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Top 15: The Best Christmas Holiday Destinations

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Discover the best Christmas holiday destinations, from magical markets to festive traditions, find the perfect spot for your holiday getaway!
11 November 2024

Twinkling lights, festive markets, and the aroma of mulled wine in the air—Christmas is truly the most wonderful time of the year! Whether you’re dreaming of snow-covered streets or want to experience holiday traditions in a new city, picking the perfect Christmas holiday destination can feel overwhelming.

That’s where we come in! At Civitatis, we’ve handpicked 15 magical locations that offer unforgettable holiday experiences. From the sparkling streets of New York City to the snowy wonderland of Lapland, let’s explore the festive magic of these must-visit Christmas destinations!

1. New York, USA

Christmas in New York City doesn’t officially begin until the iconic Rockefeller Center tree is lit up. From that moment, the streets of Manhattan come alive with thousands of dazzling lights, illuminating the city until early January. Did you know that New York’s famous Christmas tree dates all the way back to 1931? If you’re interested, you can read more about the history of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree here.

From the giant baubles on Sixth Avenue to Bryant Park’s Christmas market and Macy’s festive window displays, visiting New York City at Christmas feels like stepping into a holiday film. If you’re a Christmas movie fan, join this guided tour of New York Christmas movie sites. You’ll see where iconic festive films like Elf and It’s a Wonderful Life were filmed!

If you’d rather admire New York’s skyline sparkle from the Hudson River, why not hop on this holiday-themed boat tour? Definitely don’t miss out on seeing the spectacular Dyker Heights neighbourhood! Famed for its extravagant Christmas lights, which can be seen on this Christmas Lights Tour, it’s one of the city’s most festive tourist attractions. While not the cheapest, New York at Christmas is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, especially if you love a dash of holiday magic.

Christmas tree at Rockefeller Centre in New York City.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

2. Madrid, Spain

If you’re looking for a festive city break, Madrid is a top contender. The Spanish capital’s Christmas spirit shines through its grand displays in Gran Vía, Plaza Mayor, and Puerta del Sol. The twinkling lights illuminate the city until January 6th, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. If you want to admire the lights in comfort, why not book a Christmas tuk-tuk tour? Or, hop on the Madrid Navibus for a Christmas Tour through the city.

A highlight of the festive season is the annual turning on of the Christmas lights in Puerta del Sol. From live choral performances to a firework display after the lights come on, it’s one of the most magical evenings in the city!

Be sure to visit Madrid’s charming Christmas Markets, where you can pick up some last-minute gifts, and sample local treats. If you’re travelling with kids, the city also has several outdoor ice rinks that they’ll love!

For those who will find themselves in Madrid for New Year’s Eve, join in on the tradition of eating 12 grapes in time with the striking of the clock at midnight—you’ll feel like a local!

A Christmas tree made of golden lights in Puerta del Sol in Madrid at night.
Puerta del Sol in Madrid at Christmas

3. Strasbourg, France

What better place to visit during the festive season than the ‘Capital of Christmas’, otherwise known as Strasbourg? With one of Europe’s oldest and most enchanting Christmas markets, dating back to 1570, Strasbourg is one of the best Christmas holiday destinations. This picturesque city offers a perfect blend of French and German Christmas traditions, making it the perfect Christmas getaway.

Just walking around Strasbourg, you’ll discover why this city is so special during the holidays. Be sure to check out Alsace’s Christmas markets for even more festive fun. Top tip: be sure to taste some pain d’épices while you’re there! Alternatively, join this Christmas Markets tour for a day trip from Strasbourg to visit more charming holiday markets in Riquewhir, Kaysersberg and Colmar.

Christmas lights on a street in Strasbourg, France.
Strasbourg, the European Capital of Christmas

4. Berlin, Germany

Germany and Christmas go hand in hand, and Berlin is no exception. The city practically glows with festive cheer, especially at its famous Christmas markets, including those at Potsdamer Platz and Gendarmenmarkt. Top tip: warm up with a cup of glühwein at one of the Christmas markets—a holiday classic!

For a truly magical experience, don’t miss Christmas Garden Berlin, where the city’s Botanical Garden is transformed into a glowing winter wonderland with dazzling light displays. It’s a festive highlight that’s perfect for the whole family.

Berlin also offers plenty of outdoor fun, with public ice rinks as well as brilliant sledding hills providing a great way to get involved with the festive fun!

A view of a Christmas market in Berlin at nighttime.
A Christmas Market in Berlin

5. Dresden, Germany

For a truly traditional German Christmas experience, Dresden is the place to be. Home to the Striezelmarkt, this city offers a festive atmosphere steeped in history. Did you know that it’s one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world, dating back to 1434? You can learn more about the Striezelmarkt in our blog post about the best Christmas Markets in Europe.

