best cities to visit during christmas season

The 30 Most Magical Christmas Towns in the U.S.

Head here for holiday cheer.

Seeking someplace where snow will almost be a guarantee? Book tickets to Park City, Utah or Leavenworth, Washington. More in the mood for a warm-weather holiday? Head to Delray Beach, Florida, which lights a 100-foot tall tree each year, or go with the small-town charm of Solvang, California, where Julefest takes place all December long. And we’d be remiss not to mention the year-round Christmas towns of Santa Claus, Indiana and North Pole, Alaska, which find ways to honor the holiday 365 days a year.

Ready to make all your Hallmark Christmas town dreams come true? Then alert the in-laws, bundle up the kids, and hit the road. These magical American Christmas towns are ready to embrace you with open arms, opportunities for new Christmas traditions , and, of course, a warm cup of hot chocolate or two. Happy Holidays, y'all!

Middleburg, VA

Settle in for an old-fashioned Christmas in the heart of Virginia’s horse and hunt country, where you can cheer on a parade of loyal hounds as they ride through the streets, sip on small-batch hard ciders at Mt. Defiance , and shop for old-world holiday decor, including Wilhelm Schweizer pewter ornaments, and Wendt & Kühn windup music boxes, at year-round holiday shop The Christmas Sleigh .

Gruene, Texas

A two-steppin' Texas Christmas awaits in this cotton town-turned-thriving historic district located within the community of New Braunfels. Pose for pics with Cowboy Kringle, Gruene's distinctive wrangler spin on Father Christmas, take in the annual Pony Express Ride, a beloved holiday tradition that sees a horseback cavalcade carry a message of yuletide cheer from the state governor straight through town, then head to Gruene Hall , Texas’s oldest continuously running dance hall, for a calendar jam-packed with holiday shows.

Plan Your Trip

Woodstock, VT

In the heart of the Green Mountains, a Christmas card-worthy village and its surrounding hamlets shine with New England charm. Go cross-country skiing, visit covered bridges, and bundle up for horse-drawn sleigh rides through snow-covered pastures at Billings Farm & Museum .

Plan your Trip

Stockbridge, MA

Stockbridge might look just like a Norman Rockwell painting—and that's because it is! Each year, the town re-creates the 1967 Rockwell painting, "Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas (Home for Christmas)" during their annual festival . Old-fashioned cars line the main street to re-create the painting, and the public can tour historic homes decorated for the holidays.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Park City, UT

Why not escape to a literal winter wonderland for Christmas? Park City is a breathtaking place nestled in the mountains. There are tons of Christmas events throughout December such as holiday markets , sleigh rides , and a Christmas Eve torchlight parade , where skiers and snowboarders come down the mountain carrying torches to lead Santa into town.

Franklin, TN

Step back in time at the annual Dickens of a Christmas festival in historic downtown Franklin. The festival, which is in its 35th year, brings characters from A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist to life throughout its weekend-long festivities. Roam the Victorian Village and try Victorian-era Christmas treats like sugar plums while listening to carolers. Stop for a chat with Jacob Marley or Ebenezer Scrooge before visiting Father Christmas.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Essex at Christmastime. Ride the North Pole Express , then keep things locomotive-themed at the annual Holiday Train Show , or do some Christmas shopping at the holiday village where you can also catch a stunning light show. Have dinner or even stay at the historic Griswold Inn for the perfect New England holiday.

Cape Cod, MA

Looking for boatloads of Christmas cheer with a New England twist? Head to Cape Cod ! There are few things more picturesque than lighthouses decked to their nines in Christmas garlands, wreaths, and lights. What's more, the quaint seaside destination hosts dozens of craft fairs, parades, theater productions, and even a Train to Christmas Town .

Ann Arbor, MI

There's so much to love about a Christmas in Ann Arbor, from the dozens of holiday events offered (think: free outdoor markets, German food fairs, lantern parades, s'mores roasting, and live music, just to name a few). The annual "Sing Along with Santa" event, presented by the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra , is a can't-miss spectacle. It's just what is sounds like: A carol sing-along featuring Santa himself, plus plenty of cookies and cider.

North Pole, AK

Bet you never thought you could make a trip to the North Pole ! This town may not be the real thing, but it's got the name—and it boasts year-round Christmas spirit. There's also a "Santa Claus house" with live reindeer, a mayor who goes by the name of Santa, and candy cane street lamps. How's that for a winter wonderland?

New York, NY

It may not be a tiny town, but it's still got all the charm—and it'd be impossible to make a list of the best Christmas towns in America without including the Big Apple ! There's simply no place quite like New York City at Christmastime. With its countless attractions, skating rinks, and shopping opportunities galore, it's an obvious choice for at least one of your family's Christmas trips.

Bethlehem, PA

Spend Christmas in Bethlehem without shelling out a fortune on airfare or traveling back in time! This Pennsylvania town boasts horse-drawn carriage rides and a "Christmas City Stroll" that'll have your entire family smiling and laughing.

Greenville, SC

Want to feel like you're walking around on the set of a Hallmark Christmas movie? Then you'll want to head to Greenville, South Carolina, where the sidewalks twinkle with lights as Santa’s electric sleigh drives by with an elf in tow. There's even a miniature outdoor skating rink on Main Street, a "Festival of Trees" competition, tree lighting ceremonies, and more. It's downright magical!

Solvang, CA

Take a trip to gorgeous wine country this holiday season and visit Solvang , located in the Santa Ynez Valley . The town hosts Julefest , which lasts all December long. Guests can go on go on a Holiday Lights Tour, take part in the Santa Sprint, listen to live holiday music, and much more.

Andalusia, AL

It doesn't get too cold in Andalusia , but that doesn't stop the town from turning into a winter wonderland. Every weekend in December, residents flock to Candyland, a kid-friendly event where children of all ages can ice-skate, visit the different holiday cottages, and meet Santa. The best part? Admission is free!

Bardstown, KY

This Kentucky town kicks off the holiday season the day after Thanksgiving—that's November 23 this year—with the Light Up Bardstown celebration . Kids will have a blast at the Fun Christmas Corner, where they can enjoy sweet treats and face painting. Everyone in the family will love the annual Christmas tree lighting and an appearance by Santa Claus himself.

Leavenworth, WA

On any day of the year, this Bavarian village gives off an Alpine holiday air. But during snowy December, visitors are met with 21 miles of lights along the homes and fences, and can also anticipate handbell concerts, a lively Christkindlmarkt, harp music, and a weekly festival with carolers, Gluhwein, and sledding gathered 'round the town's tree.

Branson, MO

Each year, this Missouri city hosts the Ozark Mountain Christmas festival, a month-long extravaganza with festive music, light shows, and plenty of parades. You can even hop aboard the Branson Scenic Railway's Polar Express Train Ride and feel like you're in a scene from the classic movie. Don't forget the hot chocolate!

Asheville, NC

Not surprisingly, much of Asheville's holiday focus is on Biltmore , the historic Vanderbilt mansion, which dresses up lavishly with ribbons, garlands, and sparking lights. Elsewhere in this active mountain town, locals gather to watch Santa rappel down Chimney Rock as a warm-up exercise for his upcoming Christmas Eve activities . The well-established arts scene in town makes shopping for unique gifts easy at craft shows and studio visits in the River Arts District.

Frankenmuth, MI

Known as Michigan's Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth's European heritage is on full display during the Christmas season. Some of the town's charming holiday highlights include a traditional Christkindlmarkt, a holiday home tour hosted by the Frankenmuth Women's Club, whimsical light displays, and Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store.

.css-1shyvki:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin-bottom:0;margin-right:-0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-1shyvki:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:none;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:inline-block;}} Best Small Towns .css-unxkmx:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin:0.7rem auto 0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-unxkmx:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:block;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:none;}}

Coastal Meets Country in This Tiny Florida Town

A Texas Town Famous for a Two-Steppin' Christmas

The Best Vermont Town To Visit This Fall

The 35 Best Thanksgiving Towns in America

40 of the Cutest Main Streets in the U.S.

34 of the Best Small Towns in Texas

Is This the Best Small Town in the Midwest?

40 of the Best Small Towns in California

The Country Girl's Guide to New York's North Fork

Big Easy Livin' Beckons in Covington, Louisiana

The Best Small Town in Every State

23 Amazing Places To Visit In USA For Christmas (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole

December is a magical time of year in many places in the United States. Christmas festivities are in full swing and you can feel the joy and excitement that this brings. There are beautiful Christmas lights, lively Christmas markets, decorated Christmas trees, and of course, decadent Xmas treats tempting you almost everywhere you go. Some of us live in hot sunny climates and daydream about snowy winter wonderlands filled with sleigh rides, visits to Santa workshops and hot chocolate. While others live in these winter wonderlands and can’t wait to discover Christmas delights on beaches, by hotel pools, and while walking in t-shirts and shorts along city streets or country paths. If you are not sure what you want, you have come to the right place. Here are 23 best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other Options For Christmas Holidays

Many places in America start preparing for the Christmas holidays with Christmas lights, setting up Xmas trees, and opening Christmas markets in mid to late November. This is an ideal time to travel to enjoy these events without crowds and to take advantage of lower costs from travelling in low season. If you are interested, please take a look at my article 20 Best Places To Visit In USA In November.

For those of you who are looking for a little more adventure with more cost savings, consider visiting Europe. Here are 24 Best Places To Visit In Europe For Christmas .

If you are looking for warm winter getaway s in or near the United States, you have a lot to choose from! Here are:

• 50 Best US Beach Destinations For A Warm Winter Getaway ;
• 20 Best Cheap Warm Winter Vacations In USA ; and
• 21 Best Cheap Warm Winter Vacations Near USA .

Alternatively, if all you dream about is spending your Christmas holidays under blankets of snow in a charming small town or exploring the best snowy winter activities that ski resorts or other destinations have to offer, then take a look at 24 Best Snowy Winter Wonderlands To Visit In The USA .

If you are simply looking for the best Christmas parades in the United States, then check out 15 Best Places To Watch Christmas Parades In USA .

Christmas Gifts

For those of you looking for fun, affordable and thoughtful stocking stuffers or gifts, check out 38 Best Christmas Stocking Stuffers For Adventure Seekers And Travelers and 60 Best Christmas Gifts For Men.

23 Best Places To Visit In USA For Christmas

In this article, I have asked 23 travel bloggers where they have found the best Christmas events in the United States. Unsurprising, they are located in all four corners of the continental USA, as well as Hawaii.

As you expect, most big cities offer over the top extravaganzas and special events. However, many small cities and towns will blow your socks away with their beauty and Christmas spirit.

In addition, when not gazing at gingerbread houses, going on sleigh rides, or watching Xmas parades, all of these places offer amazing every day attractions and experiences. As you will see, I haven’t made it easy for you to choose where to go.

New York City, New York

By James of Travel Collecting

Christmas in New York City  is a magical experience. There are so many amazing things to see and do making New York City one of the best cities to visit in the USA for Christmas.  

All of the department stores decorate for the holidays. You and your whole family can do an easy walking tour around Midtown Manhattan taking in all of the holiday windows. Along the way, visit Santaland at Macy’s and stop at Bryant Park or Rockefeller Center and go ice skating surrounded by the iconic New York skyscrapers! 

There are also decorated Christmas trees throughout the city. The largest and most famous is the real tree in Rockefeller Center that is topped with an enormous Swarovski crystal star. Other interesting trees are the one at the Met, which is surrounded by an antique Italian creche; the animal origami-covered tree at the American Museum of Natural History; and the bright blue tree at Bryant Park. Stop at the Bryant Park Holiday Village for a hot chocolate or hot toddy while you’re there. 

Of course, if you simply want to walk amongst hundreds of trees lightly dusted with snow, head to Central Park.

NYC is a great place to stock up on gifts. There are outdoor holiday markets at Union Square, Bryant Park and inside Grand Central Terminal that sell hand-crafted gifts.   

Finally, there are a couple of classic shows to enjoy. Kids and kids-at-heart will love the iconic Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. It has real-life camels, the high-kicking Rockettes and, of course, Santa. Another show not to miss is the annual season of The Nutcracker by the New City Ballet at Lincoln Center. 

For amazing tips to make your trip to New York City safe and cost effective, please see 50 Best New York City Tips For First Time Visitors .

If you are curious about how to save money in New York City, where you should stay, how to be safe and get around, and so much more, please see  50 Best New York City Tips For First Time Visitors .

For those traveling with kids and teenagers, here are two helpful articles about what you should do when you are not busy with Christmas activities: An Action Packed New York City Weekend With Teens and 10 Ultimate New York City Attractions With Teens .

Best Way To Reach Destination

There are three international airports that serve New York City. JFK is a 35-minute drive from Midtown Manhattan if there is no traffic (which there almost always is). The much smaller La Guardia is 25 minutes from Midtown with no traffic. The third airport, Newark, is actually in nearby New Jersey and is also about half an hour with good traffic from Midtown.  

It is best not to rent a car. Parking is very expensive in New York and there is excellent public transportation. Accordingly, pick up a taxi or Uber/Lyft from airport. You can also easily take the train from Newark Airport to Penn Station.

The average high temperature in New York City in December is 45°F.  You can expect around 3 inches of rain and 3 inches of snow in December.

Hotel Recommendation

There are so many hotels to choose from in New York City. Without question, choosing a hotel is one of the most overwhelming tasks when planning a trip there. I have stayed at several.

On my last trip, I stayed at the Kimpton Hotel Eventi which I loved. The hotel was luxurious but still reasonably priced and the location was fantastic for many amazing attractions . We were easy walking distance to the High Line and Macys, and easy subway rides to Times Square and Broadway Shows. Even better, everyday the hotel offered complimentary wine and cheese!

Savannah, Georgia

By Erin of Savannah First-Timer’s Guide

Savannah is charming any time of year, but something about the Christmas season makes it feel extra magical. From the hundreds of twinkle lights draped across Broughton Street to the seasonal greenery in the squares to the carolers that stroll through the Historic District…Savannahians just know how to celebrate the season!  

A few of the most popular seasonal events include the Holiday Boat Parade, the Gingerbread Trail, and the Holiday Tour of Homes. Make sure to also visit the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. It is filled with red poinsettias and an elaborate nativity scene. 

The most festive areas of town during the holiday season include River Street, Broughton Street, and City Market. Don’t forget to stroll down Jones Street, which is considered one of the prettiest streets in America. Be sure to check out all the  beautiful Christmas decorations in Savannah’s Historic District . They are very classic in nature and look like something straight out of a Dickens novel. 

Two of the most popular dining spots for the holidays are The Olde Pink House and the 17hundred90 Inn & Restaurant. Since Savannah is one of the best Christmas vacation destinations in the United States, make sure that you make reservations at least a month in advance for The Olde Pink House! 

If you’re planning a visit, the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is the closest option. From there, it’s just a short 15-mile drive to the Historic District.

You won’t need to stuff your suitcase with heavy winter coats, since the average high temperature in December falls in the mid 60s. However, it does cool down at night to mid 40s with about 2.6 inches of rain in the month.

Erin says, “The Marshall House is a fantastic place to stay. The hotel is in a very convenient location on Broughton Street. I’s very easy to walk to restaurants, landmarks, and shops.”

