The Christmas season transforms the world into a magical landscape of twinkling lights, festive markets, and joyful celebrations. For those seeking to experience the holiday spirit in different corners of the globe, choosing the right destination is key.
Whether you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, a beachside holiday, or a cultural winter wonderland, this list of 20 Christmas holiday destinations offers something for every type of traveler. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the best places to celebrate Christmas..
Vienna, Austria
Vienna’s Christmas markets, classical concerts, and stunning architecture create a picture-perfect holiday setting.
Nuremberg, Germany
Home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world, Nuremberg offers traditional holiday charm with its famous Christkindlesmarkt.
New York City, USA
The Big Apple is iconic at Christmas with the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, window displays along Fifth Avenue, and festive shows.
Lapland, Finland
Experience a true winter wonderland in Lapland, home of Santa Claus, reindeer sleigh rides, and the Northern Lights.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Christmas markets, snowy bridges, and Gothic architecture provide a magical backdrop for holiday festivities.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is ideal for those seeking a unique Christmas with quirky traditions, spectacular landscapes, and chances to see the Aurora Borealis.
Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City offers a charming Christmas experience with its cobblestone streets, French-Canadian traditions, and snowy ambiance.
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo dazzles with its spectacular Christmas lights, unique holiday treats, and festive shopping districts.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Enjoy traditional Scottish celebrations, Christmas markets, and Hogmanay (New Year’s) festivities in Edinburgh.
Bethlehem, Palestine
For a spiritual experience, visit Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, with its Christmas Eve Mass at the Church of the Nativity.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and setting for “The Sound of Music,” offers charming Christmas markets and carol singing.
Rome, Italy
Celebrate Christmas in the Vatican City with the Pope’s Midnight Mass, alongside Rome’s historic sites and Italian festive foods.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is home to the Tivoli Gardens Christmas market and boasts Danish hygge, festive lights, and holiday cheer.
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg’s Christmas market, one of the oldest in Europe, and its blend of French and German cultures make it a unique holiday destination.
London, England
London shines with its Christmas lights, ice skating rinks, and traditional holiday shows and pantomimes.
Aspen, USA
Aspen offers a classic white Christmas with its ski slopes, winter lodges, and vibrant holiday atmosphere.
Melbourne, Australia
Enjoy a summer Christmas with beach celebrations, festive events, and warm weather in Melbourne.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, offers Arctic adventures and festive cheer in the heart of Lapland.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam’s festive light installations, holiday markets, and canal-side celebrations create a joyful atmosphere.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a medieval wonderland during Christmas with its markets, ice sculpture festivals, and Belgian chocolates.
These 20 destinations offer some of the best Christmas experiences around the world, each with its unique charm and traditions.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the heart of European winter markets, bask in the sunny glow of a Southern Hemisphere Christmas, or explore festive traditions in historic cities, there’s a destination on this list for you. These places promise to fill your holiday season with wonder, joy, and unforgettable memories. Merry Christmas and happy travels!
The post 20 Best Christmas Holiday Destinations for a Festive Getaway first appeared on The Green Voyage.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ground Picture. The people shown in the images are for illustrative purposes only, not the actual people featured in the story.
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