countries to visit in xmas

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The 20 best places to go for Christmas

From classic festive getaways to Scrooge-friendly destinations to escape, these are the world’s greatest places to spend Christmas

The most magical time of the year has a habit of transforming destinations around the world: cities get decked out in dazzling decorations, streets teem with local traditions and squares are taken over by pop-up festive markets.

That said, some destinations are great to visit at Christmas for precisely the opposite reason: because you might not even realise it’s Christmas at all. Who hasn’t sometimes wanted to hibernate in the sun until the madness is over? 

And so, when considering the best destinations to visit at Christmas, we haven’t just included places with quirky traditions or an unmissable festive atmosphere - there's plenty of Scrooge-appropriate destinations on here too. Dive into our festive travel list below and you’re guaranteed to find somewhere great to spend the season. 

RECOMMENDED: 💝The best Christmas markets to visit in Europe and worldwide ❄️ The best places to travel in December 🎄The 50 best Christmas movies of all time 🎊The 65 best Christmas songs of all time

At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines .

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The best places to go for Christmas

1.  New York City, USA

Best for:  shopaholics 

From the dreamy romance of ice skating at the Rockefeller to Broadway’s dazzling festive shows, there are plenty of reasons why the Big Apple has such a rep at Christmastime. NYC is a classic festive choice and, with its selection of department stores, markets and bazaars, there remains nowhere quite like it when it comes to shopping, either.

Read more: The best Christmas things to do in NYC

2.  Lapland, Finland

Best for: wannabe Santa elves 

There are few destinations as legendarily Christmassy as Rovaniemi, which, as the capital of Lapland, is also the official hometown of Santa Claus. But Rovaniemi isn’t all about Santa. Once you’re done exploring Santa Claus Village and getting reindeer rides about town, be sure to sweat out your worries with a festive sauna – a Finnish Christmas tradition.

3.  Edinburgh, Scotland

Best for: Christmas markets

Sure, each city centre twinkles with lights and exudes wafts of mulled wine throughout December, but few do it as well as Edinburgh. East Princes Street Gardens dazzles every year with a whole host of market stalls, festive food and fairground rides, plus plenty of whisky stands for a warming Christmassy bev. Sticking around for New Year's? The city's Hogmanay celebrations are a world-renowned way to launch 2024. 

4.  New Orleans, USA

Best for: an unconventional Christmas

New Orleans is packed full of alternative Christmas traditions, from its bonfires on the banks of the Mississippi and charmingly redecorated streetcars to its lively carol concerts and glam AF hotel lobby decorations. With daytime temperatures hitting about 17C, it’s also that bit warmer than much of the rest of the continental US at this time of year.

5.  Reykjavik, Iceland

Best for: the lads!

No, not those kinds of lads. We’re talking about the ‘Yule Lads’, 13 folkloric dudes who traditionally leave gifts in boots for Iceland ’s well-behaved kids. Christmastime is also just a rather lovely time to visit Reykjavik, with the city boasting markets and ice-skating – as well as, thanks to its extra-long nights, great opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights .

6.  London, UK

Best for: traditional romantics 

Festive cheer sweeps through London sometime in early November and doesn’t let up. By the time the end of December comes around, Christmas vibes hit a fever pitch: the already-very-romantic UK capital finds itself lined by fir trees, twinkling with Christmas lights and sound-tracked by jangly festive tunes. Aye, it’s exactly as magical as it sounds.

Read more: The best Christmas lights in London

7.  Nuremburg, Germany

Best for:  Weihnachtsmarkt fanatics

Germany ’s Weihnachtsmarkts (traditional Christmas markets) are famous the world over – and Nuremburg’s is one of the country’s oldest, biggest and best. Notes of gingerbread and mulled wine waft through a mini city of wooden stalls teeming with candy canes, scrummy lebkuchen and handmade decorations.

8.  Sydney, Australia

Best for: Christmas dinner on the barbie

Looking for somewhere that goes full-throttle for Chrimbo but isn’t so, erm, wintry ? Australia ’s likely your best bet. Sydney has all the festive lights, trees and even ice skating of a typical Christmas-celebrating city, but with toasty average temperature highs of 25C. Don’t knock an Xmas dinner cooked on a beachside barbeque until you’ve tried it.

9.  Bruges, Belgium

Best for: chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate

Turkey, mince pies, and pannetone are all the festive foods that might spring to mind at first, but it wouldn't be Christmas without chocolate. And where's the best place to go for that? Well, it has to be Bruges - from the divinely rich hot chocolates on offer at the market to the traditional Yule log, this little city has bags of Christmassy confection to fill those stockings, or to gorg on under the twinkly lights. 

10.  Tokyo, Japan

Best for: the culturally disconnected 

With no public holiday and everything open as usual, Japan doesn’t really celebrate Christmas – but that’s also its charm. The country is nicely disconnected from the rest of the world’s Xmas mania but still has tonnes of festive stuff to see and do, from Tokyo’s gorgeous winter illuminations to the annual Japanese tradition of getting KFC on Christmas day.

11.  Caracas, Venezuela

Best for: religious roller-skaters

Think you’ve got a neat ride when it comes to heading down to church (if that’s your jam, anyway) during the Christmas period? Check out the locals in Caracas. From December 16-24 before 8am, roads are closed in the Venezuelan capital so that churchgoers can roller-skate to mass. It’s also common for rollerbladers to dress up in Santa gear... does it get much cooler than that?

12.  Marrakech, Morocco

Best for: festive escapees 

Christmas isn’t celebrated by the vast majority of people in Marrakech, making it perfect for escaping conventional festive vibes. The Moroccan city also isn’t anywhere near as hot in December as it is in the summertime (hitting highs of 20C without dipping too low at night), so exploring its medina, souks, mosques and riads is even more pleasant.

13.  Greenland

Best for: adventurous eaters

The festive period in Greenland is best known for its food: specifically mattak (essentially a strip of whale skin) and kiviak (a kind of fermented seabird). Both are a delicacy to natives, but they’re likely a bit more, er, stomach-testing to the rest of us.

14.  Phuket, Thailand

Best for: clubbers and beachside chillers

Sure, if you really want to, you can have a perfectly Christmassy time in Phuket. The island has plenty of carol concerts and festive dinners if you so want them. However, it’s an ideal place to get away from all the usual festivities, too. As a largely Buddhist country, Thailand doesn’t really celebrate Christmas – leaving you free to chill out at a beachside bar or go clubbing as if it’s any normal day of the year.

15.  Prague, Czech Republic

Best for: aesthetes

With its awesome gothic churches and winding baroque streets, Prague is one of Europe’s most dazzlingly pretty cities at any time of the year. But at Christmastime? Well, the Czech capital somehow gets even prettier. The key attractions here are the markets, which take over the likes of Prague Castle and Wenceslas Square with local specialities such as medovina (honey wine), rybí polévka (traditional fish soup) and perníčky (spicy gingerbread).

16.  Vienna, Austria

Best for: total festive immersion

Whether you’re watching Krampuses (a sort of nightmarish Austrian anti-Santa) roam the streets, munching on toffee apples at one of the city’s many Christmas markets or simply soaking in the very, very pretty street decorations, we challenge you not to get totally swept up in Vienna’s all-encompassing Chrimbo vibes.

17.  Cape Town, South Africa

Best for: sun bunnies

The beauty of the southern hemisphere in December is that the climate is precisely the opposite of the chilly north. With its long days of uninterrupted sunshine and temperatures in the high 30Cs, Cape Town offers a totally different Chrimbo vibe. Festive picnic atop Table Mountain or in the lush Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, anyone?

18.  Singapore

Best for: light display fanatics

With main thoroughfare Orchard Road hosting a celebration on Xmas Eve complete with countdown and fireworks, Christmas in Singapore has a unique New Year’s Eve feel about it. Most legendary, however, are the city’s light displays. From the Christmas Wonderland in the Gardens by the Bay to the light shows at Vivocity, Singapore sure knows how to put on a mesmerising electrical show.  

19.  Guatemala City, Guatemala

Best for: demon banishers

There’s something very purifying about burning stuff – and Guatemalans know that so well that they’ve made a tradition out of it. Every year on December 7, Guatemala celebrates the ‘Día del Diablo’ (or ‘Day of the Devil’), kicking off the Christmas period by burning an effigy of the devil. The act is intended to symbolise the cleansing of bad spirits.

20.  Colmar, France

Best for: Christmas dreamers

Even in the height of summer, Colmar, a thirteenth-century town in the eastern French region of Alsace, looks rather a lot like it’s made out of gingerbread. Add a dusting of snow, some tasteful Christmas lights and a characterful festive market? You’ve got one of the world’s most picture-perfect Xmas destinations.

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The 32 best places to spend Christmas around the world

By Caitlin Morton

We’re all for cosying up with loved ones at home, but we also love seeing how cities around the world transform every December. The best places to spend Christmas, in our book, run the gamut from European classics with storybook Christmas markets to Asian cities with over-the-top light displays, and even merry mainstays right here in the U.S. There are even some spots in the southern hemisphere where temperatures hover in the 80s on 25 December, in case your idea of a perfect holiday includes lounging by the pool with a cocktail.

While the jollity may look a bit different from city to city, these global destinations keep the holiday cheer going year after year. And if you already have your plans solidified for this upcoming season, it’s never too early to start planning a fabulous winter vacation for 2023.

Bruges, Belgium

Why we go: Europe’s best-preserved medieval city oozes charm year-round, but especially during the holidays. It’s hard to imagine a place more magical as you wander the cobblestone streets, admire the shimmering lights, and warm up with mugs of Belgian hot chocolate in cafés.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Follow the Winter Glow light trail with stops at 10 installations through the historic part of the city centre, including lights at the Church of Our Lady Tower and a projection at Gruuthuse.

Stay here: Grand Hotel Casselbergh (steps away from the Markt) has inviting touches like exposed wooden beams in the rooms, a lobby bar with a fireplace, and a wellness centre located in a 16th-century cellar.

Why we go: If you’re looking to escape winter during Christmas, you can't do much better than Cape Town – it’s summer in the Southern Hemisphere, after all. You can even visit one (or several) of the South African city’s holiday markets without having to wear a coat and scarf.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: They’re not exactly Santa’s elves, but the estimated 2,000 to 3,000 African penguins at Boulders Beach – where you can get close enough to take portrait-mode photos of them – are sure to warm your heart just the same.

Stay here: The light and breezy rooms sitting above the Atlantic Ocean at Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa are the perfect antidotes to the winter blues.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Why we go: For the past three decades, the little town of Bethlehem in Pennsylvania has channelled its name and transformed into “Christmas City” for the holidays. Celebrations are centred around the Christkindlmarkt at the SteelStacks, with more than 50 booths featuring artisan crafts, as well as live music and special events with Santa Claus himself.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: A “live” advent calendar at the Goundie House on Main Street features a downtown merchant emerging from the door at 5:30 p.m. every night with treats for all who are waiting.

Stay here: Hotel Bethlehem is a wonderland of its own, with 35,000 Christmas lights, 36 wreaths, life-sized toy soldiers, and a gingerbread house of the hotel.

Why we go:  From its European-inspired Christkindlmarket to light shows galore,  Chicago knows a thing or two about embracing the Christmas spirit (and the freezing temperatures). Can’t-miss activities include visiting the 55-foot Christmas tree in Millennium Park and cosying up in a heated igloo at The Godfrey Hotel.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Be dazzled by 2.5 million LEDs at ZooLights, an annual light festival held at Lincoln Park Zoo. Check out the event’s calendar for sensory-friendly visit times.

Stay here:  Fresh off a $100 million renovation,  The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago guarantees the most luxurious stay in the town – especially if you book a suite overlooking Lake Michigan and Navy Pier. Be sure to book a festive afternoon tea or five-course winter truffle dinner at the delicious on-site restaurant, Torali.

Cologne, Germany

Why we go: Nothing embodies old-world yuletide charm like the Christmas market, and nobody takes Christmas markets more seriously than the Germans , with Cologne’s festivities drawing some four million visitors each winter.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Take in the merry sights from the observation deck of KölnTriangle, the tower directly opposite the Cathedral on the Rhine.

Stay here: The Hyatt Regency Cologne has great views of the Cologne Cathedral, plus excellent multi-course meals at Glashaus Restaurant.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Why we go: According to the World Happiness Report, Denmark is one of the world’s happiest countries , making it a great place to spend the holidays. Things are even jollier at Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens , where antique amusement park rides decorated with lights are surrounded by yet another adorable, alpine village-style Christmas market selling gifts and snacks. The park has also been known to deck out its tree with Swarovski crystals .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Book a table at Restaurant Vita for some andesteg , a traditional Danish holiday dish of crispy, succulent roast duck served with prunes and apples.

Stay here: Never mind hygge – Hotel Sanders takes Danish comfort and contentment to new heights.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Why we go: Dubai does Christmas the same way Dubai does nearly everything – in true, over-the-top fashion. Catch the tree lightings happening around town, including the ones at Towers Rotana, Fairmont The Palm, and The Irish Village, and then watch the jolly ol’ St. Nicks making a run for it at the Santa Run. And since no visit to Dubai is complete without several shopping sprees, set aside time to stock up on goodies at one of the city’s Christmas markets .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Dubai Mall is an air-conditioned winter wonderland, complete with an ice skating rink, and you'll find indoor ski slopes at Ski Dubai in Mall of the Emirates.

Stay here: Jumeirah Al Naseem earns high marks for its posh rooms, easy beach access, and superior dining and spa options.

Dublin, Ireland

Why we go: If your idea of Christmas merriment includes an authentic Irish pub crawl (we get it), then Dublin is your place. Holiday offerings also include Christmas markets, decked-out shops on Grafton Street, and tree-lighting ceremonies galore.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: For 66 years, The Moving Crib in St. Martin Apostolate’s basement has been charming families with its mechanical figures depicting scenes like Noah’s Ark.

Stay here: The Westbury becomes even more luxurious during the holidays, with prime views overlooking the lights of Grafton Street during afternoon tea.

Why we go: Hong Kong ’s yuletide urban offerings rival that of NYC ’s, with holiday markets, window displays, and concerts galore (they even have a Santa Con). Then there are the lights. The Symphony of Lights show – held nightly at 8 p.m. – will leave you breathless, thanks to an extravagantly choreographed neon show displayed across more than 40 of the city’s iconic skyscrapers along Victoria Harbor.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Experience the Symphony of Lights during a harbour-front dinner cruise.

Stay here: As if the Ritz-Carlton wasn’t swanky enough, the hotel hosts Christmas parties, dinners, and afternoon teas all season.

Inari, Finland

Why we go: While most tourists flock to the Lapland city of Rovaniemi come Christmas, we suggest heading even further north (like, within reach of the Arctic Ocean north) to the village of Inari. Located in the heart of the scenic Ivalo region – reachable via a 1.5-hour flight from Helsinki – Inari is a pure winter wonderland dotted with hotels and restaurants that keep things nice and cosy. It’s hard to imagine a more authentic winter holiday than one spent riding dog sleds, feeding reindeer , and chasing the Northern Lights .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: A private Northern Lights safari will have you sitting in a heated sleigh and sipping sparkling wine while waiting for the aurora to dance. (Rough life, huh?)

Stay here: Finnish Lapland is known for its glass-igloo accommodations, as well as in-house winter activities and cosy, panoramic cabins at Aurora Village Oy . (Heated windows ensure the snow doesn’t cover your view.) Plus, daily reindeer feedings are available.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Why we go:  If you're wondering where to go for Christmas celebrations unlike anywhere else, look no further. Every December, this tiny New England town bursts with holiday cheer during its annual Christmas Prelude, an 11-day bash that's about as New England as it gets – one of the main attractions is a tree made of lobster traps. The lobster rolls at The Clam Shack – considered to be some of the best rolls in Maine – will make you forget about gingerbread and sugar plums altogether.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Santa Claus’s arrival at the Christmas Prelude on a lobster boat is (obviously) the star attraction.

Stay here:   White Barn Inn epitomises New England luxury all year, but just wait until you see it over the holidays. This year’s seasonal offerings include Christmas cookies and eggnog by the fire, special Christmas feasts at the White Barn Inn Restaurant, and afternoon tea attended by Santa Claus himself.

Leavenworth, Washington

Why we go:  Love the idea of a Bavarian holiday but hate the idea of a transatlantic flight? Enter  Leavenworth . This town tucked away in the Cascade Mountains was modelled after Germany’s alpine villages, complete with half-timbered houses and epic food halls. As you can imagine, the city comes alive during Christmas with over-the-top holiday lights and tons of winter sports.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum features a collection of some 9,000 nutcrackers from more than 50 countries – definitely worth stopping by between snowshoeing and skiing excursions.

Stay here:   Icicle Village Resort is just as magical as it sounds, with a relaxing spa, in-room fireplaces, and a restaurant serving up Bavarian favourites.

Why we go: Christmas in London has timeless appeal – chalk it up to the decorated Georgian townhouses, lively pubs, and a dash of Dickensian charm. Our step-by-step guide to spending the holidays in London covers the perfect place for afternoon tea , a steak to tuck into after a day spent gift shopping, and a martini to sip on Christmas Eve – and that’s just for starters.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: One of the most magical experiences is gliding around the frozen 18th-century courtyard of Somerset House, a sprawling neoclassical building off the Strand.

Stay here: Claridge’s – because there's no better place to ring in Christmas than in one of the best hotels on the planet.

The Maldives

Why we go:  Visiting the Maldives in December guarantees you’ll have a white Christmas – only we’re talking about the dazzling white sand, not snow. While the atoll doesn’t officially celebrate the holiday, many resorts cater to Western travellers with themed dinners and decorations. But let’s face it: you’ll be too busy with spa treatments and snorkelling trips to even bother with those proverbial visions of sugarplums.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  If you really want a traditional burst of holiday cheer, head to  Conrad Maldives Rangali Island for a tree lighting ceremony, followed by cocktails on the beach.

Stay here:  Conrad Maldives Rangali Island really is one of the best resorts in the country, famous for its lavish suites and  underwater restaurant , Ithaa. Guests lucky enough to visit during the holidays can also enjoy champagne and lobster beach barbecues, lavish pool parties, winter-themed spa treatments, and special underwater meals on Christmas Day.

New York City

Why we go: There’s no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it’s ice skating at Rockefeller Center, window shopping on Fifth Avenue, or lurking around 34th street hoping to witness a miracle.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: There’s no such thing as going overboard with Christmas decorations in Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighbourhood. Join a walking tour organised by the area’s residents.

Stay here: The Plaza , full stop. (If it's good enough for Kevin McCallister ...)

Why we go:  Can you really think of a more magical place to spend Christmas than Paris? The city provides  festive activities at every turn, from the light installations on the Champs-Elysées to any number of pop-up markets and ice skating rinks. Even if you don’t feel like shivering out in the cold, warming up with a mug of hot chocolate at Angelina will still get you in the spirit.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Whether you gawk at the window displays outside, or the massive Christmas tree inside,  Galeries Lafayette is well worth elbowing a few fellow tourists to check out.

Stay here:   Hôtel Lutetia is a Left Bank stunner with gourmet holiday menus and an Art Deco lobby decked out with lights and trees. Upgrade to a higher room category for oversized bathtubs and balconies overlooking the Eiffel Tower.

Prague, Czech Republic

Why we go: Prague ’s holiday markets easily make the city one of the world’s best places to spend Christmas: they run for a full month, with locals and travellers passing through for mulled wine, sticky pastries, and roasted ham. The main markets take place in the Old Town and Wenceslas squares, just 10 minutes apart by foot – and are set to the backdrop of some of the prettiest Gothic architecture you’ll ever see.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sip on Svařák, a Czech mulled wine with a citrusy touch from a market stall. Or, for a sweeter taste, indulge in a hot chocolate at Cafe Slavia, founded in 1881.

Stay here: Aria Hotel is located within walking distance of Prague Castle, and its music-themed suites are always a hit.

Quebec City, Canada

Why we go: Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America, and its colonial French architecture gives it an unmistakably European feel. The cobbled streets of the Old Town are packed with quaint shops and delicious bistros, all merrily decorated for the holidays.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Au 1884 toboggan run by Château Frontenac (open from mid-December to mid-March) is one of the city’s oldest traditions – and quite the thrill. Zoom down icy tracks overlooking the city on a wooden sled reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.

Stay here: You can’t go wrong with Auberge Saint-Antoine and its lobby fireplace, heated bathroom floors, and a Christmas package that includes a five-course dinner, holiday movie screenings at the in-house theatre, and a personal visit from Santa in your room.

Reykjavík, Iceland

Why we go: Reykjavík shines on the streets and in the sky in December. Strings of glinting Christmas bulbs illuminate the city during its very long nights, and on the clearest evenings, the Northern Lights can be seen from the city’s darker streets and parks.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The 13 Yule Lads, a group of holiday trolls you’ll see about town, are Iceland’s equivalent to Santa Claus in local folklore (and have actually been around a lot longer than St. Nick).

Stay here: Hotel Borg , the city’s oldest and most elegant hotel, still reigns supreme.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Why we go:  Who says Christmas has to be about ugly sweaters and hot cocoa? December in Rio is all about kicking back on a  spectacular beach – with daily temperatures hovering in the 80s. The city also happens to host the world’s largest display of full-sized nativity scenes during its annual Festival de Presépios (“Crib Festival”), found at Jardim de Alah between Leblon and Ipanema.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  For the very best display in town, ride a bike around the Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon and enjoy views of the world’s largest floating Christmas tree from every angle.

Stay here:  The  Fasano Hotel along Ipanema Beach has an infinity pool overlooking the ocean that will make winter seem very, very far away.

Rome, Italy

Why we go: The streets around Rome will be festively alight, sure, but the home to the seat of Catholicism is an excellent option for folks seeking a more sacrosanct Christmas experience.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hear hymns echoing off the walls of the 1,900-year-old architectural marvel during midnight mass at the Pantheon.

Stay here: Aside from classically designed guest rooms, Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese offers festive amenities like themed dinners at the rooftop restaurant and chauffeured tours of Rome’s holiday lights in a vintage Fiat 500.

Salzburg, Austria

Why we go: It’s no surprise that Salzburg’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old City that served as the backdrop for The Sound of Music also fills its famed Christkindlmarkt with song. With roots dating back to the 15th century, sing-alongs and traditional wind music are as much a part of the festivities as the mulled wine and market stands. We’re not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: It’s literally Christmas all year round at the Christmas in Salzburg shop on Goldgasse, known for its frilly ornaments (especially those hand-painted on eggshells).

Stay here: Hotel Goldener Hirsch is just steps away from Christkindlmarkt, although we’d be fine staying in these comfortable rooms all day.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Why we go:  Christmas in San Miguel de Allende kicks off on 12 December (aka Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe), and the rest of the month is equal parts solemn and celebratory. You may encounter nativity scenes and church services one day, then parades and fireworks the next. But seeing as it all takes place in one of the friendliest, most beautiful cities in the world, we’re guessing you’ll be able to easily enjoy every moment.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Between 16 – 24 December, most of Mexico participates in Las Posadas, a religious festival honouring the Nativity story. Once a day, two people dressed up as Mary and Joseph lead a procession to a different home and ask to be let inside (as in the biblical journey to Bethlehem), and the reenactment typically ends with carols, food, and pinatas.

Stay here:  The city has its share of swank hotels, but it’s hard to compete with the spa amenities and rooftop bar at  Rosewood San Miguel de Allende .

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Why we go:  Puerto Rico prides itself on having the longest holiday season in the world, lasting a whopping 45 days between the end of November and the middle of January. That gives you even more time to enjoy the island’s festive decorations, folk music, midnight mass services, and coquito – a coconut-based drink that puts eggnog to shame.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Stroll around Old San Juan to see Christmas lights strung up on colourful buildings, with some of the best displays near the central Plaza de Armas.

Stay here:  Our readers love  Condado Vanderbilt Hotel for its hammam spa (the only one in PR), ocean-facing rooms, and four relaxing pools.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Why we go:  Santa Fe’s already-beautiful plaza becomes downright magical with the addition of Christmas lights – but the holiday spirit doesn't start and stop there. The city also offers midnight mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis de Assisi, holiday exhibits at the New Mexico Museum of Art, holiday flamenco performances at El Flamenco Cabaret, and seasonal shopping at the Winter Indian Market. Even when Christmas is officially over, you can keep busy at Taos Ski Valley and Ski Santa Fe – both just an easy drive away.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Don’t miss the annual Canyon Road Farolito Walk, a Christmas Eve event consisting of farolitos (paper bags filled with sand and topped with a votive candle) lining the streets and walls of adobe buildings.