Asheville, North Carolina

By Bret & Mary of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

With its incredible array of outdoor attractions , critically acclaimed restaurants, and thriving cultural scene, you could argue that Asheville is one of the best places to visit in the USA at any time of year. But the mountain scenery and art deco architecture are especially attractive when surrounded by the festive lights and decorations of the holiday season.

Asheville is a beautiful place to visit in America around the holidays. In addition, there are plenty of things to do a Christmas getaway.

For starters, you’ll want to see Christmas at Biltmore Estate (the largest privately-owned home in the US), which starts with the raising of a 35-foot-tall tree in the Banquet Hall in early November. You can take daily tours of the lavish Estate all decked out in the festive colors of the season. Their nighttime candlelit tours make for an excellent date night. 

You’ll also love Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum. Thousands of shimmering Christmas lights make up shining displays along their wooded edge and gardens. Last year, there were several new nature-themed displays, including a giant daisy “garden,” winter wildlife and colorful butterfly displays, and an insect lantern exhibit. 

Of course, there are also lots of other Asheville attractions and activities that you can do all year round. This includes driving the Blue Ridge Parkway to visiting iconic landmarks like Mount Mitchell State Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. But these unique Xmas events are what makes Asheville, North Carolina one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

Despite its location in the mountains, the town offers surprisingly mild temperatures in December, with average highs of 50ºF and lows of around 31ºF. You can expect around 3.6 inches of rain and 1.9 inches of snow fall in December.

While a white Christmas in Asheville is not completely out of the question, it is certainly not guaranteed.

Although it’s one of the larger towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains (population approximately 92,000), Asheville does not have its own international airport.

You can fly into Charlotte Douglas International Airport, which is located about 120 miles to the southeast. But several major airlinesoffer direct flights into Asheville Regional Airport from major US cities like Atlanta, Boston , Chicago, Denver, Houston, and NYC. 

Brett and Mary say, “If you love those competitive cooking shows, you won’t want to miss the 29th Annual National Gingerbread Competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn (one of our favorite Asheville hotels). This is a 12-day Xmas event featuring some of the most elaborately decorated Gingerbread Houses you’ve ever seen.”

Naples, Florida

By Lori of Naples Florida Travel Guide

If you’re dreaming of something other than a white Christmas this year, a tropical holiday can be just as magical, and a wonderful break from the freezing cold! Hop a flight to southwest Florida and head to the Paradise Coast of Naples where Christmas is every bit as festive as the north.

Holiday parades along the southern Gulf Coast are anything but typical. Santa usually arrives on a party boat decked out in holiday lights and rocking Christmas tunes. The annual Christmas boat parades herald the start of the holiday season, and there are several you can attend throughout December. 

The annual tree lighting ceremony also kicks off the holidays the first week of December. During a two-day celebration, there is a long table on 5th Avenue, a skating rink, and a stunning live Nativity scene. The magical scene reappears throughout Christmas week as well.

Throughout the holidays, shops in the downtown create unique displays and artificial snow machines add a bit of traditional Christmas. But the real reason that Naples is one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas is that all this holiday cheer can be enjoyed along with a trip to the amazing beaches for which the city is known. And while the water might be a bit chilly for locals, the mid-60s temps (F) will suit most visitors just fine!

Average high temperatures hover pleasantly in the mid-70’s (F), although they can be in the 80s or drop down to the 50s at night. You can expect very little rain.

Getting to Naples is easy. Fly into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, then drive or Uber the 30 minutes to Naples.

Lori says, “The Inn On Fifth is in the center of downtown Naples and one of the best luxury stays in Naples. For the best value, we highly recommend Bellasera Resort.”

Branson, Missouri

By Elizabeth of the Fearless Foreignor

Branson, Missouri is one of the best destinations in the United States during the Christmas season. It has a lot of holiday special events, shows, and activities that don’t take place the rest of the year.

Branson is known for their high quality theater productions. During the holiday season almost all of the shows turn into a seasonal spectacular with Xmas songs, holiday story lines, and festive backdrops. 

The theme park, Silver Dollar City, should also be on your list of places to visit. The whole park is decked out in millions of lights. The Christmas in Midtown light spectacular is a highlight of the park, as well as the nightly holiday parade, Christmas sing along train, and Christmas shows. 

In December, the average high temperature is 48°F and average low temperature is 33°F. Branson has had as much as 8.4 inches of snow but, it rarely snows that much. Usually it is only an inch or two and melts quickly during the day.

Accordingly, don’t expect Branson to be a winter wonderland, but on the plus side, the temperatures won’t be so low that you can’t be outside enjoying all the holiday festivities! 

Many people who visit Branson drive. However, there are several small airports around Branson for those who prefer to fly.

The closest, just 20 minutes south of downtown Branson, is the Branson Airport (BKG). Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and St Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), both about 4 hours away, are the closest international airports. 

However you reach Branson, Branson at Christmas time is the perfect place to visit during the Christmas season!

Elizabeth says, “The Camden Hotel and Conference center is only minutes away from many of the shows and attractions in Branson. In addition to good prices and clean rooms, it offers delicious free desserts every night! 

Las Vegas, Nevada

By Roxanna of Gypsy With A Day Job

If you are looking for the best American Christmas vacations, Las Vegas is a perfect choice. The city has everything for a holiday break: warm activities, cold activities, shopping venues, bright decorations and cheerful events. Even if you are not a big Vegas fan, during the holidays it will warm your heart. If it is your first trip to Las Vegas, you will be pleasantly surprised.

Start your trip with a walk on the strip to get into the spirit. Every resort spruces up its already lavish decor with seasonal tributes. You’ll find trees of every size (including palm trees) with bulbs and baubles, and festive events at every turn. In particular, take a detour and explore the Wynn, Palazzo, Bellagio, and Aria resorts!  

Once you’re fully in the mood, finish your Xmas shopping. You are spoiled for choices. For high end, try The Shops at Crystals, The Forum Shops, or the Grand Canal Shops. For main-stream options try Fashion Show, and for bargains, Las Vegas North Premium Outlets is the best choice.

If shopping exhausts your cheer, the normal Las Vegas attractions are available, and outdoor adventures abound in the surrounding area. 

Consider getting back to nature and doing some hiking at the stunning Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, only 30-40 minutes drive away.

However, if what you really want is more extravagant Christmas events, drive the Las Vegas Motor Speedway light show, walk the Christmas cactus garden at Ethel M. Chocolate Factory, or ride the Holiday Express at Springs Resort. 

If searching for insider tips and tricks on where to stay, how to save money, and the best things to do, please check out  50 Best Las Vegas Tips For First Time Visitors .

For those looking for  21st birthday  inspiration, Las Vegas is also a fantastic destination to celebrate this milestone.

To get to Las Vegas, fly into the McCarran International Airport. The Vegas strip is only 20 minutes away by Uber or Lyft. Avoid taxis as they charge a premium for airport pick up.

In December, you will find the average high temperatures around 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring a jacket though, as it cools to the low 40s at night. There will be very little rain and no snow.

Roxanna says, “We recommend staying at the Venetian, or sister resort, the Palazzo. The lavish opulence is appropriate for the city, as is the impeccable staff and luxe resort offerings. More importantly, every room is a comfortable suite with clear sitting, dining and sleeping areas.”

Leavenworth, Washington

By Karee of Our Woven Journey

Leavenworth, Washington is a small, Bavarian-themed city nestled just east of the Cascade Mountains in the United States. Its charm draws nearly one million visitors a year, with many of them coming to experience Christmas in the village.

Much of the ambiance is due to the half-million Christmas lights that decorate the city. Over 20,000 people come each weekend to see the lighting ceremonies that happen every Saturday and Sunday during the first three weekends of December.

Since Leavenworth is small, you’ll be able to walk to most of the shops and boutiques that line the streets. Be sure to start at the Nutcracker Museum and the Hat Shop as they are both very popular!

If there is snow on the ground when you visit, plan to take sleigh rides through the beautiful, evergreen forest. There are several places that offer rides and reservations are needed, so plan for this attraction.

Is feeding a real-life reindeer on your bucket list? You can make it happen at the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm! You’ll need to buy tickets ahead of time since this is also a very popular thing to do.

Leavenworth is worth visiting any time of year, but for those wanting to experience the magic of Christmas, Leavenworth is one of the best American small towns to visit for Xmas.

The average high temperature for December is 34°F.   The snow season starts in October and lasts through March, with December getting 17 inches of snow on average!!! You’ll want to be sure to dress properly for this winter wonderland! 

If you’re planning a  trip to Seattle , Leavenworth is a great day trip to add to your agenda. It’s only about a two-hour drive, although you could easily spend more than one day there.

Sea-Tac International is the main airport for those flying from out of state.

Karee recommends the Bavarian Lodge. Located across from the Village center, it offers luxurious accommodations with incredible views of the Village and surrounding mountains. It also includes complimentary full breakfast buffet, heated outdoor pool, and two hot tubs.

Baltimore, Maryland

By Terri of Female Solo Trek

Baltimore’s nickname is “Charm City” but during Christmas, it becomes “Jolly Charming City”. It is one of the best places to visit in the USA during the Christmas season.

Hampden is a tight-knit Baltimore neighborhood that is famous for its “Miracle on 34th Street!” Now in its 73rd year, this outdoor holiday exhibit causes traffic jams and happy smiles.

Parents dress their dogs as well as kids in reindeer antlers and Christmas sweaters. As cars crawl down 34th Street, passengers see traditional Baltimore rowhouses and porches transformed into twinkling holiday homes. More information on the 2021 Miracle on 34th Street program can be found at  Christmas Street.com .

Hampden has also hosted the Mayor’s Christmas Parade in the past. In some years, there have been 25,000 people along the 2.5 mile route. The performers included 160 marching units, bands, floats, local TV and radio personalities, over 100 Harley Davidson motorcycles, the Mummers of Philadelphia, Miss Yuletide and Miss Yuletide Jr. Santa Claus flew in for the festivities.

Don’t miss the Baltimore Parade of lighted Boats at historic Fells Point. Also, check out The Farmers Market which offers an array of wreaths and Christmas gifts.

If you can spare an extra day, take the MARC train to Washington DC’s Union Station and check out the Capitol Christmas tree . It is in walking distance!

Average high temperatures in Baltimore in December is 47 °F with 2.9 inches and 2.2 inches of snow.

Fly into Baltimore International Airport for a quick 12-mile drive to the neighborhood of Hampden.

Terri says, “If money is no object, book your stay at the Four Seasons waterfront luxury hotel.” Its location is amazing and offers beautiful rooms.

Oahu, Hawaii

By Noel Morata of This Hawaii Life

Christmas in Oahu is special and different on the island than the mainland. You get all the fun decorations, colorful displays, Christmas fairs and special events but with a more tropical vibe, colors and gusto. 

In December, you can experience:

• a fun Christmas parade;
• Xmas lights and decorations at all the major venues and shopping centers;
• a decorated night boat parade;
• Christmas fares and holiday markets;
• firework displays at the Hilton resort; and
• orgeous store decorations.

However, all of these Christmas attractions have Hawaiian and tropical flare to wow you. Hot tropical flowers, birds, palm trees, and local imagery are included in traditional Christmas themes and colors to create a unique look, making it one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

Beyond the Christmas cheer, you can also enjoy some of the best things to do in Oahu no matter the time of year, such as hiking Diamond Head, visiting Pearl Harbor , and exploring downtown Honolulu.

The weather in Oahu is perfect and ranges from the mid 70s to mid 80s with low humidity, wonderful breezy weather and blue skies.

Visitors to the island fly into Honolulu International airport and most visitors stay around the tourist districts of Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. It’s approximately 25 minutes by taxi or ride share.

Noel says, “There are many options to stay around Waikiki from boutique to luxury brands. However, the iconic place to have a real Oahu experience with beautiful decorations for the holidays would be to stay at The Royal Hawaiian fronting Waikiki Beach”

Washington, DC

By Maggie of Pink Caddy Travelogue

Christmas in Washington, DC  is unlike any other place in the US! The nation’s capital goes all out for the holiday season, and it celebrates in a way only DC can.

Like decking out the White House. Yes, THE White House. During Christmas time, visitors can tour the Presidential residence and see the annual White House gingerbread cake, the dozens of differently decorated Christmas trees, and an 18 th -century nativity scene. Regardless of your political affiliation, a tour of the White House at Christmas is an amazing experience.

However, make sure you book your tour reservations through your Congressman’s office 3 months in advance. It is very popular and will sell out.

Another can’t miss experience is seeing the National Christmas tree and its surrounding 56 mini trees (one for each state and territory). The annual lighting has been a DC Christmas tradition since 1923 when President Calvin Coolidge lit the first tree. The Capitol also has its own decorated tree located just below the east steps.

Other must-dos include attending a performance of Handel’s Messiah at the National Cathedral and visiting the special Christmas exhibit at the U.S. Botanic Garden (they recreate DC landmarks using just plants!)

If you’re traveling with kids , definitely check out “Enchant DC” (the world’s largest light maze, hosted at Nationals Park), and Zoolights at the Smithsonian Zoo.

The best airport is Ronald Regan National Airport (it is international, despite the name). It’s right across the river from downtown DC. The driving time is 15 minutes, or you can take the metro directly from the airport.

The temperature in December can vary greatly. It can be in the 20s or in the 70s, but the average is in the 40s-50s. You can expect around 2.8 inches of rain and 2.5 inches of snowfall in December.

Maggie says, “The Willard is one of the most historic hotels in DC and is right next to the White House. It’s luxury, but you’ll be able to say you spent the night in the same place as every important world leader and diplomat who visits DC.”

Vail, Colorado

By Daniela of Fox In The Forest

As one of the most  beautiful places in Colorado , Vail is one of the best places to visit in the USA for the Christmas season if you want a winter wonderland. With plenty of skiing adventures, European-inspired villages, and a whole lot of alpine goodness, spending Xmas in Vail should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

Vail is a premier ski destination during the winter months and it is packed with fantastic ski resorts. However, if you want to explore beyond the slopes, there are plenty of Christmas-inspired activities to keep you entertained during your visit.

For a day spent in the mountains, a sleigh ride with a cup of hot chocolate in hand is a must, as well as a gondola ride to the top to get a first-hand view of the beauty of Vail Valley.

To get you into the holiday spirit, you should visit the Kris Kringle Market, an outdoor holiday market that will have you feeling as though you’ve landed in Europe. Closer to Christmas Eve, the annual Winterfest is an amazing event, with illuminated ice sculptures and Christmas lights that light up the entire town!

Temperatures in Vail in December range from 24°F to 43°F. In December, you can expect almost 3 inches of snow.

Vail is serviced by two airports: The closest one is Eagle Regional Airport (around a 40-minute drive) as well as Denver International Airport, which is around 120 miles east of Vail (around a two hour drive).

New Orleans, Louisianna

Ashlee Fechino of  The Happiness Function

New Orleans, Louisiana, has an exciting Christmas season. When most people think of New Orleans, they usually think of Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) in spring. However, it is one of the best cities to visit in the USA in December. Reasons being – New Orleans has some of fantastic lights and food to experience!

Many restaurants offer French food menus in honor of Réveillon celebrations which only happen during the month of December. Additionally, there are incredible Xmas light displays at hotels such as The Roosevelt Hotel, Hotel Monteleone, and The Bourbon Orleans.

