Best Destinations to Visit at Christmas

Cities become brighter, historic streets are covered with decorations, Christmas markets fill public squares, and winter landscapes create a completely different atmosphere. For many travelers, the destination itself becomes part of the Christmas experience.

If you’re planning a Christmas vacation, you have more choices than you might expect. You can spend your holiday surrounded by snow in Finnish Lapland, explore traditional European Christmas markets, experience the excitement of New York City, or leave winter behind and enjoy warm weather in Tenerife.

With so many amazing destinations to choose from, finding the right one can be challenging.

To help you choose, this guide explores the best destinations to visit at Christmas, from classic European cities to snowy family escapes and warm-weather alternatives. You’ll discover what makes each destination special, what you can do there, which type of traveler it suits best, and how to plan your trip.

How to Choose the Best Destination to visit at Christmas

Before booking your flight, think about what you actually want from your Christmas holiday. A destination that is perfect for a family with young children might not be the best choice for a couple looking for a quiet romantic getaway.

Consider These Questions

• Do you want snow or sunshine?
• Are Christmas markets important to you?
• Are you traveling with children?
• Do you prefer a big city or a small historic town?
• What’s your travel budget?
• Do you want traditional Christmas celebrations or a completely different experience?

Snowy Christmas or Warm Christmas: Which Is Right for You?

A snowy Christmas is ideal if you picture yourself walking through decorated streets in a warm coat, drinking hot chocolate and enjoying winter activities. Destinations such as Lapland, Vienna, Prague and Quebec City are excellent choices.

On the other hand, you don’t have to spend Christmas surrounded by snow. Tenerife, the Canary Islands, Mexico and other warm destinations allow you to enjoy the holiday season outdoors.

Your choice ultimately depends on the type of Christmas you want to remember.

15 Best Destinations to Visit at Christmas

1. Vienna, Austria – A Classic European Christmas

Vienna is one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe if you want elegant architecture, traditional markets and a sophisticated winter atmosphere.

The Austrian capital becomes especially attractive during December. Historic buildings provide a beautiful background for Christmas decorations, while markets offer seasonal food, handmade gifts and warm drinks.

You can spend your morning exploring a palace or museum and your evening walking through a Christmas market.

Best Christmas Activities in Vienna

• Visit the city’s Christmas markets
• Explore Schönbrunn Palace
• Go ice skating
• Walk through decorated historic streets
• Try traditional Austrian pastries
• Attend a classical music concert

Vienna is particularly suitable for couples and travelers who want to combine Christmas traditions with culture and sightseeing.

2. Strasbourg, France – The Christmas Capital

If Christmas markets are the main reason you’re traveling, Strasbourg should be high on your list.

Located in the Alsace region, Strasbourg has a long Christmas-market tradition and is famous for its decorations, illuminated streets and enormous Christmas tree.

The historic center becomes especially beautiful after sunset. You can walk between market stalls, admire the cathedral and explore the charming Petite France neighborhood.

What to See in Strasbourg

• Strasbourg Cathedral
• Place Kléber
• The historic Christmas markets
• Petite France
• Decorated streets and squares
• Traditional Alsatian food stalls

Strasbourg is a strong choice if you want a traditional European Christmas experience without spending your entire trip inside museums.

3. Prague, Czech Republic – A Fairytale Christmas City

Prague already looks like a fairytale throughout the year, but December adds another layer of charm.

The city’s medieval architecture, narrow streets and historic squares create a beautiful setting for Christmas markets. Old Town Square is one of the places you’ll want to visit, especially in the evening.

Best Christmas Experiences in Prague

• Explore Old Town Square
• Walk across Charles Bridge
• Visit Prague Castle
• Browse Christmas markets
• Try traditional Czech food
• Enjoy the city after sunset

Prague can also be an attractive option if you’re looking for a European Christmas destination that offers culture and atmosphere without the prices found in some of Europe’s biggest capitals.

4. New York City, USA – Christmas in the Big Apple

New York City offers a completely different Christmas experience.

Instead of medieval buildings and European market squares, you’ll find skyscrapers covered in lights, enormous department-store displays, ice rinks and famous holiday landmarks.

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the city’s best-known holiday attractions, while Fifth Avenue becomes a destination in itself for shoppers and visitors interested in Christmas window displays.

