Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to celebrate than by escaping to a dreamy destination filled with twinkling lights, festive markets, and holiday cheer? Whether you’re dreaming of a white Christmas in snowy alpine villages or a sunny beach escape with tropical vibes, the world offers endless options for memorable holiday travel. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the 12 best places to travel at Christmas in 2025, complete with insider tips on attractions, activities, weather, and why each spot shines during the festive season.

Searching for “best Christmas travel destinations” or “where to go for Christmas vacation”? You’re in the right place. These picks cater to families, couples, solo travelers, and adventure seekers alike. From budget-friendly European gems to luxurious winter wonderlands, let’s dive into the ultimate holiday bucket list. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to book your flights for an unforgettable Christmas getaway.

Where are the best places to travel at Christmas?

Here are some of the best places to travel at Christmas

1. Vienna, Austria: The Crown Jewel of European Christmas Markets

Vienna tops every list of best places to travel at Christmas for good reason. The Austrian capital transforms into a fairy-tale city with over 20 official Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) scattered across historic squares. Rathausplatz hosts the largest, featuring 150+ stalls selling handmade ornaments, gingerbread, and glühwein (mulled wine).

Why visit Vienna at Christmas?

The markets open mid-November and run through December 26, peaking with carolers, ice skating, and a massive Christmas tree. Expect classical concerts in venues like St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

2. New York City, USA: Iconic Holiday Spectacle in the Big Apple

No Christmas travel guide is complete without NYC. The city that never sleeps dazzles with the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, window displays on Fifth Avenue, and ice skating at Bryant Park.

Why visit New York City at Christmas?

From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, Manhattan buzzes with the Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes, holiday markets at Union Square, and the ball drop in Times Square (if extending into NYE).

Some top activities you can do in New York City include:

1. Skate at Central Park’s Wollman Rink.
2. Shop at Bryant Park Winter Village (100+ boutiques).
3. Catch “The Nutcracker” at Lincoln Center.

3. Lapland, Finland: Santa’s Official Hometown in the Arctic Circle

For a true white Christmas destination, head to Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland. This is the “official” home of Santa Claus, complete with his village and post office.

Why visit Lapland, Finland at Christmas?

Experience the polar night with 24-hour twilight, Northern Lights hunts, and reindeer sleigh rides. The Santa Claus Village operates year-round but peaks in December.

Some top activities you can do in Lapland include

1. Meet Santa and cross the Arctic Circle.
2. Husky sledding or snowmobiling.
3. Stay in glass igloos at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort.

4. Prague, Czech Republic: Affordable Fairy Tale Charm

Prague offers Old World Europe on a budget, earning its spot among best Christmas vacation spots in Europe. The Old Town Square market features wooden huts, trdelník pastries, and a towering tree.

Why visit Prague at Christmas?

Medieval architecture glows under lights; markets run November 30 to January 6. Enjoy puppet shows and hot wine.

5. Tokyo, Japan: Unique Fusion of Traditions and Illuminations

Swap snow for neon in Tokyo, a surprising Christmas travel destination blending Shinto shrines with Western festivities. No public holiday, but the city explodes in lights.

Why visit Tokyo at Christmas?

Illuminations at Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Tower; Christmas cakes (strawberry shortcake) everywhere. Markets mimic European ones.

6. Strasbourg, France: The “Capital of Christmas”

Strasbourg claims the title of Europe’s Christmas capital, with markets dating to 1570. Petite France district sparkles along canals.

Why visit Strasbourg at Christmas?

300+ chalets across 12 sites; Alsatian wines and bredle cookies. The Great Christmas Tree in Place Kléber is legendary.

7. Quebec City, Canada: North American Winter Wonderland

Quebec City feels like Europe in Canada, with cobblestone streets and the historic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

Why visit Quebec at Christmas?

German Christmas Market at Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville; ice hotel nearby. Carnaval prep adds buzz.

8. Sydney, Australia: Sunny Christmas Down Under

For warm Christmas destinations, Sydney flips the script with beach barbecues and fireworks.

Why visit Sydney at Christmas?

Summer solstice means 30°C days; Bondi Beach carols, harbor lights.