During the month of December, NOLA typically has mild weather for folks wanting to escape the cold, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the town. However, be sure to pack some layers for the evening. You don’t want to miss walking around Bourbon Street (a.k.a. the French Quarter) and catching some live music on Frenchman Street!

If you are looking for a little more adventure in New Orleans and the weather is on the warmer side, don’t miss taking a swamp boat tour or visiting the historic Oak Alley Plantation. There are multiple tour companies to accommodate transportation to and from hotels on different days of the week or rent a car and do it yourself . They are both easy to reach from the French Quarter in New Orleans.

Did you know that you could hold your own Christmas parade in New Orleans, or hire a company that can put one together for you? All you have to do is get a permit from the city and you will get a police escort for free! For these and other amazing money-saving, safety, food and accommodation tips, please see  40 Best Travel Tips For New Orleans For First Time Travelers .

In December, temperatures average 65 degrees Fahrenheit with lows in the mid-40s. You can expect around 4.4 inches of rain.

The French Quarter is a quick 30-minute taxi ride from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).

Ashlee says, “Plan to stay at the historic Hotel Monteleone. Hotel Monteleone is famous for its Carousel Bar along with an impressive Christmas light display. Be sure to eat at Criollo inside – the turtle soup is a must! Hotel Monteleone is one block from Bourbon Street.”

Alexandria, Virginia

By Brianna of The Casual Travelist

Alexandria, Virginia is a beautiful historic town located just across the Potomac River from Washington, DC. While there are tons of  things to do in Alexandria  any time of year, it is one of the best Christmas vacations to take in the United States at Christmas time.

During the first weeks of December, this all American Colonial town celebrates the holidays with a Scottish flair. While you’re wandering the brick paved streets exploring the 18th century buildings, you’re as likely to hear a Scottish brogue as a southern drawl. Each year Alexandria  celebrates its Scottish heritage with the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. Here, Scottish clans parade through town dressed in their finest tartans while bagpipes herald the arrival of Santa Claus.

After welcoming Santa in Scottish style, head over to the Carlyle House to see re-enactors from the First Virginia Regiment set up camp to show how Christmas was celebrated in the Eighteenth century.

You can fly into any of Washington DC’s airports but Ronald Regan National Airport is the closest at only 5 miles away.

While weather can be variable, December temperatures average 45 o F during the day and 35 o F at night. You can expect 2.8 inches of rain and 2.2 inches of snow.

Brianna says, “The Alexandrian Hotel is in the heart of old town Alexandria and a great place to base your visit”

Seattle, Washington

By Adria Saracino of The Emerald Palate

Seattle might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, but the city has a ton of holiday spirit. Plus, there are less tourists and snowy destinations only an hour away (Leavenworth is two!), so winter is the perfect time to visit one of the best Christmas destinations in the United States.

No matter the weather, there are a ton of Christmas activities in Seattle . For example, there are typically more than 50 holiday craft fairs around the greater Seattle area. The Pacific Northwest has a huge DIY culture, so handmade gifts are easy to come by.

Experiences more your thing? Check out one of the dozens of holiday shows in the city. Head to the classic Nutcracker Ballet or check out the reimagined hip hop and burlesque versions. Another option is to head to Winterfest where they transform the area underneath the Space Needle into a winter wonderland with events, shows, and craft markets.

It’s not Christmas without dazzling decorations, and Seattle has a ton. You can head to Zoo Lights to see fun light installations among the animals. Or you can go to a drive through neighborhood exhibit at the Lights of Christmas Festival or Dazzle .

You can experience Christmas in Seattle by flying into Sea-Tac International Airport and then driving 30 minutes to the city.

Winter temperatures are usually in the high 30s to 40s with around 3.3 inches of rain. However, if you’re lucky to visit during a winter storm you are in for a treat.

The city is extremely hilly and the local government is against using salt because it damages the road and is bad for the environment. So even with what east coasters might think of as a light dusting, the city shuts down for an unofficial snow day. And if it really snows like it has for at least a few days the past few years, you can expect to find people cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowboarding in the streets!

Adria says, “Everywhere you turn there will be Christmas festivities in Seattle, but if you want to stay in the middle of it all, get a hotel in downtown Seattle. One great option is the swank Fairmont Olympic Hotel with its Festival of Trees that transforms the lobby into a winter forest.

Another option is the more affordable Sheraton Grand, which hosts a huge Gingerbread Village installation in its lobby popular with kids.

Orlando, Florida

Christine of Live Love Run Travel

When looking for the best place to visit in the USA for Christmastime, make sure to put Orlando, Florida, on your list. There are plenty of things to do in Orlando at Christmas , from the theme park holiday events to local events unlike those you’ll see anywhere else.

The theme parks are a popular Xmas destination, but you can also enjoy touring the hotels at Disney without paying for theme park entry. For example, check out the massive Christmas Tree and the huge gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian.

Gaylord Palms also goes over the top at Christmas with their famous ICE! display and other Christmas shows and activities, including some that are free. The theme changes each year, but there are things for all ages to enjoy.

Light Up UCF is another fun and family-friendly place to enjoy at Christmas. With light shows, free movies, and ice skating, it’s a great spot to enjoy for both kids and adults.

Christmas in Orlando is a special time even without the cold and the snow – in fact, that may be the best part of visiting Orlando at Christmas!

To get to Orlando, fly into Orlando International Airport. From there, you can be in downtown Orlando, at the theme parks, or in many of the areas holding Christmas events in about 30 minutes.

Winter in Orlando is one of the best seasons to visit. No hurricanes and humidity (or less humidity at least), and cooler days. You can actually enjoy your time outdoors and not have to deal with the daily thunderstorms found in summertime.

Temperatures range greatly with average temperatures in the mid-70s. Some days can be in the 30s or 40s and others can still get into the upper 80s. There is around 2 inches of rain in December.

It’s a great place to escape the frigid temperatures up north.

For great rates for accommodation in Orlando, please take a look at the interactive map below.

Frankenmuth, Michigan

By Kris of My Michigan Travel

Frankenmuth, Michigan  is a small town known for its German heritage and adorable Bavarian-inspired architecture. Michigan’s “Little Bavaria” is fantastic year round, but it is one of the best places for Christmas spirit in the USA in December.

One of its top attractions is Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, which claims to be the world’s largest Christmas store. Inside, you’ll find a dizzying array of more holiday decorations and accessories than you could imagine. The store is always popular, but it’s absolutely bustling during the lead up to the holidays. You can shop for ornaments, trees, lights, and more, or take photos with one of the many larger-than-life displays.

Frankenmuth also hosts a traditional Christkindlmarkt during November and December. It features outdoor shopping booths like you’d find throughout Germany and the rest of Europe. You can stroll along the booths selling handmade gifts, décor, and food items. Grab a hot cocoa to sip for warmth! The only thing missing is the gluhwein (hot spiced wine).

Once you’re done, you can fill up on Frankenmuth’s famous family-style chicken dinners. Two competing restaurants – Zehnder’s and Bavarian Inn – serve warm, hearty food like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, buttered noodles, cranberry sauce, and more. You can wash it down with Hofbrauhaus beer straight from Munich if you’d like.

The closest international airport is Detroit-Metro. Frankenmuth is about an hour and a half north unless you hit rush hour traffic.

Average temperature in December is 32 o F. You can expect around 4.2 inches of snow. that rarely stays on the ground for long.

Kris says, “There are numerous hotels to choose from, but the Bavarian Inn Lodge and Zehnder’s Splash Village are the most fun.

Bavarian Inn is located across the famous wooden bridge and features multiple pools, waterslides, an arcade, and an indoor mini golf course.

Zehnder’s, located right next door to Bronner’s, has a whole indoor water park in case you’re missing sunny summer days.”

Los Angeles, California

By Francesca of Homeroom Travel

Los Angeles is one of the best cities in the USA to visit for Christmas.

During the winter season, there are lots of enjoyable things to do. Do not miss the Descanso Gardens: Enchanted Forest of Lights. This 150-acre botanical garden puts on a huge walk-through light show every Xmas season. Another recommendation is to visit Universal Studios . The park is totally decked out in Christmas decorations and there are fun Christmas-themed snacks. 

For music lovers, a Christmas concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall makes for a fun evening. The LA Philharmonic normally puts on several Christmas sing-along concerts throughout December. 

The Christmas season in Los Angeles is fun. It is a warm escape but still feels like Christmas because there are massive amounts of decorations everywhere. There are entertaining events all across the city which makes for a unique winter escape.

To get to Los Angeles, you will want to fly into Los Angeles International Airport. This airport is located in Western Los Angeles and it will take about 30 minutes (without traffic) to get to various places across Los Angeles. 

During the winter months, the average weather is in the high 60s, which makes it the perfect escape for people who do not like the cold.

Francesca says, “To be in the best location, stay in Downtown Los Angeles. The Westin Bonaventure or the Millenium Biltmore are two great hotel choices.”

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

By Paulina of On The Road

Milwaukee is a wonderful city for a Xmas destination. Top things and places to enjoy in December include Christkindlmarket which is less crowded than other Christmas markets. It hosts small wooden huts filled with treasures. You can also eat some yummy Christmas delicacies. Another one is the German Christmas Market, popular for all things German. This includes beer, food, BBQ, and mulled wine.

Do not miss “the Ward” on the first Friday of December, which is one of the most famous neighborhoods of Milwaukee. It has exciting fireworks, live reindeer, and Santa. The Holiday Lights Festival is also fantastic for its variety of shows. 

Wisconsin shines in lights and becomes the happiest during this time of the year. The Christmas markets make it special and bright. That is why Milwaukee is one of the best places to visit in the USA during Christmas.

Milwaukee is easily reached by air. The Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is just 10 minutes from downtown. If you are keen for a road trip, you can drive from Chicago, which would take about a day.

Weather 

The temperature of Milwaukee in December can range from 39.2 degrees Fahrenheit to -37.4 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wisconsin sees the highest snowfall during the months of December (around 3.6 inches), January and March. Therefore, pack heavy clothing for outdoor activities. 

Paulina says, “For an affordable stay, you can stay in downtown Milwaukee at County Clare Inn.

Sedona, Arizona

By Jenifer of The Evolista

During Xmas, Sedona is a fantastic holiday escape.

It hosts the festival of lights at Tlaquepaque where they have 6,000 luminarias that adorn the courtyards and walkways. Cheerful holiday displays dress up windows of galleries and restaurants, while live music and a visit from Santa add to the fun. In fact, there are multiple holiday events held in Downtown Sedona all month long.

No matter what time of year you visit, Sedona is well known for 2 things – some of the most amazing hikes and the presence of an energy vortex.

Discover both the healing energy and the best views on Sedona Vortex hikes . Devil’s Bridge is another terrific hike to a natural bridge that’s sure to be a hit for your holiday card photo. The best part is that these hikes are easy enough for most everyone and you get spectacular red rock vistas.

After flying into Phoenix airport, a 2 hour drive will get you to one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

Christmas in Sedona is festive and fun with average highs in the mid 50s, perfect for some of the prettiest hiking in the USA. While less than 4 days of rain is expected during the month, you might get lucky with a temporary sprinkling of snow on the gorgeous red rock landscape. 

Jenifer says, “Enchantment Resort is a luxurious resort with a spa that’s perfectly located at Boynton Canyon, one of the prettiest spots in town. In addition to their beautiful accommodations, they host multiple activities like guided hikes and mountain bike rides.”

Denver, Colorado

By Michelle of Moyer Memoirs

Denver is one of the best places to visit in the USA during the holiday season because it holds many festive events. There are light displays up and down the 16 th  Street Mall in downtown Denver, including the Mile High Tree. This 110-foot-tall immersive art display lights up with the holiday music. It is lovely to see and hear while strolling around the walk-thru exhibit.

Near the 16 th  Street Mall, the Christkindle Market is a holiday tradition for small businesses that sell hand-crafted artistic gifts and holiday treats. It is reminiscent of German Christmas markets with little wooden huts showcasing their wares, complete with live entertainment and authentic Bavarian pretzels and Glühwein.

Denver has many sites that are open year-round to enjoy even in the cold winter weather, including some great hikes. The Red Rock Amphitheatre should definitely be on your  Denver itinerary . It is only a short drive from downtown and offers beautiful trails in the crisp air of the holiday season.

To get here, the Denver International Airport (DIA) is 25 miles from the heart of downtown. 

December is normally the coldest month of the year with an average temperatures ranging from 46°F to 23°F.  Although it is chilly, it is very dry and the sky will most likely be clear, blue, and sunny. 

Unlike the snowy mountains around the city, it doesn’t snow much in the city of Denver. Typically, snow falls are a few days during December with barely an inch of accumulation.

Michelle says, “If you are staying in downtown Denver, the Curtis Hotel is a uniquely themed boutique hotel.  It has a different theme for each of its 13 guest room floors. The lobby is also themed and very entertaining.  It is a great location for walking around the 16 th  Street Mall and downtown Denver.”

Chicago, Illnois

By Dymphe of Dymabroad

One of the best places for Christmas getaways in the United States is Chicago as there are lots of special things going on in the city.

For example, you can visit the Christkindlmarket. This is a very popular annual Christmas market taking place at Daley Plaza. You can shop for unique handcrafted Xmas gifts and eat delicious Christmas treats.

Besides that, going holiday shopping along the Magnificent Mile during this time is lovely. One of the best places is the shopping mall “Water Tower Place” which has lots of holiday decorations. To be immersed in lights, head over to Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden where you can walk along beautifully lit up trails.

Beyond the Christmas celebrations, Chicago has many amazing attractions to experience . Two of the best museums are the The Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum, both on Lake Michigan and near Millennium Park.

The Art Institute is one of the largest museums in North America and houses an impressive collection of impressionist art from some of the greatest artists of all time, such as Picasso, Monet and Van Gogh. You can get lost in the Field Museum’s amazing exhibits, including exploring Egyptian pyramids.

At Skydeck at Willis Tower, you have incredible panoramic views of the city. In Millennium Park, you can see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture. Also, during December, Millennium Park displays a huge Christmas tree and it is one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago .

To get to Chicago, you can fly into O’Hare International Airport. From the airport, it takes about 30 minutes to drive to Downtown Chicago.

When visiting the city in December, you can expect an average temperature of 37°F and about 1.5 inches of rain and 2 inches of snowfall.

I have been to Chicago over twenty times. On my most recent trip, I stayed at the Fairfield Inn And Suites Chicago Downtown River North. I was very pleasantly surprised by the amazing location, comfortable beds and the excellent value.

Lake Placid, New York

By Michael and Nicole of Affordable Family Travel

Lake Placid is a wonderful place to spend Christmas. Lake Placid provides the perfect Christmas atmosphere with its snow-covered mountains, a visit with Santa, and snuggling up by a warm fire at one of the lovely lodges in the village.

Enjoy the Lake Placid Village Holiday Stroll and pick up some last-minute gifts at any of the many great shops in the village. Head over to Santa’s Workshop in North Pole, NY only 20 minutes away where you can meet Santa and his reindeer. The Park offers rides, shows, and of course, Christmas treats.

Lake Placid was home to 2 Winter Olympics so winter is a great time to see the village in all of its glory.

The average temperature in Lake Placid, NY in December is 31 degrees Fahrenheit and they receive an average of 11 inches of snow during the month.