Best Things to Do in New York at Christmas

• See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
• Walk along Fifth Avenue
• Visit Bryant Park Winter Village
• Go ice skating
• Explore Central Park
• See holiday window displays
• Visit Christmas markets

If you enjoy shopping, entertainment and a busy city atmosphere, New York is one of the best places to visit for Christmas.

5. Lapland, Finland – A Magical Winter Wonderland

If your idea of Christmas involves snow, reindeer and Santa Claus, Finnish Lapland is difficult to beat.

Rovaniemi is particularly popular with families because of Santa Claus Village. Beyond Santa, you’ll find snowy forests, Arctic landscapes, reindeer experiences and opportunities to see the Northern Lights.

Things to Do in Lapland

• Visit Santa Claus Village
• Meet Santa Claus
• Take a reindeer sleigh ride
• Try husky sledding
• Search for the Northern Lights
• Explore snowy forests
• Stay in a glass-roofed accommodation

Lapland is especially appealing to families with children, but couples can also enjoy the peaceful Arctic scenery and unique winter activities.

Because Christmas is a very popular period in Lapland, accommodation and activities can become expensive. Booking early is one of the easiest ways to give yourself more choices.

6. London, England – A Festive Christmas City

London combines Christmas traditions with the attractions of a major international city.

You can spend the day visiting museums and historic landmarks, then head out in the evening to see Christmas lights and seasonal attractions.

Things to Do

• See the Christmas lights
• Visit Covent Garden
• Explore Christmas markets
• Shop along Oxford Street
• Visit Hyde Park’s winter attractions
• Watch a West End show

London is a particularly good choice if you don’t want your entire trip to revolve around Christmas activities. You can easily mix sightseeing, shopping, food and seasonal events.

7. Quebec City, Canada – A Snowy European-Style Escape

Quebec City is a wonderful option if you want snow and historic surroundings.

The Old Québec area has stone buildings, narrow streets and winter scenery that can make you feel as though you’ve stepped into another part of Europe.

Why Visit Quebec City at Christmas?

• Explore Old Québec
• Visit Christmas markets
• Enjoy snowy streets
• See Château Frontenac
• Try French-Canadian food
• Experience winter activities

It’s a good destination for couples and travelers who want a quieter alternative to larger North American cities.

8. Copenhagen, Denmark – A Cozy Christmas Experience

Copenhagen is a great destination if you prefer a relaxed and cozy Christmas.

The Danish idea of hygge, often associated with comfort and togetherness, fits naturally with winter travel. Warm cafés, seasonal food, Christmas decorations and Tivoli Gardens all contribute to the atmosphere.

What to Do in Copenhagen

• Visit Tivoli Gardens
• Explore Christmas markets
• Walk around Nyhavn
• Try Danish Christmas food
• Visit cozy cafés
• Explore decorated streets

Copenhagen works particularly well for couples and families who want a Christmas trip that feels relaxed rather than overwhelming.

9. Salzburg, Austria – Music, Mountains and Christmas Markets

Salzburg combines Christmas traditions with mountain scenery and historic architecture.

The city’s old town is compact enough to explore on foot, making it easy to combine sightseeing with Christmas markets.

Highlights

• Salzburg Old Town
• Christmas markets
• Historic churches
• Mozart-related attractions
• Mountain scenery
• Traditional Austrian cuisine

If you enjoy culture and nature, Salzburg gives you a chance to experience both during the same trip.

10. Edinburgh, Scotland – Christmas With a Historic Atmosphere

Edinburgh’s dramatic architecture makes it an interesting winter destination.

The historic Old Town, Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street create a strong backdrop for Christmas events and decorations.

Things to Do

• Explore Edinburgh Castle
• Visit the Christmas Market
• Walk through the Old Town
• See Princes Street
• Enjoy seasonal events
• Stay for New Year’s celebrations

Edinburgh is particularly appealing if you want to combine Christmas with history and a longer winter city break.

11. Bruges, Belgium – A Fairytale Christmas

Bruges is famous for its medieval architecture and canals, and Christmas adds even more atmosphere to the city.

You can spend hours walking around the historic center, stopping for Belgian chocolate and exploring festive stalls.

Why Visit Bruges?

