Top 20 Christmas Destinations in the World
Christmas is the most magical time of the year, and there’s no better way to experience the holiday spirit than by exploring some of the world’s most festive destinations. Whether you’re dreaming of snow-covered villages, twinkling lights, and cozy Christmas markets, or prefer celebrating with sunshine and unique traditions, this guide has something for every holiday traveler.
From the charming streets of Europe’s historic cities to the breathtaking landscapes of the Americas and beyond, these top Christmas destinations offer unforgettable experiences that will make your 2024 holiday season truly special.
New York City, USA
New York City is synonymous with Christmas magic. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is the heart of it all, glowing with thousands of lights and surrounded by ice skaters, creating an enchanting winter wonderland. The city’s iconic holiday window displays transform Fifth Avenue into a festive art gallery, while Radio City Music Hall hosts the legendary Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes.
But it’s not just the glitzy decorations that make New York one of the best places to visit for Christmas. Whether you’re taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park or sipping hot chocolate as you stroll through holiday markets like Union Square and Bryant Park, New York offers something special around every corner.
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
- Holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue
- Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
- Ice skating at Central Park and Bryant Park
Lapland, Finland
If you’re looking for the ultimate Christmas vacation, there’s no better place to spend the season than Lapland, Finland. This snowy wonderland is the official home of Santa Claus, and visiting his village in Rovaniemi is a dream come true for families and Christmas lovers alike. With reindeer sleigh rides, husky safaris, and a chance to see the Northern Lights, Lapland is a magical winter escape.
The crisp winter air and cozy log cabins draped in snow offer a Christmas experience like no other. Imagine curling up by the fire after a day of dog sledding, followed by a visit to Santa’s Workshop. The festive spirit here is unforgettable, making it one of the best Christmas destinations in the world.
- Visit Santa Claus at his official home in Rovaniemi
- Reindeer sleigh rides and husky safaris
- Northern Lights viewing opportunities
- Stay in cozy igloo hotels
Vienna, Austria
Vienna’s Christmas markets are world-famous, and they add an old-world charm to your holiday season. The city transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland during Christmas, with the smell of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts wafting through the air. The Baroque architecture is beautifully illuminated with festive lights, and you can spend your days wandering through the charming Christmas markets that pop up in almost every corner.
What makes Vienna one of the best places to spend Christmas is the rich musical tradition. The Vienna Boys’ Choir and other classical music performances throughout the city provide an unforgettable soundtrack to your Christmas vacation.
- Beautiful Christmas markets across the city
- Classical concerts featuring the Vienna Boys’ Choir
- Baroque architecture adorned with Christmas lights
- Sip on mulled wine and enjoy festive treats
Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City offers one of the best Christmas vacations for those looking to be immersed in old-world charm combined with festive holiday spirit. The city’s cobblestone streets and snow-covered rooftops make it feel like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark Christmas movie. The German Christmas Market is a must-visit, where you can shop for holiday gifts, sip mulled wine, and enjoy live music.
One of the best things about Quebec City during the Christmas season is its grand decorations, particularly in Old Quebec. The entire district becomes a twinkling, snow-covered wonderland filled with cozy cafes and Christmas cheer.
- Cobblestone streets and snow-covered rooftops
- German Christmas Market
- Festive decorations in Old Quebec
- Cozy cafes and restaurants offering holiday menus
London, England
London may be best known for its iconic holiday lights that stretch across Oxford Street, but the city offers so much more for Christmas travelers. Covent Garden is transformed with enormous Christmas trees and beautiful decorations, while Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland brings festive cheer with ice skating, markets, and fairground rides.
For those who love holiday shopping, the historic department stores like Harrods and Liberty are fully decked out for the season. The best places to go for Christmas in London include the famous Christmas markets on Southbank and Leicester Square, where you can indulge in holiday treats and browse for unique gifts.
- Oxford Street Christmas lights
- Covent Garden’s giant Christmas tree and decorations
- Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
- Christmas markets at Southbank and Leicester Square
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is home to one of the oldest and most charming Christmas markets in the world, making it one of the best places to spend Christmas. Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg’s medieval streets are lined with festive wooden chalets selling everything from handmade ornaments to delicious treats. The stunning Strasbourg Cathedral serves as the backdrop to this magical scene.
The unique blend of French and German influences creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. As you walk through the snow-dusted streets, sipping on mulled wine and enjoying gingerbread, you’ll feel the holiday spirit come alive.
- One of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe
- Strasbourg Cathedral surrounded by festive stalls
- Blend of French and German holiday traditions
- Cozy Christmas decorations throughout the city
Nuremberg, Germany
When it comes to classic Christmas destinations, Nuremberg is among the best. Its Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world. Held in the medieval Old Town, this market feels like it was made for Christmas. With over 180 stalls selling everything from traditional German toys to delicious gingerbread and mulled wine, it’s a magical experience for both young and old.