Michael and Nicole say, “Mirror Lake Inn is a quaint hotel with lake view rooms and a large fireplace in its common area. They have a spa and the town’s only 4 Diamond Restaurant. If you are looking for a  budget Lake Placid trip , Hampton Inn is located across the street from the lake with outdoor fire pits and an indoor pool.”

If you are looking for a Christmas destination in the United States, you have lots from which to choose. Whether you prefer a city or small town experience with or without lots of snow, or you wish to enjoy a tropical Christmas escape with gorgeous beaches and plenty of yuletide cheer, you will be thrilled with your choices in America.

Similar Posts

Epic One Day Boston Itinerary With Teens In Fall

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole My oldest daughter went to College outside of Boston. Over the years,…

50 Best New York City Tips For First Time Visitors (2024 Review)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole New York City is probably the one city in the world that…

50 Best Las Vegas Tips For First Time Visitors (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole Las Vegas is an amazing destination. Even if you do not want…

27 Best Spring Weekend Getaways In USA (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole There are many fabulous spring destinations in the United States perfect for…

40 Best Travel Tips For First Time Visitors To New Orleans (2024 Review)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole New Orleans is unlike any other city in the United States. For…

26 Best Places To Visit In The USA In March (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole In many places in the United States, March is the time of…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Privacy Overview

DOWNLOAD THE ITINERARY

• Email Address *

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Holiday Travel

The Best Places to Go for Christmas

These are 20 of the best places to spend Christmas this year.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

For some people, the perfect Christmas vacation involves fully leaning into winter on a snowy mountain somewhere, curled up next to a crackling fire. Others prefer to lounge on a beach as far away from cold weather as possible. Wherever you choose to spend "the most wonderful time of year," you're likely to find some version of holiday cheer.

From the sunny shores of Saint Lucia to the storybook town of Solvang, California, to Santa Claus' own hometown in Finnish Lapland, these are the best places to visit for Christmas this year.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is an idyllic ski destination perched in the beautiful Tetons of Wyoming. Late December here is packed with holiday programming that typically includes ice skating, skiing with Santa, and caroling. The festivities usually kick off with a Christmas tree lighting and end with fireworks on New Year's Eve.

There are several stunning slopeside lodges to choose from, including the luxurious Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa and the ski-in, ski-out Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole . Looking for gifts in downtown Jackson? The iconic elk antler arches that frame the Town Square are illuminated for the holidays, making it feel magical. For a unique adventure that embraces the hot and cold, plan a trip to the Granite Hot Springs Pool , which can be accessed only by snowmobile, fat bike, dog sled, or skis.

New York City

There's truly nothing like Christmas in New York City . The city lights shine brightly year-round, but holiday lights add to the magic. You'll hardly have to look for activities or entertainment with all the famous displays: the enormous tree at Rockefeller Center and the smaller but still dazzling tree at Washington Square Park, the LED-lit Saks Fifth Avenue facade, and the animated window displays at Macy's Herald Square, to name a few. You can sip hot chocolate while you shop for last-minute gifts at German-style Christmas markets and partake in the age-old tradition of watching the Radio City Rockettes perform their annual Christmas Spectacular on a holiday vacation in NYC.

Bruges, Belgium

KavalenkavaVolha/Getty Images

The Bruges Christmas Market is one of the best in Europe. This enchanting event takes over the Markt, the square at the heart of the city, with stands and wooden chalets selling everything from handmade Christmas ornaments to waffles and woolly socks. The colorful storefronts surrounding the square are adorably festooned with holiday decorations, and you'll find confectioneries serving Belgian hot chocolate — no doubt some of the best you'll ever taste. The festivities extend to a smaller market in nearby Simon Stevinplein square. Elevate your stay with a suite overlooking the picturesque canal at the luxurious and historic Hotel Van Cleef .

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Another place to experience the holidays on the ski slopes is Beaver Creek, Colorado, about 12 miles over the road from bustling Vail. This picturesque ski village typically sees festive activities for the whole family, from an annual Christmas tree lighting to changing events like holiday movie nights and cookie-baking competitions.

As for a cozy place to rest your head, The Osprey offers luxurious accommodations and a heated outdoor pool all mere feet from the chairlift. Otherwise, you can book one of just 60 rooms at The Pines Lodge . Both offer ski-in, ski-out access.

Saint Lucia

If your idea of a white Christmas involves soft, powdery sand, consider going to this beautiful Caribbean island. The luxurious Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort , typically offers a full lineup of holiday activities such as visits from Santa, a traditional family Christmas meal, and a New Year's Eve beach bash. Of course, you can also spend your days lounging on the stunning beach between St. Lucia's iconic peaks, the Pitons, or enjoying the resort's regular amenities and activities, including a pool, spa, dive facility, and kayak rentals.

Highlands, North Carolina

If you're looking for a charming, small-town Christmas experience that feels like it's straight out of a Hallmark movie, head to Highlands, North Carolina. This picturesque town is in the southern Appalachian Mountains, within the Nantahala National Forest. Throughout December, you'll find storefronts along and around Main Street decorated with wintry displays. The city runs a competition, so cast your vote on which you think is the best. Visit with Santa in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on any Saturday in December leading up to the big day. Old Edwards Inn and Spa and Half-Mile Farm ( favorite hotels among Travel + Leisure readers) offer cozy accommodations with a side of holiday decorations and Christmas cheer.

Salzburg, Austria

Christmas markets, warm glühwein (mulled wine), medieval castles, and a museum wholly dedicated to Christmas will surely get you into the holiday spirit while visiting Salzburg. As you probably know, the city is the birthplace of Mozart and the setting of "The Sound of Music," a movie that seemingly plays on repeat over the holidays. Ice skate around a statue of the iconic composer at Mozartplatz and soak in stunning views of the snow-capped Alps on the south-facing terrace of the Hohensalzburg Fortress . The most luxurious place to stay? That would be Hotel Goldener Hirsch right in Old Town.

Solvang, California

If you won't have a chance to wander through a storybook town in Denmark this holiday season, you can get a similar feel in Solvang. The small city in Santa Ynez Valley was founded by a group of Danes in the early 1900s. They created this adorable community, now known for its Danish businesses and architecture. Solvang typically hosts Julefest , a month-long village celebration complete with outdoor gatherings and holiday decorations. Make the stay even more Christmassy with a stay at The Landsby or the Winston , two of Solvang's coziest boutique hotels.

Stowe, Vermont

A popular ski destination among East Coasters and one of the most picture-perfect places to go for Christmas, Stowe is within driving distance of several major northeastern cities (Boston, Albany, and Montreal, to name a few). The ski season typically starts in November, so this is an ideal place to hit the slopes if you're looking for a white, powder-filled Christmas. Stay at The Lodge at Spruce Peak for beautiful mountain views and ski-in, ski-out access.

Edinburgh Castle, arguably the city's most recognizable landmark, glows over the holiday season. The annual Castle of Light event began in 2019 and draws crowds with spectacular displays projected onto the exterior walls of the 12th-century stronghold. The projections typically get a refresh every year, and have included everything from fire-breathing dragons to flowers. Other holiday must-dos include the festive afternoon tea at Dome , where the stately Georgian Tea Room is enhanced with seasonal decorations. Sip mulled wine at one of the Christmas markets and ice skate on George Street for the full experience. If you're around on New Year's Eve, participate in Hogmanay, Scotland's own end-of-year celebration. Edinburgh puts on a Hogmanay festival that includes a torchlight procession, concerts, and a disco party.

Washington, D.C.

See the National Christmas Tree, ice skate at Washington Harbour, and sing along with a choral concert at the National Cathedral this December. Washington, D.C., hosts an array of holiday happenings throughout the season, and many of them are free, so go ahead and spend some extra money Christmas shopping. Head to one of the renowned Smithsonian museums to escape the cold weather, bundle up and admire the lights at the National Zoo, or walk along the National Mall with a hot cocoa in hand. When it comes to accommodations, The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown can hardly be beat.

Florida Keys

With pleasantly warm December weather, the Florida Keys are an ideal escape for those looking to spend the holidays in a U.S. beach destination. Kick off your Christmas vacation with a scenic road trip through the Florida Keys, stopping at islands en route to Key West. This is a popular time to visit, so consider staying away from the crowds at the secluded Sunset Key Cottages , a 27-acre private island resort accessible by ferry. Upon arriving, you'll find serenity just a short trip from the attractions of Key West.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a great place to visit any time of the year. Loved for its culture, food, and picturesque setting, the city typically hosts a number of holiday events throughout December. Annual highlights include the Santa Fe Botanical Garden's Glow light display and Christmas concerts inside the impressive Loretto Chapel leading up to December 25. You can even find winter sports at Ski Santa Fe , about 15 miles away. For a special hotel experience, book your stay at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe , which offers a range of festive amenities, or spend the night on the historic and holiday-lit Santa Fe Plaza at La Fonda .

Buenos Aires

Christmas is a summer holiday in the Southern Hemisphere, and Buenos Aires celebrates it with outdoor asado feasts and fireworks. High temperatures in December range from the upper 70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit, which means Papá Noel sometimes wears a tank top. The sunny weather is perfect for sipping cocktails and picnicking on the Plaza Intendente Alvear. While you're in the Argentine capital over the holidays, sample the pan dulce ("sweet bread"), admire the decorations that usually take over the Galerías Pacífico shopping center, or make like a local and escape the city to a nearby beach.

There's just something especially magical about London at Christmastime. Between the glittering lights, cider-slinging holiday markets, themed pop-up bars, and ice skating rinks from Hyde Park to the Queen's House in Greenwich, the city really comes alive for the holiday season. Stay at The Lanesborough for a truly festive experience — the luxurious hotel has beautiful holiday decorations, in-suite shopping from Harvey Nichols, and the option to have your room fully decorated with the hotel's Christmas in Residence program.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Why not spend the holidays in Santa Claus' hometown? Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is home to Santa Claus Village and SantaPark , where you'll find the man himself and his reindeer sidekicks. During the winter, the arctic landscape is covered by a thick blanket of pretty snow. You'll also have the best chance of the year at spotting the northern lights. There are several hotels in the area with glass igloo accommodations, which provide stunning 360-degree views of the aurora borealis from inside.

The Maldives

If you'd rather wear sandals than snowshoes, the Maldives might be the ideal place for you to spend Christmas. Winter is the dry season, when the weather here is at its best. Daily highs average in the mid-80s Fahrenheit — perfect for a holiday beach getaway. At the end of the day, kick back in luxurious accommodations at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island or The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands .

Bavaria, Germany

Spend your Christmas holidays in this picturesque region in southern Germany. Start your adventure in Munich, where you can sip mulled wine as you stroll through a genuine German Christkindlmarkt. Then head out of the city to find Christmas spirit in small towns like medieval Rothenburg or go skiing in the Alps. Wherever you go, beware of the spooky Krampus, a frightening Christmas beast of local folklore.

Quebec City

Quebec City is about as European as it gets outside of Europe itself. The predominantly French-speaking Québécois celebrate the season with German-style markets, ice skating at Place D'Youville, and shopping in Old Quebec, transformed into a dreamy scene. For a truly Canadian experience, take a ride on Au 1884 (aka the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide), one of Quebec City's oldest attractions. The slide runs right past Fairmont Le Château Frontenac , a castlelike hotel where you can stop for soup or coffee to escape the cold.

The Bahamas

Just a short flight south for East Coasters, The Bahamas is another popular choice for travelers seeking sun and sand during the holidays. Mid-December is the start of the high season here, probably because daily highs in the 80s are such a welcome change to chilly temperatures in much of the U.S. Thanks to a wide range of accommodation options — from resort complexes like Baha Mar with seemingly endless amenities to more intimate private island resorts like T+L reader favorite Kamalame Cay — there's a perfect Christmas vacation waiting for you in this sunny oasis.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 20 best places to go for Christmas

From classic festive getaways to Scrooge-friendly destinations to escape, these are the world’s greatest places to spend Christmas

The most magical time of the year has a habit of transforming destinations around the world: cities get decked out in dazzling decorations, streets teem with local traditions and squares are taken over by pop-up festive markets.

That said, some destinations are great to visit at Christmas for precisely the opposite reason: because you might not even realise it’s Christmas at all. Who hasn’t sometimes wanted to hibernate in the sun until the madness is over? 

And so, when considering the best destinations to visit at Christmas, we haven’t just included places with quirky traditions or an unmissable festive atmosphere - there's plenty of Scrooge-appropriate destinations on here too. Dive into our festive travel list below and you’re guaranteed to find somewhere great to spend the season. 

RECOMMENDED: 💝The best Christmas markets to visit in Europe and worldwide ❄️ The best places to travel in December 🎄The 50 best Christmas movies of all time 🎊The 65 best Christmas songs of all time

At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines .

An email you’ll actually love

The best places to go for Christmas

1.  New York City, USA

Best for:  shopaholics 

From the dreamy romance of ice skating at the Rockefeller to Broadway’s dazzling festive shows, there are plenty of reasons why the Big Apple has such a rep at Christmastime. NYC is a classic festive choice and, with its selection of department stores, markets and bazaars, there remains nowhere quite like it when it comes to shopping, either.

Read more: The best Christmas things to do in NYC

2.  Lapland, Finland

Best for: wannabe Santa elves 

There are few destinations as legendarily Christmassy as Rovaniemi, which, as the capital of Lapland, is also the official hometown of Santa Claus. But Rovaniemi isn’t all about Santa. Once you’re done exploring Santa Claus Village and getting reindeer rides about town, be sure to sweat out your worries with a festive sauna – a Finnish Christmas tradition.

3.  Edinburgh, Scotland

Best for: Christmas markets

Sure, each city centre twinkles with lights and exudes wafts of mulled wine throughout December, but few do it as well as Edinburgh. East Princes Street Gardens dazzles every year with a whole host of market stalls, festive food and fairground rides, plus plenty of whisky stands for a warming Christmassy bev. Sticking around for New Year's? The city's Hogmanay celebrations are a world-renowned way to launch 2024. 

4.  New Orleans, USA

Best for: an unconventional Christmas

New Orleans is packed full of alternative Christmas traditions, from its bonfires on the banks of the Mississippi and charmingly redecorated streetcars to its lively carol concerts and glam AF hotel lobby decorations. With daytime temperatures hitting about 17C, it’s also that bit warmer than much of the rest of the continental US at this time of year.

5.  Reykjavik, Iceland

Best for: the lads!

No, not those kinds of lads. We’re talking about the ‘Yule Lads’, 13 folkloric dudes who traditionally leave gifts in boots for Iceland ’s well-behaved kids. Christmastime is also just a rather lovely time to visit Reykjavik, with the city boasting markets and ice-skating – as well as, thanks to its extra-long nights, great opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights .

6.  London, UK

Best for: traditional romantics 

Festive cheer sweeps through London sometime in early November and doesn’t let up. By the time the end of December comes around, Christmas vibes hit a fever pitch: the already-very-romantic UK capital finds itself lined by fir trees, twinkling with Christmas lights and sound-tracked by jangly festive tunes. Aye, it’s exactly as magical as it sounds.

