Places To Travel During Christmas

November 24, 2025

The festive season is a magical time of year when cities and towns around the world transform into winter wonderlands. From twinkling lights to festive markets, there are countless destinations that offer unique and unforgettable Christmas experiences. Whether you’re looking to escape to a snowy paradise or explore vibrant city celebrations, here are some of the best places to travel during Christmas.

1. New York City, USA

New York City is synonymous with Christmas cheer. The Big Apple comes alive with holiday spirit, offering a plethora of festive activities and sights.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: Witness the iconic Christmas tree lighting ceremony, a tradition that dates back to 1933.
Ice Skating at Central Park: Glide across the ice at the Wollman Rink, surrounded by the stunning Manhattan skyline.
Holiday Window Displays: Stroll along Fifth Avenue to admire the elaborate holiday window displays at famous department stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular: Enjoy a performance by the Rockettes, a must-see holiday show that has been entertaining audiences since 1933.

2. Lapland, Finland

For a truly magical Christmas experience, head to Lapland, the official home of Santa Claus. This winter wonderland offers a unique blend of natural beauty and festive activities.

Santa Claus Village: Visit Santa Claus in his official residence, located right on the Arctic Circle.
Northern Lights: Experience the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon that paints the sky with vibrant colors.
Reindeer Sleigh Rides: Embark on a traditional reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy forests.
Snowmobile Safaris: Explore the stunning landscapes of Lapland on a thrilling snowmobile adventure.

3. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a city that truly embraces the Christmas spirit, with its charming markets and festive atmosphere.

Christkindlmarkt: Visit the famous Christmas market at Rathausplatz, where you can browse for handmade crafts and enjoy traditional Austrian treats.
Vienna Boys’ Choir: Attend a concert by the world-renowned Vienna Boys’ Choir, who perform beautiful Christmas carols.
Schönbrunn Palace: Explore the stunning Schönbrunn Palace, which hosts a delightful Christmas market in its courtyard.
Ice Skating at Rathausplatz: Glide across the ice at the picturesque rink set up in front of the Vienna City Hall.

4. Strasbourg, France

Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg is home to one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe.

Christkindelsmärik: Explore the enchanting market at Place Broglie, where you can find a variety of festive goods and delicious Alsatian specialties.
Cathedral of Notre Dame: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of Strasbourg’s cathedral, beautifully illuminated during the holiday season.
Petite France: Wander through the charming district of Petite France, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
Christmas Concerts: Enjoy a variety of Christmas concerts held in historic venues throughout the city.

5. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo offers a unique blend of traditional and modern Christmas celebrations, making it an exciting destination for the holiday season.

Illuminations: Experience the dazzling light displays throughout the city, including the famous Tokyo Midtown and Shibuya Blue Cave illuminations.
Tokyo Disneyland: Celebrate Christmas at Tokyo Disneyland, where you can enjoy festive parades, decorations, and special holiday-themed attractions.
Christmas Markets: Visit the German-style Christmas markets in Roppongi Hills and Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse.
Seasonal Cuisine: Indulge in seasonal Japanese treats, such as Christmas cake and fried chicken, a popular holiday meal in Japan.

6. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague’s fairy-tale architecture and festive markets make it a magical destination for a Christmas getaway.

Old Town Square Christmas Market: Explore the bustling market in the heart of Prague, where you can find traditional Czech crafts and delicious holiday treats.
Charles Bridge: Take a stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, beautifully illuminated during the holiday season.
Prague Castle: Visit the majestic Prague Castle, which hosts a charming Christmas market in its courtyard.
Midnight Mass at St. Vitus Cathedral: Attend a midnight mass at the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral, a memorable experience during the festive season.

7. Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City offers a charming and picturesque setting for a traditional Christmas celebration.

Old Quebec: Wander through the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, adorned with festive lights and decorations.
German Christmas Market: Visit the German Christmas Market in the heart of the city, where you can enjoy traditional German food and crafts.
Tobogganing at Terrasse Dufferin: Experience the thrill of tobogganing down the historic Terrasse Dufferin slide.
Winter Carnival: If you extend your stay, enjoy the Quebec Winter Carnival, one of the largest and most famous winter festivals in the world.

8. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh offers a magical Christmas experience with its historic charm and festive events.

