While many cherish the tradition of gathering around a cozy fireplace during Christmas, we know you're not one to stay put. With the holidays approaching, you're already scouring for flights to far-off destinations, eager to explore the coolest spots around the globe.
Imagine wandering through enchanting Christmas markets in Europe or unwinding in a tropical bungalow in Southeast Asia. This Christmas, you crave passport stamps over designer bags, and we totally get it. Get ready to experience holidays around world this holiday season, here are 12 Best Places to Travel for Christmas.
Also check out: Best Warm Places to Visit in December
12 Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World?
1. Christmas in Bali, Indonesia
Known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant markets, Bali, Indonesia is one of the best places to go for Christmas. Christmas. While the Balinese do not celebrate Christmas as one of their main festivals, they do make a huge effort for tourists who visit during this time of the year. Whether you’re in the mood to sit back and relax or participate in festive activities like Christmas dinner and carol singing, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking to be close to the festivities, consider staying at the Bandha Hotel & Suites.
Weather in Bali in Christmas :
| Where | Avg. Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Bali | 86°F | Very warm and humid |
2. Christmas in Tokyo, Japan
While Christmas isn’t widely celebrated in Tokyo, Japan locals have started to get into the holiday spirit over the past few years. Starting in early December, the city comes alive with dazzling trees and elaborate LED displays making this city one of the best places to travel during Christmas. Admire the bright lights from the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, which resides in a 38-story tower. You can also visit a number of Christmas markets, ice skating rinks and large Christmas trees. To be close to all the highlights, book your stay at the Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba.
Weather in Tokyo in Christmas :
| Where | Avg. Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | 51°F | Cool and dry with chilly mornings |
3. Christmas in Edinburgh, Scotland
In Edinburgh, Scotland Christmas is celebrated as a time for family and friends. The capital city is especially enchanting during this season. Christmas lights adorn the streets, setting the scene for a series of festive events. During this time of year, both tourists and locals can be found exploring the Christmas markets. Offering a delightful array of food, drinks, and decorations, these markets are an unmissable experience during the season. For one of the best Christmas trips, consider a luxurious stay at The Balmoral Hotel.
Weather in Ediburgh in Christmas :
| Where | Avg. Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Edinburgh | 40°F | Cold, overcast, short daylight |
4. Christmas in Tromso, Norway
For a truly unique Christmas, consider visiting Tromsø, Norway. In Tromsø, Christmas is a time for celebrating with family and friends under the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Instead of spending the holiday indoors, locals and visitors alike venture out to experience this natural wonder, which makes Tromsø one of the best places in Europe for Christmas. You can also explore the charming Christmas markets and enjoy festive events throughout the city. For an unforgettable stay, book a room at the cozy Clarion Hotel The Edge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Arctic landscape.
Weather in Tromso in Christmas :
| Where | Avg. Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Tromso | 28°F | Very cold, snow/rain mix likely |
5. Christmas in London, England
For a Christmas filled with timeless charm and festive cheer, consider spending the holidays in London, England one of the best places to go during Christmas. The city transforms into a glittering winter wonderland, with dazzling Christmas lights, enchanting ice rinks, and world-class theater that draw visitors from around the world. London’s holiday appeal is undeniable—think decorated Georgian townhouses, lively pubs, and a touch of Dickensian magic. To make the most of your Christmas in London, start with a classic afternoon tea, indulge in a hearty steak after a day of shopping, and sip on a martini in a cozy pub on Christmas Eve. For a luxurious stay that puts you in the heart of the festivities, consider The Savoy, an iconic hotel that perfectly captures the spirit of Christmas in London.
