Fun Places To Visit Around Christmas

The holiday season is a magical time of year, filled with joy, celebration, and a sense of wonder. For many, it’s the perfect opportunity to travel and experience the festive spirit in different parts of the world. Whether you’re looking for a winter wonderland, a cultural celebration, or simply a unique holiday experience, there are countless destinations that come alive during Christmas. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most fun places to visit around Christmas, each offering its own special charm and holiday cheer.

1. New York City, USA

New York City is a classic Christmas destination, known for its iconic holiday attractions and vibrant atmosphere.

• Rockefeller Center: The famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a must-see. The towering tree, adorned with thousands of lights, is a symbol of the holiday season in NYC.
• Ice Skating: Glide across the ice at the Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park, surrounded by the city’s dazzling lights and festive decorations.
• Holiday Markets: Explore the Union Square Holiday Market and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market for unique gifts and delicious treats.
• Broadway Shows: Catch a holiday-themed Broadway show, such as “The Nutcracker” or “A Christmas Carol.”

2. Lapland, Finland

Lapland is the ultimate winter wonderland, offering a magical Christmas experience for all ages.

• Santa Claus Village: Visit the official hometown of Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, where you can meet Santa himself and explore his workshop.
• Northern Lights: Witness the breathtaking Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon that illuminates the night sky with vibrant colors.
• Reindeer Sleigh Rides: Experience a traditional reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy landscapes of Lapland.
• Snow Hotels: Stay in a unique snow hotel, where everything from the beds to the walls is made of ice and snow.

3. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is renowned for its elegant Christmas markets and classical holiday concerts.

• Christkindlmarkt: Visit the Vienna Christmas Market at Rathausplatz, one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe.
• Concerts: Enjoy a classical concert featuring works by Mozart, Strauss, and other renowned composers at the Vienna State Opera or Musikverein.
• St. Stephen’s Cathedral: Attend a Christmas mass at the stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
• Café Culture: Warm up with a cup of Viennese coffee and a slice of Sachertorte in one of Vienna’s historic cafés.

4. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo offers a unique blend of traditional and modern Christmas celebrations.

• Illuminations: Experience the dazzling light displays in areas like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Roppongi Hills.
• Christmas Markets: Explore German-style Christmas markets in Tokyo, offering festive foods, crafts, and decorations.
• Tokyo Disneyland: Enjoy the holiday-themed parades and attractions at Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea.
• Shopping: Discover unique gifts and holiday sales in the bustling shopping districts of Ginza and Harajuku.

5. Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland during the holiday season.

• Old Quebec: Stroll through the charming streets of Old Quebec, adorned with festive lights and decorations.
• German Christmas Market: Visit the German Christmas Market in Quebec City for traditional crafts, foods, and entertainment.
• Tobogganing: Experience the thrill of tobogganing down the famous Terrasse Dufferin slide.
• Carnaval de Québec: Although it takes place in January, the Carnaval de Québec is a must-see winter festival featuring parades, ice sculptures, and more.

6. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a fairy-tale city that becomes even more enchanting during Christmas.

• Old Town Square: Visit the Christmas market in Old Town Square, where you can enjoy traditional Czech foods and crafts.
• Charles Bridge: Take a winter walk across the iconic Charles Bridge, offering stunning views of the city.
• Prague Castle: Explore the historic Prague Castle, beautifully illuminated during the holiday season.
• Midnight Mass: Attend a midnight mass at St. Vitus Cathedral for a truly memorable Christmas Eve experience.

7. Sydney, Australia

For those seeking a warm-weather Christmas, Sydney offers a unique holiday experience.

• Bondi Beach: Celebrate Christmas with a beach barbecue or a swim at the famous Bondi Beach.
• Carols in the Domain: Join thousands of locals for the annual Carols in the Domain, a festive outdoor concert.
• Sydney Harbour: Enjoy a Christmas cruise on Sydney Harbour, offering stunning views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
• Christmas Lights: Explore the vibrant Christmas light displays in neighborhoods like Hunter Valley and the city center.

8. Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is home to one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world.

• Christkindlesmarkt: Visit the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, known for its traditional crafts, foods, and the famous Nuremberg sausages.
• Children’s Market: Explore the Kinderweihnacht, a special market area designed for children with rides and activities.
• Nuremberg Castle: Discover the historic Nuremberg Castle, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Gingerbread: Taste the city’s renowned gingerbread, known as Lebkuchen, a holiday treat not to be missed.

9. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik offers a unique and cozy Christmas experience, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

• Yule Lads: Learn about Iceland’s unique Christmas folklore, featuring the mischievous Yule Lads.
• Northern Lights: Take a tour to see the Northern Lights, a breathtaking natural display.
• Christmas Markets: Visit the Christmas markets in Reykjavik for handmade crafts and local delicacies.
• Blue Lagoon: Relax in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, a perfect way to unwind during the holiday season.

10. London, England

London is a city that truly comes alive during Christmas, with festive events and attractions throughout the city.

• Hyde Park Winter Wonderland: Experience the magic of Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, featuring rides, ice skating, and a Christmas market.
• Christmas Lights: Stroll down Oxford Street and Regent Street to see the dazzling Christmas light displays.
• The Nutcracker: Watch a performance of “The Nutcracker” at the Royal Opera House or the London Coliseum.
• Covent Garden: Explore the festive decorations and holiday markets in Covent Garden.

Conclusion

Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, and there’s no better way to embrace the holiday spirit than by exploring new destinations. Whether you’re drawn to the snowy landscapes of Lapland, the vibrant lights of Tokyo, or the historic charm of Prague, each of these destinations offers a unique and unforgettable Christmas experience. So pack your bags, embrace the festive cheer, and create lasting memories in one of these magical places around the world.