Stay here: 2022 Hot List winner  Bishop’s Lodge has a tangible warmth to it, with wood-burning kiva fireplaces and hammered bronze tubs adorning the rooms.

Strasbourg, France

Why we go: Strasbourg is home to the oldest of France’s Christmas markets, dating back nearly 450 years. There are 12 in total to check out, which is sure to keep you busy. Pro tip: Though the markets will be full of delicious goodies, many choose to indulge in the king of Alsatian delicacies: foie gras, which is also a French Christmas tradition.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The superlative market sits beneath the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, the tallest surviving structure built entirely in the Middle Ages. How’s that for a photo op?

Stay here: We’re huge fans of the impossibly luxurious Hôtel Les Haras , installed in Louis XV’s historic stables in Strasbourg.

Sydney, Australia

Why we go: You haven't seen Christmas lights until you’ve seen Sydney's Christmas lights. Plus, the holiday season lasts an entire month here (take that, 12 days of Christmas) with “Sydney Christmas.” The festival features the city’s largest Christmas Tree at Martin Place.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Wonder at the 3,500 twinkling lights at the Strand Arcade or the 85,000 twinkling LEDs at the incredible Pitt Street Mall Canopy of Light.

Stay here: Celebrate with a Christmas Day lunch followed by a nap by the rooftop pool (remember, it’s summertime Down Under) at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour.

Taipei, Taiwan

Why we go: 25 December isn’t a public holiday in Taipei, but it’s still one of the best places to spend Christmas, as the city celebrates with incredible lights displays, festive attractions, and events. During the weeks between mid-November and the New Year, pretty much the entire Banqiao District transforms into Christmasland – which is exactly what it sounds like. We’re talking massive Christmas trees, rides, concerts, and markets selling local goods.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Don’t miss the Christmasland section over in the Fuzhong Business district, with a magic forest and Boshou light park.

Stay here: We love the Mandarin Oriental for its decadent decor and wide range of food options.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Why we go:  Due to the Georgian Orthodox Church’s use of the Julian calendar, Christmas isn't officially celebrated in Tbilisi until January 7. Decorations and festivities start much earlier, however, with city-wide light displays, Christmas markets, and musical performances ready to dazzle visitors starting in December. 

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Located in Tbilisi’s Freedom Square, the Liberty Monument (which depicts Saint George slaying a dragon) is covered with cascading lights to create a massive makeshift Christmas tree.

Stay here:  The cosy-chic vibes at  Stamba Hotel are unparalleled – think buttery leather sofas, lush hanging plants, and floor-to-ceiling shelves of vintage books.

Why we go: The city turns the voltage up each year with its winter illuminations, with different districts competing to create some truly sensational displays. Standout illumination sites include the almost 10-foot-tall snow globes with falling snow at Tokyo Midtown and a massive Baccarat crystal chandelier at Yebisu Garden Place. The bright lights are so popular, they stay up well past Christmas day – often through January or February.

The one thing to get you in the spirit : One of the most famous illuminations is the Blue Cavern ( Ao no Dokutsu ) in Shibuya, which is inspired by the blue grottos of the Mediterranean.

Stay here: Aman Tokyo , a two-time Gold List winner, has a multi-level spa and deep furo soaking tubs in each room.

Vienna, Austria

Why we go: Vienna practically sparkles with holiday spirit during the Christmas season (the lights covering nearly every building might have something to do with that). The city is known for its markets, with the Viennese Christmas Market at City Hall and the holiday tree at Rathausplatz stealing the show. Also nearby are the Nativity Trail and the Tree of Hearts.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Enjoy the crystalline tones of the one and only Vienna Boys Choir – which has been around for more than 500 years and traditionally performs in its hometown during the holidays.

Stay here: The Park Hyatt Vienna is within walking distance of St. Stephen’s Cathedral and features some of the largest rooms in Vienna.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Why we go: Vilnius becomes a true winter wonderland in December, with a Christmas train that weaves through Old Town, 3D nativity stories projected onto buildings, and Christmas markets in the city’s squares.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The headline-making Christmas trees are no joke. This year’s main tree was designed to look like a giant multi-layered birthday cake to honour the city’s upcoming 700th anniversary.

Stay here: The warm and inviting Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius is as close to all the Christmas delights as you can get.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveler US .

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Looking for inspiration on Christmas destinations? We can help, with our list of the 20 top Christmas places. Some have snow, almost all have glitter and Christmas spirit is guaranteed. Take a look.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for travelling the world.

1. Copenhagen, Denmark - one of the best Christmas destinations

2. dublin, ireland - best christmas pubs experience, 3. salzburg, austria - authentic charming traditions, 4. nuremberg, germany - home of the german lebkuchen, 5. new york, usa - the true spirit of celebration in the metropolis, 6. berlin, germany - a mix of cultural and nightlife festivities, 7. rome, italy - christmas in majestic surroundings, 8. lapland, finland - the homeland of santa claus, 9. edinburgh, scotland - a city steeped in christmas magic, 10. montreal, canada - fireworks and christmas magic in the old town, 11. hong kong, china - an extravagant christmas amid glittering skyscrapers, 12. washington dc, usa - a mix of old-school american traditions and the spirit of christmas, 13. boston, usa - an old-fashioned us christmas, 14. cologne, germany - christmas on the banks of the rhine, 15. prague, czech republic - an iconic holiday city among the best christmas destinations, 16. reykjavík, iceland - snowy christmas and northern lights, 17. dresden, germany - sweet christmas traditions, 18. bruges, belgium - a crowd-free christmas in a medieval atmosphere, 19. new orleans, usa - heart-warming christmas traditions, 20. aspen colorado, usa - christmas paradise for skiing enthusiasts.

Pick Copenhagen for Christmas. The affordable and friendly capital of Denmark has a glittering city centre and it's easy to get around. If you want full festive fantasy, book tickets in advance for Tivoli Gardens . It's one of the world's oldest amusement parks and is magical at Christmas.

Copenhagen is famous for its castles, which take on a special magical charm at Christmas time. Among the most famous are Kronborg Castle, Christiansborg Palace and Rosenborg Castle.

If you're travelling to Copenhagen with children, take a look at our list of the best kids' activities in Copenhagen .

Where to stay in Copenhagen

• Copenhagen Marriott Hotel
• Hotel Skt Petri

Tivoli Gardens is one of Denmark's top Christmas destinations © Vlad Andrei Nica/Shutterstock

Find Christmas craic in Dublin during December. The streets feel festive, there are ice rinks and carol singers at St. Patrick's Cathedral . And when you want to get cosy, Temple Bar pubs have you covered. If that sounds like fun, stay at Castle Hotel near Temple Bar.

What also makes Dublin one of the best Christmas destinations is the 12 pubs of Christmas. It's a world-famous competition challenging groups of friends to visit 12 pubs by the end of the night. Needless to say, only the most resilient participants make it to the end.

Explore Dublin and its castles and cliffs with our tailor-made 5-day trip .

Where to stay in Dublin

• Egans House
• Baggot Court Townhouse

Dublin is especially Christmassy in December © David Soanes/Shutterstock

Experience the festive and very Austrian city of Salzburg . Its famous Baroque architecture looks even lovelier with a snowy mountain backdrop. And it's the birthplace of Mozart so expect a lot of music wherever you go.

It's also home to the oldest Christmas market in Europe which is awash with charming traditions and smells like warm gingerbread. If you want to put that to the test, take a tour of Salzburg Christmas markets with local guides.

Where to stay in Salzburg

• Hotel Hohenstauffen
• Altstadthotel Wolf-Dietrich

Christmas Market in the old town of Salzburg © Izabela23/Shutterstock

Go Christmas shopping at the famous Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg . You'll find over 180 market stalls set on Hauptmarkt selling everything from toys to gingerbread. 

Don't miss the opportunity to taste the famous Lebkuchen (german gingerbread) was invented in Franconia in the 13th century. Head for the Lebkuchen-Schmidt stands at the Christkindlesmarkt to sample the authentic Lebkuchen.

Where to stay in Nuremberg

• Novina Hotel Tillypark
• Hotel Agneshof Nürnberg

Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg as night falls © Sean Nel/Shutterstock

New York City rules Christmas from the outrageously famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to its dazzling store windows and awesome ice rinks.

One of the recent additions to New York's Christmas atmosphere is the New York Botanical Garden Glow . After dark, you can enjoy a stroll along the mile-and-a-half-long route decorated with all kinds of light installations. Dance performances, ice carving demonstrations and other seasonal activities are also on the agenda.

With our tailor-made 15-day tour you can experience the most iconic cities on the east coast of the USA: New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington DC.

Where to stay in NYC

• Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel
• Hotel St. James

Decorations in New York City - one of the world's best Christmas destinations © Anastasios71/Shutterstock

Berlin has over 50 neighbourhood Christmas markets, so it's a bit of a festive legend. It's also worth visiting for iconic museums, great nightlife and festive experiences.

From mid-November to the first half of January, the Berlin Botanical Gardens invites you to enjoy a night stroll among the illuminated gardens. During the festive season, there are golden glowing arches, glittering penguin statues and twinkling lights streaming from the trees. Book your visit in advance, tickets sell out very quickly and don't forget to bring your camera to take the perfect festive photo.

In our in-depth guide, you'll find things to do in Berlin at any time of year.

Where to stay in Berlin

• Essential by Dorint Berlin-Adlershof
• Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz

Christmas market, French church and konzerthaus in Berlin, Germany © S.Borisov/Shutterstock

Rome mixes up its festive traditions across the entire city. So you have art collections, museums and monuments combined with Christmassy Italian food and culture. All of that makes Rome one of the best places to visit at Christmas. Plus, there's the Vatican Midnight Mass. So why not have a look around on a private Christmas tour with local guides?

The Christmas tree in the Colosseum in Rome cannot be overlooked. It may be a couple of metres shorter than the one in New York's Rockefeller Centre, but it is a truly spectacular sight.

Italy doesn't miss an opportunity to shine with its famous cooking at Christmas either. Don't miss out on the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Italian Christmas dinner before midnight mass.

Soak up the sights and delights of Ancient Rome, with our tailor-made 6-day trip

Where to stay in Rome

• Hotel Area Roma
• Hotel Marcantonio

Colosseum decorated for Christmas in Rome, Italy © Bucchi Francesco/Shutterstock

Visit Santa in Finnish Lapland at the legendary Santa Claus Village just outside festive Rovaniemi . It's a kid's Christmas fantasy, and children do love it. But it's also designed to enchant adults. Plus, there's a chance of Northern Lights in December.

Here you can meet the pack of huskies at Apukka and hear their stories before mushing them through the trees on your own sledge.

Explore the surroundings of the Arctic Circle, visit a magical place - Santa Claus Village - try the traditional Lappish food, snow-shoeing with our tailor-made 5-day tour .

Where to stay in Finland

• Park Hotel Tornio
• Lapland Hotels Äkäshotelli

Snowman in Santa Claus Village in Lapland, Finland © Roman Babakin/Shutterstock

Edinburgh does a festive atmosphere from its atmospheric Old Town to the Georgian New Town. Edinburgh Castle looks magical, there are colourful Christmas markets and the New Year street party is one of the biggest in Europe.

The Christmas season is the best time to take a magical walking tour of Edinburgh and discover the city where the world of Harry Potter was conceived. Here you will have an opportunity to test your knowledge with an audio-visual quiz, find out your Hogwarts House, and visit Tom Riddle’s grave.

Visit two traditional capitals, London and Edinburgh and discover peaceful Scottish islands with our tailor-made 14-day trip vintage England .

Where to stay in Edinburgh

• Radisson Blu Hotel

Edinburgh Christmas markets in Princes Gardens © Ulmus Media/Shutterstock

Christmas is magical in Montreal . It's the second largest city in Canada and has everything from skiing on Mont Tremblant to the Vieux Port ice rink. Enjoy Christmas festivals and explore Old Montreal. Then meet ghosts of Christmas past on a haunted walking tour .

Montreal has held an annual parade of Santa Clauses since 1925. It is known locally as Defile du Pere Noel. About 15-20 floating statues take part in the procession through the city centre to Catherine Street. Also, don't miss out on the beautiful views of the Christmas fireworks held every year in Montreal's Old Port.

Where to stay in  Montreal

• Manoir Sherbrooke
• Hotel Bonaventure Montreal

Place d'Armes at Christmas, Montreal, Quebec, Canada © Pinkcandy/Shutterstock

Hong Kong is the most extraordinary city and it dazzles at Christmas. Look forward to illuminated skyscrapers, bedecked shop fronts and Christmas music everywhere. If you want even more glitter, try happy hour with a light show at Sky100 Observatory.

At the Hong Kong Ocean Park , you can have a great time with the kids as well as on your own. Here you'll witness some wonderful world-class Christmas activities and performances. There's also a 40-foot-tall Christmas tree and plenty of roller coasters to suit all tastes.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant and exciting atmosphere of Hong Kong with our 5-day tailor-made trip.

While planning your Christmas holiday read our list of the best places to stay in Hong Kong .

Glittering Hong Kong lights up for Christmas © Shutterstock

Washington DC is a Christmas capital packed with heartwarming traditions. Don't miss the illuminated Pathway of Peace with its 56 Christmas trees. Wrap up warm against the freezing weather to go exploring.

It's hard to argue that Washington DC is one of the best Christmas destinations. There's Christmas entertainment to suit all tastes, from a visit to the National Christmas Tree in President's Park to the holiday boat parade in Wharf.

Where to stay in Washington DC

• The Normandy Hotel
• The Dupont Circle Hotel

White House at Christmas in Washington DC © Orhan Cam/Shutterstock

Boston is an Old World US Christmas from gas lamplit streets on historic Beacon Hill to huge Christmas trees and enchanting Quincy Market .

One of the best things to do in Boston at Christmas time is to visit the pubs. There are many different bar events during this time, the most popular being SantaCon and Ugly Sweater. For Santa Con, all participants dress up in their favourite Santa Claus costumes and shuttle around Boston's many pubs. The Ugly Sweater crawl is exactly what you think it is: put on your ugliest holiday jumper and head to Boston's pubs!

Where to stay in Boston

• The Bostonian Boston

Christmas traditions in Boston Massachusetts, USA © Marcio Jose Bastos Silva/Shutterstock

Experience Cologne for eight Christmas markets and the Rhine riverbank markets. Quaint Glühwein stalls contrast with impressive urban architecture here and you'll find lovely festive traditions. Spread some cheer on a Christmas market and Kolsch Beer tour.

In addition to the Christmas markets, the city offers various Christmas activities such as a trip along the Rhine, and the Christmas garden at the Cologne Zoo. In Cologne, you can enjoy Christmas circus and theatre performances.

Where to stay in Cologne

• NH Köln Altstadt
• Hostel Köln

Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market, Germany © picturetom/Shutterstock

Prague is considered one of the best Christmas destinations for a reason. Festive Prague looks spectacular at Christmas time. How could it not with architecture spanning over 600 years, medieval streets, wooded hills and the lovely River Vitava with its many romantic bridges?

Prague's Christmas markets are in no way inferior to those in other famous Christmas destinations. If you are looking for the most atmospheric and scenic, head to the Old Town Square Christmas Market. Once there, don't forget to make your way to the Old Town Tower to enjoy the view from above.

Also, don't miss out on the opportunity to sample some of the Czech famous Trdelník and Svařák (Czech take on English mulled wine).

The Czech Republic is famous for its beer culture. If you're a beer enthusiast, check out our guide to Czech beer and the best places to try it in the Czech Republic.

Where to stay in Prague

• Hotel Pivovar
• Hotel Klara

Christmas in Oldtown Square, Prague, Czech Republic © Jiri Foltyn/Shutterstock

Warm to Iceland at Christmas. It's where to discover 13 Icelandic Santas known as Yule Lads. The weather's snowy and there's a good chance of Northern Lights.

Reykjavík is breathtakingly beautiful at any time of year, but on Christmas Eve the city is transformed with dozens of Christmas trees and decorations. If you like ice skating, go to one of the two ice skating rinks - Tjörnin pond or the Nova ice skating rink. Nova ice skating rink is sutuated on the Ingólfstorg Square where you can visit the little Christmas market.

Where to stay in Reykjavík

• Hotel Orkin

Snowy Christmas in Reykjavik, Iceland © John Speargod/Shutterstock

Visit Dresden for sweet traditions like the Stollen cake parade. The enchanting River Elbe setting enhances Christmas markets. And if you want to see historic Frauenkirche at its finest, take a night tour of Dresden with friendly local guides. Dresden is known for being home to some of the best   German Christmas markets .

Visit the Dresden Strieselmarkt, Germany's oldest Christmas market. This market is a magnet that attracts visitors not only because of its venerable age, but also because of its other sights. It is home to the world's largest step pyramid Erzgebirge at 14.61 metres, probably the world's largest candle arch and a daily Christmas cultural programme for young and old.

Embark on an exploration tour through Saxony starting in ­Dresden with our tailor-made 5-day trip.

Where to stay in Dreseden

• Hotel Elbflorenz
• Penck Hotel

Christmas market in Dresden, Germany © LianeM/Shutterstock

Bruges medieval town centre was made for Christmas. It's awash with chocolatiers and charming Christmas markets. The canals are wintery and atmospheric and you can hear the traditional carillon in Bruges Belfry.

Belgium is among the countries that are mostly off the tourist radar. Thanks to this coincidence, you have the opportunity to stroll around the many serene canals of Bruges and feel as if the whole city is just for you.

And of course, Belgium is practically synonymous with chocolate, and the chocolate in Bruges is considered one of the best in Belgium. Take a stroll through the local chocolate shops and enjoy chocolate in all its Christmas shapes.

Where to stay in Bruges

• Hotel Ter Brughe
• Snuffel Hostel

Christmas decorations light up Bruges' Old Market Square © kavalenkau/Shutterstock

New Orleans does full-on Christmas with riverboat carol cruises, festive street cars and dazzling decorations. The city's historic quarters are at their most atmospheric and it's the perfect time of year to take a haunted cemetery tour .

Another event that might interest you is the Celebration in the Oaks in the City Park. Hop on the train with friends and family and enjoy 25 acres of Christmas holiday displays and 600-year-old ancient oaks studded with lanterns and moss.

It should also be mentioned that New Orleans is famous for its cocktail culture. Once there, check out our list of must-visit bars in New Orleans .

Where to stay in New Orleans

• The Westin New Orleans
• Le Méridien New Orleans

Christmas lights in the French Quarter of New Orleans © Colin D. Young/Shutterstock

Spend Christmas in the Colorado mountain town of Aspen . One of the world's most famous ski resorts it's all about alpine lodges, cosy restaurants and a festive atmosphere.

Above all, Aspen is a skiing paradise and it's a great idea to combine outdoor activities with a variety of Christmas events. The 12 Days of Aspen, a series of Christmas-themed events, takes place from 20 to 31 December. If you're travelling with children, this option is ideal, as most activities are tailored for the younger participants.

Where to stay in Aspen

• St. Regis Aspen Resort

White Christmas in Aspen, Colorado © The World in HDR/Shutterstock

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The Best Places to Go for Christmas

These are 20 of the best places to spend Christmas this year.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

For some people, the perfect Christmas vacation involves fully leaning into winter on a snowy mountain somewhere, curled up next to a crackling fire. Others prefer to lounge on a beach as far away from cold weather as possible. Wherever you choose to spend "the most wonderful time of year," you're likely to find some version of holiday cheer.

From the sunny shores of Saint Lucia to the storybook town of Solvang, California, to Santa Claus' own hometown in Finnish Lapland, these are the best places to visit for Christmas this year.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is an idyllic ski destination perched in the beautiful Tetons of Wyoming. Late December here is packed with holiday programming that typically includes ice skating, skiing with Santa, and caroling. The festivities usually kick off with a Christmas tree lighting and end with fireworks on New Year's Eve.

There are several stunning slopeside lodges to choose from, including the luxurious Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa and the ski-in, ski-out Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole . Looking for gifts in downtown Jackson? The iconic elk antler arches that frame the Town Square are illuminated for the holidays, making it feel magical. For a unique adventure that embraces the hot and cold, plan a trip to the Granite Hot Springs Pool , which can be accessed only by snowmobile, fat bike, dog sled, or skis.

New York City

There's truly nothing like Christmas in New York City . The city lights shine brightly year-round, but holiday lights add to the magic. You'll hardly have to look for activities or entertainment with all the famous displays: the enormous tree at Rockefeller Center and the smaller but still dazzling tree at Washington Square Park, the LED-lit Saks Fifth Avenue facade, and the animated window displays at Macy's Herald Square, to name a few. You can sip hot chocolate while you shop for last-minute gifts at German-style Christmas markets and partake in the age-old tradition of watching the Radio City Rockettes perform their annual Christmas Spectacular on a holiday vacation in NYC.

Bruges, Belgium

KavalenkavaVolha/Getty Images

The Bruges Christmas Market is one of the best in Europe. This enchanting event takes over the Markt, the square at the heart of the city, with stands and wooden chalets selling everything from handmade Christmas ornaments to waffles and woolly socks. The colorful storefronts surrounding the square are adorably festooned with holiday decorations, and you'll find confectioneries serving Belgian hot chocolate — no doubt some of the best you'll ever taste. The festivities extend to a smaller market in nearby Simon Stevinplein square. Elevate your stay with a suite overlooking the picturesque canal at the luxurious and historic Hotel Van Cleef .

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Another place to experience the holidays on the ski slopes is Beaver Creek, Colorado, about 12 miles over the road from bustling Vail. This picturesque ski village typically sees festive activities for the whole family, from an annual Christmas tree lighting to changing events like holiday movie nights and cookie-baking competitions.

As for a cozy place to rest your head, The Osprey offers luxurious accommodations and a heated outdoor pool all mere feet from the chairlift. Otherwise, you can book one of just 60 rooms at The Pines Lodge . Both offer ski-in, ski-out access.

Saint Lucia

If your idea of a white Christmas involves soft, powdery sand, consider going to this beautiful Caribbean island. The luxurious Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort , typically offers a full lineup of holiday activities such as visits from Santa, a traditional family Christmas meal, and a New Year's Eve beach bash. Of course, you can also spend your days lounging on the stunning beach between St. Lucia's iconic peaks, the Pitons, or enjoying the resort's regular amenities and activities, including a pool, spa, dive facility, and kayak rentals.

Highlands, North Carolina

If you're looking for a charming, small-town Christmas experience that feels like it's straight out of a Hallmark movie, head to Highlands, North Carolina. This picturesque town is in the southern Appalachian Mountains, within the Nantahala National Forest. Throughout December, you'll find storefronts along and around Main Street decorated with wintry displays. The city runs a competition, so cast your vote on which you think is the best. Visit with Santa in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on any Saturday in December leading up to the big day. Old Edwards Inn and Spa and Half-Mile Farm ( favorite hotels among Travel + Leisure readers) offer cozy accommodations with a side of holiday decorations and Christmas cheer.

Salzburg, Austria

Christmas markets, warm glühwein (mulled wine), medieval castles, and a museum wholly dedicated to Christmas will surely get you into the holiday spirit while visiting Salzburg. As you probably know, the city is the birthplace of Mozart and the setting of "The Sound of Music," a movie that seemingly plays on repeat over the holidays. Ice skate around a statue of the iconic composer at Mozartplatz and soak in stunning views of the snow-capped Alps on the south-facing terrace of the Hohensalzburg Fortress . The most luxurious place to stay? That would be Hotel Goldener Hirsch right in Old Town.

Solvang, California

If you won't have a chance to wander through a storybook town in Denmark this holiday season, you can get a similar feel in Solvang. The small city in Santa Ynez Valley was founded by a group of Danes in the early 1900s. They created this adorable community, now known for its Danish businesses and architecture. Solvang typically hosts Julefest , a month-long village celebration complete with outdoor gatherings and holiday decorations. Make the stay even more Christmassy with a stay at The Landsby or the Winston , two of Solvang's coziest boutique hotels.

Stowe, Vermont

A popular ski destination among East Coasters and one of the most picture-perfect places to go for Christmas, Stowe is within driving distance of several major northeastern cities (Boston, Albany, and Montreal, to name a few). The ski season typically starts in November, so this is an ideal place to hit the slopes if you're looking for a white, powder-filled Christmas. Stay at The Lodge at Spruce Peak for beautiful mountain views and ski-in, ski-out access.