Read more: The best Christmas lights in London

7.  Nuremburg, Germany

Best for:  Weihnachtsmarkt fanatics

Germany ’s Weihnachtsmarkts (traditional Christmas markets) are famous the world over – and Nuremburg’s is one of the country’s oldest, biggest and best. Notes of gingerbread and mulled wine waft through a mini city of wooden stalls teeming with candy canes, scrummy lebkuchen and handmade decorations.

8.  Sydney, Australia

Best for: Christmas dinner on the barbie

Looking for somewhere that goes full-throttle for Chrimbo but isn’t so, erm, wintry ? Australia ’s likely your best bet. Sydney has all the festive lights, trees and even ice skating of a typical Christmas-celebrating city, but with toasty average temperature highs of 25C. Don’t knock an Xmas dinner cooked on a beachside barbeque until you’ve tried it.

9.  Bruges, Belgium

Best for: chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate

Turkey, mince pies, and pannetone are all the festive foods that might spring to mind at first, but it wouldn't be Christmas without chocolate. And where's the best place to go for that? Well, it has to be Bruges - from the divinely rich hot chocolates on offer at the market to the traditional Yule log, this little city has bags of Christmassy confection to fill those stockings, or to gorg on under the twinkly lights. 

10.  Tokyo, Japan

Best for: the culturally disconnected 

With no public holiday and everything open as usual, Japan doesn’t really celebrate Christmas – but that’s also its charm. The country is nicely disconnected from the rest of the world’s Xmas mania but still has tonnes of festive stuff to see and do, from Tokyo’s gorgeous winter illuminations to the annual Japanese tradition of getting KFC on Christmas day.

11.  Caracas, Venezuela

Best for: religious roller-skaters

Think you’ve got a neat ride when it comes to heading down to church (if that’s your jam, anyway) during the Christmas period? Check out the locals in Caracas. From December 16-24 before 8am, roads are closed in the Venezuelan capital so that churchgoers can roller-skate to mass. It’s also common for rollerbladers to dress up in Santa gear... does it get much cooler than that?

12.  Marrakech, Morocco

Best for: festive escapees 

Christmas isn’t celebrated by the vast majority of people in Marrakech, making it perfect for escaping conventional festive vibes. The Moroccan city also isn’t anywhere near as hot in December as it is in the summertime (hitting highs of 20C without dipping too low at night), so exploring its medina, souks, mosques and riads is even more pleasant.

13.  Greenland

Best for: adventurous eaters

The festive period in Greenland is best known for its food: specifically mattak (essentially a strip of whale skin) and kiviak (a kind of fermented seabird). Both are a delicacy to natives, but they’re likely a bit more, er, stomach-testing to the rest of us.

14.  Phuket, Thailand

Best for: clubbers and beachside chillers

Sure, if you really want to, you can have a perfectly Christmassy time in Phuket. The island has plenty of carol concerts and festive dinners if you so want them. However, it’s an ideal place to get away from all the usual festivities, too. As a largely Buddhist country, Thailand doesn’t really celebrate Christmas – leaving you free to chill out at a beachside bar or go clubbing as if it’s any normal day of the year.

15.  Prague, Czech Republic

Best for: aesthetes

With its awesome gothic churches and winding baroque streets, Prague is one of Europe’s most dazzlingly pretty cities at any time of the year. But at Christmastime? Well, the Czech capital somehow gets even prettier. The key attractions here are the markets, which take over the likes of Prague Castle and Wenceslas Square with local specialities such as medovina (honey wine), rybí polévka (traditional fish soup) and perníčky (spicy gingerbread).

16.  Vienna, Austria

Best for: total festive immersion

Whether you’re watching Krampuses (a sort of nightmarish Austrian anti-Santa) roam the streets, munching on toffee apples at one of the city’s many Christmas markets or simply soaking in the very, very pretty street decorations, we challenge you not to get totally swept up in Vienna’s all-encompassing Chrimbo vibes.

17.  Cape Town, South Africa

Best for: sun bunnies

The beauty of the southern hemisphere in December is that the climate is precisely the opposite of the chilly north. With its long days of uninterrupted sunshine and temperatures in the high 30Cs, Cape Town offers a totally different Chrimbo vibe. Festive picnic atop Table Mountain or in the lush Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, anyone?

18.  Singapore

Best for: light display fanatics

With main thoroughfare Orchard Road hosting a celebration on Xmas Eve complete with countdown and fireworks, Christmas in Singapore has a unique New Year’s Eve feel about it. Most legendary, however, are the city’s light displays. From the Christmas Wonderland in the Gardens by the Bay to the light shows at Vivocity, Singapore sure knows how to put on a mesmerising electrical show.  

19.  Guatemala City, Guatemala

Best for: demon banishers

There’s something very purifying about burning stuff – and Guatemalans know that so well that they’ve made a tradition out of it. Every year on December 7, Guatemala celebrates the ‘Día del Diablo’ (or ‘Day of the Devil’), kicking off the Christmas period by burning an effigy of the devil. The act is intended to symbolise the cleansing of bad spirits.

20.  Colmar, France

Best for: Christmas dreamers

Even in the height of summer, Colmar, a thirteenth-century town in the eastern French region of Alsace, looks rather a lot like it’s made out of gingerbread. Add a dusting of snow, some tasteful Christmas lights and a characterful festive market? You’ve got one of the world’s most picture-perfect Xmas destinations.

[image] [title]

More on Christmas

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out Worldwide

• All Time Out Locations
• North America
• South America
• South Pacific

The 32 best places to spend Christmas around the world

By Caitlin Morton

We’re all for cosying up with loved ones at home, but we also love seeing how cities around the world transform every December. The best places to spend Christmas, in our book, run the gamut from European classics with storybook Christmas markets to Asian cities with over-the-top light displays, and even merry mainstays right here in the U.S. There are even some spots in the southern hemisphere where temperatures hover in the 80s on 25 December, in case your idea of a perfect holiday includes lounging by the pool with a cocktail.

While the jollity may look a bit different from city to city, these global destinations keep the holiday cheer going year after year. And if you already have your plans solidified for this upcoming season, it’s never too early to start planning a fabulous winter vacation for 2023.

Bruges, Belgium

Why we go: Europe’s best-preserved medieval city oozes charm year-round, but especially during the holidays. It’s hard to imagine a place more magical as you wander the cobblestone streets, admire the shimmering lights, and warm up with mugs of Belgian hot chocolate in cafés.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Follow the Winter Glow light trail with stops at 10 installations through the historic part of the city centre, including lights at the Church of Our Lady Tower and a projection at Gruuthuse.

Stay here: Grand Hotel Casselbergh (steps away from the Markt) has inviting touches like exposed wooden beams in the rooms, a lobby bar with a fireplace, and a wellness centre located in a 16th-century cellar.

Why we go: If you’re looking to escape winter during Christmas, you can't do much better than Cape Town – it’s summer in the Southern Hemisphere, after all. You can even visit one (or several) of the South African city’s holiday markets without having to wear a coat and scarf.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: They’re not exactly Santa’s elves, but the estimated 2,000 to 3,000 African penguins at Boulders Beach – where you can get close enough to take portrait-mode photos of them – are sure to warm your heart just the same.

Stay here: The light and breezy rooms sitting above the Atlantic Ocean at Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa are the perfect antidotes to the winter blues.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Why we go: For the past three decades, the little town of Bethlehem in Pennsylvania has channelled its name and transformed into “Christmas City” for the holidays. Celebrations are centred around the Christkindlmarkt at the SteelStacks, with more than 50 booths featuring artisan crafts, as well as live music and special events with Santa Claus himself.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: A “live” advent calendar at the Goundie House on Main Street features a downtown merchant emerging from the door at 5:30 p.m. every night with treats for all who are waiting.

Stay here: Hotel Bethlehem is a wonderland of its own, with 35,000 Christmas lights, 36 wreaths, life-sized toy soldiers, and a gingerbread house of the hotel.

Why we go:  From its European-inspired Christkindlmarket to light shows galore,  Chicago knows a thing or two about embracing the Christmas spirit (and the freezing temperatures). Can’t-miss activities include visiting the 55-foot Christmas tree in Millennium Park and cosying up in a heated igloo at The Godfrey Hotel.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Be dazzled by 2.5 million LEDs at ZooLights, an annual light festival held at Lincoln Park Zoo. Check out the event’s calendar for sensory-friendly visit times.

Stay here:  Fresh off a $100 million renovation,  The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago guarantees the most luxurious stay in the town – especially if you book a suite overlooking Lake Michigan and Navy Pier. Be sure to book a festive afternoon tea or five-course winter truffle dinner at the delicious on-site restaurant, Torali.

Cologne, Germany

Why we go: Nothing embodies old-world yuletide charm like the Christmas market, and nobody takes Christmas markets more seriously than the Germans , with Cologne’s festivities drawing some four million visitors each winter.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Take in the merry sights from the observation deck of KölnTriangle, the tower directly opposite the Cathedral on the Rhine.

Stay here: The Hyatt Regency Cologne has great views of the Cologne Cathedral, plus excellent multi-course meals at Glashaus Restaurant.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Why we go: According to the World Happiness Report, Denmark is one of the world’s happiest countries , making it a great place to spend the holidays. Things are even jollier at Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens , where antique amusement park rides decorated with lights are surrounded by yet another adorable, alpine village-style Christmas market selling gifts and snacks. The park has also been known to deck out its tree with Swarovski crystals .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Book a table at Restaurant Vita for some andesteg , a traditional Danish holiday dish of crispy, succulent roast duck served with prunes and apples.

Stay here: Never mind hygge – Hotel Sanders takes Danish comfort and contentment to new heights.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Why we go: Dubai does Christmas the same way Dubai does nearly everything – in true, over-the-top fashion. Catch the tree lightings happening around town, including the ones at Towers Rotana, Fairmont The Palm, and The Irish Village, and then watch the jolly ol’ St. Nicks making a run for it at the Santa Run. And since no visit to Dubai is complete without several shopping sprees, set aside time to stock up on goodies at one of the city’s Christmas markets .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Dubai Mall is an air-conditioned winter wonderland, complete with an ice skating rink, and you'll find indoor ski slopes at Ski Dubai in Mall of the Emirates.

Stay here: Jumeirah Al Naseem earns high marks for its posh rooms, easy beach access, and superior dining and spa options.

Dublin, Ireland

Why we go: If your idea of Christmas merriment includes an authentic Irish pub crawl (we get it), then Dublin is your place. Holiday offerings also include Christmas markets, decked-out shops on Grafton Street, and tree-lighting ceremonies galore.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: For 66 years, The Moving Crib in St. Martin Apostolate’s basement has been charming families with its mechanical figures depicting scenes like Noah’s Ark.

Stay here: The Westbury becomes even more luxurious during the holidays, with prime views overlooking the lights of Grafton Street during afternoon tea.

Why we go: Hong Kong ’s yuletide urban offerings rival that of NYC ’s, with holiday markets, window displays, and concerts galore (they even have a Santa Con). Then there are the lights. The Symphony of Lights show – held nightly at 8 p.m. – will leave you breathless, thanks to an extravagantly choreographed neon show displayed across more than 40 of the city’s iconic skyscrapers along Victoria Harbor.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Experience the Symphony of Lights during a harbour-front dinner cruise.

Stay here: As if the Ritz-Carlton wasn’t swanky enough, the hotel hosts Christmas parties, dinners, and afternoon teas all season.

Inari, Finland

Why we go: While most tourists flock to the Lapland city of Rovaniemi come Christmas, we suggest heading even further north (like, within reach of the Arctic Ocean north) to the village of Inari. Located in the heart of the scenic Ivalo region – reachable via a 1.5-hour flight from Helsinki – Inari is a pure winter wonderland dotted with hotels and restaurants that keep things nice and cosy. It’s hard to imagine a more authentic winter holiday than one spent riding dog sleds, feeding reindeer , and chasing the Northern Lights .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: A private Northern Lights safari will have you sitting in a heated sleigh and sipping sparkling wine while waiting for the aurora to dance. (Rough life, huh?)

Stay here: Finnish Lapland is known for its glass-igloo accommodations, as well as in-house winter activities and cosy, panoramic cabins at Aurora Village Oy . (Heated windows ensure the snow doesn’t cover your view.) Plus, daily reindeer feedings are available.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Why we go:  If you're wondering where to go for Christmas celebrations unlike anywhere else, look no further. Every December, this tiny New England town bursts with holiday cheer during its annual Christmas Prelude, an 11-day bash that's about as New England as it gets – one of the main attractions is a tree made of lobster traps. The lobster rolls at The Clam Shack – considered to be some of the best rolls in Maine – will make you forget about gingerbread and sugar plums altogether.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Santa Claus’s arrival at the Christmas Prelude on a lobster boat is (obviously) the star attraction.

Stay here:   White Barn Inn epitomises New England luxury all year, but just wait until you see it over the holidays. This year’s seasonal offerings include Christmas cookies and eggnog by the fire, special Christmas feasts at the White Barn Inn Restaurant, and afternoon tea attended by Santa Claus himself.

Leavenworth, Washington

Why we go:  Love the idea of a Bavarian holiday but hate the idea of a transatlantic flight? Enter  Leavenworth . This town tucked away in the Cascade Mountains was modelled after Germany’s alpine villages, complete with half-timbered houses and epic food halls. As you can imagine, the city comes alive during Christmas with over-the-top holiday lights and tons of winter sports.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum features a collection of some 9,000 nutcrackers from more than 50 countries – definitely worth stopping by between snowshoeing and skiing excursions.

Stay here:   Icicle Village Resort is just as magical as it sounds, with a relaxing spa, in-room fireplaces, and a restaurant serving up Bavarian favourites.

Why we go: Christmas in London has timeless appeal – chalk it up to the decorated Georgian townhouses, lively pubs, and a dash of Dickensian charm. Our step-by-step guide to spending the holidays in London covers the perfect place for afternoon tea , a steak to tuck into after a day spent gift shopping, and a martini to sip on Christmas Eve – and that’s just for starters.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: One of the most magical experiences is gliding around the frozen 18th-century courtyard of Somerset House, a sprawling neoclassical building off the Strand.

Stay here: Claridge’s – because there's no better place to ring in Christmas than in one of the best hotels on the planet.

The Maldives

Why we go:  Visiting the Maldives in December guarantees you’ll have a white Christmas – only we’re talking about the dazzling white sand, not snow. While the atoll doesn’t officially celebrate the holiday, many resorts cater to Western travellers with themed dinners and decorations. But let’s face it: you’ll be too busy with spa treatments and snorkelling trips to even bother with those proverbial visions of sugarplums.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  If you really want a traditional burst of holiday cheer, head to  Conrad Maldives Rangali Island for a tree lighting ceremony, followed by cocktails on the beach.

Stay here:  Conrad Maldives Rangali Island really is one of the best resorts in the country, famous for its lavish suites and  underwater restaurant , Ithaa. Guests lucky enough to visit during the holidays can also enjoy champagne and lobster beach barbecues, lavish pool parties, winter-themed spa treatments, and special underwater meals on Christmas Day.

New York City

Why we go: There’s no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it’s ice skating at Rockefeller Center, window shopping on Fifth Avenue, or lurking around 34th street hoping to witness a miracle.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: There’s no such thing as going overboard with Christmas decorations in Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighbourhood. Join a walking tour organised by the area’s residents.

Stay here: The Plaza , full stop. (If it's good enough for Kevin McCallister ...)