Weather in London in Christmas :
| Where | Avg. Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| London | 46°F | Cold, damp, with frequent rain and fog |
6. Christmas in Rio de Janerio, Brazil
If you’re looking to skip a white Christmas, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil offers a vibrant and sun-soaked holiday experience. Perfect for those who love the beach, December in Rio is all about enjoying an icy caipirinha on a spectacular shoreline with daily temperatures in the 80s. The city also hosts the world’s largest display of full-sized nativity scenes during the annual Festival de Presépios at Jardim de Alah, nestled between Leblon and Ipanema. For an unforgettable holiday experience, take a bike ride around Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon to admire the world’s largest floating Christmas tree from every angle. Treat yourself to a tropical paradise and stay at the luxurious Copacabana Palace.
Weather in Rio de Janeiro in Christmas :
| Where | Avg. Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Rio de Janeiro | 78°F | Hot and hummid, summer weather |
7. Christmas in Sydney, Australia
For an unforgettable holiday experience, consider spending Christmas in Sydney, Australia. You haven’t truly seen Christmas lights until you’ve witnessed Sydney’s dazzling displays. The holiday season here lasts an entire month, celebrated as “Sydney Christmas.” Highlights include the city’s largest Christmas tree at Martin Place, a spectacular sight that draws crowds nightly. Wander through the Strand Arcade to marvel at 3,500 twinkling lights, or head to Pitt Street Mall to be mesmerized by the incredible Canopy of Light, featuring 85,000 LEDs. For a luxurious stay that puts you at the heart of the festivities, consider the iconic Park Hyatt Sydney, offering breathtaking views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Weather in Tokyo in Christmas :
| Where | Avg. Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | 76°F | Early summer weather, warm and humid |
8. Christmas in Cape Town, South Africa
On the hunt for warm temperatures? Consider Christmas in Cape Town, South Africa. Blending older traditions with modern takes, the festive season is a busy and exciting time. With shops on sale and plenty of events, it’s an ideal time to visit the country. Expect to find shopping malls with unique Christmas gifts, catchy carol singers and delicious mince pies. Make sure to visit the stunning soft-sand beaches to make the most of the weather and your ultimate Christmas trip. For an off-the-grid hotel stay, book your stay at the Grande Roche Hotel, situated in Drakenstein Valley.
Weather in Sydney in Christmas :
| Where | Avg. Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Cape town | 68°F | Summer climate warm days and cooler nights |
9. Christmas in Basel, Switzerland
For most travelers, Basel, Switzerland in winter is a hidden gem that transforms into a festive wonderland during Christmas. The city is filled with seasonal cheer, making it one of the best places in Europe for Christmas. Basel boasts not just one but two enchanting Christmas markets: one in Barfüsserplatz and another in Münsterplatz. Both markets are brimming with hundreds of vendors offering handmade goods, delicious treats, and plenty of twinkling lights and decorations. If you’re looking for a Christmas getaway with a cozy and authentic atmosphere, consider staying at the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois, offering beautiful views of the Rhine River and easy access to all the festive activities.
Weather in Cape town in Christmas :
| Where | Avg. Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Basel | 38°F | Cold, often overcast, with possible snow |
10. Christmas in Lima, Peru
For a truly unique holiday destination, consider spending Christmas in Lima, Peru. Christmas in Lima is a vibrant and festive experience, known for its colorful celebrations and rich cultural traditions. The city comes alive with ‘chocolatadas,’ where people gather to enjoy hot chocolate and indulge in ‘panetón,’ a traditional sweet bread similar to Italian panettone. Don’t miss the opportunity to join in and experience the warmth of the local community. For an equally unforgettable stay, consider the elegant Hotel B, a charming boutique hotel that perfectly captures the spirit of Lima during the holiday season.
Weather in Lima during Christmas :
| Where | Avg. Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Lima | 72°F | Humid, some cloud cover with mild evenings |
11. Christmas in Strasbourg, France
If you are searching for the most magical place to spend Christmas then head over to Strasbourg, France. Known as the "Capital of Christmas," Strasbourg offers an enchanting atmosphere that attracts millions of visitors each year. The city's Christmas markets are the stuff of dreams, set against the backdrop of picturesque half-timbered houses. Each market in Strasbourg has its own unique charm, offering a delightful mix of handmade goods, festive treats, and twinkling lights. To fully immerse yourself in this unparalleled ambiance, take time to explore the markets with the help of local tips and secrets. For an unforgettable stay, consider the luxurious Hôtel Les Haras, which perfectly complements the festive spirit of Strasbourg during the holiday season.