Edinburgh Castle, arguably the city's most recognizable landmark, glows over the holiday season. The annual Castle of Light event began in 2019 and draws crowds with spectacular displays projected onto the exterior walls of the 12th-century stronghold. The projections typically get a refresh every year, and have included everything from fire-breathing dragons to flowers. Other holiday must-dos include the festive afternoon tea at Dome , where the stately Georgian Tea Room is enhanced with seasonal decorations. Sip mulled wine at one of the Christmas markets and ice skate on George Street for the full experience. If you're around on New Year's Eve, participate in Hogmanay, Scotland's own end-of-year celebration. Edinburgh puts on a Hogmanay festival that includes a torchlight procession, concerts, and a disco party.

Washington, D.C.

See the National Christmas Tree, ice skate at Washington Harbour, and sing along with a choral concert at the National Cathedral this December. Washington, D.C., hosts an array of holiday happenings throughout the season, and many of them are free, so go ahead and spend some extra money Christmas shopping. Head to one of the renowned Smithsonian museums to escape the cold weather, bundle up and admire the lights at the National Zoo, or walk along the National Mall with a hot cocoa in hand. When it comes to accommodations, The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown can hardly be beat.

Florida Keys

With pleasantly warm December weather, the Florida Keys are an ideal escape for those looking to spend the holidays in a U.S. beach destination. Kick off your Christmas vacation with a scenic road trip through the Florida Keys, stopping at islands en route to Key West. This is a popular time to visit, so consider staying away from the crowds at the secluded Sunset Key Cottages , a 27-acre private island resort accessible by ferry. Upon arriving, you'll find serenity just a short trip from the attractions of Key West.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a great place to visit any time of the year. Loved for its culture, food, and picturesque setting, the city typically hosts a number of holiday events throughout December. Annual highlights include the Santa Fe Botanical Garden's Glow light display and Christmas concerts inside the impressive Loretto Chapel leading up to December 25. You can even find winter sports at Ski Santa Fe , about 15 miles away. For a special hotel experience, book your stay at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe , which offers a range of festive amenities, or spend the night on the historic and holiday-lit Santa Fe Plaza at La Fonda .

Buenos Aires

Christmas is a summer holiday in the Southern Hemisphere, and Buenos Aires celebrates it with outdoor asado feasts and fireworks. High temperatures in December range from the upper 70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit, which means Papá Noel sometimes wears a tank top. The sunny weather is perfect for sipping cocktails and picnicking on the Plaza Intendente Alvear. While you're in the Argentine capital over the holidays, sample the pan dulce ("sweet bread"), admire the decorations that usually take over the Galerías Pacífico shopping center, or make like a local and escape the city to a nearby beach.

There's just something especially magical about London at Christmastime. Between the glittering lights, cider-slinging holiday markets, themed pop-up bars, and ice skating rinks from Hyde Park to the Queen's House in Greenwich, the city really comes alive for the holiday season. Stay at The Lanesborough for a truly festive experience — the luxurious hotel has beautiful holiday decorations, in-suite shopping from Harvey Nichols, and the option to have your room fully decorated with the hotel's Christmas in Residence program.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Why not spend the holidays in Santa Claus' hometown? Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is home to Santa Claus Village and SantaPark , where you'll find the man himself and his reindeer sidekicks. During the winter, the arctic landscape is covered by a thick blanket of pretty snow. You'll also have the best chance of the year at spotting the northern lights. There are several hotels in the area with glass igloo accommodations, which provide stunning 360-degree views of the aurora borealis from inside.

The Maldives

If you'd rather wear sandals than snowshoes, the Maldives might be the ideal place for you to spend Christmas. Winter is the dry season, when the weather here is at its best. Daily highs average in the mid-80s Fahrenheit — perfect for a holiday beach getaway. At the end of the day, kick back in luxurious accommodations at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island or The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands .

Bavaria, Germany

Spend your Christmas holidays in this picturesque region in southern Germany. Start your adventure in Munich, where you can sip mulled wine as you stroll through a genuine German Christkindlmarkt. Then head out of the city to find Christmas spirit in small towns like medieval Rothenburg or go skiing in the Alps. Wherever you go, beware of the spooky Krampus, a frightening Christmas beast of local folklore.

Quebec City

Quebec City is about as European as it gets outside of Europe itself. The predominantly French-speaking Québécois celebrate the season with German-style markets, ice skating at Place D'Youville, and shopping in Old Quebec, transformed into a dreamy scene. For a truly Canadian experience, take a ride on Au 1884 (aka the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide), one of Quebec City's oldest attractions. The slide runs right past Fairmont Le Château Frontenac , a castlelike hotel where you can stop for soup or coffee to escape the cold.

The Bahamas

Just a short flight south for East Coasters, The Bahamas is another popular choice for travelers seeking sun and sand during the holidays. Mid-December is the start of the high season here, probably because daily highs in the 80s are such a welcome change to chilly temperatures in much of the U.S. Thanks to a wide range of accommodation options — from resort complexes like Baha Mar with seemingly endless amenities to more intimate private island resorts like T+L reader favorite Kamalame Cay — there's a perfect Christmas vacation waiting for you in this sunny oasis.

The 14 most Christmassy destinations in the world

Recently updated on October 5th, 2022 at 04:15 pm

The most Christmassy destinations around the world bring to life the gingerbread villages, sparkly fairytale towns and Christmas markets of your dreams. If you’re wondering where to travel for this December for Christmas cheer, pop the most Christmassy places around the globe on your radar. From European Christmas markets to religious affairs, take a festive escape to these dazzling December destinations.

Vienna, Austria

With some of the best Christmas markets in Europe (not one, but three “Christkindlmarkts”!), Vienna is a winter wonderland come December. It’s oldest market stretches back to the 13th century making this one of the oldest most Christmassy places in the world. Head to the Austrian capital in December for goblets of gluhwein, traditional nativity scenes, charming markets and angelic carollers.

GET INSPIRED BY: Christmas Markets of Austria, Germany and Switzerland

New York, New York, USA

How many Christmas movies have we watched set in New York where they go ice skating? NYC is one of the top Christmassy destinations around the world and ice skating in December is a Christmas bucket list must. Every festive season the city that never sleeps rolls out a month-long program of fun from the 27-metre-tall (95ft) Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree with 30,000 lights, to the giant decorations on Sixth Avenue. Peep at shop window displays, visit Christmas fairs, attending festive parades and watch carollers sing.

RELATED BLOG: Why New York City is the most Christmassy city in the world

Nuremberg, Germany

Germany counts more than 70 (!!) Christmas markets every December, and – we think – the best is in Nuremberg. The local Christkindlesmarkt is a special tradition with around 200 stalls selling handmade gifts, sweet gingerbread hearts, traditional toys and the famous Zwetschgenmännle prune men posing in all their Christmas splendour.

GET INSPIRED BY: German Christmas Markets

Tokyo, Japan

Japan is not a country that shys away from a theme and in the busy metropolis of Tokyo locals make sure its one of the most Christmassy places in Asia, let alone the world. Expect over-the-top decorations, crazy lights and festive trimmings across the city. The Starlight Garden in Tokyo Midtown and Caretta Shiodome are the best spots for festivities. Plus there’s a European-inspired Christmas market under the Tokyo Sky Tree. If you’re there on Christmas Day make like the Japanese and order buckets of KFC for the family – the easiest festive feast ever! 

North Pole, Alaska, USA

Mr Santa Claus might be fictitious but the North Pole is an actual real place. North Pole in Alaska is home to some 2,200 residents that help the big man in red get ready for his gift run. One of the most Christmassy destinations in the world, year-round you’ll find dazzling decorations, twinkling lights and other tributes to Old Saint Nicholas.

Lapland, Finland

Depending on who you speak to, some consider Lapland the true home of Santa Claus. Finnish locals celebrate the man in the capital city Rovaniemi with authentic winter activities like reindeer safaris, the chance to watch Santa’s elves at work, and baking classes with Mrs. Claus. So wholesome! 

RELATED B LOG: Visiting Santa’s Grotto in Rovaniemi, Lapland, should be top of any Christmas lovers bucketlist

Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Where to travel for Christmas cheer if you can’t skip over to Europe? Make your way north to Canada’s Montreal. The French-speaking city oozes European vibes and every year puts on a very François-themed Défilé de Noël festival with Christmas fairs, weekly fireworks and the annual Santa Claus Parade, which has been celebrated since 1925. Arrive ready for cool Canadian weather, steaming mugs of hot chocolate and candied chestnuts.

Sydney, Australia

A hot summer Christmas in Sydney will have you question the need for snow. Indeed Sydney manages to pull off being one of the most Christmassy destinations around the world while also being hot, hot, hot in December. The city puts on massive displays of dazzling lights and festive events, including a self-guided walk that explores the big tree with 110,000 LED lights, the sparkling Canopy of Light with 85,000 lights and 10 two-metre high mega stars. Did we mention you can go to the beach on Christmas Day?

Moscow, Russia

Moscow’s magnificent Christmas Light Festival rolls out more than 400 dazzling light installations across the city. Wander between city squares admiring the lights while shopping Christmas stalls, drinking mulled wine and snacking on gingerbread and caviar-filled crepes.

GET INSPIRED BY: Festive St. Petersburg and Moscow

Munich, Germany

The capital of Bavaria throws an incredible Oktoberfest party every year – but it’s not the only festival it does well. Embrace festive cheer in the central Marienplatz and wander the old town savouring the sights, sounds and smells of Munich’s charming Christmas market. Think twinkling lights, carols and one mega dazzling Christmas tree. 

Asia doesn’t usually spring to mind when thinking about where to travel for Christmas fun, but Singapore is doing it’s best to bring festive feelings to the island state. The famous Orchard Road becomes a dazzling Christmas village complete with a huge sparkling tree, while the Gardens by the Bay hosts an extravagant month-long light and sound spectacle called Christmas Wonderland. Singapore is hot year round so chase a white Christmas feeling at Snow City, or find magic at Universal Studios.

GET INSPIRED BY: Singapore Explorer

Copenhagen, Denmark

As you’d expect from a Scandinavian capital, Copenhagen is one of the most Christmassy destinations in the world. The Tivoli Gardens are the centre of it all with dazzling light shows, amazing Christmas markets and brilliant trees decorated with thousands of lights. The gardens have been pulling off Christmas cheer for more than 170 years, so safe to say they know how to bring the magic.

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

Wondering where to travel for Christmas with a twist? New Orleans is a destination that goes against the grain at every chance. The southern city is famous for its Creole food and at Christmas you can join a centuries old tradition, the Réveillon dinner. It was originally the meal after midnight mass but nowadays restaurants offer decadent four-course meals with lush southern dishes such as shrimp remoulade, lobster bisque, seafood gumbo, fried oyster chowder, satsuma sherbet, Louisiana pecan pie, and Bananas Foster bread pudding. Afterwards roll into the French Quarter for festive homes, watch bonfires on the levee, and sing carols outside America’s oldest cathedral in Jackson Square. 

GET INSPIRED BY: Tastes and Sounds of the South

Lucerne, Switzerland

With snowy mountains and cute villages and town, Switzerland has an undeniable Yuletide cheer to it and Lucerne is the best place to chase the festive spirit. Lucerne’s Christmas market at Franziskanerplatz sits in the heart of the Old Town. Grab a warm mug of Glühwein and wander the traditional wooden stalls eyeing up souvenirs. 

So, those are the most Christmassy destinations around the world. Do you know where you want to travel for Christmas this year? Will you take a December trip to visit the best Christmas markets in Europe? Let us know in the comments….

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Embrace Festive Holiday Spirit At These Gorgeous Christmas Destinations Around The World

From snowy retreats to sunny escapes, go on a holiday in these places around the world and revel in their enchanting christmas festivities..

By: Priyaja Bakshi Published: Nov 07, 2023 05:00 PM UTC

Christmas is a magical time! The extended holiday break and festive excitement of the upcoming New Year make you want to maximise your time and spend the holidays travelling the world. Almost all destinations have special Christmas festivities that add beauty and charm to your vacation. So, if you are planning to travel during the holidays, we have compiled a list of wonderful places to visit at this time. From ice skating in New York to attending Christmas parades in Tokyo or relaxing on the beach in the Maldives, you can have all these wonderful experiences at these top Christmas destinations.

This year, Christmas is on a Monday, giving you a long weekend with three days off. You can plan for a festive holiday and even ring in the New Year at these destinations, as January 1, 2024, is also on a Monday. Just take time off from December 26 to 29, and you will end up with a ten-day break, starting from December 23, 2023, to January 1, 2024. Why not end and start a year with a big bang?!

Best places in the world to visit for Christmas

New york, usa.

Hollywood has romanticised Christmas in New York and for the right reason! The Big Apple is decorated with Christmas trees on every street corner and adorned with festive decorations, transforming into a completely different city. The snowfall adds to its charm, creating an ideal winter wonderland for a classic Christmas celebration.

While there are numerous activities to enjoy in New York , your Christmas itinerary should include Christmas shows, markets, ice skating and more. Start by visiting the iconic Rockefeller Christmas Tree. Try ice skating at Wollman Rink or take a carriage ride in Central Park. Head to the Winter Village at Bryant Park to indulge in classics like hot chocolate, gingerbread cookies, Christmas pudding, English trifle, baked Alaska and yule log. Catch the world-famous Christmas Spectacular by the Rockettes or the Jingle Ball NYC at Madison Square Garden.

Average temperature in December : Ranging from a maximum of 7 degrees Celsius to a minimum of 0 degrees Celsius; expect snowfall

How to reach : John F. Kennedy International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport and LaGuardia Airport are the main airports serving New York.

Also read – Bookmark This: A First-Timer’s Guide To New York City

Book your stay at Hyatt Grand Central New York via Booking.com

Book your stay at Hyatt Grand Central New York via Agoda

The Philippines

The Philippines, known for having one of the longest Christmas celebrations, doesn’t follow the “12 days of Christmas” idea; they have four months of Christmas! September, October, November and December, collectively known as the “Ber months”, are dedicated to Christmas, bringing families together in the spirit of Yuletide.

Your Christmas trip to this tropical country is incomplete without visiting San Fernando, the Christmas capital of the Philippines. Why? Because it’s where the picturesque Giant Lantern Festival takes place, lighting up the sky from mid-December to the end of the year. Manila also sparkles with fireworks displays at SM Mall of Asia, the Ayala Triangle Lights and Sounds Show, UST Paskuhan, Christmas Bazaars and Simbang Gabi (Filipino Mass) held in churches.

The festival is all about family, so it’s a great idea to visit with your loved ones. December is also one of the best months to visit the Philippines due to its exceptional weather. You can refer to our Philippines travel guide to make the most of your tropical getaway. While in the country, don’t forget to indulge in Filipino Christmas delicacies like bibingka , puto bumbong and ensaymada .

Average temperature in December : Ranging from a maximum of 30 degrees Celsius to a minimum of 24 degrees Celsius.

How to reach : Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Lapu-Lapu’s Mactan-Cebu International Airport are the main airports in the Philippines.

Also read – Things You Need To Know Before Visiting the Philippines in 2024

Book your stay at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila via Booking.com

Book your stay at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila via Agoda

Experience the rich tapestry of Icelandic culture during Christmas, where you can witness Icelandic folklore come alive as you traverse the nation’s rugged and snow-covered landscape. What’s even more enchanting is the opportunity to witness the spectacular Northern Lights while celebrating Christmas in Iceland.

The cities in Iceland burst to life with beautiful decorations and tales about Yule Lads, also known as Icelandic Santas. Head to Christmas villages in Hafnarfjörður or Selfoss, and explore downtown Reykjavík on Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur. Attend Christmas concerts at the Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavík, or enjoy the special Icelandic Christmas beer at one of the local watering holes. Discover how the Yule Lads live at Dimmuborgir and check out the Christmas House in North Iceland. Be sure to check our guide on planning a dream solo trip to Iceland to make the most of your Christmas vacation.

Average temperature in December : Ranging from a maximum of 3 degrees Celsius to a minimum of -1 degrees Celsius; expect snowfall

How to reach : Keflavik International Airport and Akureyri Airport are the main airports in Iceland.

Also read – Bookmark This: The Ultimate Iceland Travel Guide

Book your stay at The Reykjavik EDITION via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Reykjavik EDITION via Agoda

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Winter is considered the best time to visit Singapore , and the Christmas festivities make the Lion City a truly wonderful destination. Orchard Road comes to life with Christmas lights and decorations, making an already beautiful city even more gorgeous.

From Gardens By The Bay, the Singapore Flyer, and Universal Studios to Marina Bay Sands, there is plenty to see and do in Garden City. Feel the festive spirit at the Christmas Wonderland next to Gardens By The Bay, attend grand events hosted by Universal Studios and other theme parks on Sentosa Island, and ring in the New Year with a memorable countdown at Marina Bay.

Average temperature in December : Maximum 31 degrees Celsius and minimum 25 degrees Celsius

How to reach : Singapore Changi Airport is the main airport in the country.

Also read – Singapore Travel Guide: Places To Visit And Things To Do In The Lion City

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Years of history and culture have moulded Germany into the fantastic destination it is today, beckoning travellers to explore beautiful cities in Germany like Berlin, Dresden, Hamburg, Munich, Frankfurt, Cologne and more. Germany is one of the best places to visit for holidays, as the German Christmas markets have inspired many other Christmas markets worldwide.

Christmas in Germany revolves around these world-famous markets, which are hubs for shopping, food and festivities. Visit iconic marketplaces like Dresdner Striezelmarkt, Leipzig Christmas Market, Munich’s Marienplatz, the Märchenbazar, and Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt as you explore the best places in Germany .

Experience authentic German cuisine by trying Gluhwein, potato salad, Christmas Stollen, German potato dumplings, pfeffernusse cookies, German Lebkuchen and German Christmas coconut cookies at these markets.

Average temperature in December : Ranging from a maximum of 4 degrees Celsius to a minimum of 0 degrees Celsius; expect snowfall

How to reach : Berlin Brandenburg Airport, Frankfurt Am Main Airport, Munich International Airport, Cologne Bonn Airport, Hamburg Airport and Dresden Airport are the major airports in Germany.

Also read – 12 Small Towns In Germany, From Charming Medieval Villages To Idyllic Mountain Escapes

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In the vibrant city-state of Hong Kong, where Eastern traditions meet Western cultures, Christmas is celebrated with great passion and zeal. This modern city is a tapestry of diverse customs, and after exploring the list of the best things to do in Hong Kong , immerse yourself in the holiday season and join in the festivities.

Spend time in theme parks like Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park to see their Christmas celebrations. Watch the Hong Kong Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker , catch one of the shows by the Hong Kong Philharmonic, or enjoy the Christmas edition of the Symphony of Lights, the world’s largest permanent light and sound show across Victoria Harbour. You can even participate in one of the many Christmas workshops to create memorable souvenirs from your trip. And don’t miss out on the acclaimed Winterfest, happening from November 26, 2023, to January 2, 2024.

Average temperature in December : Maximum 20 degrees Celsius and minimum 15 degrees Celsius

How to reach : Hong Kong International Airport is the major airport in Hong Kong.

Also read – Decode Hong Kong’s Public Transport System With Our Handy Travel Guide

Book your stay at The Langham Hong Kong via Booking.com

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If your idea of Christmas involves basking in the sun, playing on the beach, and enjoying the crystal-blue waters, then spending Christmas in the Maldives is like a dream come true. Tucked away in the Indian Ocean, this archipelago’s iconic water villas are on the bucket list of almost every traveller, and the great Maldivian weather makes it the perfect time to experience this tropical paradise.

Follow our ultimate guide to Maldives’ Resorts to pick the best property for your vacation in this stunning archipelago. Celebrate an unconventional Christmas by surfing, scuba diving or making sandcastles on the beach with your family. All resorts host their own Christmas celebrations, bringing the essence of the holidays to your tropical vacation.

Average temperature in December : Maximum 30 degrees Celsius and minimum 25 degrees Celsius

How to reach : Velana International Airport is the main airport in Maldives.

Also read – Why the Maldives Is the World’s Leading Destination Three Years Running

Book your stay at Soneva Fushi via Booking.com

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Immerse yourself in foreign culture while enjoying a classic Christmas by spending your holidays in Austria . The beautiful architecture of Austria’s cities, adorned with snow and Christmas decorations, will make your trip to Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Graz more picture-perfect. Experience local Christmas folklore and maybe even get clicked with Saint Nicholas and Krampus.

Enjoy musical galas at Konzerthaus, shop at Christkindlmarkt, and visit exhibitions at Albertina in Vienna.  Salzburg’s Christmas markets are also enchanting, especially the ones in the UNESCO-enlisted old city. Almost every city in Austria hosts beautiful Christmas markets that add a touch of magic to your vacation. Delight in an authentic Austrian Christmas meal and savour glühmost, weihnachts punsch, pumpkin soup, bread dumplings, lebkuchen, Christmas stollen and Austrian fruit bread.

Average temperature in December : Ranging from a maximum of 4 degrees Celsius to a minimum of -2 degrees Celsius; expect snowfall

How to reach : Vienna International Airport, Salzburg Airport, Graz Airport and Innsbruck Airport are the main airports in Austria.

Also read – Why You Need To Plan An Austrian Wine Drive Now

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Tokyo, japan.

Tokyo in winter feels like something out of a fairytale. The Shibuya crossing is decorated with Christmas lights, Tokyo Skytree illuminates the skyline, and Tokyo Disneyland’s parades add a festive fervour to the city. What is particularly fun about visiting Tokyo during Christmas is the unique way the Japanese celebrate the festival.

The Land of the Rising Sun celebrates Christmas as a romantic holiday, with gifts primarily exchanged between couples. Since 1974, the traditional Christmas meal in Japan has been a KFC bucket. But that’s not all; some other must-tries include Japanese Christmas cake and hot sake.

Tokyo is a vast city with much to offer, and you can explore it like a pro by following our guide on things to do in Tokyo . Some special Christmas destinations in the city are the Tokyo Christmas Market, the Christmas Market at Yebisu Garden Place, Miyashita Christmas Park, Marunouchi Illumination, and the festive displays at Tokyo Midtown. Tokyo Disneyland even holds a Christmas parade that is considered a must-see during the festive season.

Average temperature in December : Maximum 12 degrees Celsius and minimum 4 degrees Celsius; expect snowfall

How to reach : Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport are the main airports in Tokyo.

Also read – A Guide On What To Do In Tokyo: Your First Time Vs. Your Second Time

Book your stay at The Prince Park Tower Tokyo Hotel via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Prince Park Tower Tokyo Hotel via Agoda

Embrace the “susegad” lifestyle as you lounge on a beach bed and enjoy the panoramic views of the sea during your Christmas in Goa. Shacks adorned with Christmas decorations, carol singing in Konkani and fireworks on the beach create a unique atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the unhurried Goan way of life by following our guide to Goa .

Experience the festive magic of Goa by joining the Christmas parties in Candolim, Baga, Vagator, Calangute, Anjuna or Palolem. Get to know the local culture by attending midnight mass at the Basilica of Bom Jesus or Immaculate Conception Church. Don’t miss Goa’s unique tradition of burning the “old man” or savouring dishes like beef roulade, sorpotel, Goan coconut cake, bebinca, dodol and neureos.

Average temperature in December : Ranging from a maximum of 33 degrees Celsius to a minimum of 22 degrees Celsius.

How to reach : Dabolim’s Goa International Airport and Manohar International Airport are the main airports in Goa.

Also read – A Quick Guide To Planning A Goa Trip With Your Parents

Book your stay at The Westin Goa via Booking.com

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(Hero and feature image credit: Shutterstock)

Related: Discover The Magic: Must-Visit Christmas Markets Around The World In 2023

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– Do these Christmas places get crowded during the holiday season? Christmas is the time of the year that brings people together, so you are likely to face crowds on your travel during the holiday season.

– What is the best time to visit these Christmas places for the holiday festivities? The best time to visit these Christmas places for the holiday festivities is in December.

– Can I experience a white Christmas in these destinations? You can enjoy a white Christmas in destinations like New York, Austria, Germany, Tokyo and Iceland.

– Is it necessary to book accommodations and activities in advance for Christmas travel? It is highly advisable to book your accommodations and activities in advance at these destinations, as everything tends to get fully booked during the Christmas season.

– What are some unique Christmas traditions in different destinations? Each destination has its unique Christmas traditions. For example, Iceland has Yule Lads, Austria celebrates Saint Nicholas and Krampus, Japan is known for its Christmas KFC meal tradition, and Goa has the tradition of burning the effigy of an old man.

– What’s the best way to immerse oneself in the local culture during a Christmas visit? The best way to immerse oneself in local culture during a Christmas visit is by exploring the destinations. Cities like Tokyo, New York and Singapore have many attractions that make your trip festive and allow you to experience local traditions.

