Christmas is a time for joy, family, and traditions. Around the world, this festive season is celebrated with dazzling decorations, vibrant markets, and unique customs. If you’re planning to make your Christmas vacation extra special, consider visiting one of these enchanting destinations known for their holiday magic.
1. NEW YORK CITY, USA
Why Visit: The city transforms into a Christmas wonderland with sparkling lights and iconic celebrations.
Highlights:
- The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and ice skating rink.
- Over-the-top holiday window displays at Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue.
- Dyker Heights in Brooklyn is famous for outrageous festive light displays.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Bryant Park and Union Square Christmas markets for unique gifts and hot cocoa.
2. LAPLAND, FINLAND
Why Visit: True magic of Christmas in the official hometown of Santa.
Highlights:
- Santa Claus Village, you can meet Santa and his elves.
- Reindeer sleigh rides and husky safaris across snow-covered landscapes.
- Witness the Northern Lights.
Pro Tip: Book a cozy log cabin with a fireplace for a picture-perfect Christmas.
3. VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Why Visit: Known for its elegant Christmas markets and festive atmosphere.
Highlights:
- Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market, featuring traditional crafts and mulled wine.
- Attend classical music concerts with works by Mozart and Strauss.
- Ice skating in front of Vienna City Hall.
Pro Tip: Enjoy traditional Austrian desserts, such as strudel and roasted chestnuts.
4. BETHLEHEM, PALESTINE
Why Visit: Have Christmas where it was born for an extraordinary spiritual experience.
Highlights:
- Christmas Mass at the Church of the Nativity.
- Manger Square, full of festive fun and decorations.
- Christmas processions and cultural events.
Pro Tip: Get to town early on Christmas Eve as the town gets packed.
5. TOKYO, JAPAN
Why Visit: Tokyo will transform Christmas into a modern spectacle by presenting beautiful illuminations as well as unique traditions.
Highlight:
- Winter illuminations around Shibuya, Omotesando and Tokyo Midtown.
- Try your Japanese-style Christmas dinner with deep-fried chicken and strawberry shortcake.
- Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea will have fantastic events for Christmas.
Pro Tip: Take illumination tours and get to see the great illuminations of the town.
6. NUREMBERG, GERMANY
Why Visit: Nuremberg is a quintessential European Christmas market experience waiting to be experienced.
Highlight:
- Christkindlesmarkt, The oldest and most traditional Christmas markets in the world.
- Handmade ornaments, spiced gingerbread, and mulled wine.
- Opening ceremony with the Christkind (Christmas Angel).
Pro Tip: Visit the Toy Museum for a nostalgic holiday touch.
7. QUEBEC CITY, CANADA
Why Visit: Charming city that comes to life with a mix of European traditions and Canadian flair.
Highlights:
- German Christmas Market at Place d’Youville.
- Walk through snow-covered streets of Old Quebec as lit up with festive lights.
- Horse-drawn carriage rides for an amorous vacation.
Pro Tip: Warm up with maple-infused treats and hot cider.
8. REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Why Visit: Experience a Christmas under magical Northern Lights in a winter wonderland.
Highlights:
- Christmas Market of Yule Town for unique Icelandic gifts.
- Meet the 13 Yule Lads, mischievous Icelandic Santa figures.
- Relax in natural hot springs amid the cool festive season.
Pro Tip: Dress warm and spot the Aurora Borealis.
9. PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
Why Visit: Gothic architecture and lively markets make Prague a magical holiday destination.
Highlights:
- Old Town Square Christmas Market, featuring a towering tree and traditional Czech treats.
- Prague Castle decorated with festive lights.
- Carol performances at St. Vitus Cathedral.
Pro Tip: Try trdelník, a sweet chimney cake filled with ice cream or chocolate.
10. SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Why Visit: Swap snow for sun with a warm and vibrant Christmas by the beach.
Highlights:
- Bondi Beach Christmas BBQs and surfing Santas.
- Carols by Candlelight at the Royal Botanic Gardens.
- Spectacular fireworks displays over Sydney Harbour.
Pro Tip: Pack sunscreen and party in flip-flops!
11. LONDON, ENGLAND
Why visit: London sparkles during the festive season with festive lights, cozy markets, and Christmas cheer.
Highlights:
- Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park-rides, markets, and ice skating.
- Christmas carol services at Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
- Oxford Street and Covent Garden’s dazzling decorations.
Pro Tip: Treat yourself to a yuletide afternoon tea at one of London’s luxurious hotels.
12. STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Why Visit: The “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg, is a holiday lover’s dream destination.
Highlights:
- Christkindelsmärik, Europe’s oldest Christmas market.
- The Great Christmas Tree in Place Kléber.
- Mulled wine and other Alsatian holiday specialties, including bredele cookies.
Pro Tip: Take a boat ride up the Ill River to view the lighted streets of the city.
From snowy landscapes to sunny beaches, each of these destinations reveals another way the world celebrates Christmas. They range from a more traditional market in Europe to a unique modernization of the Christmas spirit-the magical places.
Consider Reading – BEST DESTINATIONS FOR YOUR FIRST INTERNATIONAL TRIP