If you want to get the most out of your visit, join our Dresden Christmas market tour. You’ll explore the market and find handmade crafts, twinkling lights, and all the seasonal treats you could wish for.

In addition to its wonderful markets, the entire city transforms into a festive wonderland at Christmas, where theatre performances and cultural events fill the air with holiday joy.

A view of the Christmas Market in Dresden, with a Ferris Wheel and a big Christmas tree at nighttime.
Dresden’s Famous Christmas Market

6. Stockholm, Sweden

If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, Stockholm could be the destination for you! In Stockholm, Christmas cheer comes alive with a cup of glögg, warm spiced wine, and gingerbread biscuits—a Swedish tradition passed down through generations. The Swedish capital is one of the best Christmas holiday destinations for those who love to wrap up warm and enjoy festive traditions.

You’ll have plenty to do in Stockholm, from strolling through the Christmas market in Gamla Stan, shopping for marzipan treats at the Marsipanbåten boat, or taking a spin on the ice rink at Kungsträdgården Park. Don’t miss the Saint Lucia procession—a Swedish Christmas highlight. And why not join a free tour of the city while you’re there?

A Christmas market in Stockholm with a large green Christmas tree and wooden stalls.
Christmas in Stockholm

7. Budapest, Hungary

A trip to Budapest at Christmas is sure to be a magical one. With chilly weather, and beautiful Christmas lights and markets, the Hungarian capital comes alive during the festive period. Be sure to visit the Christmas market at Vörösmarty Square, the largest in the city, and taste the delicious chimney cakes, kürtőskalács, or szaloncukor, chocolate bonbons. If you ask us, the festive treats alone make it worth a visit!

Festive highlights in the city include the magnificent Christmas tree at St. Stephen’s Square and the spectacular ice-skating rink at City Park. If you want to take part in one of Budapest’s best traditions, visit one of the many outdoor bathhouses. With many even opening on Christmas day, this is a unique Christmas tradition to try. We recommend getting a ticket to the Gellért Baths, one of the best in the city!

Another way to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the city is on an evening cruise along the Danube. As you cruise along the river, you’ll have breathtaking views of the city’s festive lights.

Budapest Christmas Market.
Budapest Christmas Market

8. Krakow, Poland

Poland’s renowned nativity scenes, szopkas, are a sight to behold, and Krakow is the best place to see these artistic masterpieces. These intricate cribs, recognised as UNESCO heritage, are truly one-of-a-kind, crafted by local artisans who spend the entire year creating them.

Another reason to visit Krakow at Christmastime is for its hearty festive foods! Did you know that in Poland, it’s tradition to sit down for a 12-course meal with your closest family on Christmas Eve? Be sure to sample traditional Polish Christmas dishes like beetroot and mushroom soup, barszcz uszka, pierogi, grilled sausages, and hearty meat stews, bigos.

Regardless of when you visit Krakow, be sure to use our Krakow Travel Guide, to make the most of your trip.

A Christmas Market in Krakow with blue lights on a big Christmas tree.
Krakow at Christmas

9. Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius truly comes alive during the Christmas season, offering a perfect blend of festive charm and cultural traditions. Cathedral Square is the heart of the celebrations, with its towering Christmas tree, beautifully decorated with sparkling lights. As you wander through the Christmas markets, you’ll see stalls brimming with traditional Lithuanian crafts and delicious local foods.

A stroll along the streets leading to the main square is a must! Lined with cosy shops and restaurants, these charming streets are perfect for Christmas shopping or a festive meal. We also recommend heading to one of Vilnius’s many picturesque bridges for breathtaking views of the city’s illuminated skyline.

A highlight of Lithuanian Christmas is Kūčios, the traditional Christmas Eve dinner featuring 12 symbolic dishes, each representing a month of the year. This unique custom plays a key role in the city’s festive season and showcases Lithuania’s rich heritage.

A large Christmas tree adorned with Christmas lights in a square in front of a Cathedral.
Vilnius Cathedral Square Decorated for the Christmas Holidays

10. Quebec, Canada

Quebec is another North American gem that truly deserves its place among the best Christmas holiday destinations. With its Old World charm and European flair, this enchanting city feels like a festive fairy tale come to life. Stroll through the cobbled streets of Old Quebec and the quaint Petit Champlain district, soaking up the magical atmosphere.

Quebec offers a real winter wonderland experience, with snow-covered streets and twinkling lights adding to the charm. Whether you’re admiring the snowfall from a cosy café, sipping hot chocolate or eggnog, or exploring the festive sights on a Christmas tour, Quebec’s Christmas magic is unforgettable. For a truly magical experience, come on our Christmas tour of the city to enjoy an informative adventure through the enchanting streets.