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Priyaja Bakshi

Priyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism at Lady Shri Ram College For Women (DU). She is extremely curious about the world and wishes to visit all the countries once in her life. She identifies as a foodie and loves to spend her free time exploring different cuisine and curating new dishes. .. Read More As a former Food Writer at NDTV, she can help you find the best places to eat in Delhi! Read Less

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• Top 20 Places to Celebrate Christmas in the World

23 Mar 2023

A distinct festival rooted in the tunes of carolers and European traditions, the Christmas season which is also dubbed as the most wonderful time of the year is just around the corner. From the ultimate winter wonderland experience in the Himalayan highlands to making your way to the New York Times Square for the big celebrations, December holidays are the perfect embodiment of the festive spirit.

Whether you are planning to travel domestically—staying as close to home as possible, or planning to enjoy the merriment of the occasion with a safe trip abroad, here’s our top 20 places to celebrate Christmas in the world .

20 Popular Places to Celebrate Christmas in the World

From sparkling castles to vibrant escapades, the following are the best places in the world to celebrate Christmas:

1. Bethlehem, West Bank

Bethlehem, a cultural homeland and the biblical birthplace of Jesus is an iconic destination nestled south of Jerusalem. Glancing the celebrations at Manger Square and capturing the impeccable sights of the Old City during the time of Christmas is truly an experience of a lifetime. The festivities at St. Catherine Church, including the midnight mass, attracts travellers from across the globe to witness the massive celebrations of the birth of Christ.

Suggested Read: Bethlehem Birthplace Of Jesus Christ: A Handy Guide To The Holy City

2. New York City, USA

New York City is known for its vibrant Christmas lights, featuring musical ambience and dust of snow covering the region. Being one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in the world , the city hosts numerous events and live performances where one can witness world-class artists. The charm of the tallest Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center is unmatchable, and wandering across the local streets, checking out the exclusive flea markets installed during the festival are amongst the most popular things to indulge in.

3. Lapland, Finland

The city features exquisite scenes of Christmas where you can see a joyful local in his red and white attire traversing through the streets with his reindeer sleigh. He is the most admired resident in the city, and one can witness him recreating Christmas Day for everyone. Santa Park, located in the city centre, is a fun place that hosts various activities, especially for kids.

Suggested Read: The Lapland Guide That Will Inspire You

4. The Vatican, Italy

The Vatican City is the place that remains charming throughout the year, and when it comes to celebrations, the experience is beyond words. During this time, pilgrims visit Vatican City to attend the Midnight Mass at St Peter’s Basilica. Many observe it as a day of remembrance and cherish being part of this celebration. The Vatican Christmas Tree placed in Saint Peter’s Square is a popular site to visit during this time.

5. Bondi Beach, Australia

It is an ideal place for adventure freaks to plan their Christmas vacay. Being a hub of backpackers, Bondi Beach features incredible celebrations full of colourful people around. You can expect electrifying bands and DJs performances. If you wish to have a vacation beyond sparkling lights and melodious carols, then Bondi Beach might be a perfect place for you!

Suggested Read: Sydney Travel Guide: To Plan Your Oz Vacay Effortlessly

6. Munich, Germany

Munich is known for its enticing winters, and when it comes to Christmas celebrations, the place remains the best to sneak peek at the pious beliefs and customs. Walking down the glittering streets to reach the 100-foot tall Christmas tree placed at Marienplatz gives you a chance to be a part of the festivity. You can check out collections at the dozens of Christmas markets installed across the streets. The trams that connect the old city serve delicious mulled wine and gingerbread during this time. Savour the delicacies if you wish to check out the authentic taste that has remained unchanged for decades. The city hosts live holiday music at the town hall, where you can glance at the festivity.

7. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is another best place to celebrate Christmas in the world. Here, the sagas of Santa Claus are melodiously versed, and locals celebrate the festival in their traditional ways. The city observes the rituals introduced almost 400 years ago, and the neighborhood gets sparkled with synchronized lighting. Christmas celebrations here are extended until New Year’s Eve when you can witness electrifying fireworks at Dam Square. The Dutch capital features Christmas celebrations with enormous trees of the city twinkling in festive colors.

Suggested Read: 7 Spectacular Beaches In Amsterdam To Visit On Your Vacation To Netherlands!

8. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is an ideal place to plan your Christmas vacation as the experiences purveyed by the city are truly enchanting. Dublin hosts numerous festival markets, workshops, and exhibitions, where travelers can have a good time with their loved ones. The 12-days exclusive Christmas Market at Docklands is the best place to catch the festival vibe. The streets of the city glitter throughout December, where one can attend workshops and live acts by Elves. The colorful vistas of Dublin promise a holiday that will remain in your memory for a lifetime.

9. Prague, Czech Republic

Christmas markets in Prague are the iconic places to check out the festival magic of the Czech Republic. Lightened up with thousands of twinkles, this spectacular ‘heart of Europe’ turns into a ‘winter wonderland’ during Christmas. Ornate wooden huts beside the streets serve authentic Christmas meals that add spellbinding flavors to the celebrations. Prague is undoubtedly one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in the world , and you get a chance to explore the historic site of Mala Strana and capture the vistas of Gothic architecture. You can attend an opera performance or be part of the live events hosted at the city square.

Suggested Read: 14 Places To Visit In Prague For A Fab Vacation In The Czech Republic

10. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich is known for its chocolates, cobbled streets, snowy mountains, and Christmas celebrations. Travelers from across the world visit Zurich throughout the year, and the city welcomes visitors warm-heartedly. However, Christmas brings in a spree of excitement, and grand exhibitions and shows are organized that allure art lovers and designers from near and far. You can also go on a guided Christmas walk that takes you to the singing Christmas trees. Visiting the Christmas village at Sechseläutenplatz near Bellevue and attending local celebrations can be added to your plan if you wish to interact with locals. The Christmas markets in Zurich offer plenty of local delicacies including punch, mulled wine, raclette, etc.

11. Valkenburg, Netherlands

The Christmas celebrations at Valkenburg are famous among globetrotters. Those interested in witnessing the iconic castle ruins that turn majestical during Christmas plan their expeditions here and unravel the hidden escapades of Valkenburg with an ardent spark of festivity. The rustic medieval streets get illuminated with dazzling lights and light music. The exotic caves of MergelRijk that feature old-world charm get enchanted with nativity scenes. Shopping from Christmas markets that offer authentic Polish handicrafts is a popular thing to indulge in here during the festival. Home to an enormous and oldest Christmas Market, Valkenburg is a paradise for shopaholics who wish to kick-start their new year in style.

Suggested Read: Celebrate Christmas In The Netherlands And Know About The Intriguing Dutch Traditions

12. Vienna, Austria

Vienna hosts one of the best Christmas celebrations in the world with a picture-perfect snowy backdrop. A Christmas trip to Vienna evolves around colourful sights, mystic sounds, authentic recipes, and cultural interactions. If you wish to have a vintage-style Christmas celebration, then you can plan a trip to Vienna. The essence of Mulled Wine in the environs, majestic imperial architecture glistening up with soothing lights, and classical melodies retreating your ears are some unique experiences that make Vienna a popular place to spend Christmas week with your mates.

13. Copenhagen, Denmark

The Christmas vibe in Copenhagen is related to the concept of hygge, which is the feeling of contentment or well-being. The locals believe in staying around good company and spend time with family and friends during Christmas. Every family indulges in Christmas shopping which sums up with a warm cup of glogg. The Tivoli Garden, which is the heart of the city, features the ultimate setting during this time with around a million sparkles and innumerable Christmas trees. Restaurants host culinary fiestas, giving you a perfect chance to savour the authentic flavours of the region.

Suggested Read: 15 Unique Things To Do In Copenhagen To Experience The City Like A Local

14. Riga, Latvia

Riga, the largest city of the Baltic states, features an enormous variety of traditional, stylish, and innovative Christmas trees. The magnificent architecture with splendid festival decorations, synchronized markets setting, live music scenes, and mega feasts makes Riga one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in the world. The city also organizes numerous events for kids, and one can enjoy taking pony rides and a horse-drawn carriage. Christmas in Riga is the perfect time to enjoy local delicacies and check out handmade items such as woolen socks, wooden candlesticks, and woven mittens.

15. Berlin, Germany

Berlin, the capital city of Germany, is known for its spellbinding Christmas scenes. One can attend classical Christmas concerts, and various theatre artists recreate Christmas stories with an amalgamation of local beliefs and customs. The city hosts over 50 exclusive markets during the time of Christmas. Indulging in historical rides is a perfect thing to catch the festival vibe.

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Berlin You Must Not Miss On Your Germany Trip

16. London, England

Christmas in London is such an experience that features almost everything that makes your holiday memorable. From stunning Christmas markets to serene mass prayers, ice-skating rinks, to enthralling live events, the encounters of London are one of its kinds. Strolling through the charming Oxford Street with glittering lights showering festivity is admirable. The exclusive Christmas markets in London give you a gorgeous window to check out products from high-end fashion boutiques, local bookshops, and more. ZSL London Zoo, Royal Albert Hall, WWT London Wetland Centre, and Rainforest Café are the prime places to visit in London during Christmas.

17. Edinburgh, Scotland

The festivity begins in Edinburgh with the commencement of December. One can indulge in browsing through the traditional Christmas markets and attend local celebration ceremonies hosted across the city. Amusement rides such as Star Flyer purveys the best idea of capturing the festival vibe of Edinburgh. Christmas afternoon teas with locals followed by attending a performance at the majestic theatres on Christmas eve is an exquisite experience that winds the sense of culture and customs. You can relish local recipes while glancing at the skies lighten up by electrifying fireworks. Edinburgh celebrates Christmas in its unique style that lures travelers from across the world.

Suggested Read: Edinburgh Castle: Your Detailed Guide To Scale Historical Heights In Scotland!

18. Tallinn, Estonia

The Christmas celebrations in Tallinn can be traced back to 1441. If you wish to encounter the unparalleled mystics of Christmas, then you can plan to unravel the traditional setups of historical markets dusted with fresh snow. Tallinn gets covered under a blanket of snow during the time of Christmas. The lightened lanterns glorify the cobblestone streets that lead to the vibrant celebrations full of contentment and togetherness. The first Christmas tree of the world was established here in the city in the year 1441. The tree still stands in Town Hall Square as the legendary tree.

19. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is home to themed Christmas villages that turn into a fairytale location during the time of Christmas. Events such as live concerts, theatres, exhibitions, storytelling, etc., are organized during this time across the city. Hosting the oldest Christmas market in France, Strasbourg is an ideal place to understand European culture. You can walk around the streets with your significant other and taste local delicacies served exclusively during Christmas to catch the festival spirit.

Suggested Read: 27 Incredibly Charming Places To Visit In France

20. Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong is amongst the best places in Asia to celebrate Christmas. Sparkling skyscrapers, glittering shores, and dazzling Christmas markets featuring musical ambiance all around the city make Hong Kong city one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in the world. Disneyland, Hong Kong Ballet, Hong Kong Philharmonic, WinterFest, and the Grand Symphony hosts grand Christmas celebrations.

Suggested Read:

13 Festivals In Hong Kong That Best Showcase The City Culture

So, where are you planning to go on your Christmas trip? Don’t forget to consider the above-mentioned best places to celebrate Christmas in the world before planning your future tour. Check out the best international holidays with TravelTriangle and enjoy the festival like never before. You can also get your itinerary customized by mentioning your preferences.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Celebrate Christmas In The World

Is it safe to travel during Covid times?

You need to follow all the mandatory travel guidelines prescribed by the respective authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Remain masked at public places and maintain social distancing. It is advised to sanitize your hands after touching surfaces and carry disinfectant sprays. Check the official website of the place you are visiting and don’t forget to carry your negative RT-PCR report as you may have to produce it at various entry and exit points.

What are the best places to visit in the world during Christmas?

Bethlehem, New York, Tallinn, London, Hong Kong, etc. are known for hosting some of the best Christmas celebrations. However, it depends upon you what you want to explore on your Christmas holiday. Whether a vintage style celebration with an orthodox vibe or electrifying city fiestas is in your mind!

Where is the oldest Christmas tree?

The first Christmas tree of the world was established in the city of Tallinn in the year 1441. The tree still stands in Town Hall Square as the legendary tree.

What are the best places to celebrate Christmas in India?

Goa, Pondicherry, Shillong, Kerala, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc. are known for amazing Christmas celebrations in India. You can also attend exclusive events hosted across the country which includes mass prayers, live band performances, DJ parties, and more.

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The 32 best places to spend Christmas around the world

By Caitlin Morton

We’re all for cosying up with loved ones at home, but we also love seeing how cities around the world transform every December. The best places to spend Christmas, in our book, run the gamut from European classics with storybook Christmas markets to Asian cities with over-the-top light displays, and even merry mainstays in the U.S. There are even some spots in the southern hemisphere where temperatures hover in the 20s and 30s on December 25, in case your idea of a perfect holiday includes lounging by the pool with a cocktail.

While the jollity may look a bit different from city to city, these global destinations keep the holiday cheer going year after year. And if you already have your plans solidified for this upcoming season, it’s never too early to start planning a fabulous winter vacation for 2023.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Why we go: For the past three decades, the little town of Bethlehem in Pennsylvania has channelled its name and transformed into “ Christmas City ” for the holidays. Celebrations are centered around the Christkindlmarkt at the SteelStacks, with more than 50 booths featuring artisan crafts, as well as live music and special events with Santa Claus himself.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: A “live” advent calendar at the Goundie House on Main Street features a downtown merchant emerging from the door at 5:30pm every night with treats for all who are waiting.

Stay here: Hotel Bethlehem is a wonderland of its own, with 35,000 Christmas lights, 36 wreaths, life-sized toy soldiers, and a gingerbread house of the hotel.

Bruges, Belgium

Why we go: Europe’s best-preserved medieval city oozes charm year-round, but especially during the holidays. It’s hard to imagine a place more magical as you wander the cobblestone streets, admire the shimmering lights, and warm up with mugs of Belgian hot chocolate in cafés.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Follow the Winter Glow light trail with stops at 10 installations through the historic part of the city center, including lights at the Church of Our Lady Tower and a projection at Gruuthuse.

Stay here: Grand Hotel Casselbergh (steps away from the Markt) has inviting touches like exposed wooden beams in the rooms, a lobby bar with a fireplace, and a wellness center located in a 16th century cellar.

Why we go: If you’re looking to escape winter during Christmas, you can't do much better than Cape Town —it’s summer in the Southern Hemisphere, after all. You can even visit one (or several) of the South African city’s holiday markets without having to wear a coat and scarf.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: They’re not exactly Santa’s elves, but the estimated 2,000 to 3,000 African penguins at Boulders Beach—where you can get close enough to take portrait-mode photos of them—are sure to warm your heart just the same.

Stay here: The light and breezy rooms sitting above the Atlantic Ocean at Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa are the perfect antidotes to the winter blues.

Why we go:  From its European-inspired  Christkindlmarket to light shows galore,  Chicago knows a thing or two about embracing the Christmas spirit (and the freezing temperatures). Can’t-miss activities include visiting the 55-foot  Christmas tree in Millennium Park and cozying up in a  heated igloo at The Godfrey Hotel.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Be dazzled by 2.5 million LEDs at  ZooLights (now through January 1), an annual light festival held at Lincoln Park Zoo. Check out the event’s  calendar for sensory-friendly visit times.

Stay here:  Fresh off a $100 million (Rs8,15,62,25,000) renovation, The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago guarantees the most luxurious stay in the town—especially if you book a suite overlooking Lake Michigan and Navy Pier. Be sure to book a festive afternoon tea or five-course winter truffle dinner at the delicious on-site restaurant, Torali.

Cologne, Germany

Why we go: Nothing embodies old-world yuletide charm like the Christmas market, and nobody takes Christmas markets more seriously than the Germans , with Cologne’s festivities drawing some four million (forty lakh) visitors each winter.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Take in the merry sights from the observation deck of KölnTriangle, the tower directly opposite the Cathedral on the Rhine.

Stay here: The Hyatt Regency Cologne has great views of the Cologne Cathedral, plus excellent multi-course meals at Glashaus Restaurant.

Why we go: According to the World Happiness Report, Denmark is one of the world’s happiest countries , making it a great place to spend the holidays. Things are even jollier at Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens , where antique amusement park rides decorated with lights are surrounded by yet another adorable, alpine village-style Christmas market selling gifts and snacks. The park has also been known to deck out its tree with Swarovski crystals .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Book a table at Restaurant Vita for some andesteg , a traditional Danish holiday dish of crispy, succulent roast duck served with prunes and apples.

Stay here: Never mind hygge—Hotel Sanders takes Danish comfort and contentment to new heights.

Why we go: Dubai does Christmas the same way Dubai does nearly everything—in true, over-the-top fashion. Catch the tree lightings happening around town, including the ones at Towers Rotana, Fairmont The Palm, and The Irish Village , and then watch the jolly ol’ St. Nicks making a run for it at the Santa Run . And since no visit to Dubai is complete without several shopping sprees, set aside time to stock up on goodies at one of the city’s Christmas markets .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Dubai Mall is an air-conditioned winter wonderland, complete with an ice skating rink and indoor ski slopes at Ski Dubai.

Stay here: Jumeirah Al Naseem earns high marks for its posh rooms, easy beach access, and superior dining and spa options.

Why we go: If your idea of Christmas merriment includes an authentic Irish pub crawl (we get it), then Dublin is your place. There’s no better way to warm up on a cold Christmas night than with some black pudding and a few pints—and trust us, this city has enough cozy bars to last you through New Year’s. But the Irish capital isn’t just about drinking, of course. Holiday offerings include Christmas markets, decked-out shops on Grafton Street, and tree-lighting ceremonies galore.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: For 66 years, The Moving Crib in St. Martin Apostolate’s basement has been charming families with its mechanical figures depicting scenes like Noah’s Ark.

Stay here: The Westbury becomes even more luxurious during the holidays, with prime views overlooking the lights of Grafton Street during afternoon tea.

Aishwarya Venkatraman

Arundhati Ail

Shalba Sarda

Muskaan Chandrapota

Why we go: Hong Kong ’s yuletide urban offerings rival that of NYC ’s, with holiday markets, window displays, and concerts galore (they even have a Santa Con). Then there are the lights. The Symphony of Lights show—held nightly at 8pm—will leave you breathless, thanks to an extravagantly choreographed neon show displayed across more than 40 of the city’s iconic skyscrapers along Victoria Harbour.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Experience the Symphony of Lights during a harbour-front dinner cruise .

Stay here: As if the Ritz-Carlton wasn’t swanky enough, the hotel hosts Christmas parties , dinners, and afternoon teas all season.

Inari, Finland

Why we go: While most tourists flock to the Lapland city of Rovaniemi come Christmas, we suggest heading even further north (like, within reach of the Arctic Ocean north) to the village of Inari. Located in the heart of the scenic Ivalo region—reachable via a 1.5-hour flight from Helsinki —Inari is a pure winter wonderland dotted with hotels and restaurants that keep things nice and cozy. It’s hard to imagine a more authentic winter holiday than one spent riding dog sleds, feeding reindeer , and chasing the Northern Lights .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: A private Northern Lights safari will have you sitting in a heated sleigh and sipping sparkling wine while waiting for the aurora to dance. (Rough life, huh?)

Stay here: Finnish Lapland is known for its glass-igloo accommodations, as well as in-house winter activities and cozy, panoramic cabins at Aurora Village. (Heated windows ensure the snow doesn’t cover your view.) Plus, daily reindeer feedings are available.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Why we go:  If you're wondering where to go for Christmas celebrations unlike anywhere else, look no further. Every December, this tiny New England town bursts with holiday cheer during its annual  Christmas Prelude , an 11-day bash that's about as New England as it gets—one of the main attractions is a tree made of lobster traps. (The event will take place 1-11 December this year.) The  lobster rolls at The Clam Shack—considered to be some of the best rolls in Maine—will make you forget about gingerbread and sugar plums altogether.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Santa Claus’s arrival to the Christmas Prelude on a lobster boat is (obviously) the star attraction.

Stay here:  White Barn Inn epitomises New England luxury all year, but just wait until you see it over the holidays. This year’s seasonal offerings include Christmas cookies and eggnog by the fire, special Christmas feasts at the White Barn Inn Restaurant, and afternoon tea attended by Santa Claus himself.

Leavenworth, Washington

Why we go:  Love the idea of a Bavarian holiday but hate the idea of a transatlantic flight? Enter  Leavenworth . This town tucked away in the Cascade Mountains was modelled after Germany’s alpine villages, complete with half-timbered houses and epic food halls. As you can imagine, the city comes alive during Christmas with over-the-top holiday lights and tons of winter sports.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum features a collection of some 9,000 nutcrackers from more than 50 countries—definitely worth stopping by between snowshoeing and skiing excursions.

Stay here:   Icicle Village Resort is just as magical as it sounds, with a relaxing spa, in-room fireplaces, and a restaurant serving up Bavarian favourites.

Why we go: Christmas in London has timeless appeal—chalk it up to the decorated Georgian townhouses, lively pubs, and a dash of Dickensian charm. Our step-by-step guide to spending the holidays in London covers the perfect place for afternoon tea , a steak to tuck into after a day spent gift shopping, and a martini to sip on Christmas Eve—and that’s just for starters.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: One of the most magical experiences is gliding around the frozen 18th-century courtyard of Somerset House , a sprawling neoclassical building off the Strand.

Stay here: Claridge’s—because there's no better place to ring in Christmas than in one of the best hotels on the planet.

The Maldives

Why we go:  Visiting the Maldives in December guarantees you’ll have a white Christmas—only we’re talking about the dazzling white sand, not snow. While the atoll doesn’t officially celebrate the holiday, many resorts cater to western travellers with themed dinners and decorations. But let’s face it: You’ll be too busy with spa treatments and snorkelling trips to even bother with those proverbial visions of sugarplums.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  If you really want a traditional burst of holiday cheer, head to Conrad Maldives Rangali Island for a tree lighting ceremony on December 21, followed by cocktails on the beach.

Stay here:  Conrad Maldives Rangali Island really is one of the best resorts in the country, famous for its lavish suites and underwater restaurant, Ithaa. Guests lucky enough to visit during the holidays can also enjoy champagne and lobster beach barbecues, lavish pool parties, winter-themed spa treatments, and special underwater meals on Christmas Day.

New York City

Why we go: There’s no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it’s ice skating at Rockefeller Center, window shopping on Fifth Avenue, or lurking around 34th street hoping to witness a miracle.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: There’s no such thing as going overboard with Christmas decorations in Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood. Join a walking tour , organised by the area’s residents.

Stay here: The Plaza, full stop. (If it's good enough for Kevin McCallister ...)

Why we go:  Can you really think of a more magical place to spend Christmas than Paris? The city provides  festive activities at every turn, from the light installations on the Champs-Elysées to any number of pop-up markets and ice skating rinks. Even if you don’t feel like shivering out in the cold, warming up with a mug of hot chocolate at Angelina will still get you in the spirit.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Whether you gawk at the window displays outside or the massive Christmas tree inside, Galeries Lafayette is well worth elbowing a few fellow tourists to check out.

Stay here:  Hôtel Lutetia is a Left Bank stunner with gourmet holiday menus and an Art Deco lobby decked out with lights and trees. Upgrade to a higher room category for oversized bathtubs and balconies overlooking the Eiffel Tower.

Prague, Czech Republic

Why we go: Prague ’s holiday markets easily make the city one of the world’s best places to spend Christmas: They run for a full month, with locals and travellers passing through for mulled wine, sticky pastries, and roasted ham. The main markets take place in the Old Town and Wenceslas squares, just 10 minutes apart by foot—and are set to the backdrop of some of the prettiest Gothic architecture you’ll ever see.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sip on Svařák, a Czech mulled wine with a citrusy touch from a market stall. Or for a sweeter taste, indulge in a hot chocolate at Cafe Slavia , founded in 1881.

Stay here: Aria Hotel is located within walking distance of Prague Castle, and its music-themed suites are always a hit.

Quebec City, Canada

Why we go: Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America, and its colonial French architecture gives it an unmistakably European feel. The cobbled streets of the Old Town are packed with quaint shops and delicious bistros, all merrily decorated for the holidays.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Au 1884 toboggan run by Château Frontenac (open from mid-December to mid-March) is one of the city’s oldest traditions—and quite the thrill. Zoom down icy tracks overlooking the city on a wooden sled reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.

Stay here: You can’t go wrong with Auberge Saint-Antoine and its lobby fireplace, heated bathroom floors, and a Christmas package that includes a five-course dinner, holiday movie screenings at the in-house theatre, and a personal visit from Santa in your room.

