Best Christmas Vacations

Dreaming of the perfect holiday getaway opens a world of possibilities, from snowy mountain retreats to festive cityscapes or sun-soaked beaches. There’s something magical about celebrating Christmas in a new place, where each destination offers unique charm and activities that cater to every type of traveler.

So, where are the best places to escape for a memorable Christmas vacation this year? With so many enchanting options, adventurers can find a spot that suits their holiday spirit and travel style, promising an unforgettable holiday experience.

Aspen, Colorado

Our Rating: 9.1/10

During the Christmas season, Aspen transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. Visitors can stroll through downtown, surrounded by twinkling lights and festive decorations. The 12 Days of Aspen bring daily events that add to the holiday cheer and create unforgettable memories.

Skiing enthusiasts flock to Aspen’s snowy slopes, perfect for all skill levels. Aspen Snowmass offers breathtaking views and exciting runs, ensuring an exhilarating experience. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, sleigh rides through scenic landscapes provide a cozy adventure. The local restaurants serve up festive feasts with warm, inviting atmospheres.

Vienna, Austria

Our Rating: 9.2/10

Vienna transforms into a magical wonderland during the Christmas season. Like the one in front of the Rathaus, the city’s famed Christmas markets are a must-see. Imagine over 150 stalls lit with festive lights, offering everything from gingerbread to handcrafted decorations.

The air is filled with the scent of mulled wine and a hum of joyful music. Visitors can enjoy ice skating under fairy lights or a romantic stroll through the twinkling streets. Each turn in the city reveals something special, from dazzling shop windows to lively performances. Vienna’s charm and festive cheer make it a perfect destination for an unforgettable Christmas vacation.

Lapland, Finland

Our Rating: 9.3/10

In Lapland, Finland, Christmas is pure magic. Visitors can chase the northern lights, watching the vivid colors dance across the sky. The breathtaking snowy landscapes offer a dreamy backdrop for holiday adventures.

People of all ages delight in visiting Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, where festive cheer is everywhere. Enthusiasts can also enjoy thrilling sleigh rides, dashing across the snow behind a team of reindeer or huskies. Each moment in Lapland is filled with wonder and joy.

Quebec City, Canada

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Quebec City at Christmas is truly enchanting. A stroll through Old Quebec feels like a fairy tale, with twinkling lights and snow-dusted cobblestones. The European charm of the German Christmas Market, featuring wooden stalls with local crafts, hot chocolate, and spiced treats, is a must-see.

Families delight in skating at Place D’Youville or racing down the historic toboggan run at Dufferin Terrace. The exhilarating speed offers both thrills and breathtaking views. Visitors can embrace winter’s embrace by skiing at Mont Sainte-Anne or exploring the fascinating Ice Hotel. Quebec City’s festive spirit makes it a magical holiday destination for everyone.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Reykjavik transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas, offering a blend of tradition and excitement. Visitors can enjoy ice skating at Ingólfstorg Square, where festive lights and holiday stalls create a charming atmosphere. The rink comes alive with laughter and joy, perfect for families and friends.

Explorers can chase the Northern Lights, swirling above the city in vibrant colors. This natural display is a highlight for any winter trip. For a dose of local culture, visitors can dive into Icelandic holiday traditions and taste seasonal delicacies at cozy cafes. Reykjavik’s Christmas markets offer handmade gifts and treats, encapsulating the festive spirit of this unique city.

Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region is a winter wonderland perfect for a Christmas getaway. Travelers can ride the Jungfrau Express and marvel at breathtaking alpine snow-covered views. This iconic train journey takes visitors from Interlaken to the “Top of Europe,” offering panoramic vistas of the majestic mountains. In charming villages like Grindelwald, festive lights sparkle while visitors explore cozy, snow-dusted streets.