Edinburgh Christmas Market: Explore the bustling market in East Princes Street Gardens, offering a variety of festive goods and delicious treats.
Ice Skating at St. Andrew Square: Glide across the ice at the beautiful rink set up in St. Andrew Square.
Hogmanay Celebrations: Extend your visit to enjoy the famous Hogmanay celebrations, featuring fireworks, concerts, and a torchlight procession.
Edinburgh Castle: Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle, beautifully illuminated during the holiday season.

9. Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is home to one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world, offering a traditional and festive experience.

Christkindlesmarkt: Explore the historic market in the Hauptmarkt, where you can find handmade crafts and delicious German treats.
Nuremberg Castle: Visit the stunning Nuremberg Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and hosts festive events during the holiday season.
Children’s Christmas Market: Bring the little ones to the Kinderweihnacht, a special market designed for children with rides and activities.
Nuremberg Sausages: Indulge in the city’s famous Nuremberg sausages, a must-try during your visit.

10. Sydney, Australia

For a unique Christmas experience, head to Sydney, where you can celebrate the holiday season in the summer sun.

Carols in the Domain: Attend the largest free Christmas concert in Australia, featuring performances by local and international artists.
Bondi Beach: Spend Christmas Day at Bondi Beach, where you can enjoy a festive barbecue and soak up the sun.
Sydney Harbour: Take a cruise on Sydney Harbour to enjoy stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks, beautifully illuminated for the holidays.
Christmas Markets: Explore the various Christmas markets throughout the city, offering a range of festive goods and delicious treats.

11. Bethlehem, West Bank

For a truly spiritual Christmas experience, visit Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ.

Church of the Nativity: Attend a midnight mass at the Church of the Nativity, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the holiest places in Christianity.
Manger Square: Experience the festive atmosphere in Manger Square, where you can enjoy live music, parades, and a giant Christmas tree.
Shepherds’ Field: Visit the Shepherds’ Field, where, according to tradition, angels announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds.
Christmas Processions: Witness the various Christmas processions that take place throughout the city, featuring local and international participants.

12. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik offers a unique and enchanting Christmas experience, with its stunning natural landscapes and festive celebrations.

Yule Lads: Learn about the Icelandic tradition of the Yule Lads, mischievous characters who visit children during the 13 nights leading up to Christmas.
Northern Lights: Experience the breathtaking Northern Lights, a natural wonder that can often be seen during the winter months.
Christmas Markets: Explore the various Christmas markets throughout the city, offering handmade crafts and delicious Icelandic treats.
Blue Lagoon: Relax in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, a perfect way to unwind during the festive season.

13. London, England

London is a city that truly embraces the Christmas spirit, with its festive lights, markets, and events.

Winter Wonderland: Visit Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, a festive extravaganza featuring rides, markets, and an ice rink.
Christmas Lights: Admire the stunning Christmas lights on Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden.
Christmas Markets: Explore the various Christmas markets throughout the city, including the Southbank Centre Winter Market and the Leicester Square Christmas Market.
West End Shows: Enjoy a festive performance at one of London’s famous West End theaters, offering a variety of Christmas-themed shows.

14. Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, offers a charming and traditional Christmas experience.

Christkindlmarkt: Visit the historic Christmas market at the Cathedral Square, offering a variety of festive goods and delicious Austrian treats.
Silent Night Chapel: Visit the Silent Night Chapel in Oberndorf, where the famous Christmas carol “Silent Night” was first performed.
Hohensalzburg Fortress: Explore the stunning Hohensalzburg Fortress, which hosts a delightful Christmas market in its courtyard.
Advent Singing: Attend an Advent singing concert, a traditional event featuring beautiful choral performances.

15. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a fairy-tale city that offers a magical Christmas experience with its medieval architecture and festive markets.

Christmas Market: Explore the charming market at the Market Square, where you can find handmade crafts and delicious Belgian treats.
Ice Skating: Glide across the ice at the rink set up in the heart of the city.
Canal Cruises: Take a scenic canal cruise to admire the city’s stunning architecture, beautifully illuminated for the holidays.
Chocolate Shops: Indulge in the city’s famous Belgian chocolate, a must-try during your visit.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking a traditional Christmas experience or a unique holiday adventure, these destinations offer something for everyone. From the snowy landscapes of Lapland to the vibrant city celebrations of New York, each location provides a magical setting for creating unforgettable Christmas memories. So pack your bags, embrace the festive spirit, and embark on a holiday journey to one of these enchanting destinations.