, Christmas markets, and music concerts, Berlin has a light-hearted side that makes for a well-rounded holiday destination.

The famous German Schnitzel is available everywhere, from street vendors to the classiest restaurants. Berlin's nightlife is a culture, and partying is a lifestyle. As many revelers will confirm, Berlin's nightlife is exhilarating, addicting, and surprising. A vacation to this melting pot of history with great food and lively music is on top of the list of cheap winter vacation destinations from the U.S.

Average Daily Cost While Visiting Berlin

• Hotel: $53 Budget stay for two
• Meals: $55 for two
• Transportation: $19