Top Christmas Destinations
Is there anything better than the holiday season? To me, the only thing better than the holidays, is experiencing the holiday season all over the world. As Christmas approaches, what better way to get into the holiday spirit than by experiencing 1 (or more!) of the top Christmas destinations in the world.
Whether you’re looking for a winter wonderland, unique Christmas foods, or a meet and greet with Santa, this list of the 10 top Christmas destinations has a little something for everyone.
1: New York City, USA
There are few places that top New York City during the holiday season. The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, decorated with thousands of lights, is a staple in the city. There are gorgeous window displays at Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue and decorations everywhere you turn. You can ice skate at Central Park and experience the world-famous Rockettes show. There are also holiday markets in Union Square and Bryant Park. New York City at Christmas is something everyone should experience at least once in their life.
2: Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg, France, definitely earns its title as the "Capital of Christmas" and one of the top Christmas destinations in the world. The city’s medieval half-timbered houses and cute cobblestone streets are decorated for the holidays, making the city feel like a fairytale. Strasbourg is also home to some of the oldest (and famous) Christmas markets in Europe. The gorgeous Strasbourg Cathedral is also a must see during the holidays.
3: London, England
One of my favorite holiday movies (and just movies in general) is “Love Actually". It’s set primarily in London and is a perfect representation of the city during the holidays. London’s iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the London Eye are all lit up, and Christmas trees are set up in Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden. You can ice-skate at the Somerset House rink, enjoy mulled wine at one of London’s cozy pubs, or eat festive foods (mince pies and Christmas puddings) at a Christmas market.
And of course, don’t forget London’s West End that hosts Christmas productions of the classics like the “Nutcracker” and “A Christmas Carol”.
4: Vienna, Austria
Vienna is another charming and enchanting destination during the holiday season. The city’s centuries-old traditions are displayed through its Christmas markets. You can try warm mugs of mulled wine and taste Austrian pastries like strudel and gingerbread. The Belvedere and Schönbrunn Palaces have the perfect backdrop for every holiday festivity.
5: Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi is the definition of a winter wonderland. Nestled in the heart of Lapland, Rovaniemi is one of the top Christmas destinations - known for its reputation as the official hometown of Santa Claus. Visitors can meet Santa himself, tour his village and witness the Arctic Circle crossing.
The city is covered in snow, making it perfect for husky sledding and snowmobile safaris. Rovaniemi's Christmas market has unique gifts and traditional Finnish delicacies to try. I don’t think you can get more “Christmas” than Rovaniemi.
6: Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland is another festive and charming destination during the holidays. The city is filled with holiday traditions like the annual lighting of the Oslo Christmas Tree (a gift from Norway) or the Icelandic custom of Jólabókaflóð, the “Christmas Book Flood” where people exchange books on Christmas Eve and spend the night reading. You can also relax in the hot springs while looking at the northern lights. Not sure it gets more magical than that during the holidays!
7: Québec City, Canada
Québec City is a special place anytime of year, but especially during the holiday season. It’s charming squares come alive with Christmas lights, gorgeous decorations, and beautiful window displays. There are a number of Christmas markets, including the famous German Christmas Market filled with European treats, crafts, and live performances. The grand Château Frontenac towers over the city and really adds to the festive spirit with its majestic display of lights.
8: Munich, Germany
Munich, Germany is bursting with festive charm during the holiday season. The city’s historic architecture and cobblestone streets are filled with Christmas decorations. Munich’s Christmas markets, specifically the famous Christkindlmarkt, are filled with handmade gifts, mulled wine, and festive treats like roasted chestnuts and sausages. The tradition, culture, and holiday spirit of Munich make it one of the top Christmas destinations.
9: Tokyo, Japan
If you’re looking for a more modern, yet still magical, place to experience Christmas - Tokyo is the perfect option. While Christmas isn’t a national holiday in Japan, it’s still celebrated throughout the city. There are gorgeous light displays, decorations, and fun festivities. In areas like Shibuya and Roppongi Hills, trees are illuminated creating an enchanting ambiance. And in Tokyo’s shopping districts like Ginza and Omotesando, there are festive window displays.
10: Medellín, Colombia
Another top Christmas destination that’s not so obvious is Medellín, Colombia. One of the most notable parts of Medellín's holiday spirit is its dazzling Christmas lights display, known as the Alumbrados. It’s an annual tradition that transforms the city into a wonderland of colorful light designs all over parks and buildings. There are street performances, traditional music, and delicious local food during the holiday season, making it a festive experience.