• Medieval streets
• Historic canals
• Christmas markets
• Winter lights
• Belgian chocolate
• Romantic atmosphere

For couples, Bruges is one of the most charming Christmas holiday destinations in Europe.

12. Colmar, France – Christmas in a Storybook Setting

Colmar is another beautiful option in the Alsace region.

Its colorful buildings, canals and decorated streets create a smaller and more intimate Christmas experience than Strasbourg.

Ideal Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Strasbourg and its Christmas markets.

Day 2: Travel to Colmar and explore the historic center.

Day 3: Visit nearby Alsace villages before returning home.

Combining Strasbourg and Colmar can be a smart option if you want to experience several Christmas destinations during one trip.

13. Munich, Germany – Traditional German Christmas

Germany is strongly associated with Christmas markets, and Munich offers an opportunity to experience Bavarian traditions alongside seasonal celebrations.

Marienplatz is an excellent place to begin your visit, but you can also explore other neighborhoods and attractions around the city.

What to Try

• German Christmas cookies
• Gingerbread
• Mulled wine
• Traditional Bavarian dishes
• Local Christmas-market specialties

Munich is a good destination for food lovers and travelers interested in traditional European Christmas culture.

14. Reykjavik, Iceland – A Different Kind of Christmas

Reykjavik offers something different from a traditional Christmas-market vacation.

You can combine festive experiences with Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, geothermal pools and winter excursions.

Things to Do

• Search for the Northern Lights
• Visit geothermal pools
• Explore Icelandic landscapes
• Discover local Christmas traditions
• Take winter excursions

If you want your Christmas trip to feel adventurous rather than purely festive, Iceland is worth considering.

15. Tenerife, Spain – A Warm Christmas Escape

Not everyone wants a white Christmas.

If you’d rather spend December outdoors in mild weather, Tenerife offers an appealing alternative. You can enjoy beaches, outdoor activities and Christmas celebrations without packing for freezing temperatures.

Why Choose Tenerife?

• Mild winter weather
• Beaches
• Outdoor activities
• Resorts
• Christmas celebrations
• Relaxed atmosphere

Tenerife is particularly suitable if you want to combine a Christmas holiday with a traditional beach vacation.

Best Warm Destinations to Visit at Christmas

If snow isn’t part of your Christmas dream, consider destinations where you can spend more time outdoors.

Some options include:

• Tenerife
• Gran Canaria
• Mexico
• Dubai
• Florida
• Thailand
• The Bahamas

When choosing a warm Christmas destination, don’t look only at temperature. Check rainfall, humidity, flight prices, hotel availability and local holiday events.

Best Christmas Destinations for Families

Family travel requires a little more planning because you’ll want activities for both adults and children.

Top Choices

• Lapland – Santa Claus, snow and reindeer
• New York City – Ice skating, lights and holiday attractions
• London – Seasonal shows and family activities
• Copenhagen – Tivoli Gardens and Christmas events
• Vienna – Markets, skating and cultural attractions

For younger children, Lapland is particularly memorable because the Christmas story becomes part of the actual trip.

Best Romantic Christmas Destinations for Couples

A romantic Christmas vacation doesn’t necessarily require a luxury hotel. Sometimes a walk through a beautifully decorated historic city is enough.

Consider:

• Prague
• Bruges
• Vienna
• Strasbourg
• Salzburg
• Quebec City

You can build your itinerary around Christmas markets, evening walks, local restaurants and scenic locations.

Best Christmas Destinations for Christmas Markets

Christmas markets are one of the biggest reasons travelers visit Europe in December.

If markets are your priority, check official event websites before traveling because opening dates and schedules can change from year to year.

Traditional Christmas Foods to Try Around the World

One of the best ways to experience a destination is through its food.

Instead of eating the same dishes you would have at home, try local seasonal specialties.

An Easy Christmas-Inspired Recipe

You can also bring a little of your Christmas trip home by making a simple almond cookie.

Food may seem like a small part of your trip, but tasting something traditional often becomes one of the memories you take home.

Best Christmas Destinations by Travel Style

If you’re still unsure where to go, this quick comparison can help.

How Much Does a Christmas Trip Cost?

Christmas travel can become expensive because demand is usually high during the holiday season.

Before choosing your destination, create a realistic budget that includes more than flights and hotels.