Adventurers can ski on pristine slopes or try winter hiking, immersing themselves in the stunning natural beauty. The region’s magical atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination during the holiday season. Basel’s renowned Christmas market adds to the festive spirit, with its wooden huts and beautifully adorned Christmas trees inviting visitors to enjoy an actual Swiss Christmas experience.

New York City, USA

Our Rating: 9.0/10

New York City lights up like no other during Christmas. The iconic Christmas tree glows brilliantly at Rockefeller Center, lighting the ice rink below a warm light. Visitors are drawn to the festive window displays along Fifth Avenue. Each store is a creative wonder, showcasing elaborate holiday themes that captivate the eyes of all.

Radio City Music Hall hosts its annual Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes. Their synchronized dance routines are a timeless tradition that delights audiences every year. No visit to NYC during Christmas is complete without seeing The Nutcracker performed by the New York City Ballet. This magical experience at Lincoln Center enchants both young and old alike.

Tromsø, Norway

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Nestled among snow-covered mountains, Tromsø is a winter wonderland. This Arctic city lights up with festive cheer during the holiday season. The Northern Lights dance across the night sky, creating unforgettable memories for those lucky to witness this natural phenomenon.

Adventurous travelers can engage in exciting activities like dog and reindeer sledding. Whale watching is another thrilling experience, offering a glimpse of majestic marine life. In the heart of Tromsø, visitors will find traditional Christmas markets. Stalls brim with local crafts, festive treats, and joyous spirit. The cozy atmosphere and warm lights make Tromsø a charming Christmas getaway.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Edinburgh sparkles with holiday charm during the Christmas season. The city bursts with twinkling lights and joyous festivities. Visitors can stroll through holiday markets filled with handmade crafts and festive treats. Exploring the Royal Botanic Garden’s Christmas Light Show is a must. Brilliant displays illuminate the garden’s paths, creating a magical winter wonderland.

Edinburgh Castle hosts unique festive afternoon teas that taste Scottish holiday traditions. Adding to the merriment, the local pub scene embraces the festive spirit. Cozy corners serve up heartwarming drinks and lively cheer. Edinburgh invites everyone to experience its enchanting Christmas atmosphere.

Prague, Czech Republic

Our Rating: 9.5/10

In the heart of Europe, Prague transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. The city’s Old Town Square dazzles with a towering Christmas tree adorned with sparkling lights and ornaments. Festive markets offer handmade crafts and traditional Czech treats. Visitors can savor mulled wine while browsing stalls filled with unique gifts.

Prague’s Gothic architecture, covered in snow, creates a magical setting. Holiday concerts and performances add to the festive atmosphere. Another unique experience is soaking in a warm beer bath—a delightful way to beat the winter chill. Whether exploring historic sites or relaxing in a cozy café, Prague offers a perfect holiday escape.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Our Rating: 9.4/10

Rovaniemi, the famed home of Santa Claus, offers a truly enchanting winter experience. Visitors can meet Santa in his village, where the holiday spirit thrives year-round. The village is nestled just above the Arctic Circle, creating a backdrop of snow and twinkling lights.

Beyond Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi invites travelers to explore its stunning natural beauty. A Northern Lights tour offers a chance to witness the mesmerizing colors painting the sky. For those seeking adventure, snowmobiling and dog sledding provide thrilling ways to explore the wintry landscape. Glass igloos offer a unique stay, allowing guests to enjoy the snowy scenery from the comfort of a warm bed, surrounded by magical, starry views.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Copenhagen transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. Streets sparkle with countless lights and ornaments, creating a festive atmosphere. Visitors can explore the charming Christmas markets scattered across the city. Tivoli Gardens, a famous amusement park, hosts one of the most enchanting markets, featuring delightful treats and festive rides.

Copenhagen Cathedral offers a peaceful experience with its Vespers services, where visitors can listen to beautiful hymns. Don’t miss wandering through the streets, sipping hot cocoa, and soaking in the warm, cozy vibe typical of Danish hygge.

