Top 25 Global Destinations for an Unforgettable Christmas Celebration

As the weather changes to cold winter nights, I sip a hot tea by the fire while listening to the wind howl. The Christmas tree is decorated, and Michael Bublé plays softly in the background. Oh yeah, Christmas is right around the corner. But some people don’t like spending Christmas at home. We used to be those people and have enjoyed many a Christmas getaway. So, for those who want a Christmas getaway, here are our picks for the best places to spend Christmas worldwide.

The Best Places to Spend Christmas Vacations

From the traditional celebrations of Europe to the all-out displays in downtown New York and Toronto, these destinations will keep you in the holiday spirit while enjoying a Christmas away. If you want a place that embraces the Christmas spirit, here are some of the best Christmas Vacations worldwide.

Where to Spend Christmas in USA

1. New York City

Christmas in New York City is a magical experience. The city is adorned with sparkling lights and festive decorations, with numerous events and activities to enjoy. Some highlights include the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting ceremony, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, and the New York City Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker.”

The holiday window displays at department stores in Manhattan like Macy’s and Bergdorf Goodman are beautiful, and the festive markets at Bryant Park and Union Square are filled with energy. Make sure to stop to watch the Saks Fifth Avenue light show for free.

Where to Stay: We love the Intercontinental Times Square.

2. Orlando

My family spent nearly every Christmas in Orlando, and it is truly fun for the whole family. Orlando is famous for its theme parks that transform into magical winter wonderlands, offering holiday activities that are a feast for the eyes. Walt Disney World and Universal Studios come alive with spectacular Christmas-themed events, parades, and decorations.

Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays showcases holiday traditions from around the globe, providing a unique, multicultural Christmas experience.

Where to Stay:

• Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort.
• Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort.

3. Washington DC

We spent the week before Christmas in Washington DC, the perfect place to celebrate the holidays. The National Christmas Tree is a must-see attraction, beautifully lit near the White House, accompanied by nightly musical performances.

Seasonal events like the unique twist on a traditional Christmas parade, the Holiday Boat Parade on the Potomac River, and the U.S. Capitol National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony, make the city even more festive.

4. Las Vegas

Who wouldn’t want to spend Christmas in Vegas? Las Vegas, already known for its dazzling lights and entertainment, takes Christmas to another level. The famous Las Vegas Strip is adorned with spectacular holiday decorations, and casinos offer special Christmas shows and events.

The Bellagio Conservatory transforms into a stunning holiday display, a must-visit for those seeking a luxurious Christmas experience.

Where to Stay: Park MGM Las Vegas is a fabulous mid-range property situated right on Las Vegas Boulevard.

5. North Pole Alaska

Located just outside of Fairbanks, North Pole is one of the best places in the world to spot the Northern Lights. This small town offers a magical, winter wonderland experience year-round.

The Santa Claus House is the town’s highlight, filled with Christmas decorations and gifts, and home to Santa’s reindeer. The annual North Pole Christmas In Ice Contest showcases stunning ice sculptures.

Where to Stay: Fairbanks Aurora Villa. This boutique hotel offers views of the northern lights nestled in the mountains.

Best Christmas Vacations in Europe

6. Basel, Switzerland

Basel is one of our favorite cities during the holidays. If you visit during this festive season, begin your adventure at the Holiday Bazaar at Barfüsserplatz, which is the largest of the three markets, featuring 140 merchants selling Christmas goods under twinkling lights.

7. Nuremberg, Germany

The Christmas markets in Nuremberg, Germany, are a must-see for anyone celebrating the holiday season. Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg’s Hauptmarkt is one of the oldest and most famous in the world, lit with twinkling lights and featuring more than 180 stalls.

8. Rome and Vatican City

Consider celebrating Christmas in Rome, Italy, for a truly unique experience. The Vatican City displays an elaborate Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square every year, and many attend Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve.

9. London

Christmas lights in London are a sight to behold, with the city’s famous landmarks adorned with colorful displays. Oxford Street and Regent Street are essential stops for holiday cheer.

10. Paris

If you’re looking for an elegant Christmas destination, Paris, France, offers a romantic atmosphere with beautiful holiday lights. Enjoy festive markets at Champs-Elysees and Notre Dame Cathedral.

11. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin embraces the festive atmosphere during the holiday season, featuring events like the Dublin Christmas Market and Winter Wonderland at St. Stephen’s Green. The Christmas lights of Grafton Street are magical.

12. Prague

For a Christmas destination with a touch of history, consider spending the holiday in Prague, Czechia. The city is known for its charming Christmas Market at Old Town Square.

13. Vienna, Austria

Vienna’s famous Christmas markets are beautiful and offer a range of gifts, decorations, and festive treats. The Christmas Market at City Hall is a must-visit during this magical season.

14. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich is known for its beautiful markets and festive atmosphere, making it a perfect holiday destination. The Christmas Market at Lindenhof offers delicious food and unique gifts.

15. Brussels, Belgium

The Christmas markets in Brussels are enchanting, featuring a winter wonderland in the Grand Place with stalls selling traditional gifts, food, and drink.

16. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is a beautiful city to add to your Christmas vacation list, with delightful markets serving hot cocoa and mulled wine while shopping.

17. Lapland, Finland

Lapland is known as the “official home of Santa Claus,” where visitors can enjoy a traditional Christmas surrounded by snowy landscapes and holiday cheer.

18. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen boasts beautiful holiday displays and markets, especially at Tivoli Gardens, which transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season.

19. Sydney, Australia

If you want a tropical Christmas, Sydney offers festive events and warm weather, perfect for beach lovers celebrating the holiday season.

20. Tokyo, Japan

Despite not being a traditional holiday in Japan, the Christmas season in Tokyo is celebrated with elaborate displays and light shows throughout the city.

21. Beijing, China

Beijing surprises visitors with its Christmas celebrations throughout the city, featuring decorated streets, department stores, and festive markets.

22. Mexico

Mexico is filled with holiday cheer, offering unique celebrations, fireworks, and festive traditions, making it an exciting Christmas getaway.

Christmas Getaways in Canada

23. Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City is enchanting during Christmas, with its festive atmosphere, light displays, and traditions that feel like stepping into a Hallmark movie.

24. Toronto

Celebrating Christmas in Toronto is growing more festive each year, with Nathan Phillips Square as the epicenter of holiday celebrations.

25. Banff

Banff offers a picturesque setting for a white Christmas, making it one of the best getaways in Canada, perfect for skiing enthusiasts.

There are many more places around the world to celebrate Christmas. Regardless of your religion, Christmas is a magical time worldwide. It’s fun to check out holiday displays and lights and see how others celebrate them. If you go away for Christmas next year, where would you go?