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If you've already toured all the Christmas markets in the UK and done all the usual Christmas activities to death, it's probably time to make a change and experience the magic of Christmas in a brand-new setting! In this blog, we're going to help you do just that by giving you the lowdown on the world's most festive Christmas holiday destinations, the one's with snow, ice rinks and Christmas markets that make you feel like you've stepped onto a film set.
The World's Most Festive Christmas Holiday Destinations
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
First on our list of best Christmas holiday destinations is Copenhagen. The capital of Denmark is a real fairy-tale-like experience during this festive season. The city turns into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights lining the streets, Christmas markets offering glühwein and traditional Danish delicacies, and enchanting Christmas decorations to captivate your senses.
2. New York, America
You've seen it in countless Christmas classics like Elf and Home Alone 2, so why not head to New York for your Christmas holiday to experience it in person? At Christmas, the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree shines and Fifth Avenue storefronts become works of art. Enjoy the magic of ice-skating in Central Park, Christmas markets, Broadway shows, and an unparalleled shopping experience during the Christmas holidays in huge department stores like Sacs and Macy's. And why not take the squad along so you can enjoy the joy of Christmas in New York with the people who matter the most?
3. Valkenburg, Netherlands
Embark on a journey to Valkenburg, the Netherlands, and immerse yourself in the warmth and coziness of Christmas. Known as the Christmas City of the Netherlands, Valkenburg offers enchanting markets, where the scent of freshly baked waffles and mulled wine fills the air, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. The Christmas Fairytale Parade is a must-see, with beautifully decorated floats and characters from fairytales. It's a magical experience for all ages, showcasing how this city truly comes alive during the Christmas holidays.
4. Cologne, Germany
In Cologne, Germany, discover the heart of the Christmas atmosphere at the gigantic Christmas Market. Here, stalls and festive ambiance create the perfect setting to find unique gifts. The Cologne Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, stands majestically above the city and is a must-visit, especially when beautifully lit up in the evening. The city offers a wealth of hidden gems and iconic locations, making it a fantastic choice for celebrating the Christmas holidays. And if you're an avid skier, you won't have to travel far to enjoy world-class ski resorts.
5. London, United Kingdom
Experience the majesty of Christmas holidays in London, UK, where you can enjoy traditional markets and breathtaking ice rinks. Somerset House, with its iconic ice rink surrounded by historic architecture, is a must-visit. Explore the charming markets like Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park and stroll along the beautifully illuminated storefronts of renowned department stores. Immerse yourself in the British Christmas traditions with delicious mince pies and Christmas pudding.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
Last on our list of Christmas holiday destinations is Prague in the Czech Republic. A trip to Prague during the Christmas holidays will allow you to witness the transformation into a magical wonderland during the Christmas period. Historic squares become atmospheric marketplaces, offering traditional Czech delicacies and artisanal gifts. Taste the delicious trdelník and warm yourself up with a glass of svařák.
7. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is a city that perfectly balances tradition and modernity, and its Christmas celebrations are no exception. At Christmas, the old town, Gamla Stan, is transformed into a picturesque winter wonderland, complete with cobbled streets and charming stalls. The Skansen Christmas Market (which dates back to 1903), located in the open-air museum, sells traditional Swedish crafts, food, and warm mulled wine, known as glögg. Don't miss the Lucia procession, a captivating event that illuminates the winter darkness with its singing and candlelight.
8. Edinburgh, Scotland
Home to one of the best Christmas markets in the UK and generally a very cosy city, Edinburgh is a great place to spend indoors sipping hot chocolate. Princes Street Gardens transform into a magical space filled with twinkling lights, a big wheel, an ice rink, and charming market stalls and you can't miss the chance to sip a festive bevvy at The Dome, which always has queues out the door at Christmas (but is so worth the wait). The Street of Light, a spectacular light display accompanied by music, is another must-see, adding a touch of enchantment to the Scottish capital during the holiday season.
9. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is one of the best Christmas holiday destinations in Europe due to the quaint feel of the city. The medieval town's winding streets, canals, and historic squares are adorned with festive decorations. The Bruges Christmas Market, held in the Market Square, is famous for its beautiful setting and traditional Belgian treats such as waffles, chocolates, and mulled wine. A skate around the ice rink, set against the backdrop of the medieval Belfry provides pinch-me moments you won't soon forget.
10. Zurich, Switzerland
Next on our list of the world's best Christmas holiday destinations is Zurich, which at Christmas blends Swiss tradition and cosmopolitan charm. The city is illuminated with thousands of lights, and its Christmas markets are filled with the delightful scent of roasted chestnuts and glühwein. The largest market, held in the main train station, features a towering Christmas tree adorned with Swarovski crystals. Zurich's lakeside location and snow-capped mountains provide a stunning backdrop, making it a quintessential winter wonderland where you can shelter from the cold in cosy bars and chow down on heart-warming fondue.
11. Finnish Lapland, Finland
We can't have a list of the best Christmas holiday destinations without including Lapland! Home to Santa Claus himself, this northern region offers a magical mix of:
- Reindeer sleigh rides
- Husky dog sledging
- Visits to Santa's village in Rovaniemi
The snow-covered landscape, the dancing Northern Lights, and the opportunity to stay in a glass igloo under the stars make Finnish Lapland a dream destination for families and couples alike.
12. Strasbourg, France
Known as the 'Capital of Christmas,' Strasbourg is home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to 1570. The city's Gothic cathedral, half-timbered houses, and cobbled streets provide a stunning backdrop for the festive celebrations. Stalls sell delicious Alsatian delicacies like bredele biscuits and vin chaud, and the Great Christmas Tree in Place Kléber is a sight to behold. Strasbourg's rich cultural heritage and festive spirit make it a truly enchanting Christmas destination.
13. Vienna, Austria
Another on our list of the best Christmas holiday destinations is none other than stunning Vienna that exudes opulence at Christmas. The Rathausplatz market, set in front of the stunning City Hall, offers everything from handcrafted gifts to delicious Austrian treats like lebkuchen and wiener schnitzel. A visit to Vienna wouldn't be complete without attending a live concert with classical music to add a touch of refinement to your Christmas holiday to Vienna.
14. Colorado, USA
Closing our list of the world's best Christmas holiday destinations is Colorado over in the States. From Denver, where Christmas light displays and Christmas markets bring the city to life, to the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains where you can get close to nature, Colorado offers a quintessential Christmas holiday that exudes Christmas spirit. Towns like Aspen and Breckenridge become charming hubs of holiday cheer where you can:
- Snuggle up in cosy lodges
- Skate on scenic ice-skating rinks
- Ski on countless snow-capped ski resorts
- Go sledging down picturesque slopes
Don't miss out on the chance to experience the joy of a snow-covered Christmas while skiing or snowboarding in some of the most renowned ski resorts in the country.
Give the Gift of Adventure with a Multi-Airline Voucher
Consider giving the gift of adventure and freedom with a multi-airline voucher. It's the perfect travel gift that lets your favourite traveller choose their dream destination to explore, whenever they want to explore it. With a multi-airline voucher, they can choose from budget, luxury, long-haul and domestic flights making it super flexible and convenient. Plus, you can even personalise the airline gift with a photo and message that your lucky recipient will want to display for years to come!