What makes Nuremberg one of the best places to spend Christmas is its commitment to preserving holiday traditions. The market strictly sells only handmade goods, ensuring that you’re getting an authentic experience. The festive cheer and traditional German Christmas atmosphere make it one of the best places in the world to visit during the holiday season.
- World-famous Christkindlesmarkt
- Traditional German food like gingerbread and sausages
- Strictly handmade Christmas gifts and ornaments
- Medieval Old Town setting
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s enchanting gothic architecture sets the stage for one of the most beautiful Christmas vacations in the world. The city’s Old Town Square is transformed into a festive hub, complete with a massive Christmas tree and charming market stalls.
Prague’s Christmas market is among the best, offering local crafts, food, and live holiday performances. One of the highlights is sipping on traditional hot mead as you explore the stalls under the glow of twinkling lights. From the Charles Bridge to Prague Castle, the entire city feels like a winter fairy tale.
- Stunning Christmas market in Old Town Square
- Iconic Christmas tree and festive lights
- Traditional hot mead and holiday treats
- Explore Charles Bridge and Prague Castle during the holidays
Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich offers a Christmas holiday filled with snowy scenes and cozy festive vibes. The city comes alive with several charming Christmas markets, with the largest one taking place in the main train station. The highlight? The giant Swarovski-decorated Christmas tree that sparkles with thousands of crystals, creating a mesmerizing centerpiece.
Zurich is also known for its “Lucy” Christmas lights, which illuminate Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets. Combine this with the snow-capped Alps in the background, and Zurich easily becomes one of the best places to visit for Christmas.
- Swarovski-adorned Christmas tree at the main station
- “Lucy” Christmas lights on Bahnhofstrasse
- Charming Christmas markets
- Snow-capped Alpine scenery
Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland is the ultimate destination for those looking to embrace the magic of Christmas. Officially known as the home of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet the man in red at Santa Claus Village.
The best time to visit is during December, when the Northern Lights frequently paint the skies. Stay in one of the glass igloos for a truly unique experience, and enjoy snow-based activities such as reindeer sledding, snowmobiling, and even meeting the elves at Santa’s Workshop.
- Meet Santa at his official village
- Northern Lights viewing
- Reindeer and husky sled rides
- Stay in a glass igloo under the stars
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen radiates with warmth and charm during the Christmas season, making it one of the coziest Christmas destinations in Europe. The city’s famous Tivoli Gardens transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with thousands of twinkling lights, Christmas markets, and an ice-skating rink. The festive decorations and rides at Tivoli add a nostalgic holiday vibe, while mulled wine and Danish treats like æbleskiver (a type of pancake ball) fill the air with delightful aromas.
Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, comes alive with Christmas lights and shops selling festive wares. Exploring Copenhagen’s scenic canals and charming streets is even more magical when they are illuminated by holiday cheer.
- Tivoli Gardens’ Christmas wonderland
- Ice skating and festive rides at Tivoli
- Mulled wine and Danish Christmas treats
- Beautiful holiday lights on Strøget
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, with its baroque architecture and snow-dusted rooftops, looks like it was made for Christmas. The city’s Christmas markets, nestled against the backdrop of the Alps, are some of the most picturesque in Europe. Visitors can explore stalls filled with handmade crafts, traditional Austrian foods, and holiday trinkets, all set to the backdrop of classical music.
As the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is also rich in musical traditions during the holiday season. You can enjoy Christmas concerts in stunning settings like the Salzburg Cathedral or Mirabell Palace. Salzburg’s Silent Night Chapel is also a must-see, as it was here that the famous Christmas carol “Silent Night” was composed.
- Stunning Christmas markets with Alpine views
- Christmas concerts in Salzburg Cathedral
- Visit the Silent Night Chapel
- Festive baroque architecture covered in snow
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo may not celebrate Christmas in the traditional sense, but it offers one of the most dazzling light displays in the world during the holiday season. The city is known for its elaborate winter illuminations, with neighborhoods like Shibuya and Ginza transformed into twinkling, futuristic Christmas wonderlands. Tokyo’s Christmas lights are a sight to behold, with colorful LED displays lighting up the city’s skyscrapers and streets.
While Christmas Day in Tokyo is more about romance than family gatherings, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday. Indulge in a slice of the famous Japanese Christmas cake, a light sponge cake topped with strawberries and whipped cream, or head to one of Tokyo’s Christmas markets to experience European-style festivities with a Japanese twist.
- Futuristic winter illuminations in Shibuya and Ginza
- European-style Christmas markets
- Japanese Christmas cake tradition
- Vibrant holiday lights and displays
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh’s historic charm is amplified during the Christmas season, as the city’s streets and landmarks are adorned with festive decorations. The Edinburgh Christmas Market, set in East Princes Street Gardens, is a festive wonderland offering a variety of handmade gifts, food stalls, and carnival rides. Don’t miss the ice skating rink and the panoramic views of the city from the top of the Big Wheel.
In addition to the market, Edinburgh also hosts the spectacular “Light Night” event, where thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the city’s most iconic streets. The Christmas atmosphere, combined with Edinburgh’s medieval architecture, creates a magical setting for your holiday getaway.