Why we go:  Can you really think of a more magical place to spend Christmas than Paris? The city provides  festive activities at every turn, from the light installations on the Champs-Elysées to any number of pop-up markets and ice skating rinks. Even if you don’t feel like shivering out in the cold, warming up with a mug of hot chocolate at Angelina will still get you in the spirit.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Whether you gawk at the window displays outside, or the massive Christmas tree inside,  Galeries Lafayette is well worth elbowing a few fellow tourists to check out.

Stay here:   Hôtel Lutetia is a Left Bank stunner with gourmet holiday menus and an Art Deco lobby decked out with lights and trees. Upgrade to a higher room category for oversized bathtubs and balconies overlooking the Eiffel Tower.

Prague, Czech Republic

Why we go: Prague ’s holiday markets easily make the city one of the world’s best places to spend Christmas: they run for a full month, with locals and travellers passing through for mulled wine, sticky pastries, and roasted ham. The main markets take place in the Old Town and Wenceslas squares, just 10 minutes apart by foot – and are set to the backdrop of some of the prettiest Gothic architecture you’ll ever see.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sip on Svařák, a Czech mulled wine with a citrusy touch from a market stall. Or, for a sweeter taste, indulge in a hot chocolate at Cafe Slavia, founded in 1881.

Stay here: Aria Hotel is located within walking distance of Prague Castle, and its music-themed suites are always a hit.

Quebec City, Canada

Why we go: Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America, and its colonial French architecture gives it an unmistakably European feel. The cobbled streets of the Old Town are packed with quaint shops and delicious bistros, all merrily decorated for the holidays.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Au 1884 toboggan run by Château Frontenac (open from mid-December to mid-March) is one of the city’s oldest traditions – and quite the thrill. Zoom down icy tracks overlooking the city on a wooden sled reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.

Stay here: You can’t go wrong with Auberge Saint-Antoine and its lobby fireplace, heated bathroom floors, and a Christmas package that includes a five-course dinner, holiday movie screenings at the in-house theatre, and a personal visit from Santa in your room.

Reykjavík, Iceland

Why we go: Reykjavík shines on the streets and in the sky in December. Strings of glinting Christmas bulbs illuminate the city during its very long nights, and on the clearest evenings, the Northern Lights can be seen from the city’s darker streets and parks.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The 13 Yule Lads, a group of holiday trolls you’ll see about town, are Iceland’s equivalent to Santa Claus in local folklore (and have actually been around a lot longer than St. Nick).

Stay here: Hotel Borg , the city’s oldest and most elegant hotel, still reigns supreme.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Why we go:  Who says Christmas has to be about ugly sweaters and hot cocoa? December in Rio is all about kicking back on a  spectacular beach – with daily temperatures hovering in the 80s. The city also happens to host the world’s largest display of full-sized nativity scenes during its annual Festival de Presépios (“Crib Festival”), found at Jardim de Alah between Leblon and Ipanema.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  For the very best display in town, ride a bike around the Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon and enjoy views of the world’s largest floating Christmas tree from every angle.

Stay here:  The  Fasano Hotel along Ipanema Beach has an infinity pool overlooking the ocean that will make winter seem very, very far away.

Rome, Italy

Why we go: The streets around Rome will be festively alight, sure, but the home to the seat of Catholicism is an excellent option for folks seeking a more sacrosanct Christmas experience.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hear hymns echoing off the walls of the 1,900-year-old architectural marvel during midnight mass at the Pantheon.

Stay here: Aside from classically designed guest rooms, Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese offers festive amenities like themed dinners at the rooftop restaurant and chauffeured tours of Rome’s holiday lights in a vintage Fiat 500.

Salzburg, Austria

Why we go: It’s no surprise that Salzburg’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old City that served as the backdrop for The Sound of Music also fills its famed Christkindlmarkt with song. With roots dating back to the 15th century, sing-alongs and traditional wind music are as much a part of the festivities as the mulled wine and market stands. We’re not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: It’s literally Christmas all year round at the Christmas in Salzburg shop on Goldgasse, known for its frilly ornaments (especially those hand-painted on eggshells).

Stay here: Hotel Goldener Hirsch is just steps away from Christkindlmarkt, although we’d be fine staying in these comfortable rooms all day.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Why we go:  Christmas in San Miguel de Allende kicks off on 12 December (aka Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe), and the rest of the month is equal parts solemn and celebratory. You may encounter nativity scenes and church services one day, then parades and fireworks the next. But seeing as it all takes place in one of the friendliest, most beautiful cities in the world, we’re guessing you’ll be able to easily enjoy every moment.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Between 16 – 24 December, most of Mexico participates in Las Posadas, a religious festival honouring the Nativity story. Once a day, two people dressed up as Mary and Joseph lead a procession to a different home and ask to be let inside (as in the biblical journey to Bethlehem), and the reenactment typically ends with carols, food, and pinatas.

Stay here:  The city has its share of swank hotels, but it’s hard to compete with the spa amenities and rooftop bar at  Rosewood San Miguel de Allende .

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Why we go:  Puerto Rico prides itself on having the longest holiday season in the world, lasting a whopping 45 days between the end of November and the middle of January. That gives you even more time to enjoy the island’s festive decorations, folk music, midnight mass services, and coquito – a coconut-based drink that puts eggnog to shame.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Stroll around Old San Juan to see Christmas lights strung up on colourful buildings, with some of the best displays near the central Plaza de Armas.

Stay here:  Our readers love  Condado Vanderbilt Hotel for its hammam spa (the only one in PR), ocean-facing rooms, and four relaxing pools.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Why we go:  Santa Fe’s already-beautiful plaza becomes downright magical with the addition of Christmas lights – but the holiday spirit doesn't start and stop there. The city also offers midnight mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis de Assisi, holiday exhibits at the New Mexico Museum of Art, holiday flamenco performances at El Flamenco Cabaret, and seasonal shopping at the Winter Indian Market. Even when Christmas is officially over, you can keep busy at Taos Ski Valley and Ski Santa Fe – both just an easy drive away.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Don’t miss the annual Canyon Road Farolito Walk, a Christmas Eve event consisting of farolitos (paper bags filled with sand and topped with a votive candle) lining the streets and walls of adobe buildings.

Stay here: 2022 Hot List winner  Bishop’s Lodge has a tangible warmth to it, with wood-burning kiva fireplaces and hammered bronze tubs adorning the rooms.

Strasbourg, France

Why we go: Strasbourg is home to the oldest of France’s Christmas markets, dating back nearly 450 years. There are 12 in total to check out, which is sure to keep you busy. Pro tip: Though the markets will be full of delicious goodies, many choose to indulge in the king of Alsatian delicacies: foie gras, which is also a French Christmas tradition.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The superlative market sits beneath the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, the tallest surviving structure built entirely in the Middle Ages. How’s that for a photo op?

Stay here: We’re huge fans of the impossibly luxurious Hôtel Les Haras , installed in Louis XV’s historic stables in Strasbourg.

Sydney, Australia

Why we go: You haven't seen Christmas lights until you’ve seen Sydney's Christmas lights. Plus, the holiday season lasts an entire month here (take that, 12 days of Christmas) with “Sydney Christmas.” The festival features the city’s largest Christmas Tree at Martin Place.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Wonder at the 3,500 twinkling lights at the Strand Arcade or the 85,000 twinkling LEDs at the incredible Pitt Street Mall Canopy of Light.

Stay here: Celebrate with a Christmas Day lunch followed by a nap by the rooftop pool (remember, it’s summertime Down Under) at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour.

Taipei, Taiwan

Why we go: 25 December isn’t a public holiday in Taipei, but it’s still one of the best places to spend Christmas, as the city celebrates with incredible lights displays, festive attractions, and events. During the weeks between mid-November and the New Year, pretty much the entire Banqiao District transforms into Christmasland – which is exactly what it sounds like. We’re talking massive Christmas trees, rides, concerts, and markets selling local goods.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Don’t miss the Christmasland section over in the Fuzhong Business district, with a magic forest and Boshou light park.

Stay here: We love the Mandarin Oriental for its decadent decor and wide range of food options.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Why we go:  Due to the Georgian Orthodox Church’s use of the Julian calendar, Christmas isn't officially celebrated in Tbilisi until January 7. Decorations and festivities start much earlier, however, with city-wide light displays, Christmas markets, and musical performances ready to dazzle visitors starting in December. 

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Located in Tbilisi’s Freedom Square, the Liberty Monument (which depicts Saint George slaying a dragon) is covered with cascading lights to create a massive makeshift Christmas tree.

Stay here:  The cosy-chic vibes at  Stamba Hotel are unparalleled – think buttery leather sofas, lush hanging plants, and floor-to-ceiling shelves of vintage books.

Why we go: The city turns the voltage up each year with its winter illuminations, with different districts competing to create some truly sensational displays. Standout illumination sites include the almost 10-foot-tall snow globes with falling snow at Tokyo Midtown and a massive Baccarat crystal chandelier at Yebisu Garden Place. The bright lights are so popular, they stay up well past Christmas day – often through January or February.

The one thing to get you in the spirit : One of the most famous illuminations is the Blue Cavern ( Ao no Dokutsu ) in Shibuya, which is inspired by the blue grottos of the Mediterranean.

Stay here: Aman Tokyo , a two-time Gold List winner, has a multi-level spa and deep furo soaking tubs in each room.

Vienna, Austria

Why we go: Vienna practically sparkles with holiday spirit during the Christmas season (the lights covering nearly every building might have something to do with that). The city is known for its markets, with the Viennese Christmas Market at City Hall and the holiday tree at Rathausplatz stealing the show. Also nearby are the Nativity Trail and the Tree of Hearts.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Enjoy the crystalline tones of the one and only Vienna Boys Choir – which has been around for more than 500 years and traditionally performs in its hometown during the holidays.

Stay here: The Park Hyatt Vienna is within walking distance of St. Stephen’s Cathedral and features some of the largest rooms in Vienna.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Why we go: Vilnius becomes a true winter wonderland in December, with a Christmas train that weaves through Old Town, 3D nativity stories projected onto buildings, and Christmas markets in the city’s squares.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The headline-making Christmas trees are no joke. This year’s main tree was designed to look like a giant multi-layered birthday cake to honour the city’s upcoming 700th anniversary.

Stay here: The warm and inviting Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius is as close to all the Christmas delights as you can get.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveler US .

Our travel boxes are selling out! Grab your Shop TODAY Staycation box for 63% off before it's gone

• TODAY Plaza
• Share this —

• Watch Full Episodes
• Read With Jenna
• Inspirational
• Relationships
• TODAY Table
• Newsletters
• Start TODAY
• Shop TODAY Awards
• Citi Concert Series
• Listen All Day

Follow today

More Brands

• On The Show

25 best Christmas towns in the US for a winter getaway

It's (almost) the most wonderful time of the year!

With the holiday season fast approaching, you may be looking for extra magical places to travel to. From California to Connecticut and everywhere in between, TODAY has compiled a list of 25 Christmas towns to put on your travel list this holiday season.

Park City, Utah

Park City, located in the mountains of Utah, is bound to bring you a white Christmas this year. From sleigh rides in the picture-perfect town to holiday markets for your festive needs, Park City has everything you need to make a Hallmark holiday.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod puts a classic New England twist on the Christmas town concept, from lighthouses dressed up with garlands to lights lining the streets. The seaside town is perfect for a bit of Christmas and a bit of the ocean, complete with parades and theater productions.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

The home of the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is a quaint town with tons of holiday-themed events, from German food markets to live music to a carol sing-along. Plus, the town has the potential to be a winter wonderland just in time for Christmas.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

If you want to ditch the cold weather and opt for a warmer, more coastal holiday, check out Carmel-by-the-Sea in sunny California. Trade out the chilly outdoor markets for dinner on the beach, complete with holiday lights.

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock is the picture-perfect Hallmark town, with plenty of charm to go around. From horses pulling buggies to carolers serenading the lighting of a Christmas tree, this town might look like it's fresh off a holiday postcard.

Annapolis, Maryland

This quaint capital city of Maryland, located on the Chesapeake Bay, puts a nautical twist on classic holiday traditions. From grand Victorian homes to a gorgeous holiday tree on the dock, Annapolis tops off its holiday celebrations with an annual lighted boat parade each December.

Duluth, Minnesota

Every year, the city of Duluth puts on Bentleyville, a massive light display that's free to the public. The city also sets up a Christmas village and has a scenic train ride along Lake Superior to tie the bow on top!

Newport, Rhode Island

A seaside town, Newport boasts a monthlong holiday celebration complete with an annual tree lighting, concerts, tours of its grand mansions and more.

St. Augustine, Florida

Festive doesn't mean it needs to be snowy and cold all the time! Head to St. Augustine for some holiday spirit in the sun with Christmas lights, quaint décor and other holiday activities. Plus, the beach is right there if you want a tropical holiday!

But coming off of the heels of hurricane season (and the damage from Hurricane Ian , in particular), be sure to check the status of the town before making your plans.

Sheridan, Wyoming

If you want that small-town, Hallmark holiday movie feel, check out Sheridan in the Equality State. The town hosts an annual "Christmas Stroll," coupled with snowy weather and the charm of a small town during Christmas.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket also has an annual Christmas stroll, but this one has that classic New England charm to it. Plus, winter is the off-season for the Massachusetts town, so you likely won't be running into big crowds during the holidays.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg is home to colonial holiday traditions like caroling with torches, historical programs and other performances. The holiday season is topped off with a grand display of fireworks and a historic gun salute. For a quieter holiday celebration, you can also check out Busch Gardens' Christmas Town.

Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville is another one of those towns reminiscent of a Hallmark movie. With lights lining the streets, a miniature ice skating rink and tree-lighting ceremonies, Greenville will bring all of the Christmas magic (and maybe some warm weather, too!).

Blue Ridge, Georgia

If you're looking for some Southern charm this holiday season, add Blue Ridge to your holiday destination list. The town has a train ride with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the gorgeous natural scenery of the northern Georgia destination is perfect for holiday pictures.

Taos, New Mexico

Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, honors its Indigenous culture by hosting a religious procession every Christmas Eve in the Indigenous community with bonfires, lights and a historic gun salute. Taos also hosts tree-lighting ceremonies, concerts and fairs.

Branson, Missouri

Head to the Midwest to experience Branson's Ozark Mountain Christmas festival, a monthlong celebration with music, shows and lights. The city also has a Polar Express Train Ride reminiscent of the classic holiday movie.

North Pole, Alaska

This town just might be the closest you'll ever get to the real North Pole — and it's festive all year round! There's a Santa Claus house, a mayor whose name is Santa and plenty of festive decorations to make it feel like the real thing.

Santa Claus, Indiana

For another year-round holiday treat, head to Indiana's Santa Claus, which calls itself "America's Christmas Hometown." In this town, Santa's elves send replies to children's letters, and holiday celebrations include parades, a light show and a candy castle.

Franklin, Tennessee

Franklin is perfect for any Charles Dickens fans. The town hosts an annual Dickens of a Christmas festival for a weekend full of Dickens-related festivities. Franklin also puts on a Victorian Village complete with Victorian-era treats.

Big Spring, Texas

Located in the heart of West Texas, this charming town was dubbed the "Lighted Poinsettia Capital of Texas." Big Spring goes big on holiday spirit, including Hotel Settles, which has a beautifully decorated lobby and massive Christmas tree (and some presents underneath!).