Berlin, Germany

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Berlin is a magical place for Christmas lovers. The city comes alive with its charming Christmas markets. Gendarmenmarkt is a favorite, offering traditional crafts, glowing lights, and festive food. Warm up with a cup of glühwein while soaking in the joyous atmosphere.

Another must-see is the KaDeWe department store. Its enchanting food hall has thousands of delicious products for the senses. Visitors are often charmed by the candy counter’s old-school charm and colorful treats. Berlin Winterzauber transforms into a winter wonderland with thrilling rides and exciting stalls. The funfair vibe, with glittering lights and bustling energy, adds a special sparkle to the holiday season.

Paris, France

Our Rating: 9.4/10

Paris transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. The city is aglow with millions of twinkling lights, especially dazzling along the Champs-Élysées and Place Vendome. Visitors are drawn to festive Christmas markets like those at Notre Dame and La Défense, where the air is filled with the irresistible aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.

A cruise along the Seine River offers a unique and stunning view of Paris’ landmarks shimmering with holiday lights. Disneyland Paris, just a short journey from the city, adds a magical touch with festive decorations and holiday events. From enjoying traditional Bûche de Noël cakes to exploring vibrant markets, Paris delivers enchanting holiday experiences.

Kyoto, Japan

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Kyoto sparkles with enchanting lights during Christmas. Visitors can explore the city’s serene temples in chilly landscapes that create a peaceful holiday setting. The vibrant illuminations near the Kyoto Station add a festive touch, brightening the winter nights.

In Gion, shoppers enjoy browsing through unique local treasures. A stroll through the district reveals delightful surprises in every corner. Winter cuisine warms hearts in cozy restaurants, offering a delightful way to experience the city’s rich food culture. A tea ceremony provides a calming retreat from the winter chill, offering warmth and tranquility.

Tallinn, Estonia

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Tallinn, Estonia lights up like a fairy tale during Christmas. The famed Christmas market at Town Hall Square is a significant draw. Visitors can explore charming wooden stalls offering crafts, treats, and unique gifts. An enormous Christmas tree stands proudly at the center, setting a magical scene.

The Old Town becomes a wonderland during winter. Its medieval architecture sparkles with Christmas lights. Many enjoy walking the cobblestone streets, sipping hot drinks from cozy cafés. The snow-dusted rooftops add to the enchanting atmosphere. For those craving adventure, nearby Lahemaa National Park is a perfect escape.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Amsterdam transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. Visitors can explore the enchanting Christmas Market at Museumplein, dotted with charming stalls offering unique gifts and mouth-watering Dutch treats.

A visit to the Jordaan neighborhood offers a delightful foodie journey. The area is packed with cozy cafés and restaurants, and sampling the traditional delights on a walking food tour is a must. The city’s museums offer holiday-themed exhibits for those seeking a cultural twist. The festive lights and decorations add a magical aura to the historic streets, creating an unforgettable holiday experience.

Barcelona, Spain

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Barcelona transforms into a wonderland during Christmas, attracting visitors worldwide. The city sparkles with festive lights, illuminating famous landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and La Rambla. Strolling through these lively streets is a joyful experience.

Visitors can explore vibrant Christmas markets, such as Fira de Santa Llúcia, offering traditional crafts and holiday treats. The aroma of roasted chestnuts fills the air as people shop for unique holiday gifts. The city also offers lively events like the Three Kings Parade, a colorful procession featuring floats and music. This enchanting spectacle delights children and adults, making it a holiday memory to cherish.

Bruges, Belgium

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Bruges at Christmas is a whimsical wonderland. The city transforms into a fairy tale holiday destination with twinkling Christmas markets and charming cobblestone streets. Visitors can warm up with rich, decadent hot cocoa as they explore the festive stalls offering handmade crafts and local treats.

A walk along the canal paths in Bruges is like stepping into a painting. The medieval buildings are beautifully adorned with lights, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. Cozy bistros invite you in with the comforting aroma of freshly baked Belgian waffles and hearty stews, perfect for a chilly winter day. Bruges enchants visitors with its unique history, culture, and holiday cheer blend.