- Edinburgh Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens
- “Light Night” event with city-wide illuminations
- Ice skating rink and carnival rides
- Festive events with a backdrop of medieval architecture
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik offers a truly unique Christmas experience, thanks to its stunning natural beauty and magical winter atmosphere. The city’s streets are decorated with twinkling lights, and locals celebrate the holiday with a blend of traditional Icelandic customs and modern festivities. One of the highlights is the 13 Yule Lads—mischievous troll-like figures from Icelandic folklore who leave small gifts in the shoes of children leading up to Christmas.
During your stay, you can also enjoy Christmas markets, festive concerts, and a chance to see the Northern Lights. Reykjavik’s proximity to natural wonders like the Blue Lagoon and glaciers makes it a top destination for an adventurous Christmas holiday.
- 13 Yule Lads and traditional Icelandic Christmas customs
- Christmas markets and festive concerts
- Northern Lights viewing
- Relax in the Blue Lagoon amidst snowy landscapes
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges looks like a Christmas card brought to life, with its medieval buildings, canals, and cobblestone streets covered in snow. The city’s Christmas market is one of the most charming in Europe, with its festive wooden stalls and ice rink set in the picturesque Markt Square. The smell of waffles and hot chocolate fills the air as you explore Bruges’ winding streets, making it one of the most romantic places to spend Christmas.
In addition to the Christmas market, Bruges’ beautifully lit canals and Gothic architecture create an enchanting holiday atmosphere. Be sure to take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic city center to fully immerse yourself in the festive spirit.
- Christmas market in Markt Square
- Ice skating in the heart of the city
- Beautifully lit canals and medieval architecture
- Horse-drawn carriage rides through the historic center
Chicago, USA
Chicago is known for its lively holiday celebrations, making it one of the best places to spend Christmas in the U.S. The city’s Magnificent Mile is lined with dazzling Christmas lights, while the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza brings a taste of Germany to the Windy City. Here, you can shop for unique holiday gifts, sip on mulled wine, and indulge in German sausages and pretzels.
Chicago’s Navy Pier hosts Winter WonderFest, an indoor amusement park with rides, ice skating, and festive decorations. And if you’re looking for a unique Christmas tradition, be sure to check out the ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo, where millions of lights transform the zoo into a magical holiday display.
- Christmas lights along the Magnificent Mile
- German-inspired Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza
- Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
- ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a hidden gem when it comes to Christmas destinations. The city’s medieval Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and fairy-tale architecture, is the perfect setting for a magical Christmas experience. The Tallinn Christmas Market, located in the Town Hall Square, is one of the most charming in Europe, complete with a giant Christmas tree and stalls selling handmade gifts and traditional Estonian food.
What sets Tallinn apart is its unique blend of history and modern holiday celebrations. The city’s snowy streets and Gothic spires create a postcard-perfect winter scene, making it one of the best places to visit during the holiday season.
- Medieval Old Town decorated for Christmas
- Charming Christmas market in Town Hall Square
- Traditional Estonian food and crafts
- Snow-covered streets and Gothic architecture
Munich, Germany
Munich is home to one of Germany’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets—the Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz. This market dates back to the 14th century and offers a mix of traditional Bavarian food, mulled wine, and handcrafted gifts. The city’s holiday spirit is further amplified with events like the Krampus Run, where people dress up as Alpine folklore figures to celebrate the season.
In addition to its markets, Munich’s Nymphenburg Palace and English Garden are beautifully decorated for the holidays, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center. Munich’s combination of history, tradition, and festive atmosphere makes it one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe.
- Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz
- Traditional Bavarian food and mulled wine
- Krampus Run and other Alpine traditions
- Nymphenburg Palace and English Garden decorated for Christmas
Sydney, Australia
If you’re looking for a warm Christmas getaway, Sydney offers a festive experience with an Australian twist. While there’s no snow, Sydney makes up for it with sun, surf, and plenty of holiday cheer. The city’s Christmas lights and decorations transform landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Darling Harbour into a festive spectacle.
Sydney’s Bondi Beach hosts a unique Christmas celebration where visitors can enjoy a barbecue and beach games while soaking up the sun. The city’s Christmas markets and concerts, combined with its warm summer weather, offer an unforgettable holiday experience.
- Christmas lights at the Sydney Opera House and Darling Harbour
- Christmas barbecue at Bondi Beach
- Warm summer weather and festive holiday cheer
- Holiday concerts and markets across the city
Final Word
Christmas is the most enchanting time of the year, and there’s no better way to embrace the holiday spirit than by exploring some of the world’s most festive locations. Whether you envision snow-dusted villages, sparkling lights, and quaint Christmas markets, or you favor celebrating with sunshine and unique traditions, this guide has something for every holiday traveler.
From the picturesque streets of Europe’s historic cities to the stunning landscapes of the Americas and beyond, these top Christmas destinations promise unforgettable experiences that will make your 2024 holiday season extraordinary. Let the magic of Christmas whisk you away to these remarkable festive escapes!
