Best Countries for Wintering in 2026: A Practical Guide
Why wintering has become a conscious choice rather than an «escape from the cold»
Wintering in 2026 is no longer a temporary experiment, but a deliberate lifestyle choice.
People are not just going «somewhere warm», but to places where:
- it is comfortable to live for 3–6 months;
- there is healthcare and infrastructure;
- expenses are predictable;
- it is safe and calm;
- adaptation is easy.
That is why the question «where is the best place to live in winter» continues to grow steadily.
Criteria for choosing a country for wintering
When choosing a country, it is important to evaluate more than just the climate.
Key parameters:
- winter temperature and humidity;
- safety;
- healthcare;
- cost of living;
- ease of legal residency;
- renting vs buying property.
🇹🇷 Turkey – the most balanced option for wintering
In 2026, Turkey remains the No.1 wintering destination in terms of overall balance.
Why people choose Turkey:
- mild winters (10–18 °C);
- developed infrastructure;
- excellent private healthcare;
- easy adaptation;
- the opportunity to buy an apartment in Turkey instead of paying high rent.
Best cities for wintering
Alanya
- warm climate;
- compact city;
- active Russian-speaking community;
- ideal for living 3–6 months.
Antalya
- a full-scale city;
- hospitals, schools, shopping malls;
- suitable for families and long-term living.
📌 This is exactly where property in Turkey remains liquid both in winter and summer.
🇦🇪 UAE – warmth, status, safety
The UAE is often chosen for:
- a high level of safety;
- service;
- developed infrastructure.
Cons:
- high cost of living;
- climate (very warm even in winter);
- wintering is more «urban» than relaxed.
👉 Suitable for those who combine wintering with business and income.
🇹🇭 Thailand – warmth and a relaxed pace
Thailand remains a popular wintering destination.
Pros:
- warm climate;
- low expenses;
- comfort for remote work.
Cons:
- visa nuances;
- distance;
- more difficult long-term status.
🇨🇾 Northern Cyprus – peace and a slower pace
Northern Cyprus is chosen for:
- tranquility;
- mild climate;
- a low pace of life.
Suitable for those seeking peace and stability rather than an active social environment.
Why more winter residents are buying instead of renting
In 2026, a clear trend is visible:
people are increasingly buying apartments for wintering rather than renting.
Reasons:
- rent in popular countries is rising;
- good options are taken quickly;
- purchase fixes expenses;
- property remains an asset.
How much wintering actually costs
Expenses depend on the country and format:
- renting vs buying;
- availability of infrastructure;
- utility costs.
In Turkey, ownership remains:
- predictable;
- relatively affordable;
- convenient for seasonal living.
Why winter residents increasingly choose to buy through RestProperty
Wintering is not a tourist trip, but temporary living where documents, management, and service matter.
RestProperty supports clients choosing Alanya and Antalya for wintering by offering:
- verified residential complexes with year-round infrastructure;
- a transparent expense model;
- assistance with adaptation and further property management;
- rentals and maintenance exclusively for company clients.
🔑 IMPORTANT
RestProperty fundamentally does not expand its rental department with third-party properties.
We work only with our clients’ properties, as this is what allows us to maintain service quality, reputation, and legal security.
RestProperty holds a valid government license
Taşınmaz Ticareti Yetki Belgesi No. 0702893, issued by the Ministry of Trade of Turkey on 13.12.2023.
search: Restproperty, region Antalya
Key takeaway
The best country for wintering in 2026 is the one where you are comfortable living, not just warm.
For most people:
- Turkey remains the most balanced option;
- Thailand – for a relaxed pace;
- UAE – for status and business;
- Northern Cyprus – for tranquility.
That is why wintering is increasingly becoming a conscious lifestyle rather than a temporary solution.