Don’t miss out on the festive activities either! Glide across an ice rink, race down a toboggan run, or wander through the city’s German Christmas Market, where the scent of cinnamon and mulled wine fills the air.

A large green Christmas tree with lights on it in front of a church at night time.
Quebec at Christmas

11. Salzburg, Austria

If you love classical music, Salzburg is a destination where Christmas and music come together in perfect harmony. As the birthplace of Mozart, this city is the ideal place to enjoy world-class classical performances. One of the most unforgettable experiences is a Mozart Concert at Mirabell Palace, which becomes even more magical during the festive season.

For those spending Christmas Eve in Salzburg, attending one of the city’s many Christmas Eve concerts is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And just a short 20-minute bus ride away is Oberndorf, the charming town where the beloved carol “Silent Night” was first performed.

Salzburg’s Christmas markets are also a festive highlight, offering charming stalls brimming with holiday delights. For a truly magical experience, venture out to the Christmas markets at Lake Wolfgang, set in one of Austria’s most picturesque villages, where the twinkling lights and scenic backdrop make for a perfect holiday escape.

A Christmas market in Salzburg with golden fairy lights all around the market on a foggy day.
Salzburg Christmas Market

12. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam truly sparkles at Christmas, with festive lights and glittering decorations transforming the city’s famous canals into a winter wonderland. For a unique and magical perspective, why not join a Christmas cruise along the canals and take in the twinkling lights reflecting off the water?

For those looking for a more active festive experience, head to the Amsterdam Winter Paradise, where ice-skating rinks, a Ferris wheel, and plenty of festive fun await. Whether you’re browsing the vibrant Christmas markets or warming up with mulled wine and seasonal treats in one of the city’s cosy cafés, Amsterdam is a Christmas destination that will create lasting memories.

A view of a canal in Amsterdam with lights on the trees lining it in the evening.
Amsterdam’s Canals Illuminated at Christmas

13. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is a city that radiates festive charm. With twinkling lights, bustling markets, and the aroma of mulled wine filling the air, Edinburgh is a true winter wonderland. Head to East Princes Street Gardens for the heart of the city’s Christmas celebrations, where you’ll find markets, fairground rides, and plenty of whisky stands to warm you up. If you want to see the best of the city’s Christmas markets and lights, book our Edinburgh Christmas tour.

If you’re lucky enough to be in town for New Year’s Eve, or Hogmanay, Edinburgh’s legendary New Year’s celebrations are the perfect way to end the year. With lively parties, firework displays and delicious feasts, you’ll ring in the new year in style!

A Christmas market in Edinburgh at during the day with a Ferris Wheel and a Cathedral under a blue sky.
Edinburgh at Christmas

14. Lapland, Finland

If you’re travelling as a family, Lapland is the ultimate Christmas holiday destination—after all, it’s where Santa Claus lives! With snow-covered forests, cosy cabins, and endless festive activities like reindeer sleigh rides and snowmobiling, it’s a dream come true for families looking for a magical Christmas getaway.

As well as providing all the festive fun for the little ones, Lapland is a brilliant place to unwind and slow down. Be sure to visit one of the traditional Finnish saunas for a day of relaxation or enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate in a cosy cabin café. Of course, you’ll also need to pencil in an evening to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

For the ultimate family-friendly festive adventure, join us on this Santa Claus Village tour—the little ones will love it!

2 reindeer pulling sleds in a snowy forest in Lapland.
Lapland, a Dream Christmas Destination

15. London, UK

London is a Christmas lover’s dream. From Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park to the dazzling lights of Oxford Circus, the city is full of festive cheer. The Christmas displays in the shopping districts are a sight to behold. If you want to see the city’s best Christmas lights, book this London Christmas lights sightseeing bus tour.

Whether you’re ice skating at Winter Wonderland or enjoying the Christmas markets along the South Bank, London offers a perfect mix of excitement and holiday charm. Don’t forget to stop by Covent Garden and St. Pancras Station for even more festive displays! If you don’t know where to start, join our free London Christmas tour to kick off your trip!

A red bus driving down a street in London with golden Christmas lights in the shape of angels above the street.
London’s Christmas Lights

From the twinkling streets of New York to the snowy paradise of Lapland, these Christmas destinations offer an unforgettable holiday experience. Whether you’re strolling through charming markets, sipping on mulled wine, or soaking in dazzling light displays, each city has its own festive magic.

So, whether you’re dreaming of a classic Christmas or something a bit more adventurous, we hope you’ve found some inspiration from this list. Wherever your holiday plans take you, from all of us at Civitatis, we wish you the happiest of holidays!

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