Reykjavík, Iceland

Why we go: Reykjavík shines on the streets and in the sky in December. Strings of glinting Christmas bulbs illuminate the city during its very long nights, and on the clearest evenings, the Northern Lights can be seen from the city’s darker streets and parks.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The 13 Yule Lads , a group of holiday trolls you’ll see about town, are Iceland’s equivalent to Santa Claus in local folklore (and have actually been around a lot longer than St. Nick).

Stay here: Hotel Borg, the city’s oldest and most elegant hotel, still reigns supreme.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Why we go:  Who says Christmas has to be about ugly sweaters and hot cocoa? December in Rio is all about enjoying an icy caipirinha on a  spectacular beach —with daily temperatures hovering in the 20s. The city also happens to host the world’s largest display of full-sized nativity scenes during its annual  Festival de Presépios (“Crib Festival”), found at Jardim de Alah between Leblon and Ipanema.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  For the very best display in town, ride a bike around the Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon and enjoy views of the world’s largest floating Christmas tree from every angle.

Stay here:  The Fasano Hotel along Ipanema beach has an infinity pool overlooking the ocean that will make winter seem very, very far away.

Rome, Italy

Why we go: The streets around Rome will be festively alight, sure, but the home to the seat of Catholicism is an excellent option for folks seeking a more sacrosanct Christmas experience.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hear hymns echoing off the walls of the 1,900-year-old architectural marvel during midnight mass at the Pantheon (24 December into the 25th).

Stay here: Aside from classically designed guest rooms, Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese offers festive amenities like themed dinners at the rooftop restaurant and chauffeured tours of Rome’s holiday lights in a vintage Fiat 500.

Salzburg, Austria

Why we go: It’s no surprise that Salzburg’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old City that served as the backdrop for The Sound of Music also fills its famed Christkindlmarkt with song. With roots dating back to the 15th century, sing-alongs and traditional wind music are as much a part of the festivities as the mulled wine and market stands. We’re not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: It’s literally Christmas all year round at the Christmas in Salzburg shop on Goldgasse, known for its frilly ornaments (especially those hand-painted on eggshells).

Stay here: Hotel Goldener Hirsch is just steps away from Christkindlmarkt, although we’d be fine staying in these comfortable rooms all day.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Why we go:  Christmas in San Miguel de Allende kicks off on 12 December (aka Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe), and the rest of the month is equal parts solemn and celebratory. You may encounter nativity scenes and church services one day, then parades and fireworks the next. But seeing as it all takes place in one of the friendliest, most beautiful cities in the world, we’re guessing you’ll be able to easily enjoy every moment.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Between 16 and 24 December, most of Mexico participates in Las Posadas, a religious festival honouring the Nativity story. Once a day, two people dressed up as Mary and Joseph lead a procession to a different home and ask to be let inside (as in the biblical journey to Bethlehem), and the reenactment typically ends with carols, food, and pinatas.

Stay here:  The city has its share of swank hotels, but it’s hard to compete with the spa amenities and rooftop bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Why we go:  Puerto Rico prides itself on having the  longest holiday season in the world, lasting a whopping 45 days between the end of November and the middle of January. That gives you even more time to enjoy the island’s festive decorations, folk music, midnight mass services, and coquito—a coconut-based drink that puts eggnog to shame.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Stroll around Old San Juan to see Christmas lights strung up on colorful buildings, with some of the best displays near the central Plaza de Armas.

Stay here:  Our readers love Condado Vanderbilt Hotel for its hammam spa (the only one in PR), ocean-facing rooms, and four relaxing pools.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Why we go:  Santa Fe’s already-beautiful plaza becomes downright magical with the addition of Christmas lights—but the holiday spirit doesn't start and stop there. The city also offers midnight mass at the  Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis de Assisi , holiday exhibits at the  New Mexico Museum of Art , holiday flamenco performances at  El Flamenco Cabaret , and seasonal shopping at the Winter Indian Market. Even when Christmas is officially over, you can keep busy at  Taos Ski Valley and  Ski Santa Fe —both just an easy drive away.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Don’t miss the annual  Canyon Road Farolito Walk , a Christmas Eve event consisting of farolitos (paper bags filled with sand and topped with a votive candle) lining the streets and walls of adobe buildings.

Stay here:  Hot List winner Bishop’s Lodge has a tangible warmth to it, with wood-burning kiva fireplaces and hammered bronze tubs adorning the rooms.

Strasbourg, France

Why we go: Strasbourg is home to the oldest of France’s Christmas markets, dating back nearly 450 years . There are 12 in total to check out, which is sure to keep you busy. Pro tip: Though the markets will be full of delicious goodies, many choose to indulge in the king of Alsatian delicacies: foie gras, which is also a French Christmas tradition.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The superlative market sits beneath the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, the tallest surviving structure built entirely in the Middle Ages. How’s that for a photo op?

Stay here: We’re huge fans of the impossibly luxurious Hôtel Les Haras, installed in Louis XV’s historic stables in Strasbourg.

Sydney, Australia

Why we go: You haven't seen Christmas lights until you’ve seen Sydney's Christmas lights. Plus, the holiday season lasts an entire month here (take that, 12 days of Christmas) with “ Sydney Christmas. ” The festival features the city’s largest Christmas Tree at Martin Place.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Wonder at the 3,500 twinkling lights at the Strand Arcade or the 85,000 twinkling LEDs at the incredible Pitt Street Mall Canopy of Light .

Stay here: Celebrate with a Christmas Day lunch followed by a nap by the rooftop pool (remember, it’s summertime Down Under) at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour.

Taipei, Taiwan

Why we go: 25 December isn’t a public holiday in Taipei, but it’s still one of the best places to spend Christmas, as the city celebrates with incredible lights displays, festive attractions, and events. During the weeks between mid-November and the New Year, pretty much the entire Banqiao District transforms into Christmasland—which is exactly what it sounds like. We’re talking massive Christmas trees, rides, concerts, and markets selling local goods.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Don’t miss the Christmasland section over in the Fuzhong Business district , with a magic forest and Boshou light park.

Stay here: We love the Mandarin Oriental for its decadent decor and wide range of food options.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Why we go:  Due to the Georgian Orthodox Church’s use of the Julian calendar, Christmas isn't officially celebrated in Tbilisi until 7 January. Decorations and festivities start much earlier, however, with city-wide light displays, Christmas markets, and musical performances ready to dazzle visitors starting in December. 

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Located in Tbilisi’s Freedom Square, the Liberty Monument (which depicts Saint George slaying a dragon) is covered with cascading lights to create a massive makeshift  Christmas tree .

Stay here:  The cosy-chic vibes at Stamba Hotel are unparalleled—think buttery leather sofas, lush hanging plants, and floor-to-ceiling shelves of vintage books.

Why we go: The city turns the voltage up each year with its winter illuminations, with different districts competing to create some truly sensational displays. Standout illumination sites include the almost 10-foot-tall snow globes with falling snow at Tokyo Midtown and a massive Baccarat crystal chandelier at Yebisu Garden Place. The bright lights are so popular, they stay up well past Christmas day—often through January or February.

The one thing to get you in the spirit : One of the most famous illuminations is the Blue Cavern ( Ao no Dokutsu ) in Shibuya, which is inspired by the blue grottos of the Mediterranean.

Stay here: Aman Tokyo, a two-time Gold List winner, has a multi-level spa and deep furo soaking tubs in each room.

Vienna, Austria

Why we go: Vienna practically sparkles with holiday spirit during the Christmas season (the lights covering nearly every building might have something to do with that). The city is known for its markets, with the Viennese Christmas Market at City Hall and the holiday tree at Rathausplatz stealing the show. Also nearby are the Nativity Trail and the Tree of Hearts.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Enjoy the crystalline tones of the one and only Vienna Boys Choir—which has been around for more than 500 years and traditionally performs in its hometown during the holidays.

Stay here: The Park Hyatt Vienna is within walking distance of St. Stephen’s Cathedral and features some of the largest rooms in Vienna.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Why we go: Vilnius becomes a true winter wonderland in December, with a Christmas train that weaves through Old Town, 3D nativity stories projected onto buildings, and Christmas markets in the city’s squares.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The headline-making Christmas trees are no joke. This year’s main tree was designed to look like a giant multi-layered birthday cake to honor the city’s upcoming 700th anniversary.

Stay here: The warm and inviting Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius is as close to all the Christmas delights as you can get.

First published on CNT US

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Best places to visit in december 2024.

Planning a vacation in December can feel overwhelming alongside holiday shopping and year-end festivities. But you'll thank yourself later if you squeeze in time for a trip before the new year. U.S. News considered prices, events, accessibility and seasonal crowds to decide the best places to visit in December. Whether you're seeking a warm-weather hideaway or want to experience the holiday spirit in a snow-covered town, you'll find it in these destinations. Vote for your favorite spot below to help decide next year's list.

London, England

U.s. virgin islands, french alps, torres del paine national park, hawaii - the big island, new york city, rio de janeiro, quebec city.

London is abuzz with holiday-themed activities in December. Holiday pop-ups transform attractions like Hyde Park and the London Zoo, while Christmas ballets and concerts take over the city's legendary entertainment scene. What's more, "Harry Potter" fans can opt for a festive tour during the Hogwarts in the Snow event at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Chilly temperatures in the 40s and rainy conditions mean it's the perfect time to don your coziest jumper. Plus, London's rainy day standbys like the Tower of London and the British Museum are typically less crowded at this time of year.

If you're seeking palm-fringed festivities without the need for a passport, look no further than the U.S. Virgin Islands. December is the start of the dry season in this Caribbean island chain, and average temperatures in the 70s and 80s are perfect for lounging on beautiful white sand beaches like Magens Bay or snorkeling in Virgin Islands National Park. Plus, you'll get a taste of the islands' vibrant culture during the Crucian Christmas Festival, which takes place on St. Croix at the end of the month. Partake in the merriment with parades, music competitions and more.

Snow-capped mountains, quaint villages and mouthwatering cuisine (much of which involves some form of melted cheese) make the French Alps a classic winter getaway. Most ski resorts open by early December, so you can get an early start on the slopes for the season, or just take part in the lively après-ski experience in iconic destinations like Val d'Isère and Chamonix. What's more, many villages like the châteaux-studded Annecy amp up the charm with cozy Christmas markets throughout the month. Winter in the Alps is never cheap, but try visiting earlier in the month before school holidays for the best room rates.

Make the trek to the Finnish Lapland for the ultimate Arctic experience. Finland's northernmost region promises a deep layer of snow all winter, perfect for skiing or sledding down the longest toboggan run in Europe. Most flights to this region land in Rovaniemi, home to Santa Claus Village, where you can meet the man in red, step across the Arctic Circle or embark on a reindeer sleigh ride. Though you'll only see about four hours of daylight, this makes for prime conditions to view the dazzling aurora borealis from the comfort of one of the glass hotels in the region.

December is one of the most popular months to visit the Bahamas – and for good reason. By the time this month rolls around, the threat of hurricanes has passed, making it terrific time to enjoy the outdoors. Spend your days lounging on one of the Bahamas' many beaches, snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear water or taking a boat tour to a private island . What's more, if you're visiting around the holidays, you'll catch the travel-worthy Junkanoo festival , which celebrates Bahamian culture with parades and festivities on Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

Although Phuket, Thailand, offers a consistently warm climate year-round, its dry weather and calm water in December make this month a great time to visit. Plan on spending most of your time sunbathing, swimming, scuba diving and more at beautiful beaches like Nai Harn and Kata Noi. But remember, December falls within Phuket's peak tourist season, so you won't find many deals for flights and accommodations during this month. Avoid a holiday visit in late December for slightly better rates.

Located in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a backpacker's dream due to its breathtaking landscapes and unmatched preservation. The remote kingdom's focus on cultural and environmental sustainability means heritage sites like the cliff-clinging Paro Taktsang and the riverside Punakha Dzong are never overcrowded. But cooler winter temperatures (averages range from the 30s to the 60s, depending on elevation) mean you'll encounter even fewer tourists. While a trip to this intriguing destination won't be cheap, a low-season visit can drive down the price of lodging and tours.

Nestled in southern Chilean Patagonia, this national park offers travelers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Hailed among hikers as one of the most scenic destinations in the world, the park is home to turquoise lakes and dense forests, plus massive Grey Glacier and the towering granite of Cuernos del Paine. December offers up to 17 hours of daylight, allowing plenty of time for extensive hikes. But even though December is part of Patagonia's peak summer season, temperatures drop dramatically after nightfall, so visitors will want to pack layers.

This Hawaiian paradise is the perfect place to escape winter's onset. Weary travelers can thaw on colorful beaches like Punalu'u Beach (which has beautiful black sand ) and Papakolea Beach (a unique green sand option), while more adventurous types can go for a hike in 'Akaka Falls State Park or catch a glimpse of the more than 4,000-foot-tall Kilauea volcano at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. You'll likely contend with other snowbirds in December, but you'll find that hotel prices on the Big Island are still consistently lower than those on neighboring isles.

If Old Man Winter has you dreaming of warming things up, consider a trip to the Spice Island. Grenada, a tiny island in the Caribbean known for its aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, boasts steady temps in the 80s. And since December sits just between the rainy season and high tourism season, it's the perfect time to catch some rays without the crowds (or cost) of the months to come. Spend your days lounging on Grand Anse Beach or sampling the island's rich flavors at local markets or the House of Chocolate.

It's not surprising that dozens of holiday movies are set in New York. Dazzling sights like the iconic Christmas tree and ice skating rink at Rockefeller Center, decked-out window displays at Macy's and horse-drawn carriages in Central Park conjure up holiday cheer throughout the city. And while this metropolis offers plenty to do throughout the year, festive shows, Christmas-themed pop-up experiences and even the nip in the air make December one of New York's most magical months. Just be prepared for a bit of sticker shock; the holiday season is also one of the most popular (and expensive) times of year to visit.

If you're willing to brave the cold, travel to Prague for a fun and festive winter vacation. The city turns into a winter wonderland in December, with snow-dusted buildings and Christmas markets selling everything from locally made jewelry to toys to Christmas ornaments. Those with little ones in tow should try to arrive in early December when the annual St. Nicholas Eve event takes place. During this traditional celebration, you'll see Czechia's version of St. Nick, along with his angel and devil guides, hand out candy and other treats as they walk around the city.

While the Northern Hemisphere transitions to winter in December, Rio de Janeiro enters its peak summer season. And although this is one of the wettest times of the year here, you'll still enjoy optimal warmth and mostly sunny conditions. As such, there will be plenty of opportunities to see must-visit sights like the Christ the Redeemer statue or Sugarloaf Mountain. If you're keen on experiencing Rio's lively party scene during your visit, be sure to time your trip around Réveillon. This popular New Year's Eve celebration on Copacabana Beach draws millions of people annually with its music, dancing and fireworks.

The holiday season in Germany's fourth largest city can only be described as magical. Cologne hosts a handful of Christmas markets, including the popular Advent village at Cologne Cathedral, which boasts 150 stalls. When you're not taking in the city's imposing architecture or getting into the jovial spirit with a glass of Kölsch beer (a Cologne original), pop into Museum Ludwig to view modern art or the Chocolate Museum for tasty samples. Combat the dreary weather – average highs are in the low 40s and rain is common – by soaking away the chill at a thermal spa such as Neptunbad or Claudius Therme.

It's easy to fall in love with this Canadian destination, especially when it's covered in fresh snow. You'll be enchanted by Old Québec's sights and sounds as it transforms into a Christmas village. Shop for gifts (or for yourself) in Quartier Petit-Champlain, home to one of the oldest shopping streets in North America. Plus, with its 17th- and 18th-century architecture, French-speaking Quebec City allows you to soak up European culture without dropping the cash for a flight across the pond. Just be sure to bundle up; temperatures can drop to the single digits in December.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

St. Augustine

Sanibel Island

Leavenworth

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The 15 Best Places to Visit in Europe for Christmas

Are you planning a winter getaway? Then Europe is the best continent in the world to celebrate Christmas! I’ve enjoyed a European Christmas for many years and my recommendations span from the historic Christmas markets of Germany to the icy tundra of Scandinavia – you can’t go wrong with any of these Christmas vacation recommendations!

This is the home of the great Christmas market tradition, and in cities like Dresden, Cologne , and Strasbourg , you’ll find some of the biggest and best festive celebrations in Europe. But you can escape the crowds, too, with weekend breaks in lesser visited but equally festive cities like Riga and Krakow. 

Head to Norway , Iceland , or Finland for serious winter vibes, a guaranteed white Christmas, and the Northern Lights. Or travel far south to the Canary Islands , where the sun doesn’t stop shining, even in winter.

With so many amazing places to visit in Europe for Christmas, you might not know where to begin. Check out my list of fun and festive cities and regions a visit, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an exceptional European Christmas experience!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

1. Edinburgh, UK

Edinburgh is a glorious and wintry affair come Christmas time, and if you can grin and bear the cold weather, then you’re in for a festive getaway like no other because this place offers one of the best Christmas vacations in Europe. 

The Scottish capital is magical at the best of times, but you’ll love seeing the church spires, Edinburgh Castle, and the Royal Mile decked out in their festive attire. The light shows and Christmas trees brighten up the dark nights spectacularly, while a wee dram of whisky or a warm pint of ale never tasted so good. 

There’s much for you to do on a Christmas weekend escape in Edinburgh. There are Christmas markets across the city, including excellent ones at East Princes Street Garden, Grassmarket, and Leith. You might even catch a few hymns inside the Greyfriars Kirk or St. Giles Cathedral. 

If the cold is getting to be too much for you, then you can spend your vacation inside, exploring the National Museum of Scotland , sampling the local tipples at the Scotch Whisky Experience , or touring through the stately rooms of Holyrood Palace. And if you get a few rays of rare sunshine around Christmas, you could even try the hike to Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that towers above the city.

Stay on after Christmas, and the fun really begins. The Scots celebrate Hogmanay over the New Year, and Edinburgh hosts epic fireworks displays, concerts, and countdowns to celebrate the end of the old and the start of the new! 

2. Budapest, Hungary

One of our favorite Christmas towns in Europe is Budapest , where you’ll fall in love with the festive cheer the moment you land. 

Budapest hosts some of the best Christmas markets in Europe , and you can gorge on goulash and sip on palinka from late November until the New Year. Start in downtown Budapest, where you’ll see Deak Ferenc Square, Vorosmarty Square, and St. Stephen’s Basilica decked out in lights and radiating Christmas cheer. 

Impromptu singers and brass bands fill the Hungarian capital’s streets with the sound of hymns and carols, while the scent of a chimney cake doused in cinnamon never smelt sweeter. Once you’ve explored the downtown markets, cross the River Danube and take the funicular to the top of Castle Hill. 

Take in the splendid view from Fisherman’s Bastion, and then shop for sheepskin shoes and Hungarian decorations at the small market stalls around Buda Castle. If it’s getting a bit chilly, pop into the Great Market Hall back in Pest for some hearty Christmas eating, or visit one of the many museums, like the Hungarian National Museum , the Hungarian National Gallery , or the House of Terror . 

Budapest gets cold in winter, and with temperatures often falling below freezing, you’ll want to wrap up nice and warm. The cold weather, though, is guaranteed to make your trip to one of Budapest’s thermal baths all that more enjoyable. 

Start with the iconic Szechenyi Thermal Baths , where the outdoor pools are very much open no matter the weather, then try the quieter Gellért Baths if you love the thermal bathing experience. 

3. Dresden, Germany

Dresden is one of our top picks for a winter getaway, not least because the German city hosts one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. The Dresden Striezelmarkt was founded as far back as 1434, so they’ve had a long time to perfect their festive celebrations.

Visit Dresden from the end of November through Christmas, and you’ll find the Striezelmarkt in full swing on the Altmarkt, the oldest public square in the city. This is where the original market was possibly held, although back in the early 15th century, it’s thought to have only been a one-day event.

The name comes from the selling of striezel at the market, a popular type of stollen cake that you’ll find in abundance today. These days, there are well over 240 different market stalls, and there’s everything from g luhwein to Christmas decorations for sale here. 

4. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague in winter is a wonderful experience, and given the chill weather found in Central Europe this time of the year, you’ll welcome the strange warmth of a busy Christmas market. Prague is even more beautiful now than in summer, as the magnificent castle is spectacularly lit up like a beacon of festive cheer on the skyline. There’s a reason why Prague is considered to be one of the best Christmas towns in Europe!

The sounds of hymns drift through the streets, while the Astronomical Clock never stops chiming, even in the cold chill. Head to Wenceslas Square or Castle Square for Christmas markets, where you can dine on goulash and chimney cakes until you can eat no more. 

Spend your evenings warming up in a microbrewery or traditional Czech pub. The darker beers taste better than ever in the cold, while hearty plates of roasted pork knuckles and bowls of garlic soup never go amiss at Christmas time.

5. Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland in winter? Surely that’s madness? It’s certainly brave, but it’s not mad to visit Iceland at Christmastime. In fact, it’s one of the best places to visit in Europe for Christmas because you’ll be in for a serious winter experience.

If you’ve always dreamed of a white Christmas, then Iceland is the place for you. The rooftops will be constantly shrouded in snow, while the landscapes will be cold, icy, and otherworldly. It’s a raw experience, but one you’ll come to love as long as you’re prepared for the cold.

We recommend basing yourself in Reykjavik during winter. The Icelandic capital is easily accessible by air, and even with long, dark nights and short days, the city is abuzz with festivities, lights, and Christmas markets. If the snowstorms hold off, you might even be able to make it out to the waterfalls and geysers of the Golden Circle . 

If not, then you’ll find plenty of warmth in Reykjavik’s thermal baths, where geothermally heated waters are guaranteed to infuse you with heat and energy (try the Blue Lagoon ). Of course, the real reason to visit Reykjavik at Christmas is to see the Northern Lights. This is when the skies are at their darkest, and you’ll have a great chance of seeing the dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis above Iceland. 

6. London, UK 

London is one of the world’s most magnificent cities, and even in the dark depths of winter, the British capital knows how to live well. This is a city that’s never quiet and come rain or snow or frost or sleet, you’ll find central London awash with carol singers and market stalls throughout the Christmas season. 

London has embraced the European Christmas market tradition in recent years, and you’ll find wooden stalls lining the banks of the River Thames. Stop for a mulled wine and listen to an impromptu street concert, then find yourself an old pub for some hearty pub grub and a few pints of English ale. 

You can spend fun evenings in the West End theaters, watching hit musicals and the best of British theater. There are Christmas concerts in music venues and carol services in iconic churches like Westminster and St. Paul’s. 

No visit to London in winter is ever complete without a day at Winter Wonderland. Drawing on the classic German-style markets so popular on the continent, this vast Christmas experience is home to Oktoberfest tents, ice skating rinks, ice bars, and fun fair rides. 

7. Rovaniemi, Finland

There’s no better place to spend a Christmas in Europe than Rovaniemi, a remote Finnish town that’s located on the Arctic Circle. And why would we send you high up into the icy tundra of northern Europe for Christmas? Because Rovaniemi claims to be the hometown of Santa Claus. 

This is the heart of Lapland, and some seriously slick marketing has put this city at the center of the Father Christmas story. You can visit Santa Claus Village , where you’ll find museums, restaurants, and cafes all dedicated to Christmas. You can mail a Christmas card home from the Arctic Circle, and you’re guaranteed to have more snow than you bargained for. 

But away from the touristy Santa themes, Rovaniemi is also a fascinating winter destination in its own right. You can learn about the local Sami indigenous culture, visit reindeer farms, and enjoy sleigh rides in the snow. You can explore the tundra on snowshoeing trips or snowmobile adventures, and you can chase the Northern Lights under the dark night sky. 

8. Tromsø, Norway

If you can’t get enough of those winter vibes, then Tromsø offers one of the best Christmas vacations in Europe. Open up a map of Europe, then find Norway. Keep going north, and then further north, until finally, you’re deep in the Arctic. That’s Tromsø, a small city of some 70,000 hardy souls who live an adventurous life on the edge of Norway. 

In winter, Tromsø experiences the Polar Night. The sun doesn’t rise above the horizon for six weeks of the year, and temperatures routinely stay well below freezing. Wrap up warm for this one, but prepare yourself for a winter escape like few others. 

Start by exploring the city, visiting the likes of the Arctic Cathedral, the Polar Museum, and the Troll Museum. At night (which could be all day), you’ll have a huge chance of seeing the Northern Lights, and even more so if you join a Northern Lights tour into the wilderness. 

You can learn about Sami culture at the nearby reindeer farms, cross-country ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile. Or you can just cozy up in a cafe or bar and enjoy the unique life above the Arctic Circle. 