Asheville, North Carolina

The historic Biltmore mansion in Asheville gets dressed to the nines during the holiday season with garlands, lights, ribbons and more. The city also hosts festive craft shows in the River Arts District and boasts beautiful mountains to complete the picture.

Durango, Colorado

A historic mining town, Durango puts its local steam engine to festive use with wintery rides through the scenic mountains. In December, the train operates on a special "Polar Express"-inspired trip for children along with rides to find and cut down Christmas trees to bring back home.

Darby, Montana

Nestled in Montana's gorgeous Bitterroot Mountains, Darby brings some Western twang to the perfect holiday trip. The city hosts all sorts of festive events from horseback riding to ice fishing and more, with plenty of holiday décor to complete the experience.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

A modest Pennsylvania town, Bethlehem brings the small-town charm to Christmas without breaking the bank. Take part in the town's horse-drawn carriage rides to enjoy the lights or go on the Christmas City Stroll to get in the holiday spirit.

New York, New York

It's not a small town, but it's undeniable that there's no place like the Big Apple for the holidays. You can go ice skating and enjoy the iconic Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center , or walk through one of the many holiday markets, like the one at Bryant Park. In this winter wonderland, the opportunities are endless.

CORRECTION (Nov. 10, 2022, 9:40 p.m.): An earlier version of this article mentioned a scenic train ride along Lake Michigan in Duluth, Minnesota. It is along Lake Superior, not lake Michigan.

Laya Neelakandan is a reporter for CNBC.

The 32 Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World

By Caitlin Morton

We’re all for cozying up with loved ones at home, but we also love seeing how cities around the world transform every December. The best places to spend Christmas, in our book, run the gamut from European towns with storybook Christmas markets to Asian megacities with over-the-top light displays—and even merry mainstays right here in the U.S. And in case your idea of a perfect holiday includes lounging by the pool with a cocktail, we’ve included some spots in the southern hemisphere where temperatures hover in the 80s on December 25.

While the jollity may look a bit different from city to city, these global destinations keep the holiday cheer going year after year. And if you already have your plans solidified for this upcoming season, it’s never too early to start planning a fabulous winter vacation for 2024.

This gallery has been updated since its original publish date.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Asheville, North Carolina

Why we go: Holiday spirit is serious business in the Blue Ridge Mountains town of Asheville. After all, the Biltmore opened its doors on Christmas Eve in 1895 and the annual decorations include 100 Christmas trees, 25,000 ornaments, 10,000 holiday lights, and 1,200 poinsettias. (Good luck deciding whether to take a daytime tour or visit on a candlelit evening.)

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The North Carolina Arboretum, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, twinkles with its mile-long Winter Lights experience.

Stay here: The Enchanted Christmas package at Biltmore includes a stay in a room decorated for the holidays, plus four-course Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals.

Basel, Switzerland

Why we go: Most European countries are known for their Christmas markets, and Switzerland is no exception. You can find seasonal cheer in nearly every city and town, though Basel earns a few extra points for having two markets: one in Barfüsserplatz, and one in Münsterplatz. Here you can find hundreds of vendors selling handmade goods and treats from their stands, as well as plenty of twinkling lights and decorations.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: As long as you aren’t afraid of puppets, the special Christmas performances at the Basler Marionetten Theater will definitely get you in the proper spirit.

Stay here: Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois is a Belle Epoque classic with an enviable address right on the banks of the Rhine.

Berlin, Germany

Why we go: Germany is known around the world for its many Christmas markets —its capital city alone has more than 60 of them, including the incredibly picturesque WeihnachtsZauber, which is surrounded by landmarks like Französischer Dom and the Konzerthaus. Between market visits, travelers can enjoy the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants , buzzing nightclubs, and edgy museums well into the new year.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: From November to January, Berlin’s Botanic Garden transforms into a yuletide wonderland with light sculptures and illuminations.

Stay here: Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin is one of the city’s most classic stays—and it’s just a 15-minute walk from the WeihnachtsZauber market.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Why we go: For the past three decades, the little town of Bethlehem in Pennsylvania has channeled its name and transformed into “ Christmas City ” for the holidays. Celebrations are centered around the Christkindlmarkt at the SteelStacks, with more than 50 booths featuring artisan crafts, as well as live music and special events with Santa Claus himself.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: A “live” advent calendar at the Goundie House on Main Street features a downtown merchant emerging from the door at 5:30 p.m. every night with treats for all who are waiting.

Stay here: Hotel Bethlehem is a wonderland of its own, with 35,000 Christmas lights, 36 wreaths, life-sized toy soldiers, and a gingerbread house of the hotel.

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Hannah Towey

Bruges, Belgium

Why we go: Europe’s best-preserved medieval city oozes charm year-round, but especially during the holidays. It’s hard to imagine a place more magical as you wander the cobblestone streets, admire the shimmering lights, and warm up with mugs of Belgian hot chocolate in cafés.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Follow the Winter Glow light trail with stops at 10 installations through the historic part of the city center, including lights at the Church of Our Lady Tower and a projection at Gruuthuse.

Stay here: Grand Hotel Casselbergh (steps away from the Markt) has inviting touches like exposed wooden beams in the rooms, a lobby bar with a fireplace, and a wellness center located in a 16th-century cellar.

Cape Town, South Africa

Why we go: If you’re looking to escape winter during Christmas, you can't do much better than Cape Town —it’s summer in the Southern Hemisphere, after all. You can even visit one (or several) of the South African city’s holiday markets without having to wear a coat and scarf.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: They’re not exactly Santa’s elves, but the estimated 2,000 to 3,000 African penguins at Boulders Beach—where you can get close enough to take portrait-mode photos of them—are sure to warm your heart just the same.

Stay here: The light and breezy rooms sitting above the Atlantic Ocean at Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa are the perfect antidotes to the winter blues.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Why we go: According to the World Happiness Report, Denmark is one of the world’s happiest countries , making it a great place to spend the holidays. Things are even jollier at Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens , where antique amusement park rides decorated with lights are surrounded by yet another adorable, alpine village-style Christmas market selling gifts and snacks. The park has also been known to deck out its tree with Swarovski crystals .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Book a table at Restaurant Vita for some andesteg , a traditional Danish holiday dish of crispy, succulent roast duck served with prunes and apples.

Stay here: Never mind hygge— Hotel Sanders takes Danish comfort and contentment to new heights.

Why we go: Dubai does Christmas the same way Dubai does nearly everything—in true, over-the-top fashion. Catch the tree lightings happening around town, including the ones at Towers Rotana, Fairmont The Palm, and The Irish Village , and then watch the jolly ol’ St. Nicks making a run for it at the Santa Run . And since no visit to Dubai is complete without several shopping sprees, set aside time to stock up on goodies at one of the city’s Christmas markets .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Dubai Mall is an air-conditioned winter wonderland, complete with an ice skating rink and indoor ski slopes at Ski Dubai.

Stay here: Jumeirah Al Naseem earns high marks for its posh rooms, easy beach access, and superior dining and spa options.

Dublin, Ireland

Why we go: If your idea of Christmas merriment includes an authentic Irish pub crawl (we get it), then Dublin is your place. There’s no better way to warm up on a cold Christmas night than with some black pudding and a few pints—and trust us, this city has enough cozy bars to last you through New Year’s. But the Irish capital isn’t just about drinking, of course. Holiday offerings include Christmas markets, decked-out shops on Grafton Street, and tree-lighting ceremonies galore.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: For 66 years, The Moving Crib in St. Martin Apostolate’s basement has been charming families with its mechanical figures depicting scenes like Noah’s Ark.

Stay here: The Westbury becomes even more luxurious during the holidays, with prime views overlooking the lights of Grafton Street during afternoon tea.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Why we go: Warming up with whisky is reason enough to visit, but Edinburgh ’s seasonal offerings extend far past booze. There’s also the sprawling holiday market at East Princes St. Gardens, skiing at Pentland Hills Regional Park, and ice skating at St Andrew Square. Traditionally the Christmas season is followed by the Hogmanay Festival —a three-day bacchanal celebrating the New Year, with outdoor concerts, fireworks, and dancing Scots.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Dine at Edinburgh Castle, which is known to host Christmas lunches ( yes, really ).

Stay here: If it’s views you're after, you can’t do much better than The Balmoral , which overlooks the Old Town and Edinburgh Castle.

Gdańsk, Poland

Why we go: When the holidays roll around, the warm and cozy feel of this storybook port city goes into overdrive, especially for the month-long Christmas Fair . Highlights include advent windows, a magical snow globe, a sleigh ride flight simulator, and a speaking elk.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Take a break from the food and drink booths to ride the two-floor Gdańsk carousel .

Stay here: Standing next to the railway station, the Craft Beer Central Hotel Gdańsk lets you continue the merriment into the night at the in-house brewery.

Hong Kong, China

Why we go: Hong Kong ’s yuletide urban offerings rival that of NYC ’s, with holiday markets, window displays, and concerts galore (they even have a Santa Con). Then there are the lights. The Symphony of Lights show—held nightly at 8 p.m.—will leave you breathless, thanks to an extravagantly choreographed neon show displayed across more than 40 of the city’s iconic skyscrapers along Victoria Harbor.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Experience the Symphony of Lights during a harbor-front dinner cruise .

Stay here: As if the Ritz-Carlton wasn’t swanky enough, the hotel hosts Christmas parties , dinners, and afternoon teas all season.

Inari, Finland

Why we go: While most tourists flock to the Lapland city of Rovaniemi come Christmas, we suggest heading even further north (like, within reach of the Arctic Ocean north) to the village of Inari. Located in the heart of the scenic Ivalo region—reachable via a 1.5-hour flight from Helsinki —Inari is a pure winter wonderland dotted with hotels and restaurants that keep things nice and cozy. It’s hard to imagine a more authentic winter holiday than one spent riding dog sleds, feeding reindeer , and chasing the Northern Lights .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: A private Northern Lights safari will have you sitting in a heated sleigh and sipping sparkling wine while waiting for the aurora to dance. (Rough life, huh?)

Stay here: Finnish Lapland is known for its glass-igloo accommodations, as well as in-house winter activities and cozy, panoramic cabins at Aurora Village . (Heated windows ensure the snow doesn’t cover your view.) Plus, daily reindeer feedings are available.

Why we go: Christmas in London has timeless appeal—chalk it up to the decorated Georgian townhouses, lively pubs, and a dash of Dickensian charm. Our step-by-step guide to spending the holidays in London covers the perfect place for afternoon tea , a steak to tuck into after a day spent gift shopping, and a martini to sip on Christmas Eve—and that’s just for starters.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: One of the most magical experiences is gliding around the frozen 18th-century courtyard of Somerset House , a sprawling neoclassical building off the Strand.

Stay here: Claridge’s —because there's no better place to ring in Christmas than in one of the best hotels on the planet.

Málaga, Spain

Why we go: Located in southern Spain, Málaga really goes all out for the holidays. The lights along Calle Larios are some of the best in town, lit in late November and kept on through December. Other can't-miss activities include the Christmas markets, massive nativity scenes, and free concerts at Plaza de la Constitución.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Verdiales Music Festival on December 28 is one of the city's biggest seasonal attractions, and definitely the most unique. All day, visitors can watch competing couples don extravagant costumes and practice different forms of verdiales , the regional flamenco dance.

Stay here: A Málaga institution since 2009, Finca Cortesin sets the standard for Andalusian hotels with its sumptuous design and vast swimming pools.

Montreal, Canada

Why we go: Love the idea of a European holiday but hate the idea of a transatlantic flight? Enter Montreal . With most of the cold-averse tourists flocking south for the winter, Canada’s chicest city reveals its true personality with cozy French restaurants, high-end shopping (hello, last-minute presents), and over-the-top festivals.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Celebrate Christmas with mass at Notre-Dame Basilica , arguably one of the most gorgeous churches in the world. (Celine Dion got married here, so you know it’s good.) Note that the Basilica does charge admission for the service, so make sure to reserve your tickets in advance.

Stay here: Located a block away from both Notre-Dame Basilica and the Nutcracker Market at Palais des Congrès , Hotel Place d’Armes is as convenient as it is aesthetically pleasing.

New York City, New York

Why we go: There’s no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it’s ice skating at Rockefeller Center, window shopping on Fifth Avenue, or lurking around 34th street hoping to witness a miracle.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: There’s no such thing as going overboard with Christmas decorations in Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood. Join a walking tour , organized by the area’s residents.

Stay here: The Plaza , full stop. (If it’s good enough for Kevin McCallister ...)

Paris, France

Why we go:  Can you really think of a more magical place to spend Christmas than Paris? The city provides  festive activities at every turn, from the light installations on the Champs-Elysées to any number of pop-up markets and ice skating rinks. Even if you don’t feel like shivering out in the cold, warming up with a mug of hot chocolate at Angelina will still get you in the spirit.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Whether you gawk at the window displays outside or the massive Christmas tree inside,  Galeries Lafayette is well worth elbowing a few fellow tourists to check out.

Stay here:   Hôtel Lutetia is a Left Bank stunner with gourmet holiday menus and an Art Deco lobby decked out with lights and trees. Upgrade to a higher room category for oversized bathtubs and balconies overlooking the Eiffel Tower

Park City, Utah

Why we go: As if the world-class skiing isn’t reason enough to visit Park City this winter, the town also happens to be a wonderful place to spend Christmas. The former Olympic city has ample opportunities for skiing, fly fishing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding—with no shortage of resorts to warm up in between runs.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hop on a 90-minute train ride with the North Pole Express at Heber Valley Railroad, where you can sip hot cocoa and meet Mrs. Claus.

Stay here: The 12-room Washington School House is just a hop away from Park City’s lit-up Main Street, and we must say its Christmas decorations are some of the prettiest we’ve ever seen.

Prague, Czech Republic

Why we go: Prague ’s holiday markets easily make the city one of the world’s best places to spend Christmas: They run for a full month, with locals and travelers passing through for mulled wine, sticky pastries, and roasted ham. The main markets take place in the Old Town and Wenceslas squares, just 10 minutes apart by foot—and are set to the backdrop of some of the prettiest Gothic architecture you’ll ever see.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sip on Svařák, a Czech mulled wine with a citrusy touch from a market stall. Or for a sweeter taste, indulge in a hot chocolate at Cafe Slavia , founded in 1881.

Stay here: Aria Hotel is located within walking distance of Prague Castle, and its music-themed suites are always a hit.

Quebec City, Canada

Why we go: Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America, and its colonial French architecture gives it an unmistakably European feel. The cobbled streets of the Old Town are packed with quaint shops and delicious bistros, all merrily decorated for the holidays.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Au 1884 toboggan run by Château Frontenac (open from mid-December to mid-March) is one of the city’s oldest traditions—and quite the thrill. Zoom down icy tracks overlooking the city on a wooden sled reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.

Stay here: You can’t go wrong with Auberge Saint-Antoine and its lobby fireplace, heated bathroom floors, and a Christmas package that includes a five-course dinner, holiday movie screenings at the in-house theater, and a personal visit from Santa in your room.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Why we go:  Who says Christmas has to be about ugly sweaters and hot cocoa? December in Rio is all about enjoying an icy caipirinha on a  spectacular beach —with daily temperatures hovering in the 80s. The city also happens to host the world’s largest display of full-sized nativity scenes during its annual  Festival de Presépios (“Crib Festival”), found at Jardim de Alah between Leblon and Ipanema.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  For the very best display in town, ride a bike around the Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon and enjoy views of the world’s largest floating Christmas tree from every angle.