Main Costs to Consider

• Flights
• Accommodation
• Food
• Local transportation
• Attractions
• Christmas activities
• Shopping
• Travel insurance

General Budget Comparison

These categories are only a general guide. Your final cost depends on your departure city, travel dates, hotel choice and how early you book.

Tips for Planning a Christmas Vacation

Book Early

Christmas is a busy travel period, especially in popular destinations.

Booking early can give you more choices for:

• Hotels
• Flights
• Family rooms
• Christmas tours
• Restaurants
• Winter activities

This is especially important if you’re traveling during Christmas week.

Check Christmas Opening Hours

Don’t assume that everything will operate normally on December 24, 25 and 26.

Museums, restaurants, shops and attractions may have special schedules during the holiday period.

Before leaving home, check the official website of any attraction you absolutely want to visit.

Pack for the Destination

For Cold Destinations

Bring:

• A warm waterproof coat
• Thermal layers
• Comfortable waterproof shoes
• Gloves
• Hat
• Warm socks

For Warm Destinations

Bring:

• Lightweight clothes
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen
• Swimwear
• A light jacket for evenings

When Is the Best Time to Visit Christmas Destinations?

Early December

Early December can be ideal if your main goal is to see Christmas markets and decorations while avoiding the busiest part of the holiday season.

You may also find more accommodation choices.

Christmas Week

Christmas week gives you the strongest holiday atmosphere.

However, you should expect:

• Higher prices
• More visitors
• Limited restaurant availability
• Special attraction schedules

If celebrating Christmas Day away from home is important to you, confirm opening hours before booking your trip.

Between Christmas and New Year

This period works well if you want to combine Christmas with New Year’s Eve.

Cities such as Edinburgh, London and New York continue to offer plenty of entertainment after December 25.

Best Destinations to Visit at Christmas: Quick Comparison

FAQ About the Best Destinations to Visit at Christmas

What are the best destinations to visit at Christmas?

Some of the most appealing options include Vienna, Strasbourg, Prague, New York City and Finnish Lapland. The right destination depends on whether you want snow, Christmas markets, family activities, romance or warm weather.

Where is the best place to spend Christmas with snow?

Lapland is one of the best choices if you want a snowy Christmas. You can combine winter landscapes with Santa Claus experiences, reindeer rides, husky excursions and Northern Lights tours.

What is the best European country to visit for Christmas?

There isn’t one destination that suits everyone. Austria is excellent for elegant Christmas markets and Alpine scenery, France is ideal for Strasbourg and Alsace, Germany is famous for traditional markets, while the Czech Republic offers beautiful historic cities.

What are the best Christmas destinations for families?

Lapland is an excellent choice for families, particularly those traveling with young children. New York City, London, Copenhagen and Vienna also offer plenty of activities suitable for families.

Where can I spend Christmas somewhere warm?

If you want sunshine instead of snow, consider Tenerife, the Canary Islands, Mexico, Florida, Dubai or the Bahamas. Always check the weather conditions for your exact travel dates.

What are the best destinations to visit at Christmas ?

Central and Eastern European destinations can sometimes provide better value than expensive cities such as London or New York. Prague and other cities in the region are worth comparing if your main priority is keeping costs under control.

How far in advance should you book a Christmas vacation?

The earlier you plan, the more choices you’ll usually have. This is particularly important for popular destinations, family trips and travel during Christmas week.

Find Your Perfect Christmas Destination

The best destinations to visit at Christmas aren’t necessarily the ones with the biggest attractions or the most famous Christmas trees. The right choice is the destination that matches the holiday you want to experience.

If you dream of snow, reindeer and an Arctic adventure, Lapland could be your perfect choice. If Christmas markets are your priority, Strasbourg and Vienna deserve your attention. For a romantic getaway, Prague and Bruges offer beautiful streets and atmospheric evenings. If you prefer a major city filled with lights, shopping and entertainment, New York City is hard to ignore. And if you would rather spend December in mild weather, Tenerife offers a completely different kind of Christmas.

Before you book, decide what matters most to you: the weather, the atmosphere, activities, budget or local traditions.

Then choose the destination that fits your plans rather than simply following the most popular travel list.

Which of these Christmas destinations would you choose? Share your favorite destination in the comments and tell us whether your perfect Christmas involves snow, Christmas markets, a big city or sunshine. Your next holiday adventure could be closer than you think.