Weather in Tokyo in Christmas :
| Where | Avg. Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Strasbourg | 42°F | Cold, possibly misty + rainy |
12. Christmas in Riga, Latvia
For a Christmas experience steeped in history and charm, consider spending the holidays in Riga, Latvia. Known as the birthplace of the Christmas tree, Riga transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season. The city's Old Town is adorned with beautiful decorations and twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Wander through the Christmas markets, where you'll find unique Latvian crafts, delicious seasonal treats, and warming mulled wine. The heart of the celebration is Doma Square, home to Riga’s most famous Christmas market, where locals and visitors alike come together to enjoy the holiday spirit. For a stay that captures the essence of Riga, consider the Grand Palace Hotel, a luxurious retreat in the heart of the historic center.
Weather in Tokyo in Christmas :
| Where | Avg. Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Riga | 28°F | Cold and snowy |
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Christmas Travel FAQs for U.S. Travelers
Do U.S. citizens need a visa to visit popular Christmas destinations?
It depends on where you go. Americans can visit most European countries (Schengen Area) visa-free for up to 90 days. For Canada, Mexico, and much of the Caribbean, no visa is required for short stays. However, destinations like Australia require an ETA, and some countries in Asia or Africa may require a tourist visa. Always check the U.S. State Department website before booking.
Are vaccines or special health precautions necessary for holiday travel abroad?
For most urban destinations in Europe, Canada, or Australia, no additional vaccines are needed. If heading to parts of Africa, South America, or Southeast Asia, you may need vaccines such as yellow fever, hepatitis A, or typhoid. The CDC recommends visiting a travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure.
What is the typical weather in December around the world?
Europe: Cold and festive in the north (snow likely), milder in southern areas like Spain or Italy.
Asia: Dry season in Southeast Asia (great for beach trips), chilly in Japan, Korea, and northern China.
South America: Summer in the Southern Hemisphere — warm in Brazil, Argentina, Chile.
Africa: Warm in southern regions (Cape Town ~75 °F), pleasant but cooler nights in the north (Morocco).
Oceania: Peak summer in Australia and New Zealand — expect hot, sunny days perfect for outdoor celebrations.
What are the most family-friendly places to spend Christmas abroad?
Lesser travel stress + plenty of activities make destinations like Lapland (for Santa visits), European Christmas markets (Germany, Austria), Disney parks in Florida or Paris, and beach resorts in the Caribbean excellent options for families with kids.
Which destinations are best suited for solo travelers or adults without kids?
Cities with vibrant nightlife, culture, and events — like New York, London, Paris, Tokyo, or Sydney — are ideal. For more adventure, consider Patagonia, a safari in South Africa, or culinary destinations such as Mexico City or Bangkok.
Is Christmas one of the busiest travel seasons?
Yes — the week of Christmas and New Year is peak travel time worldwide. Flights and hotels sell out quickly, so book at least 3–6 months in advance for the best availability and pricing.
How much more expensive is it to travel over Christmas compared to other months?
Expect higher prices for flights and hotels, especially if traveling between December 20–January 2. You can save by departing earlier in December, returning after New Year’s, or visiting less-touristy destinations.
Where can I find a guaranteed White Christmas?
For snow lovers, destinations like Lapland (Finland), Banff or Whistler (Canada), Colorado ski resorts, the Swiss Alps, and northern Japan are reliable for snow and offer cozy winter experiences.
Are there cultural differences Americans should know about when celebrating Christmas abroad?
Yes — in some countries, Christmas Eve is the main celebration rather than December 25. Shops and restaurants may close on holidays. In destinations where Christmas is not widely observed, it’s business as usual. Research local customs to avoid surprises.