9. Strasbourg, France

Straddling the great border region between France and Germany, the city of Strasbourg is home to one of Europe’s best Christmas markets. In fact, Strasbourg plays host to what could be the oldest Christmas market in France, a tradition heavily influenced by the city’s close ties with neighboring Germany (where the Christmas market tradition is strong indeed!).

The city offers the perfect winter escape, with well over 300 traditional market stalls set up across the vast Christkindelsmarkt. The market dates back to 1570, and you’ll love browsing through the stalls as you listen to carol singers and sip on mulled wine. Strasbourg hosts one of the tallest Christmas trees in Europe, too, while the entire city is beautifully illuminated from November into the New Year. 

While you’re in Strasbourg, you can also pop into the European Parliament for a quick tour of the EU’s democratic workings. Cathedral Notre Dame de Strasbourg is a glorious work of Gothic architecture, while the Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art offers a glimpse into the city’s creative side. There’s much to do in Strasbourg in the lead-up to Christmas, so why not start planning your getaway to this fairytale medieval city?

10. Vienna, Austria

Vienna has long been a cultural powerhouse, and come Christmastime, the festive traditions here are strong. The Austrian capital is one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe, and we know you’re going to love the markets, lights, and music that consume the city in late November and all of December. 

The Christmas market tradition in Vienna could date back as far as the 13th century when the city hosted a special December market once a year. Fast-forward over 700 years, and there are as many as 20 different markets variously located around the city. 

The most iconic Viennese Christmas market is held in front of the City Hall (the Rathausplatz). Loftily named the “Viennese Dream Christmas Market,” this is where you’ll find traditional wooden stalls selling gluhwein , roasted chestnuts, bread dumplings, and potato pancakes. 

Take a tour of the baroque-style Belvedere Palace, where you can delve into Habsburg history before shopping for Christmas souvenirs at the palace’s wonderful Christmas Village. You can visit the market at Schonbrunn Palace, the Christmas Market at Spittelberg is a historic treat, and Art Advent is always a creative affair. 

11. Seville, Spain

Spain is criminally overlooked during the Christmas season, but the southern European nation has some of the best local festivities you’ll experience.

While Madrid and Barcelona certainly have some excellent Christmas markets to visit, we recommend traveling further south to Seville . Not only does Andalusia have the best December climate (temperatures can reach highs of 16°C, which is positively tropical during a European winter!), but Seville has some of the best Christmas light shows in Spain.

Famous landmarks like the Plaza de España and the Archivo de Indias are brightly illuminated throughout the Advent period. The main shopping streets are decked to the rooftops with lights, while impressive nativity scenes fill the public squares. 

The Royal Orchestra of Seville hosts special Christmas concerts, while Christmas parades are a regular occurrence right up until Three Kings Day on January 5. While you’re in the area, you could also pop further south to Malaga, where there are equally impressive Christmas light shows in the Old Town. 

12. Cologne, Germany

Situated on the wide banks of the River Rhine, the German city of Cologne has a history stretching back to the days of the Roman Empire. It’s a fascinating city to explore, and even more so when the streets are lined with Christmas decorations and the church spires shine brightly through the winter nights. 

Cologne is brimming with Christmas cheer from the end of November onwards, as Advent markets fill the squares. You’ll find the most iconic Christmas market beside the towering steeples of Cologne Cathedral (whose twin spires rise to 157 meters), where you can browse through wooden market stalls and listen to carol singers after admiring the view from the top of this 13th-century work of impressive religious architecture (there are 533 steps to the top!). 

Away from the cathedral, you’ll find many more Christmas markets to peruse during your stay in Cologne. Markt der Engel is a charming market inspired by the theme of Christmas angels, Nicholas’ Village Christmas Market is a Santa Claus-themed market designed for families on Rudolfplatz, and The House Elves’ Winter Fairytale is a magical Christmas experience for all. 

At Christmastime, you can join an Advent-themed cruise along the River Rhine, listen to festive concerts in music halls and churches, and enjoy plenty of g luhwein and glass after glass of Cologne’s famous Kolsch-style beer!

13. Krakow, Poland

If you’re looking for a budget Christmas market getaway, then why not book a trip to Krakow ? Poland offers great value for money – especially when compared to the popular markets in neighboring Germany – and you’ll love the festive spirit that sweeps through the nation in the build-up to Christmas.

Krakow might be Poland’s second city, but the city was, for centuries, the royal seat of Polish kings. Until 1596, when the capital was moved to Warsaw, Krakow was Poland’s capital city, and you’ll still feel that regal touch today when you’re wandering around the Old Town. Take a walking tour of the city to learn more about the history (including the destruction wrought by the Germans during World War II) before exploring the magnificent markets in Krakow.

Krakow’s Christmas markets start at the end of November and run until just after Christmas Day. The largest market is located in Main Square, which sits at the heart of the medieval Old Town. You’ll find wooden market stalls surrounded by 13th-century architecture, and you can order a kielbasa sausage and sip on mulled wine as you listen to carols. 

The Main Square also hosts regular live music events throughout the Advent period, with a dedicated stage set up for bands and singers. There’s a highly competitive nativity scene competition, too, while all the major sights of the city – including the National Museum in Krakow, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and Wawel Royal Castle – remain open to the public.

14. Riga, Latvia

Riga is home to one of Europe’s most historic old towns. Cobbled streets, lined by old merchant guilds and townhouses dating back to the Middle Ages await you in the Latvian capital, while art nouveau architecture sits alongside communist-era buildings. 

It’s a destination that’s slowly but surely making a name for itself as an alternative European city break destination. There are none of the crowds of France or Germany, but from December onwards, Riga is decked to the spires with Christmas lights and illuminations. 

Given the cold, cold weather of the Baltics, Riga also has that classic wintry feel to it. Visit the castle for fairytale winter vibes, then jump into Riga Central Market (the largest market hall in Europe) to warm up with some pelmeni or potato pancakes (classic Latvian dishes). 

The Old Riga Christmas Market is held from late November until the New Year, while various smaller markets and pop-up events are hosted in different squares and districts throughout the festive season. 

15. Tenerife, Spain

A European Christmas is typically associated with winter weather. The bright lights are there to brighten up the dark skies, while a white Christmas is quite literally the stuff of wintry dreams. But head to Tenerife , and you’ll see a different side of Europe in winter, not least because temperatures can reach highs of 18°C even toward the end of November. 

Tenerife – and other Canary Islands , like Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura – has the best climate in Europe, and it’s a great place to escape the colder climes of the continent. Being located way out in the Atlantic Ocean, a three-hour flight south of Spain, that should come as no surprise. 

Despite the warmer weather, Tenerife is very much in festive mode. Christmas lights and trees decorate town plazas, Las Canteras Beach even hosts a unique nativity scene carved from the sand, and musicians ply the streets singing festive songs. Head to Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, and you’ll even have super-dark skies that are perfect for Christmas stargazing.

There you have it! The 15 best places to visit in Europe for Christmas. What’s your favorite festive destination?

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out our favorite travel books!

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About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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23 US Cities That Go All Out for Christmas

By Caitlin Morton

Think of the phrase “Christmas in America” and you’ll likely imagine the usual suspects: giant trees festooned in twinkling lights, people of all ages caroling and singing “Silent Night,” ubiquitous tributes to the jolly man in red named Santa Claus, and gingerbread. Lots of gingerbread. But take a closer look and you may be surprised: Christmas celebrations across the United States can look very different, depending on the environment, local history, and present-day cultures of the people who live there. Not everything is a winter wonderland—in fact, maybe a warm-weather destination for the holidays is exactly what you need. Regardless of temperature, these 23 destinations are some of the best places to spend Christmas this year.

These places below are known for the ways they come alive at Christmastime: from the glitzy and glam festivities of big cities like New York or Chicago to the Santa-hats-and-shorts vibes of Santa Fe and St. Augustine. Of course, your Christmas vacation ideas in the US are far from limited to just these places. Here's one idea: Head out on a multi-destination road trip to check out some fantastical drive-through Christmas lights displays . And while there are a great many places to celebrate Christmas around the world , experience one Christmas in America and you’ll be a person changed for the better.

Here are some of the best places to go for Christmas in the United States this year, ranging all types of atmosphere and styles: from Kennebunkport to Las Vegas , from Dallas to North Pole, Alaska (note the missing the ). No matter where you choose, there are plenty of activities to participate in, events to check out, and places to stay. Happy holidays, y’all.

This article has been updated since its original publish date. All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Alexandria, Virginia

Why we go: Located about 20 minutes south of Washington, DC, Alexandria is a picture-perfect place to spend the holiday season. The Old Town’s row houses and centuries-old brick streets look even more charming when adorned with snow and Christmas wreaths, and you can expect a ton of seasonal activities. The festivities kick off along the Potomac River shoreline with the Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (December 2 at 5:30 p.m.) and the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade (December 3). Come Christmas Eve, try to spot Waterskiing Santa along the Potomac River.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Get a taste of the Christmases of yore at nearby Mount Vernon (George Washington’s former home), where you can take a candlelit guided tour, and enjoy some cider and cookies (with special events on November 24 and 25, December 1, 2, 8, 9, and 17).

Stay here: Book a stay at The Alexandrian, Autograph Collection , which is on King Street, in the heart of Alexandria’s shopping and entertainment area.

Asheville, North Carolina

Why we go: Asheville is easily one of the country’s best places to spend Christmas, offering all the light displays and holiday shopping—not to mention the perfect tucked-away location in the Blue Ridge Mountains —any vacationer could wish for. Some of the city’s seasonal offerings include a lit-up wonderland at the North Carolina Arboretum , and the 29th Annual National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn (on display from November 27 to January 2).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Christmas at Biltmore Estate is just as spectacular as it sounds, with 100 hand-decorated trees, 10,000 ornaments, and 100,000 holiday lights drawing visitors through the new year in January.

Stay here: Cozy up in The Foundry , a hotel that opened in 2018 with a James Beard-nominated chef running its in-house restaurant. It’s Asheville’s best boutique hotel, filled with authentic touches—from lots of exposed brick to the restaurant’s modern spins on comfort food.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Why we go: This Christmas, visit the little town of Bethlehem—in Pennsylvania, that is. The city’s German-inspired Christmas City Village and Christkindlmarkt (November 17 to December 17) feature rotating displays by artisans, live music, and glass-blowing demonstrations. After stocking up on handmade ornaments and nutcrackers, take a carriage ride through Downtown Bethlehem to take in all the Christmas lights.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Winter Light Spectacular (through December 31) at the Lehigh Valley Zoo, about 30 minutes northwest of Bethlehem, features more than a million lights and illuminated scenes throughout the zoo.

Stay here: The Sayre Mansion Inn has warm and comfortable rooms, private six-course dinners, and beautiful Christmas decorations. If you want to venture out into the town, Lehigh University, St. Luke’s Hospital, the Steel Stacks Performing Arts Center, and the Wind Creek Casino are all nearby.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Why we go: Normally, you wouldn’t expect an Arctic experience in southern Kentucky, but Bowling Green is shaking up the holiday game this year. The Christmas spirit is definitely alive at the city’s Reindeer Farm , where families can feed reindeer, watch holiday movies, and drink cocoa while writing letters to Santa. (There's even wine tasting for the grown-ups.)

The one thing to get you in the spirit: End your festive vacation at the SoKY Marketplace Ice Rink , an outdoor rink where you can skate with Santa and the Grinch.

Stay here: Opened in mid-2019, the Lodge at Olde Stone offers 12 cozy, Kentucky-inspired suites and a restaurant serving up Southern dishes. And if you’re a golfer, be sure to pack your clubs: the property boasts 9- and 18-hole courses onsite.

Jessica Puckett

Cassie Shortsleeve

Arati Menon

Branson, Missouri

Why we go: Sort of like a family-friendly little sister to Las Vegas, Branson pulls out all the stops every holiday season. The Ozark Mountain town transforms into a winter wonderland with 1,500 Christmas trees in and around town, ice skating under the Branson Ferris Wheel, and several drive-through light displays .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Head straight to the 1880s-themed amusement park Silver Dollar City for the annual An Old Time Christmas festival. The party lasts until December 30 and includes 6.5 million lights, 1,000 trees (including an eight-story one), outdoor shows, parades, and, of course, rides.

Stay here: Chateau on the Lake is one of the nicest hotels in town, with beautiful lake views, a full-service luxury spa, and the Chateau Marina, where activities include fishing, water skiing, and tubing (though you may want to wait for warmer weather—or not, if that’s your thing).

Charleston, South Carolina

Why we go: Charleston is the perfect destination for any fan of the holidays, but not of the frigid weather that often comes with the season. There are plenty of Christmas-oriented events and festivities in the city that are fit for every type of tourist. Check out the Festival of Trees at The Charleston Place , where 16 Christmas trees, each one decorated by a local Charleston business or organization, will be on display throughout the beautiful hotel’s second floor. For something that sounds (and is) magnificent, catch The Sound of Charleston , where you can hear the music that tells the city’s story: gospel spirituals, music by George Gershwin, Civil War songs, and jazz. For something pleasantly aquatic, head over to the South Carolina Aquarium, which presents the dazzling light show Aquarium Aglow after the sun goes down on select evenings this November and December (be sure to say hi to “Scuba Claus” in the Great Ocean Tank).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: As far as classically Christmassy merrymaking goes, it doesn’t get any more traditional (minus the freezing temperatures) than the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park featuring a spectacular light show that features over two million tiny light bulbs.

Stay here: There are plenty of options in South Carolina’s beautiful port city: There’s the perennial favorite French Quarter Inn , which welcomes guests with a glass of Champagne and is just a few steps away from the famous Charleston City Market. Meanwhile, The Vendue , the city’s first art hotel concept, offers an ever-evolving experience—the hotel has a full-time docent and rotating exhibits. And for something classic, there’s Hotel Bennett , voted the very best hotel in Charleston by Traveler readers in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2023 ; its old-world grandeur and good ol’ Southern charm make this Marion Square hotel irresistible. (The place also hosts a holiday tea on Thursdays and Fridays until Christmas.)

Chicago, Illinois

Why we go: From its European-inspired Christkindlmarket (from November 17 to December 24) to light shows galore (there’s the Let It Shine drive-through Christmas lights display), Chicago knows a thing or two about embracing the Christmas spirit (and freezing temperatures). Can’t-miss activities include visiting the 51-foot Christmas tree in Millennium Park and cozying up in a heated igloo at The Godfrey Hotel .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Be dazzled by 2.5 million LEDs at ZooLights (from November 17 through January 7), an annual light festival held at Lincoln Park Zoo. Check out the event’s calendar for sensory-friendly visit times.

Stay here: As far as hotels go, travelers truly have their pick of the litter in the Windy City. One top choice is The Langham, Chicago , housed in a landmark Mies van der Rohe building along the Chicago River. It's just a Chicago hotdog’s throw away from Magnificent Mile, where you can get all your holiday shopping done. For the sportier among us, there’s the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel , which has a strong local following for its historic lobby, indoor bocce, foosball in its game room, and the gem-like Milk Room bar, among other things. On the rooftop, and mostly enclosed by an atrium, Cindy’s cranks it up with large format cocktails, shareable dishes, and some of the best views of Millennium Park.

Dallas, Texas

Why we go: Proving you don’t need cold temperatures to get in the Christmas spirit, the holiday celebrations in Dallas put most northern cities to shame. Most notable is Holiday at the Arboretum (now through January 5), a Christmas village with millions of lights, a 50-foot tree with lights animated to music, and visits with Santa Claus. Elsewhere in town, you can drive through the Dallas Zoo Lights route (from November 17 to January 2) and skate next to the country’s tallest indoor Christmas tree at the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Throw a few back at Miracle , a Christmas-themed pop-up bar that returns to Dallas this year at the cocktail bar Royal 38 in Uptown Dallas.

Stay here: If you really want a festive experience, check in at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek , where the grounds are beautiful and the food is so tasty, you could dine on property every night.

Denver, Colorado 

Why we go: Unwrap the magic of the holidays in Denver this season with special events and millions of twinkling lights. Enjoy a family outing to the Denver Zoo Lights , or a fun day of shopping and ice skating downtown. Get a dose of culture with a viewing of A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker (see the full calendar here ), then visit the Mile High Tree at the 16th Street Mall (it’s actually 110 feet tall, but that’s still pretty impressive).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Denver Christkindlmarket (one of the best German markets in the country) returns to Civic Center Park this winter, open daily now through December 23.

Stay here: The Crawford Hotel , a boutique property in LoDo’s Union Station, boasts Art Deco rooms, and the city’s most beautiful lobby. Soaring ceilings and sky-high chandeliers hang overhead, while oversized sofas and leather chairs create a casual and bustling “living room” frequented by travelers and locals alike.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Why we go: If you’re wondering where to go for Christmas celebrations unlike anywhere else, look no further. Every December, this tiny New England town bursts with holiday cheer during its annual Christmas Prelude ; check out the site and you’ll see a live countdown to the event’s start date—it’s that highly anticipated. It’s an 11-day bash that’s about as New England as it gets: one of the main attractions is a tree made of lobster traps. Speaking of, the legendary lobster rolls at hotspots like Scales , The Highroller Lobster Co. , and Miyake will make you forget about gingerbread and sugar plums altogether.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Santa Claus’s arrival at the Christmas Prelude on a lobster boat.

Stay here: According to this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Traveler readers love the 14-room Cape Arundel Inn & Resort for its oceanside location and restaurant serving up fresh seafood—and, unlike a lot of Maine resorts, it’s actually open during the winter months.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Why we go: If you thought Las Vegas was dazzling before, just wait until you see it decked out for Christmas. Basically, the entire Strip transforms into a winter wonderland full of festive events for the entire family. This year's activities include rooftop ice skating at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas (beginning December 2), colorful displays outside The LINQ promenade , a 6-foot-tall gingerbread man at ARIA , and a massive holiday display—complete with a 42-foot Christmas tree—at the Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Catch an iconic show at the Fountains of Bellagio to see performances set to “Santa Baby,” “Carol of the Bells,” and other holiday classics.

Stay here: It’s hard to go wrong when it comes to the hotels on the Strip in Las Vegas , especially as each property tries to outdo each other—whether for the holidays or just around the year. That said, for a classic experience, stay at The Venetian . The whole place is so marvelously over-the-top that it doesn’t matter that it looks nothing like the real Venice . That’s not the point. This is Vegas, baby.

Nashville, Tennessee

Why we go: The Music City is all about the—wait for it—music during the holiday season. From November 10 through January 1, enjoy “Country Christmas” at Gaylord Opryland , with tons of Christmas shows, plus ice skating and acres of light displays. Or head to the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway and take the two-mile drive through Jingle Beat , a light show set to remixed versions of classic Christmas carols. And when in doubt, you can always catch a yuletide show at the Grand Ole Opry .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Given the Christmas season, a hotel named Noelle seems as perfect a place as any to spend the season. Its Holiday Glow Package is a nice deal, but even cooler is its Ralphie’s Christmas experience, inspired by A Christmas Story, which features Oval-tinis and other seasonal bites (happening in the hotel’s Hidden Bar until January 8).

Stay here: Well, it’s obvious, isn’t it? Stay at the Noelle—officially Noelle, Nashville, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. It’s in the center of the downtown Nashville action, and its emphasis on art, design, and local artists and designers will help you get to know the city all the more.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Why we go: It’s no surprise that New Orleans leans into the holiday season, but we still get all tingly thinking about Christmas in the city. NOLA lights up with events like LUNA Fête , where the Central Business District around Lafayette Square fills up with installations and animated graphics from December 7 to 10. City Park also becomes a wonderland for the entire month with Celebration in the Oaks (November 23 to December 30), a festival with vendors, food and drink stands, and decorations adorning the centuries-old oak trees.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The annual Christmas Eve lighting of the bonfires along the banks of the Mississippi River is a seasonal tradition that's as authentically “New Orleans” as they come.

Stay here: The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans has lots of holiday offerings this year, including gingerbread house building and a four-course dinner on Christmas Eve.

New York City

Why we go: There’s no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it’s ice skating at Central Park, window shopping along Fifth Avenue, visiting the tree at Rockefeller Center, seeing the Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, or lurking around 34th Street hoping to witness a miracle.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Prepare to be incredibly and thoroughly overwhelmed (in a good way!) by the Christmas spirit in this Brooklyn neighborhood, which famously goes all out on the holiday decorations each year. Think candy cane lanes, giant snowmen, illuminated snowflakes, and too many glowing Santa Claus figures than the census can count. Lights go up after Thanksgiving and last through the New Year, so whether you’re driving through in a car or taking the pedestrian route, there’s plenty of time to take in the wall-to-wall displays of life-size nutcrackers, enormous twinkling trees, and lawn ornament reindeer. Big sleigh.

Stay here: Easy answer: The Plaza . If you've ever watched Home Alone 2 , you’ll recognize it as the hotel where young Kevin McCallister, while lost in New York, lived lavishly in a posh suite for the holidays. Fittingly, the hotel has a “Home Alone 2: Fun in New York” experience package, offered throughout the year, that lets guests mimic memorable moments from the movie. It includes a limousine ride all over the city to landmarks like Central Park and Radio City Music Hall, a large cheese pizza (to be eaten in the limo, naturally), and the Home Alone sundae, made to fit Kevin’s exacting taste (specifically: 16 scoops of assorted ice cream, whipped cream, maraschino cherries, M&M’s, brownie bits, chocolate, caramel, and raspberry sauce). If a more traditional Christmas is what you’re looking for, there’s also the “Suitest Season of All” package that comes with a seven-foot-tall decorated Balsam Hill tree placed directly in your suite.

Newport Beach, California

Why we go: The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is one of the longest-running holiday festivals in the entire country, celebrating its 115th anniversary this year from December 13 to 17. (To compare, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting has been running for 90 years.) The “parade” takes place in the harbor of Newport Beach, where yachts, boats, and kayaks have been known to show off up to $50,000 worth of decorations to millions of visitors.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: View the parade from Balboa Island , where the decorated houses threaten to upstage the passing boats.

Stay here: The nautical, all-American feel at Lido House, Autograph Collection fits in perfectly with the theme of the holiday events—especially with the addition of bright, colorful Christmas decorations in the cottages.

North Pole, Alaska

Why we go: Even though this North Pole is 1,700 miles south of the true North Pole, the quaint Alaskan town is 100 percent saturated with Christmas cheer. Most famous for the Santa Claus House (the self-proclaimed “official” home of St. Nick), the North Pole’s nominal spirit even extends to its street names: Snowman Lane, Saint Nicholas Drive, Holiday Road, and Santa Claus Lane, which has light poles shaped like candy canes. Just as adorable is the town’s post office, which gets flooded with tens of thousands of letters addressed to Santa Claus each year.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The annual tree-lighting ceremony has plenty of photo ops with Santa himself.

Stay here: The North Pole Cabins are comfortable and warm log cabin retreats, located just a mile from the Santa Claus House.

Park City, Utah

Why we go: As if the world-class skiing isn’t reason enough to visit Park City this winter, the town also happens to be a wonderful place to spend Christmas. The former Olympic city has ample opportunities for skiing, fly fishing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding—with no shortage of resorts to warm up in between runs.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hop on a 90-minute train ride with the North Pole Express at Heber Valley Railroad, where you can sip hot cocoa and meet Mrs. Claus.

Stay here: The 12-room Washington School House is just a hop away from Park City’s lit-up Main Street, and its Christmas decorations are some of the prettiest ever seen. In nearby Deer Valley, there’s also the iconic Stein Eriksen Lodge , a luxurious chalet with easy ski-in/ski-out access. And just 25 minutes from downtown Park City Auberge Resorts’ The Lodge at Blue Sky is a perfect place to unwind in luxury.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Why we go: Santa Fe’s already-beautiful plaza becomes downright magical with the addition of Christmas lights—but the holiday spirit doesn’t start and stop there. The city also offers midnight mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis de Assisi , holiday exhibits at the New Mexico Museum of Art , holiday flamenco performances at El Flamenco Cabaret , and seasonal shopping at the Winter Indian Market. Even when Christmas is officially over, you can keep busy at Taos Ski Valley and Ski Santa Fe —both just an easy drive away.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Santa Fe’s annual Canyon Road Farolito Walk , a Christmas Eve event consisting of farolitos (paper bags filled with sand and topped with a votive candle) lining the streets and walls of adobe buildings, is sure to get you in a pleasant and festive mood for the occasion.

Stay here: Condé Nast Traveler ’s Readers’ Choice Award favorite Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi has a tangible warmth to it, with gaslit kiva fireplaces and hand-carved four-poster beds adorning the rooms.