Munich, Germany

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Munich transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. The city sparkles with festive lights and decorations. Visitors can explore lively markets like the Christkindlsmarkt at Marienplatz. There, they find a splendid array of handcrafted treasures and tasty treats.

Stroll through streets filled with the aroma of spiced wine and gingerbread. There’s nothing like sipping warm mulled wine while soaking in the cheerful atmosphere. Shoppers can discover unique gifts in boutique stores nestled among charming cobblestone lanes. Beyond markets, Munich offers beautiful parks and historic sites.

Salzburg, Austria

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Salzburg transforms into a winter wonderland filled with charm and wonder during Christmas. Visitors can explore the magical Christkindlmarkt in Residenzplatz Square, where twinkling lights and the scent of fresh gingerbread fill the air. In this enchanting city, guests can wander through the Altstadt, adorned with stunning baroque architecture that glows under the festive decorations.

Travelers can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides and uncover hidden gems in the quaint cobblestone streets. Music lovers will adore the special Christmas concerts echoing through historic sites. Each melody and festive tune invites visitors to immerse themselves in the joyful spirit of Salzburg’s holiday season.

Riga, Latvia

Our Rating: 8.9/10

Riga, the capital of Latvia, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Snow blankets the streets, creating a cozy, festive atmosphere. Visitors can explore the charming Christmas markets, where stalls are filled with handcrafted gifts and delicious treats like gingerbread and mulled wine. The city offers exciting activities for those craving adventure.

Outside the bustling center, you can experience the thrill of cross-country skiing. The city’s outskirts invite skiers to glide through serene, snowy landscapes. A short trip from the town leads to frozen sea ice along the coast. Here, visitors can walk across the icy surface for an unforgettable experience. Riga in winter combines festive charm with thrilling winter adventures.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Vilnius, the charming capital of Lithuania, lights up with festive cheer during December. Cathedral Square is at the heart of this wonderland, home to a magnificent Christmas tree that dazzles with its unique theme each year. Visitors can wander the vibrant Christmas markets here, sipping warm Gluhwein and exploring stalls filled with handcrafted gifts.

The air is crisp, and the atmosphere brims with merriment. Vilnius offers a magical backdrop for holiday photos, especially with snow-dusted rooftops. Indulge in local treats and let the season’s warmth melt away the winter chill. The joy in Vilnius is contagious, making it a top destination for a memorable Christmas vacation.

London, England

Our Rating: 9.4/10

London sparkles during Christmas, offering an array of festive delights. Visitors can stroll through Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, filled with seasonal attractions, thrilling rides, and cheerful market stalls. The air is filled with the aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, creating a lively holiday spirit.

The city’s iconic landmarks get a festive makeover with dazzling lights. Covent Garden features a giant Christmas tree and vibrant decorations, while Trafalgar Square hosts carol singing beneath twinkling lights. Travelers can indulge in afternoon tea in elegant rooms, offering a cozy escape from the winter chill. London is a top choice for those seeking a magical holiday experience.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Our Rating: 8.9/10

Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Zermatt sparkles as a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. Visitors can revel in the stunning views of the iconic Matterhorn, which towers majestically over the village. A scenic train journey offers breathtaking panoramas, perfect for photo enthusiasts.

Adventurers can enjoy world-class skiing on meticulously groomed pistes. For those seeking unique experiences, horse-drawn carriage rides through snow-laden streets evoke a classic charm. Guests can explore the village and find delightful local shops and cozy cafes serving Swiss hot chocolate. The warmth of these quaint retreats makes indulging in Swiss treats a must after a day in the snow.

Choosing the perfect Christmas vacation can genuinely enhance the festive spirit for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re basking in the winter sun of a tropical beach or enjoying the snow-covered streets of a bustling city, these destinations promise unforgettable memories and joyful celebrations.