Christmas is a magical time of year, and there are plenty of festive destinations worldwide to celebrate it in style.
If you’re looking for somewhere special to spend Christmas this year, why not consider one of these best places to travel?
From Switzerland’s snow-capped mountains to Bali’s sun-soaked beaches, there’s a Christmas destination to suit everyone.
So, whether you’re looking for a traditional White Christmas or something a little more unique, check out our list of the best places to travel at Christmas.
1. New York City, USA
No place does Christmas like New York City. From the towering Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to the festive window displays on Fifth Avenue, NYC is decked out in its holiday best come December.
There’s also plenty of holiday cheer to be found off the beaten path – head to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn to see some of the city’s most over-the-top Christmas lights displays.
And of course, no trip to New York at Christmas would be complete without seeing The Nutcracker ballet or taking a spin around the ice rink at Central Park.
2. Lapland, Finland
For a truly magical Christmas experience, there’s nowhere quite like Lapland.
This snow-covered region of Finland is home to Santa Claus Village, where you can meet the man himself and go on a reindeer sleigh ride.
You can also visit the stunning Ice Hotel, take a husky sledding tour or go on a fairytale-like Aurora Borealis safari in search of the Northern Lights.
Lapland is sure to get you into the Christmas spirit with its festive atmosphere and winter wonderland setting.
3. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh comes alive during the holidays with its famous Christmas markets, which sell everything from traditional Scottish gifts to delicious festive food.
You can also skate at the open-air ice rink in Princes Street Gardens, see a Christmas pantomime at the Edinburgh Playhouse or take a tour of the city’s best Christmas lights displays.
For something truly unique, try a Ghost and Ghouls walking tour – it’s said that Edinburgh is one of the most haunted cities in Europe.
4. Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg is renowned for its huge Christkindlesmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest and best-loved Christmas markets.
Dating back to 1628, the market is held in the picturesque Old Town and sells a wide range of traditional German Christmas products.
From wooden toys and handmade ornaments to gingerbread and mulled wine, there’s something for everyone at this festive market.
5. Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg in France is known as the “Capital of Christmas” thanks to its magnificent Christmas markets, which are among the largest and oldest in Europe.
Dating back to 1570, the markets sell a range of traditional French Christmas products, including hand-blown glass baubles, nativity scenes, and festive foods like foie gras and pain d’epices (spiced bread).
Strasbourg is also home to the world’s tallest Christmas tree, which is illuminated with 20,000 lights every year.
6. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen comes alive during the holidays with its festive Tivoli Gardens, which open for an extended season from mid-November to early January.
The park is decked out with Christmas lights and decorations, and there’s a wide range of rides and attractions to enjoy, including an old-fashioned carousel and a wooden rollercoaster.
You can also skate at the park’s open-air ice rink, see a traditional Danish pantomime or enjoy a festive meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes.
7. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is the perfect place to enjoy a traditional White Christmas. The city’s picturesque Old Town is decorated with twinkling lights and festive decorations, while the surrounding Alps provide a stunning backdrop.
There’s also an outdoor ice rink in the city center, and you can take a scenic cable car ride to the top of Uetliberg Mountain for breathtaking views of Zurich and the surrounding area.
8. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a popular Christmas destination thanks to its festive atmosphere and stunning architecture.
The city’s Old Town Square is transformed into a huge Christmas market selling traditional Czech products like handmade glass ornaments and wooden toys.
You can also see the world’s largest Nativity scene at the Old Town Hall, go ice skating in front of the stately Powder Tower or take a cruise down the Vltava River to see Prague’s best Christmas lights displays.
9. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is known for its elegant Christmas markets, which sell a range of traditional Austrian products, from hand-painted Advent calendars to handmade wooden toys.
You can also visit the world’s largest Ferris wheel, the Wiener Riesenrad, enjoy a festive meal at one of the city’s many restaurants, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Vienna.
For something truly unique, try a tour of the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas market – it’s said to be one of the best in Europe.
10. San Francisco, California, USA
San Francisco is one of the best places to travel during Christmas. The city is full of holiday cheer, with festive lights and decorations everywhere you look.
There are also plenty of fun things to do, like ice skating in Union Square or visiting the world-famous Christmas Tree at Justin Herman Plaza.
If you’re looking for a unique gift, make sure to check out the holiday markets at Ghirardelli Square or Fisherman’s Wharf. And of course, no trip to San Francisco would be complete without sampling some of the city’s best food and wine.
So, if you’re looking for a festive place to celebrate Christmas, make sure to add San Francisco to your list of the best places to travel during Christmas.
Best Places to Travel in Asia on Christmas
Christmas is a great time to travel and see some amazing places in Asia. Here are five of the best places to travel for Christmas in Asia:
1. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a great place to visit during Christmas because of all the amazing lights and decorations. The city comes alive during this time of year and is a must-see for anyone looking for a festive place to travel.
2. Hong Kong
Hong Kong is another great option for traveling during Christmas. The city is full of energy and excitement during this holiday season, and there are plenty of things to see and do. There is something for everyone in Hong Kong from markets to temples at Christmas time.
3. Shanghai, China
Shanghai, China is a beautiful city to visit during Christmas time. The skyline is illuminated with festive lights, and the streets are full of holiday cheer. There are also many great Christmas markets to explore, making Shanghai a perfect place to travel for anyone looking for a festive and fun-filled trip.
4. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur is a great place to travel for Christmas if you want something different. The city comes alive with lights and decorations and has many unique cultural experiences. From visiting temples to trying new food, Kuala Lumpur is a great choice for anyone looking for an unforgettable Christmas vacation.
5. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is another great option for those looking for a fun and festive place to travel to during Christmas. The city is full of energy and excitement, and there are plenty of things to see and do. From markets to temples, Bangkok is a great choice for anyone looking for a memorable Christmas vacation.
6. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul is a beautiful city to visit during Christmas time. The skyline is illuminated with festive lights, and the streets are full of holiday cheer. There are also many great Christmas markets to explore, making Seoul a perfect place to travel for anyone looking for a festive and fun-filled trip.
7. Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is another great choice for traveling during Christmas time. The city is full of energy and excitement during this holiday season, and there are plenty of things to see and do. From markets to temples, Taipei is a great choice for anyone looking for an unforgettable Christmas vacation.
8. Singapore
Singapore is a great place to visit during Christmas time because of all the amazing lights and decorations. The city really comes alive during this time of year and is a must-see for anyone looking for a festive place to travel.
9. Manila, Philippines
Manila is a great place to travel for Christmas if you want something different. The city comes alive with lights and decorations, and there are also many unique cultural experiences to be had. From visiting temples to trying new food, Manila is a great choice for anyone looking for an unforgettable Christmas vacation.
10. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is another great option for those looking for a fun and festive place to travel to during Christmas. The island is full of energy and excitement, and there are plenty of things to see and do. From markets to beaches, Bali is a great choice for anyone looking for a memorable Christmas vacation.
Thoughts and Conclusion
The best places to travel during the Christmas season often offer a mix of traditional holiday activities and a festive atmosphere, along with plenty of sunshine and warmer temperatures. Popular choices include Orlando, Florida; Maui, Hawaii; San Diego, California; and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
These destinations offer various things to do and see during the holidays, from Mickey Mouse and Santa Claus at Disney World to watching the sunset over the ocean in Maui.
So whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family vacation or a romantic getaway, one of these best places to travel during Christmas is sure to fit the bill.