Seattle, Washington

Why we go: Aside from the delightful sight of a Christmas tree atop the Space Needle, there are plenty of reasons to visit Seattle over the holidays. Your one-stop shop for holiday cheer is Winterfest at Seattle Center (November 24 to December 31), which has family-friendly activities like train rides and ice sculpting demonstrations. There’s also a huge celebration just eight miles east of Seattle in the town of Bellevue: Snowflake Lane (November 24 to December 24), a nightly light show with caroling and snow machines ensuring a white Christmas.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sheraton Grand Seattle ’s annual Gingerbread Village is probably Seattle’s most beloved holiday tradition, in which the city’s top architecture firms and culinary teams get together to create next-level gingerbread houses. This year’s event runs from November 21 to New Year’s Day.

Stay here: With its mountain lodge interiors, The Edgewater Hotel is one of the best places to cozy up in the Pacific Northwest. If you like to fall asleep while staring out at gentle waves glistening in the moonlight, you won’t find a better spot in the city.

Seneca Falls, New York

Why we go: It’s a Wonderful Life may have been shot on an RKO soundstage in Los Angeles, but the fine folks of Seneca Falls , New York, swear that their five-square-mile upstate hamlet is the inspiration for the real Bedford Falls . Each December, they host an array of old-timey activities to prove it. This year, the event runs from December 7 to 10 and will include special film screenings, gingerbread house contests, and museum exhibits.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The “It's a Wonderful Bonfire” event on Friday, December 8, which includes caroling, a visit from Santa, and a tree-lighting ceremony.

Stay here: The Gould Hotel has elegant rooms and a restaurant serving hearty, local meals that will warm you from the inside out.

St. Augustine, Florida

Why we go: Christmas in St. Augustine is truly something to behold. The holiday season kicks off this year with the city’s annual Christmas Parade, then continues through January 28 with the famous Nights of Lights festival. During the celebration, St. Augustine glows with three million tiny white lights over the Bridge of Lions and through 20 city blocks in the historic district. Bonus: You can enjoy the whole show without wearing a coat and gloves, because, you know, Florida.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Climb aboard the Old Town Trolley’s Famous Nights of Lights Tour, which departs nightly from November 19 through January 28.

Stay here: The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens pairs all the charm of a bed and breakfast with all the amenities of a true luxury hotel. No little detail is overlooked, from interesting on-site activities (like watercolor painting in the courtyard) to immaculate turndown service. The hotel has an age minimum of 16, making this a great retreat for harried parents.

St. Louis, Missouri

Why we go: It’s been almost 80 years since Judy Garland first graced the world with “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” at the end of Meet Me in St Louis , and the Missouri city has embraced its role as one of America’s yuletide capitals ever since. Make sure you hit all the classics, like Wild Lights at the St. Louis Zoo, the poinsettia show at Jewel Box in Forest Park , and ice skating at Steinberg Rink . For the third year running, there's even a Polar Express -themed train ride at the Union Station development.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Walk among a million dazzling lights at the Missouri Botanical Garden’s annual Garden Glow , which runs from November 18 to January 6.

Stay here: You can’t beat the glittering, Gateway Arch-facing views at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis .

Washington, D.C.

Why we go: There are few holiday displays in the nation that compare with Washington, DC’s National Christmas Tree, but other seasonal perks include private igloos at the Watergate Hotel, the Downtown Holiday Market (now through December 23), and a glorious absence of field trip groups in the Smithsonian museums.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Make it a priority to amble over to the Ford’s Theatre, which puts on an annual run of A Christmas Carol for the holidays.

Stay here: The InterContinental The Willard Washington D.C., an IHG Hotel , is just a few blocks away from the White House and National Christmas Tree, and offers a holiday afternoon tea and tons of gorgeous decorations. You’ve heard it a thousand times: “There's no place like home for the holidays.”

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23 Amazing Places To Visit In USA For Christmas (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole

December is a magical time of year in many places in the United States. Christmas festivities are in full swing and you can feel the joy and excitement that this brings. There are beautiful Christmas lights, lively Christmas markets, decorated Christmas trees, and of course, decadent Xmas treats tempting you almost everywhere you go. Some of us live in hot sunny climates and daydream about snowy winter wonderlands filled with sleigh rides, visits to Santa workshops and hot chocolate. While others live in these winter wonderlands and can’t wait to discover Christmas delights on beaches, by hotel pools, and while walking in t-shirts and shorts along city streets or country paths. If you are not sure what you want, you have come to the right place. Here are 23 best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other Options For Christmas Holidays

Many places in America start preparing for the Christmas holidays with Christmas lights, setting up Xmas trees, and opening Christmas markets in mid to late November. This is an ideal time to travel to enjoy these events without crowds and to take advantage of lower costs from travelling in low season. If you are interested, please take a look at my article 20 Best Places To Visit In USA In November.

For those of you who are looking for a little more adventure with more cost savings, consider visiting Europe. Here are 24 Best Places To Visit In Europe For Christmas .

If you are looking for warm winter getaway s in or near the United States, you have a lot to choose from! Here are:

• 50 Best US Beach Destinations For A Warm Winter Getaway ;
• 20 Best Cheap Warm Winter Vacations In USA ; and
• 21 Best Cheap Warm Winter Vacations Near USA .

Alternatively, if all you dream about is spending your Christmas holidays under blankets of snow in a charming small town or exploring the best snowy winter activities that ski resorts or other destinations have to offer, then take a look at 24 Best Snowy Winter Wonderlands To Visit In The USA .

If you are simply looking for the best Christmas parades in the United States, then check out 15 Best Places To Watch Christmas Parades In USA .

Christmas Gifts

For those of you looking for fun, affordable and thoughtful stocking stuffers or gifts, check out 38 Best Christmas Stocking Stuffers For Adventure Seekers And Travelers and 60 Best Christmas Gifts For Men.

23 Best Places To Visit In USA For Christmas

In this article, I have asked 23 travel bloggers where they have found the best Christmas events in the United States. Unsurprising, they are located in all four corners of the continental USA, as well as Hawaii.

As you expect, most big cities offer over the top extravaganzas and special events. However, many small cities and towns will blow your socks away with their beauty and Christmas spirit.

In addition, when not gazing at gingerbread houses, going on sleigh rides, or watching Xmas parades, all of these places offer amazing every day attractions and experiences. As you will see, I haven’t made it easy for you to choose where to go.

New York City, New York

By James of Travel Collecting

Christmas in New York City  is a magical experience. There are so many amazing things to see and do making New York City one of the best cities to visit in the USA for Christmas.  

All of the department stores decorate for the holidays. You and your whole family can do an easy walking tour around Midtown Manhattan taking in all of the holiday windows. Along the way, visit Santaland at Macy’s and stop at Bryant Park or Rockefeller Center and go ice skating surrounded by the iconic New York skyscrapers! 

There are also decorated Christmas trees throughout the city. The largest and most famous is the real tree in Rockefeller Center that is topped with an enormous Swarovski crystal star. Other interesting trees are the one at the Met, which is surrounded by an antique Italian creche; the animal origami-covered tree at the American Museum of Natural History; and the bright blue tree at Bryant Park. Stop at the Bryant Park Holiday Village for a hot chocolate or hot toddy while you’re there. 

Of course, if you simply want to walk amongst hundreds of trees lightly dusted with snow, head to Central Park.

NYC is a great place to stock up on gifts. There are outdoor holiday markets at Union Square, Bryant Park and inside Grand Central Terminal that sell hand-crafted gifts.   

Finally, there are a couple of classic shows to enjoy. Kids and kids-at-heart will love the iconic Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. It has real-life camels, the high-kicking Rockettes and, of course, Santa. Another show not to miss is the annual season of The Nutcracker by the New City Ballet at Lincoln Center. 

For amazing tips to make your trip to New York City safe and cost effective, please see 50 Best New York City Tips For First Time Visitors .

If you are curious about how to save money in New York City, where you should stay, how to be safe and get around, and so much more, please see  50 Best New York City Tips For First Time Visitors .

For those traveling with kids and teenagers, here are two helpful articles about what you should do when you are not busy with Christmas activities: An Action Packed New York City Weekend With Teens and 10 Ultimate New York City Attractions With Teens .

Best Way To Reach Destination

There are three international airports that serve New York City. JFK is a 35-minute drive from Midtown Manhattan if there is no traffic (which there almost always is). The much smaller La Guardia is 25 minutes from Midtown with no traffic. The third airport, Newark, is actually in nearby New Jersey and is also about half an hour with good traffic from Midtown.  

It is best not to rent a car. Parking is very expensive in New York and there is excellent public transportation. Accordingly, pick up a taxi or Uber/Lyft from airport. You can also easily take the train from Newark Airport to Penn Station.

The average high temperature in New York City in December is 45°F.  You can expect around 3 inches of rain and 3 inches of snow in December.

Hotel Recommendation

There are so many hotels to choose from in New York City. Without question, choosing a hotel is one of the most overwhelming tasks when planning a trip there. I have stayed at several.

On my last trip, I stayed at the Kimpton Hotel Eventi which I loved. The hotel was luxurious but still reasonably priced and the location was fantastic for many amazing attractions . We were easy walking distance to the High Line and Macys, and easy subway rides to Times Square and Broadway Shows. Even better, everyday the hotel offered complimentary wine and cheese!

Savannah, Georgia

By Erin of Savannah First-Timer’s Guide

Savannah is charming any time of year, but something about the Christmas season makes it feel extra magical. From the hundreds of twinkle lights draped across Broughton Street to the seasonal greenery in the squares to the carolers that stroll through the Historic District…Savannahians just know how to celebrate the season!  

A few of the most popular seasonal events include the Holiday Boat Parade, the Gingerbread Trail, and the Holiday Tour of Homes. Make sure to also visit the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. It is filled with red poinsettias and an elaborate nativity scene. 

The most festive areas of town during the holiday season include River Street, Broughton Street, and City Market. Don’t forget to stroll down Jones Street, which is considered one of the prettiest streets in America. Be sure to check out all the  beautiful Christmas decorations in Savannah’s Historic District . They are very classic in nature and look like something straight out of a Dickens novel. 

Two of the most popular dining spots for the holidays are The Olde Pink House and the 17hundred90 Inn & Restaurant. Since Savannah is one of the best Christmas vacation destinations in the United States, make sure that you make reservations at least a month in advance for The Olde Pink House! 

If you’re planning a visit, the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is the closest option. From there, it’s just a short 15-mile drive to the Historic District.

You won’t need to stuff your suitcase with heavy winter coats, since the average high temperature in December falls in the mid 60s. However, it does cool down at night to mid 40s with about 2.6 inches of rain in the month.

Erin says, “The Marshall House is a fantastic place to stay. The hotel is in a very convenient location on Broughton Street. I’s very easy to walk to restaurants, landmarks, and shops.”

Asheville, North Carolina

By Bret & Mary of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

With its incredible array of outdoor attractions , critically acclaimed restaurants, and thriving cultural scene, you could argue that Asheville is one of the best places to visit in the USA at any time of year. But the mountain scenery and art deco architecture are especially attractive when surrounded by the festive lights and decorations of the holiday season.

Asheville is a beautiful place to visit in America around the holidays. In addition, there are plenty of things to do a Christmas getaway.

For starters, you’ll want to see Christmas at Biltmore Estate (the largest privately-owned home in the US), which starts with the raising of a 35-foot-tall tree in the Banquet Hall in early November. You can take daily tours of the lavish Estate all decked out in the festive colors of the season. Their nighttime candlelit tours make for an excellent date night. 

You’ll also love Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum. Thousands of shimmering Christmas lights make up shining displays along their wooded edge and gardens. Last year, there were several new nature-themed displays, including a giant daisy “garden,” winter wildlife and colorful butterfly displays, and an insect lantern exhibit. 

Of course, there are also lots of other Asheville attractions and activities that you can do all year round. This includes driving the Blue Ridge Parkway to visiting iconic landmarks like Mount Mitchell State Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. But these unique Xmas events are what makes Asheville, North Carolina one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

Despite its location in the mountains, the town offers surprisingly mild temperatures in December, with average highs of 50ºF and lows of around 31ºF. You can expect around 3.6 inches of rain and 1.9 inches of snow fall in December.

While a white Christmas in Asheville is not completely out of the question, it is certainly not guaranteed.

Although it’s one of the larger towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains (population approximately 92,000), Asheville does not have its own international airport.

You can fly into Charlotte Douglas International Airport, which is located about 120 miles to the southeast. But several major airlinesoffer direct flights into Asheville Regional Airport from major US cities like Atlanta, Boston , Chicago, Denver, Houston, and NYC. 

Brett and Mary say, “If you love those competitive cooking shows, you won’t want to miss the 29th Annual National Gingerbread Competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn (one of our favorite Asheville hotels). This is a 12-day Xmas event featuring some of the most elaborately decorated Gingerbread Houses you’ve ever seen.”

Naples, Florida

By Lori of Naples Florida Travel Guide

If you’re dreaming of something other than a white Christmas this year, a tropical holiday can be just as magical, and a wonderful break from the freezing cold! Hop a flight to southwest Florida and head to the Paradise Coast of Naples where Christmas is every bit as festive as the north.

Holiday parades along the southern Gulf Coast are anything but typical. Santa usually arrives on a party boat decked out in holiday lights and rocking Christmas tunes. The annual Christmas boat parades herald the start of the holiday season, and there are several you can attend throughout December. 

The annual tree lighting ceremony also kicks off the holidays the first week of December. During a two-day celebration, there is a long table on 5th Avenue, a skating rink, and a stunning live Nativity scene. The magical scene reappears throughout Christmas week as well.

Throughout the holidays, shops in the downtown create unique displays and artificial snow machines add a bit of traditional Christmas. But the real reason that Naples is one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas is that all this holiday cheer can be enjoyed along with a trip to the amazing beaches for which the city is known. And while the water might be a bit chilly for locals, the mid-60s temps (F) will suit most visitors just fine!

Average high temperatures hover pleasantly in the mid-70’s (F), although they can be in the 80s or drop down to the 50s at night. You can expect very little rain.

Getting to Naples is easy. Fly into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, then drive or Uber the 30 minutes to Naples.

Lori says, “The Inn On Fifth is in the center of downtown Naples and one of the best luxury stays in Naples. For the best value, we highly recommend Bellasera Resort.”

Branson, Missouri

By Elizabeth of the Fearless Foreignor

Branson, Missouri is one of the best destinations in the United States during the Christmas season. It has a lot of holiday special events, shows, and activities that don’t take place the rest of the year.

Branson is known for their high quality theater productions. During the holiday season almost all of the shows turn into a seasonal spectacular with Xmas songs, holiday story lines, and festive backdrops. 

The theme park, Silver Dollar City, should also be on your list of places to visit. The whole park is decked out in millions of lights. The Christmas in Midtown light spectacular is a highlight of the park, as well as the nightly holiday parade, Christmas sing along train, and Christmas shows. 

In December, the average high temperature is 48°F and average low temperature is 33°F. Branson has had as much as 8.4 inches of snow but, it rarely snows that much. Usually it is only an inch or two and melts quickly during the day.

Accordingly, don’t expect Branson to be a winter wonderland, but on the plus side, the temperatures won’t be so low that you can’t be outside enjoying all the holiday festivities! 

Many people who visit Branson drive. However, there are several small airports around Branson for those who prefer to fly.

The closest, just 20 minutes south of downtown Branson, is the Branson Airport (BKG). Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and St Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), both about 4 hours away, are the closest international airports. 

However you reach Branson, Branson at Christmas time is the perfect place to visit during the Christmas season!

Elizabeth says, “The Camden Hotel and Conference center is only minutes away from many of the shows and attractions in Branson. In addition to good prices and clean rooms, it offers delicious free desserts every night! 

Las Vegas, Nevada

By Roxanna of Gypsy With A Day Job

If you are looking for the best American Christmas vacations, Las Vegas is a perfect choice. The city has everything for a holiday break: warm activities, cold activities, shopping venues, bright decorations and cheerful events. Even if you are not a big Vegas fan, during the holidays it will warm your heart. If it is your first trip to Las Vegas, you will be pleasantly surprised.

Start your trip with a walk on the strip to get into the spirit. Every resort spruces up its already lavish decor with seasonal tributes. You’ll find trees of every size (including palm trees) with bulbs and baubles, and festive events at every turn. In particular, take a detour and explore the Wynn, Palazzo, Bellagio, and Aria resorts!  

Once you’re fully in the mood, finish your Xmas shopping. You are spoiled for choices. For high end, try The Shops at Crystals, The Forum Shops, or the Grand Canal Shops. For main-stream options try Fashion Show, and for bargains, Las Vegas North Premium Outlets is the best choice.

If shopping exhausts your cheer, the normal Las Vegas attractions are available, and outdoor adventures abound in the surrounding area. 

Consider getting back to nature and doing some hiking at the stunning Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, only 30-40 minutes drive away.

However, if what you really want is more extravagant Christmas events, drive the Las Vegas Motor Speedway light show, walk the Christmas cactus garden at Ethel M. Chocolate Factory, or ride the Holiday Express at Springs Resort. 

If searching for insider tips and tricks on where to stay, how to save money, and the best things to do, please check out  50 Best Las Vegas Tips For First Time Visitors .

For those looking for  21st birthday  inspiration, Las Vegas is also a fantastic destination to celebrate this milestone.

To get to Las Vegas, fly into the McCarran International Airport. The Vegas strip is only 20 minutes away by Uber or Lyft. Avoid taxis as they charge a premium for airport pick up.

In December, you will find the average high temperatures around 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring a jacket though, as it cools to the low 40s at night. There will be very little rain and no snow.

Roxanna says, “We recommend staying at the Venetian, or sister resort, the Palazzo. The lavish opulence is appropriate for the city, as is the impeccable staff and luxe resort offerings. More importantly, every room is a comfortable suite with clear sitting, dining and sleeping areas.”

Leavenworth, Washington

By Karee of Our Woven Journey

Leavenworth, Washington is a small, Bavarian-themed city nestled just east of the Cascade Mountains in the United States. Its charm draws nearly one million visitors a year, with many of them coming to experience Christmas in the village.

Much of the ambiance is due to the half-million Christmas lights that decorate the city. Over 20,000 people come each weekend to see the lighting ceremonies that happen every Saturday and Sunday during the first three weekends of December.

Since Leavenworth is small, you’ll be able to walk to most of the shops and boutiques that line the streets. Be sure to start at the Nutcracker Museum and the Hat Shop as they are both very popular!

If there is snow on the ground when you visit, plan to take sleigh rides through the beautiful, evergreen forest. There are several places that offer rides and reservations are needed, so plan for this attraction.

Is feeding a real-life reindeer on your bucket list? You can make it happen at the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm! You’ll need to buy tickets ahead of time since this is also a very popular thing to do.

Leavenworth is worth visiting any time of year, but for those wanting to experience the magic of Christmas, Leavenworth is one of the best American small towns to visit for Xmas.

The average high temperature for December is 34°F.   The snow season starts in October and lasts through March, with December getting 17 inches of snow on average!!! You’ll want to be sure to dress properly for this winter wonderland! 

If you’re planning a  trip to Seattle , Leavenworth is a great day trip to add to your agenda. It’s only about a two-hour drive, although you could easily spend more than one day there.

Sea-Tac International is the main airport for those flying from out of state.

Karee recommends the Bavarian Lodge. Located across from the Village center, it offers luxurious accommodations with incredible views of the Village and surrounding mountains. It also includes complimentary full breakfast buffet, heated outdoor pool, and two hot tubs.

Baltimore, Maryland

By Terri of Female Solo Trek

Baltimore’s nickname is “Charm City” but during Christmas, it becomes “Jolly Charming City”. It is one of the best places to visit in the USA during the Christmas season.

Hampden is a tight-knit Baltimore neighborhood that is famous for its “Miracle on 34th Street!” Now in its 73rd year, this outdoor holiday exhibit causes traffic jams and happy smiles.

Parents dress their dogs as well as kids in reindeer antlers and Christmas sweaters. As cars crawl down 34th Street, passengers see traditional Baltimore rowhouses and porches transformed into twinkling holiday homes. More information on the 2021 Miracle on 34th Street program can be found at  Christmas Street.com .

Hampden has also hosted the Mayor’s Christmas Parade in the past. In some years, there have been 25,000 people along the 2.5 mile route. The performers included 160 marching units, bands, floats, local TV and radio personalities, over 100 Harley Davidson motorcycles, the Mummers of Philadelphia, Miss Yuletide and Miss Yuletide Jr. Santa Claus flew in for the festivities.

Don’t miss the Baltimore Parade of lighted Boats at historic Fells Point. Also, check out The Farmers Market which offers an array of wreaths and Christmas gifts.

If you can spare an extra day, take the MARC train to Washington DC’s Union Station and check out the Capitol Christmas tree . It is in walking distance!

Average high temperatures in Baltimore in December is 47 °F with 2.9 inches and 2.2 inches of snow.

Fly into Baltimore International Airport for a quick 12-mile drive to the neighborhood of Hampden.

Terri says, “If money is no object, book your stay at the Four Seasons waterfront luxury hotel.” Its location is amazing and offers beautiful rooms.

Oahu, Hawaii

By Noel Morata of This Hawaii Life

Christmas in Oahu is special and different on the island than the mainland. You get all the fun decorations, colorful displays, Christmas fairs and special events but with a more tropical vibe, colors and gusto. 

In December, you can experience:

• a fun Christmas parade;
• Xmas lights and decorations at all the major venues and shopping centers;
• a decorated night boat parade;
• Christmas fares and holiday markets;
• firework displays at the Hilton resort; and
• orgeous store decorations.

However, all of these Christmas attractions have Hawaiian and tropical flare to wow you. Hot tropical flowers, birds, palm trees, and local imagery are included in traditional Christmas themes and colors to create a unique look, making it one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

Beyond the Christmas cheer, you can also enjoy some of the best things to do in Oahu no matter the time of year, such as hiking Diamond Head, visiting Pearl Harbor , and exploring downtown Honolulu.

The weather in Oahu is perfect and ranges from the mid 70s to mid 80s with low humidity, wonderful breezy weather and blue skies.

Visitors to the island fly into Honolulu International airport and most visitors stay around the tourist districts of Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. It’s approximately 25 minutes by taxi or ride share.

Noel says, “There are many options to stay around Waikiki from boutique to luxury brands. However, the iconic place to have a real Oahu experience with beautiful decorations for the holidays would be to stay at The Royal Hawaiian fronting Waikiki Beach”

Washington, DC

By Maggie of Pink Caddy Travelogue

Christmas in Washington, DC  is unlike any other place in the US! The nation’s capital goes all out for the holiday season, and it celebrates in a way only DC can.

Like decking out the White House. Yes, THE White House. During Christmas time, visitors can tour the Presidential residence and see the annual White House gingerbread cake, the dozens of differently decorated Christmas trees, and an 18 th -century nativity scene. Regardless of your political affiliation, a tour of the White House at Christmas is an amazing experience.

However, make sure you book your tour reservations through your Congressman’s office 3 months in advance. It is very popular and will sell out.

Another can’t miss experience is seeing the National Christmas tree and its surrounding 56 mini trees (one for each state and territory). The annual lighting has been a DC Christmas tradition since 1923 when President Calvin Coolidge lit the first tree. The Capitol also has its own decorated tree located just below the east steps.

Other must-dos include attending a performance of Handel’s Messiah at the National Cathedral and visiting the special Christmas exhibit at the U.S. Botanic Garden (they recreate DC landmarks using just plants!)

If you’re traveling with kids , definitely check out “Enchant DC” (the world’s largest light maze, hosted at Nationals Park), and Zoolights at the Smithsonian Zoo.

The best airport is Ronald Regan National Airport (it is international, despite the name). It’s right across the river from downtown DC. The driving time is 15 minutes, or you can take the metro directly from the airport.

The temperature in December can vary greatly. It can be in the 20s or in the 70s, but the average is in the 40s-50s. You can expect around 2.8 inches of rain and 2.5 inches of snowfall in December.

Maggie says, “The Willard is one of the most historic hotels in DC and is right next to the White House. It’s luxury, but you’ll be able to say you spent the night in the same place as every important world leader and diplomat who visits DC.”

Vail, Colorado

By Daniela of Fox In The Forest

As one of the most  beautiful places in Colorado , Vail is one of the best places to visit in the USA for the Christmas season if you want a winter wonderland. With plenty of skiing adventures, European-inspired villages, and a whole lot of alpine goodness, spending Xmas in Vail should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

Vail is a premier ski destination during the winter months and it is packed with fantastic ski resorts. However, if you want to explore beyond the slopes, there are plenty of Christmas-inspired activities to keep you entertained during your visit.