9. Nuremberg, Germany: Authentic Christkindlesmarkt

Nuremberg’s market is UNESCO-intangible heritage, famous for lebkuchen and zwetschgenmännle figures.

Why visit Nuremberg at Christmas?

Visiting Nuremberg at Christmas is a magical experience filled with festive cheer and rich traditions. The city is famous for its Christkindlesmarkt, one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Germany, where you can enjoy beautifully decorated stalls offering handcrafted gifts, delicious seasonal treats like gingerbread and mulled wine, and unique ornaments. The historic old town provides a charming backdrop with its medieval architecture and twinkling lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

10. Reykjavik, Iceland: Northern Lights and Yule Lads

Iceland’s capital offers volcanic landscapes with 13 mischievous Yule Lads instead of Santa.

Why visit Reykjavik at Christmas?

Reykjavik at Christmas offers a magical blend of festive charm, stunning natural beauty, and unique cultural experiences. The city lights up with enchanting decorations, cozy Christmas markets, and joyful events that create a warm holiday atmosphere despite the winter chill. Visitors can enjoy traditional Icelandic holiday foods, explore local crafts, and witness the famous Yule Lads, Iceland’s version of Santa Claus.

11. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico: Colonial Festivities with Posadas

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, is renowned for its vibrant Colonial Festivities, especially the traditional Posadas celebrated during the Christmas season. These Posadas are lively reenactments of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before the birth of Jesus, involving candlelit processions through the charming cobblestone streets. Locals and visitors join together in singing carols, breaking piñatas, and enjoying festive foods, creating a warm and communal atmosphere. The city’s stunning colonial architecture provides a beautiful backdrop for these heartfelt celebrations, making San Miguel de Allende a magical destination to experience Mexican holiday traditions.

Why visit San Miguel de Allende at Christmas?

Visiting San Miguel de Allende at Christmas offers a magical experience filled with vibrant traditions, stunning decorations, and a warm festive atmosphere. The city comes alive with colorful lights, nativity scenes, and lively parades, showcasing its rich cultural heritage. You can enjoy traditional Mexican Christmas foods, local markets brimming with handmade crafts, and special events like Las Posadas, where locals reenact Mary and Joseph’s journey.

12. Bethlehem, Palestinian Territories: The Original Christmas Town

Bethlehem, located in the Palestinian Territories, is famously known as the original Christmas town. It holds profound religious and historical significance, especially for Christians around the world, as it is traditionally recognized as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The Church of the Nativity, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands in the heart of Bethlehem and marks the exact spot where Jesus is believed to have been born.

The town attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists each year, especially during the Christmas season, when vibrant celebrations, religious ceremonies, and festive events take place. Bethlehem’s rich cultural heritage, ancient architecture, and warm hospitality make it a unique destination for visitors seeking a spiritual and historical experience.

Why visit Bethlehem, Palestinian at Christmas?

Visiting Bethlehem, Palestinian Territories at Christmas offers a unique and deeply meaningful experience for many reasons:

• Historical and Religious Significance: Bethlehem is traditionally recognized as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The Church of the Nativity, one of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world, stands on the site believed to mark Jesus’s birth. Visiting during Christmas allows pilgrims and tourists to connect with the origins of the holiday in a profound way.
• Festive Celebrations: Bethlehem comes alive with Christmas festivities, including processions, midnight masses, and vibrant decorations. The atmosphere is joyful and communal, with locals and visitors from around the world participating in the celebrations.
• Cultural Experience: The city offers a rich cultural experience, blending Palestinian traditions with Christian customs. Visitors can enjoy traditional foods, music, and crafts unique to the region.
• Community and Hospitality: The local community is known for its warm hospitality. Visiting Bethlehem during Christmas provides an opportunity to engage with residents, learn about their lives, and support local businesses and artisans.
• Peace and Reflection: Bethlehem’s Christmas celebrations often emphasize themes of peace and hope, resonating deeply in a region marked by conflict. The experience can be both spiritually uplifting and a call for understanding and unity.
• Scenic and Historic Sites: Beyond the Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem and its surroundings offer many other historic and scenic sites to explore, including the Milk Grotto, Manger Square, and nearby ancient villages.