For a day spent in the mountains, a sleigh ride with a cup of hot chocolate in hand is a must, as well as a gondola ride to the top to get a first-hand view of the beauty of Vail Valley.

To get you into the holiday spirit, you should visit the Kris Kringle Market, an outdoor holiday market that will have you feeling as though you’ve landed in Europe. Closer to Christmas Eve, the annual Winterfest is an amazing event, with illuminated ice sculptures and Christmas lights that light up the entire town!

Temperatures in Vail in December range from 24°F to 43°F. In December, you can expect almost 3 inches of snow.

Vail is serviced by two airports: The closest one is Eagle Regional Airport (around a 40-minute drive) as well as Denver International Airport, which is around 120 miles east of Vail (around a two hour drive).

New Orleans, Louisianna

Ashlee Fechino of  The Happiness Function

New Orleans, Louisiana, has an exciting Christmas season. When most people think of New Orleans, they usually think of Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) in spring. However, it is one of the best cities to visit in the USA in December. Reasons being – New Orleans has some of fantastic lights and food to experience!

Many restaurants offer French food menus in honor of Réveillon celebrations which only happen during the month of December. Additionally, there are incredible Xmas light displays at hotels such as The Roosevelt Hotel, Hotel Monteleone, and The Bourbon Orleans.

During the month of December, NOLA typically has mild weather for folks wanting to escape the cold, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the town. However, be sure to pack some layers for the evening. You don’t want to miss walking around Bourbon Street (a.k.a. the French Quarter) and catching some live music on Frenchman Street!

If you are looking for a little more adventure in New Orleans and the weather is on the warmer side, don’t miss taking a swamp boat tour or visiting the historic Oak Alley Plantation. There are multiple tour companies to accommodate transportation to and from hotels on different days of the week or rent a car and do it yourself . They are both easy to reach from the French Quarter in New Orleans.

Did you know that you could hold your own Christmas parade in New Orleans, or hire a company that can put one together for you? All you have to do is get a permit from the city and you will get a police escort for free! For these and other amazing money-saving, safety, food and accommodation tips, please see  40 Best Travel Tips For New Orleans For First Time Travelers .

In December, temperatures average 65 degrees Fahrenheit with lows in the mid-40s. You can expect around 4.4 inches of rain.

The French Quarter is a quick 30-minute taxi ride from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).

Ashlee says, “Plan to stay at the historic Hotel Monteleone. Hotel Monteleone is famous for its Carousel Bar along with an impressive Christmas light display. Be sure to eat at Criollo inside – the turtle soup is a must! Hotel Monteleone is one block from Bourbon Street.”

Alexandria, Virginia

By Brianna of The Casual Travelist

Alexandria, Virginia is a beautiful historic town located just across the Potomac River from Washington, DC. While there are tons of  things to do in Alexandria  any time of year, it is one of the best Christmas vacations to take in the United States at Christmas time.

During the first weeks of December, this all American Colonial town celebrates the holidays with a Scottish flair. While you’re wandering the brick paved streets exploring the 18th century buildings, you’re as likely to hear a Scottish brogue as a southern drawl. Each year Alexandria  celebrates its Scottish heritage with the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. Here, Scottish clans parade through town dressed in their finest tartans while bagpipes herald the arrival of Santa Claus.

After welcoming Santa in Scottish style, head over to the Carlyle House to see re-enactors from the First Virginia Regiment set up camp to show how Christmas was celebrated in the Eighteenth century.

You can fly into any of Washington DC’s airports but Ronald Regan National Airport is the closest at only 5 miles away.

While weather can be variable, December temperatures average 45 o F during the day and 35 o F at night. You can expect 2.8 inches of rain and 2.2 inches of snow.

Brianna says, “The Alexandrian Hotel is in the heart of old town Alexandria and a great place to base your visit”

Seattle, Washington

By Adria Saracino of The Emerald Palate

Seattle might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, but the city has a ton of holiday spirit. Plus, there are less tourists and snowy destinations only an hour away (Leavenworth is two!), so winter is the perfect time to visit one of the best Christmas destinations in the United States.

No matter the weather, there are a ton of Christmas activities in Seattle . For example, there are typically more than 50 holiday craft fairs around the greater Seattle area. The Pacific Northwest has a huge DIY culture, so handmade gifts are easy to come by.

Experiences more your thing? Check out one of the dozens of holiday shows in the city. Head to the classic Nutcracker Ballet or check out the reimagined hip hop and burlesque versions. Another option is to head to Winterfest where they transform the area underneath the Space Needle into a winter wonderland with events, shows, and craft markets.

It’s not Christmas without dazzling decorations, and Seattle has a ton. You can head to Zoo Lights to see fun light installations among the animals. Or you can go to a drive through neighborhood exhibit at the Lights of Christmas Festival or Dazzle .

You can experience Christmas in Seattle by flying into Sea-Tac International Airport and then driving 30 minutes to the city.

Winter temperatures are usually in the high 30s to 40s with around 3.3 inches of rain. However, if you’re lucky to visit during a winter storm you are in for a treat.

The city is extremely hilly and the local government is against using salt because it damages the road and is bad for the environment. So even with what east coasters might think of as a light dusting, the city shuts down for an unofficial snow day. And if it really snows like it has for at least a few days the past few years, you can expect to find people cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowboarding in the streets!

Adria says, “Everywhere you turn there will be Christmas festivities in Seattle, but if you want to stay in the middle of it all, get a hotel in downtown Seattle. One great option is the swank Fairmont Olympic Hotel with its Festival of Trees that transforms the lobby into a winter forest.

Another option is the more affordable Sheraton Grand, which hosts a huge Gingerbread Village installation in its lobby popular with kids.

Orlando, Florida

Christine of Live Love Run Travel

When looking for the best place to visit in the USA for Christmastime, make sure to put Orlando, Florida, on your list. There are plenty of things to do in Orlando at Christmas , from the theme park holiday events to local events unlike those you’ll see anywhere else.

The theme parks are a popular Xmas destination, but you can also enjoy touring the hotels at Disney without paying for theme park entry. For example, check out the massive Christmas Tree and the huge gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian.

Gaylord Palms also goes over the top at Christmas with their famous ICE! display and other Christmas shows and activities, including some that are free. The theme changes each year, but there are things for all ages to enjoy.

Light Up UCF is another fun and family-friendly place to enjoy at Christmas. With light shows, free movies, and ice skating, it’s a great spot to enjoy for both kids and adults.

Christmas in Orlando is a special time even without the cold and the snow – in fact, that may be the best part of visiting Orlando at Christmas!

To get to Orlando, fly into Orlando International Airport. From there, you can be in downtown Orlando, at the theme parks, or in many of the areas holding Christmas events in about 30 minutes.

Winter in Orlando is one of the best seasons to visit. No hurricanes and humidity (or less humidity at least), and cooler days. You can actually enjoy your time outdoors and not have to deal with the daily thunderstorms found in summertime.

Temperatures range greatly with average temperatures in the mid-70s. Some days can be in the 30s or 40s and others can still get into the upper 80s. There is around 2 inches of rain in December.

It’s a great place to escape the frigid temperatures up north.

For great rates for accommodation in Orlando, please take a look at the interactive map below.

Frankenmuth, Michigan

By Kris of My Michigan Travel

Frankenmuth, Michigan  is a small town known for its German heritage and adorable Bavarian-inspired architecture. Michigan’s “Little Bavaria” is fantastic year round, but it is one of the best places for Christmas spirit in the USA in December.

One of its top attractions is Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, which claims to be the world’s largest Christmas store. Inside, you’ll find a dizzying array of more holiday decorations and accessories than you could imagine. The store is always popular, but it’s absolutely bustling during the lead up to the holidays. You can shop for ornaments, trees, lights, and more, or take photos with one of the many larger-than-life displays.

Frankenmuth also hosts a traditional Christkindlmarkt during November and December. It features outdoor shopping booths like you’d find throughout Germany and the rest of Europe. You can stroll along the booths selling handmade gifts, décor, and food items. Grab a hot cocoa to sip for warmth! The only thing missing is the gluhwein (hot spiced wine).

Once you’re done, you can fill up on Frankenmuth’s famous family-style chicken dinners. Two competing restaurants – Zehnder’s and Bavarian Inn – serve warm, hearty food like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, buttered noodles, cranberry sauce, and more. You can wash it down with Hofbrauhaus beer straight from Munich if you’d like.

The closest international airport is Detroit-Metro. Frankenmuth is about an hour and a half north unless you hit rush hour traffic.

Average temperature in December is 32 o F. You can expect around 4.2 inches of snow. that rarely stays on the ground for long.

Kris says, “There are numerous hotels to choose from, but the Bavarian Inn Lodge and Zehnder’s Splash Village are the most fun.

Bavarian Inn is located across the famous wooden bridge and features multiple pools, waterslides, an arcade, and an indoor mini golf course.

Zehnder’s, located right next door to Bronner’s, has a whole indoor water park in case you’re missing sunny summer days.”

Los Angeles, California

By Francesca of Homeroom Travel

Los Angeles is one of the best cities in the USA to visit for Christmas.

During the winter season, there are lots of enjoyable things to do. Do not miss the Descanso Gardens: Enchanted Forest of Lights. This 150-acre botanical garden puts on a huge walk-through light show every Xmas season. Another recommendation is to visit Universal Studios . The park is totally decked out in Christmas decorations and there are fun Christmas-themed snacks. 

For music lovers, a Christmas concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall makes for a fun evening. The LA Philharmonic normally puts on several Christmas sing-along concerts throughout December. 

The Christmas season in Los Angeles is fun. It is a warm escape but still feels like Christmas because there are massive amounts of decorations everywhere. There are entertaining events all across the city which makes for a unique winter escape.

To get to Los Angeles, you will want to fly into Los Angeles International Airport. This airport is located in Western Los Angeles and it will take about 30 minutes (without traffic) to get to various places across Los Angeles. 

During the winter months, the average weather is in the high 60s, which makes it the perfect escape for people who do not like the cold.

Francesca says, “To be in the best location, stay in Downtown Los Angeles. The Westin Bonaventure or the Millenium Biltmore are two great hotel choices.”

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

By Paulina of On The Road

Milwaukee is a wonderful city for a Xmas destination. Top things and places to enjoy in December include Christkindlmarket which is less crowded than other Christmas markets. It hosts small wooden huts filled with treasures. You can also eat some yummy Christmas delicacies. Another one is the German Christmas Market, popular for all things German. This includes beer, food, BBQ, and mulled wine.

Do not miss “the Ward” on the first Friday of December, which is one of the most famous neighborhoods of Milwaukee. It has exciting fireworks, live reindeer, and Santa. The Holiday Lights Festival is also fantastic for its variety of shows. 

Wisconsin shines in lights and becomes the happiest during this time of the year. The Christmas markets make it special and bright. That is why Milwaukee is one of the best places to visit in the USA during Christmas.

Milwaukee is easily reached by air. The Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is just 10 minutes from downtown. If you are keen for a road trip, you can drive from Chicago, which would take about a day.

Weather 

The temperature of Milwaukee in December can range from 39.2 degrees Fahrenheit to -37.4 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wisconsin sees the highest snowfall during the months of December (around 3.6 inches), January and March. Therefore, pack heavy clothing for outdoor activities. 

Paulina says, “For an affordable stay, you can stay in downtown Milwaukee at County Clare Inn.

Sedona, Arizona

By Jenifer of The Evolista

During Xmas, Sedona is a fantastic holiday escape.

It hosts the festival of lights at Tlaquepaque where they have 6,000 luminarias that adorn the courtyards and walkways. Cheerful holiday displays dress up windows of galleries and restaurants, while live music and a visit from Santa add to the fun. In fact, there are multiple holiday events held in Downtown Sedona all month long.

No matter what time of year you visit, Sedona is well known for 2 things – some of the most amazing hikes and the presence of an energy vortex.

Discover both the healing energy and the best views on Sedona Vortex hikes . Devil’s Bridge is another terrific hike to a natural bridge that’s sure to be a hit for your holiday card photo. The best part is that these hikes are easy enough for most everyone and you get spectacular red rock vistas.

After flying into Phoenix airport, a 2 hour drive will get you to one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

Christmas in Sedona is festive and fun with average highs in the mid 50s, perfect for some of the prettiest hiking in the USA. While less than 4 days of rain is expected during the month, you might get lucky with a temporary sprinkling of snow on the gorgeous red rock landscape. 

Jenifer says, “Enchantment Resort is a luxurious resort with a spa that’s perfectly located at Boynton Canyon, one of the prettiest spots in town. In addition to their beautiful accommodations, they host multiple activities like guided hikes and mountain bike rides.”

Denver, Colorado

By Michelle of Moyer Memoirs

Denver is one of the best places to visit in the USA during the holiday season because it holds many festive events. There are light displays up and down the 16 th  Street Mall in downtown Denver, including the Mile High Tree. This 110-foot-tall immersive art display lights up with the holiday music. It is lovely to see and hear while strolling around the walk-thru exhibit.

Near the 16 th  Street Mall, the Christkindle Market is a holiday tradition for small businesses that sell hand-crafted artistic gifts and holiday treats. It is reminiscent of German Christmas markets with little wooden huts showcasing their wares, complete with live entertainment and authentic Bavarian pretzels and Glühwein.

Denver has many sites that are open year-round to enjoy even in the cold winter weather, including some great hikes. The Red Rock Amphitheatre should definitely be on your  Denver itinerary . It is only a short drive from downtown and offers beautiful trails in the crisp air of the holiday season.

To get here, the Denver International Airport (DIA) is 25 miles from the heart of downtown. 

December is normally the coldest month of the year with an average temperatures ranging from 46°F to 23°F.  Although it is chilly, it is very dry and the sky will most likely be clear, blue, and sunny. 

Unlike the snowy mountains around the city, it doesn’t snow much in the city of Denver. Typically, snow falls are a few days during December with barely an inch of accumulation.

Michelle says, “If you are staying in downtown Denver, the Curtis Hotel is a uniquely themed boutique hotel.  It has a different theme for each of its 13 guest room floors. The lobby is also themed and very entertaining.  It is a great location for walking around the 16 th  Street Mall and downtown Denver.”

Chicago, Illnois

By Dymphe of Dymabroad

One of the best places for Christmas getaways in the United States is Chicago as there are lots of special things going on in the city.

For example, you can visit the Christkindlmarket. This is a very popular annual Christmas market taking place at Daley Plaza. You can shop for unique handcrafted Xmas gifts and eat delicious Christmas treats.

Besides that, going holiday shopping along the Magnificent Mile during this time is lovely. One of the best places is the shopping mall “Water Tower Place” which has lots of holiday decorations. To be immersed in lights, head over to Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden where you can walk along beautifully lit up trails.

Beyond the Christmas celebrations, Chicago has many amazing attractions to experience . Two of the best museums are the The Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum, both on Lake Michigan and near Millennium Park.

The Art Institute is one of the largest museums in North America and houses an impressive collection of impressionist art from some of the greatest artists of all time, such as Picasso, Monet and Van Gogh. You can get lost in the Field Museum’s amazing exhibits, including exploring Egyptian pyramids.

At Skydeck at Willis Tower, you have incredible panoramic views of the city. In Millennium Park, you can see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture. Also, during December, Millennium Park displays a huge Christmas tree and it is one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago .

To get to Chicago, you can fly into O’Hare International Airport. From the airport, it takes about 30 minutes to drive to Downtown Chicago.

When visiting the city in December, you can expect an average temperature of 37°F and about 1.5 inches of rain and 2 inches of snowfall.

I have been to Chicago over twenty times. On my most recent trip, I stayed at the Fairfield Inn And Suites Chicago Downtown River North. I was very pleasantly surprised by the amazing location, comfortable beds and the excellent value.

Lake Placid, New York

By Michael and Nicole of Affordable Family Travel

Lake Placid is a wonderful place to spend Christmas. Lake Placid provides the perfect Christmas atmosphere with its snow-covered mountains, a visit with Santa, and snuggling up by a warm fire at one of the lovely lodges in the village.

Enjoy the Lake Placid Village Holiday Stroll and pick up some last-minute gifts at any of the many great shops in the village. Head over to Santa’s Workshop in North Pole, NY only 20 minutes away where you can meet Santa and his reindeer. The Park offers rides, shows, and of course, Christmas treats.

Lake Placid was home to 2 Winter Olympics so winter is a great time to see the village in all of its glory.

The average temperature in Lake Placid, NY in December is 31 degrees Fahrenheit and they receive an average of 11 inches of snow during the month.

Michael and Nicole say, “Mirror Lake Inn is a quaint hotel with lake view rooms and a large fireplace in its common area. They have a spa and the town’s only 4 Diamond Restaurant. If you are looking for a  budget Lake Placid trip , Hampton Inn is located across the street from the lake with outdoor fire pits and an indoor pool.”

If you are looking for a Christmas destination in the United States, you have lots from which to choose. Whether you prefer a city or small town experience with or without lots of snow, or you wish to enjoy a tropical Christmas escape with gorgeous beaches and plenty of yuletide cheer, you will be thrilled with your choices in America.

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The Louisville community is buzzing with fun and exciting events.

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Shakespeare in the Parks: A Midsummer Nights Dream Louisville, Kentucky Details   Open in Google Maps

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We're bringing you $2.50 Tacos from some of Louisville's most popular taco joints. Each participating Louisville Taco Week restaurant will be offering their...

Sonic Sensation Exhibit 727 W. Main St. Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

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Shining a Light: Women in Sports 144 N. 6th St. Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

Shining a Light: Women in Sports

The 2024 Shining A Light series featuring Women Athletes and the various ways women are making an impact in sports. The exhibition featuring international...

Hermitage Horse Tour 10500 W. Highway 42 Goshen, Kentucky 40026 Details   Open in Google Maps

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Experience a closer look at the inner workings of an operational Thoroughbred Nursery! Our tours guide you through Hermitage Farm’s illustrious history in the...

Hermitage Farm Bourbon Tasting 10500 W. Hwy 42 Goshen, Kentucky 40026 Details   Open in Google Maps

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Our guided tastings are enjoyable for bourbon connoisseurs and novices alike! Join our delightful Bourbon Stewards in learning about Kentucky’s rich bourbon...

Kentucky Rivalries 829 W. Main St. Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

Kentucky Rivalries

From archrival teams like the Cats and the Cards to dueling editors, competing caves, and beefing barbecues, Kentucky Rivalries captures the most iconic...

South Asian Paintings from the San Diego Museum of Art 2035 South Third St. Louisville, Kentucky 40208 Details   Open in Google Maps

South Asian Paintings from the San Diego Museum of Art

India: South Asian Paintings from the San Diego Museum of Art is the first exhibition of South Asian art to be hosted by the Speed in its nearly 100-year...

Footloose 525 Marriott Drive Clarksville, Indiana 47129 Details   Open in Google Maps

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Little Loomhouse Tours 328 Kenwood Hill Rd. Louisville, Kentucky 40214 Details   Open in Google Maps

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Everything Tour! History, Sites, Sips & Bites! We Pick You Up! Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

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Nov. 9, 2024 – jan. 5, 2025 select dates

Visit atlanta’s most heartwarming holiday celebration.

Each day during Stone Mountain Christmas, you can enjoy park attractions including Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, and more!

Then, become immersed in holiday magic with evenings full of festive music, millions of dazzling lights, spectacular shows and visits from some of your favorite holiday characters!

Stone Mountain Christmas is open weekends and school holidays.

Check the calendar for specific dates and times.

One-Day Admission

Attractions Tickets include one-day access to enjoy  park attractions , seasonal live entertainment, and special events like Stone Mountain Christmas.

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Whether you prefer a rustic retreat or a spacious suite, you’ll find the perfect lodging option for your visit right here inside the park.

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Memberships

Enjoy 12 months of adventures, family-friendly attractions, and special events like Stone Mountain Christmas, Spring FUN Break, and Pumpkin Festival with a Mountain Membership!

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Christmas Drone Show

Watch in amazement as a fleet of color-changing drones light up the sky as they fly above the reflection pond in the Christmas Drone Show*. See larger-than-life festive aerial formations professionally choreographed with color-changing lights and synced to favorite holiday music in this twelve-minute, must-see show!

*Some effects including drones may be canceled due to winds and unfavorable weather.

The Magical Christmas Drone & Light Show is part of the Stone Mountain Christmas event and requires an Attractions Ticket to view the show.

Magical Experiences

Share heartwarming moments with your family while you discover what makes Stone Mountain Christmas Atlanta’s favorite holiday celebration. Catch favorite experiences including the World’s Largest Christmas Light Show and the Christmas Parade!

World’s Largest Christmas Light Show

Celebrate the spirit of the season with this 20-minute experience. Your favorite holiday songs are brought to life with state-of-the-art projection, new special effects and a fireworks finale. Before you know it, the whole family will be singing along!

Catch Santa’s Big Flight

You don’t want to miss this special appearance from Santa himself as he flies overhead in his sleigh each night during the Enchanted Tree Lighting Ceremony!*

*Some shows including Drones and Santa’s Flight may be canceled due to winds and unfavorable weather.

Holiday Favorites

Capture precious moments during festive experiences full of holiday cheer that are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit!

Visit with Santa

Bring your Christmas wishes to the big man himself, live and in person, at his North Pole office. Enjoy a chat with Santa while you get a peek at where all the magic begins. Through 12/24 only.

Journey through Musical Frosted Forest

Immerse yourself in the Musical Frosted Forest where you’ll be mesmerized by beautiful lights, sights and sounds!

Special Holiday Entertainment

Enjoy several unique live shows full of holiday cheer that are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit!

Crossroads Carolers

Enjoy these renowned Christmas Carolers as they sing some of your all time Holiday favorites!

Christmas Parade

Watch as Santa, Mrs. Claus and a host of other holiday figures make their way through the streets of Stone Mountain Christmas to spread the joy of the season.

A Christmas Carol

Laugh out loud during this hilarious take on Charles Dickens’ classic tale of redemption.

Family-Friendly Fun

Enjoy several of Stone Mountain Park’s unique attractions including the Scenic Railroad, 4D Movie Theater, Mini-Golf and more during Stone Mountain Christmas!

Jurassic Christmas

Did you know dinosaurs love to celebrate the holidays? Visit our dinosauars to see what they’re doing to get in the Christmas spirit and stick around into the night to see the special Christmas Dino Glow Experience.

Take a Ride on the Scenic Railroad

This lively journey around the mountain by day becomes a special sing-along experience by night!

The Polar Express 4D Experience

All aboard for a movie experience where you’ll find that the true meaning of Christmas lies in your heart.

“Such an amazing Christmas experience” Jessica, Google Reviewer 2023

“This place is absolutely amazing I will definitely be back soon” Jewel, Google Reviewer 2023

  What is Stone Mountain Christmas and when does it take place?

Stone Mountain Christmas is an annual holiday event held at Stone Mountain Park. It features a variety of festive activities, including live shows, millions of twinkling lights, and a festive parade. The event typically takes place from early November through late December on weekends and school holidays.

  What attractions can I enjoy during the Stone Mountain Christmas?

During Stone Mountain Christmas, you can enjoy various attractions including the Summit Skyride , Scenic Railroad , and other park attractions . In the evenings, there’s festive music, millions of dazzling lights, spectacular shows, and visits from some of your favorite holiday characters. There are also special experiences like the Christmas Drone Show, the World’s Largest Christmas Light Show, Santa’s Big Flight, Musical Frosted Forest, and more.

  Are there any family-friendly activities during Stone Mountain Christmas?

Yes, there are several family-friendly activities and attractions during Stone Mountain Christmas. You can enjoy unique attractions like the Scenic Railroad, 4D Movie Theater, Mini-Golf, and more. Also, don’t miss the special Christmas Dino Glow Experience during the Jurassic Christmas.

  How do I purchase tickets for Stone Mountain Christmas?

Tickets for Stone Mountain Christmas can be purchased online through the official Stone Mountain Park website. Simply visit the Attractions Tickets section and select the date you plan to attend the event.

  Are dining options available during Stone Mountain Christmas?

Yes, there are dining options available during Stone Mountain Christmas. The event features various food and beverage options, including traditional holiday treats, warm beverages, and seasonal favorites. These options are provided by on-site restaurants and food stands. You can find more information about dining options and locations on the Dining page on our website.

  Can I buy a ticket for just the Christmas Drone & Light Show?

The Christmas Drone & Light Show is part of the Stone Mountain Christmas event and requires an Attractions Ticket to view the show.

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