Stay here:  The  Fasano Hotel along Ipanema beach has an infinity pool overlooking the ocean that will make winter seem very, very far away.

Rome, Italy

Why we go: The streets around Rome will be festively alight, sure, but the home to the seat of Catholicism is an excellent option for folks seeking a more sacrosanct Christmas experience.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hear hymns echoing off the walls of the 1,900-year-old architectural marvel during midnight mass at the Pantheon (December 24 into the 25th).

Stay here: Aside from classically designed guest rooms, Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese offers festive amenities like themed dinners at the rooftop restaurant and chauffeured tours of Rome’s holiday lights in a vintage Fiat 500.

Salzburg, Austria

Why we go: It’s no surprise that Salzburg’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old City that served as the backdrop for The Sound of Music also fills its famed Christkindlmarkt with song. With roots dating back to the 15th century, sing-alongs and traditional wind music are as much a part of the festivities as the mulled wine and market stands. We’re not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: It’s literally Christmas all year round at the Christmas in Salzburg shop on Goldgasse, known for its frilly ornaments (especially those hand-painted on eggshells).

Stay here: Hotel Goldener Hirsch is just steps away from Christkindlmarkt, although we’d be fine staying in these comfortable rooms all day.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Why we go:  Christmas in San Miguel de Allende kicks off on December 12 (aka Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe), and the rest of the month is equal parts solemn and celebratory. You may encounter nativity scenes and church services one day, then parades and fireworks the next. But seeing as it all takes place in one of the friendliest, most beautiful cities in the world, we’re guessing you’ll be able to easily enjoy every moment.

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Between December 16 and 24, most of Mexico participates in Las Posadas, a religious festival honoring the Nativity story. Once a day, two people dressed up as Mary and Joseph lead a procession to a different home and ask to be let inside (as in the biblical journey to Bethlehem), and the reenactment typically ends with carols, food, and pinatas.

Stay here:  The city has its share of swank hotels, but it’s hard to compete with the spa amenities and rooftop bar at  Rosewood San Miguel de Allende .

Sibiu, Romania

Why we go: Visiting the Gothic castles and dense forests of Transylvania on a bright summer day is great. But visiting when the mountains are quieted by snow and the sky has a bleak, wintry haze to it? Way more appropriate. The town of Sibiu is particularly lovely during the holidays, with a glittery Christmas market complete with 100 merchants, an ice rink, and a Ferris wheel.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sibiu’s markets offer a variety of treats, but be sure to sample some kürtőskalács—a Transylvanian “chimney cake” consisting of hollow spirals of sweet dough topped with sugar, walnuts, or coconut.

Stay here: About a 90-minute drive outside of Sibiu, Bethlen Estates is a collection of vacation houses that opened a few years ago. The properties—including the Saxon-style cottage Depner House—have already established themselves as some of the best places to stay in the Romanian countryside.

Strasbourg, France

Why we go: Strasbourg is home to the oldest of France’s Christmas markets, dating back nearly 450 years . There are 12 in total to check out, which is sure to keep you busy. Pro tip: Though the markets will be full of delicious goodies, many choose to indulge in the king of Alsatian delicacies—foie gras, which is also a French Christmas tradition.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The superlative market sits beneath the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, the tallest surviving structure built entirely in the Middle Ages. How’s that for a photo op?

Stay here: We’re huge fans of the impossibly luxurious Hôtel Les Haras , installed in Louis XV’s historic stables in Strasbourg.

Sydney, Australia

Why we go: You haven’t seen Christmas lights until you’ve seen Sydney’s Christmas lights. Plus, the holiday season lasts an entire month here (take that , 12 days of Christmas) with “ Sydney Christmas. ” The festival features the city’s largest Christmas Tree at Martin Place.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Wonder at the 3,500 twinkling lights at the Strand Arcade or the 85,000 twinkling LEDs at the incredible Pitt Street Mall Canopy of Light .

Stay here: Celebrate with a Christmas Day lunch followed by a nap by the rooftop pool (remember, it’s summertime Down Under) at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour.

Taipei, Taiwan

Why we go: December 25 isn’t a public holiday in Taipei, but it’s still one of the best places to spend Christmas, as the city celebrates with incredible lights displays, festive attractions, and events. During the weeks between mid-November and the New Year, pretty much the entire Banqiao District transforms into Christmasland—which is exactly what it sounds like. We’re talking massive Christmas trees, rides, concerts, and markets selling local goods.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Don’t miss the Christmasland section over in the Fuzhong Business district , with a magic forest and Boshou light park.

Stay here: We love the Mandarin Oriental for its decadent decor and wide range of food options.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Why we go:  Due to the Georgian Orthodox Church’s use of the Julian calendar, Christmas isn’t officially celebrated in Tbilisi until January 7. Decorations and festivities start much earlier, however, with city-wide light displays, Christmas markets, and musical performances ready to dazzle visitors starting in December.  

The one thing to get you in the spirit:  Located in Tbilisi’s Freedom Square, the Liberty Monument (which depicts Saint George slaying a dragon) is covered with cascading lights to create a massive makeshift  Christmas tree .

Stay here:  The cozy-chic vibes at  Stamba Hotel are unparalleled—think buttery leather sofas, lush hanging plants, and floor-to-ceiling shelves of vintage books.

Tokyo, Japan

Why we go: The city turns the voltage up each year with its winter illuminations, with different districts competing to create some truly sensational displays. Standout illumination sites include the almost 10-foot-tall snow globes with falling snow at Tokyo Midtown and a massive Baccarat crystal chandelier at Yebisu Garden Place. The bright lights are so popular, they stay up well past Christmas day—often through January or February. 

The one thing to get you in the spirit : One of the most famous illuminations is the Blue Cavern ( Ao no Dokutsu ) in Shibuya, which is inspired by the blue grottos of the Mediterranean.

Stay here: Aman Tokyo , a two-time Gold List winner, has a multi-level spa and deep furo soaking tubs in each room. 

Vilnius, Lithuania

Why we go: Vilnius becomes a true winter wonderland in December, with a Christmas train that weaves through Old Town, 3D nativity stories projected onto buildings, and Christmas markets in the city’s squares.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The headline-making Christmas trees are no joke. This year’s main tree was designed to look like a giant multi-layered birthday cake to honor the city’s upcoming 700th anniversary.

Stay here: The warm and inviting Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius is as close to all the Christmas delights as you can get.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

Get fresh, hand-crafted updates and news from the Casual Travelist delivered straight to your email.

Casual Travelist

Travel and food, with a dash of adventure

The Best Cities to Visit for Christmas

By Brianna | November 25, 2018

Sharing is caring!

• Facebook 72
• Pinterest 1970

In cities and towns across the globe something magical happens each year during the Christmas season; streets are adorned with lights and garland, carolers joyfully share their melodies and the scents of cinnamon and sugar grace the air. Holiday celebrations fill city squares from Scandinavia to Mexico with revelers taking to the streets with wishes of good tidings and cheer. If you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of Santa and his reindeer as he prepares for the big night. Whether you’re looking for Old World tradition or big city splendor, these are the best cities to visit for Christmas.

This post contains affiliate links. The Casual Travelist recieves a small commision for any purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.

New York City

A popular destination anytime of the year, New York City is at its best during the holiday season . Admire the festive window displays along Fifth Avenue, glide around the ice rink in Central Park and check out the glorious Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center bedecked with over 50,000 twinkling lights. The Radio City Music Spectacular, featuring the world famous Rockettes, is a holiday classic that always delights and be sure to check out the European-style Christmas market and Bryant Square Park to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

New York City Hotels

Salzburg,Austria

Nestled in the Austrian Alps Salzburg gets high marks for traditional Christmas charm. Wander the  beautifully decorated cobblestone lanes of the Altstadt, or Old Town, with a warm mug of gluwein in hand before tucking into one of Salzburg’s many cafes to warm up with a slice of apple strudel. Explore one of the many Christmas markets around Salzburg in search of the perfect ornament before heading out to nearby Oberndorf, the tiny alpine town where the iconic Christmas carol “Silent Night” was written.

Salzburg Hotels

Rovaniemi, Finland

Instead of patiently awaiting for Saint Nick’s arrival on Christmas Eve what about heading up north to pay him a visit? The small town of Rovaniemi in the northern reaches of Finnish Lapland is known as the official hometown of Santa Claus and panning a Christmas trip to Finnish Lapland is a great way to celebrate the season . Check out the festivities at Santa Claus Village where you can bake gingerbread with Mrs. Claus or take a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy northern forests. If you’re lucky you may even get to experience the magic of the Northern Lights!

Rovaniemi Hotels

Alexandria,Virginia

Minutes from downtown Washington D.C. the colonial streets of Alexandria ring in the holidays with a European flair .  Join 45 Scottish clans on Alexandria’s brick-paved streets during the annual Scottish Christmas Walk, where tartan clad pipe and drum bands herald the arrival of Santa. For a more colonial Christmas stop by the historic Carlyle House where you can experience the holidays as they were celebrated during the American Revolution or enjoy a candlelight tour of George Washington’s Mount Vernon. With over 160 independent shops in Old Town Alexandria you’re sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

Alexandria, Virginia Hotels

London, England

Photo Credit: Cassie Sereda

Come Christmas time the streets of London sparkle with lights and festive decorations. Wander around the traditional Christmas markets in Hyde Park or take a spin around the ice rink at the Tower of London. Be sure to save room for a traditional British Christmas pudding, a delicious steamed dessert typically served with a splash of flaming brandy.

London Hotels

Prague, Czech Republic

The winding cobblestone streets and spires of Prague are even more magical during the holidays. In Old Town Square the Tyn Church serves as a backdrop for the majestic Christmas tree brought in from the northern forests of the Czech Republic while revelers peruse the traditional Christmas Market where you can shop for traditional wooden toys, ornaments and marionettes. Warm up with a mug of mulled wine and a tredlnik , a traditional pastry coated with sugar and toasted nuts.

Prague Hotels

Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City is one of the best cities to celebrate Christmas in Canada . Beautifully decorated lights and a blanket of snow highlight the old world charms of Quebec City during the holidays. The cobblestone streets of the Rue de Petit-Champlain evoke the spirit of Christmas past while the hotel Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac , the grande dame of Quebec City, is dressed in her holiday finest. Live out your Frozen fantasies at the Quebec’s Ice Hotel , a winter wonderland made completely from snow and ice.

Quebec City Hotels

New Orleans, Louisiana

It’s no secret that New Orleans knows how to celebrate and that goes double for the holidays. Bonfires along the levees light the way for Papa Noel while carolers sing in the season in Jackson Square. Take in a dazzling light display in City Park or tour homes in the French Quarter and Garden District decked out in their Christmas finest. Food is at the heart of any celebration in New Orleans, ring in Christmas Eve with a traditional Reveillon dinner at one of the many great restaurants in New Orleans .

New Orleans Hotels

Chicago, Illinois

With over one million Christmas lights and dazzling holiday displays adorning store windows, Chicago’s Magnificent Mile is even more magnificent. Take a spin on the ice skating rink at Millennial Park to work up an appetite for kringle and hot chocolate at Chicago’s Christkindlmarket, Chicago’s largest open-air Christmas Market inspired by the traditional markets of Germany.

Chicago Hotels

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

The beautiful colonial city of San Miguel de Allende celebrates with Christmas season with a decidedly Mexican flair. Festive processions fill the cobblestone streets while revelers (with cups of ponche, a Mexican hot toddy , in hand) celebrate with posadas reenactments, fireworks,  live music and dancing all against the backdrop of pink spires of the stunning La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel .

San Miguel de Allende Hotels

Planning to travel during the holidays? Pin this post for later!

About the Author

Freelance travel writer and blogger who seeks out laid back luxury. Focus on culinary, adventure and nature travel. [READ ALL ARTICLES]

The Best Things to Do in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Where to Travel in 2017- Top Travel Bloggers Share Their Favorite Destinations

A Winter Weekend in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Reader interactions, leave a comment cancel reply.

Helpful comments include feedback on the recipe or changes you made.

Get new posts and travel tips delivered right to your inbox!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Bell | Wanderlust Marriage says

December 4, 2015 at 8:31 am

This is a great list of places to visit for Christmas. We’re living in Boston and so close to 2 places! Though I’d love to make to Finland to see Santa 🙂

Brianna says

December 9, 2015 at 8:34 pm

Boston is one of my favorite cities, lucky you!

Charles McCool says

December 4, 2015 at 8:37 am

Washington, DC is not too bad. Everything is decorated and there are two national tree areas (at the Capitol Building and on the Ellipse). The Botanic Gardens is magnificent at Christmas time. I would love to visit all of these cities at Christmas!

December 9, 2015 at 8:36 pm

You know I love DC anytime of year! Don’t forget the Zoolights 🙂

Aparna says

December 4, 2015 at 9:32 am

These look so magical! I would love to go to Iceland (Reykjavik) for Christmas, or try Munich with all the holiday markets. Goa (India) is great this time of year too.

December 9, 2015 at 8:39 pm

Munich is also super high on my list and the beaches of Goa would be amazing.

Jessica van Dop DeJesus says

December 4, 2015 at 1:15 pm

Concur with Charles! DC is magical this time of the year!

December 9, 2015 at 8:40 pm

I agree 100%!

Stefan says

December 6, 2015 at 5:45 am

I would love to see NYC and Salzburg covered in a blanket of snow.

So pleased my home city (London) made the cut – it’s grey, cold and miserable weather wise at Xmas, but the Christmas atmosphere, particularly around Oxford Street and Regent street makes it magical.

December 9, 2015 at 9:03 pm

I’d love to see London all lit up 🙂

Jen Joslin says

December 6, 2015 at 9:26 am

Out of all the places on this list I’ve only been to NYC at Christmas. I would love to go to Finland to see the northern lights and Santa’s village!

December 9, 2015 at 8:46 pm

How cool would it be to see the Northern Lights after visiting Santa?

Brenda Tolentino says

December 6, 2015 at 10:28 am

I’m happy to see my hometown, NYC, Christmas is definitely the best time to visit! I’m also excited to see London, England because we are spending Christmas this year in that lovely town, we can’t wait to go to The Christmas markets in Hyde Park and have pudding!

December 9, 2015 at 8:48 pm

How lucky you guys are to be spending time in London during the holidays!

LeAnna says

December 6, 2015 at 10:42 am

OMG! What a fun list! I’ve never heard of Rovaniemi. I could see that being an amazing trip with little ones…oh who am I kidding, it’d be fun for adults, too!

Who wouldn’t love to visit Santa?

Lesley says

December 6, 2015 at 11:37 am

I love the lights over London; they look like snow.

Rovaniemi, Finland is on the top of my list for winter destinations.

December 9, 2015 at 8:50 pm

I want to go meet Santa and make a new reindeer friend.

December 6, 2015 at 12:42 pm

I visited Quebec City in the winter for the Ice Festival. It was 30 degrees BELOW zero. This made nothing fun….take into consideration the weather at Christmas if you choose Quebec City. It is a wonderful and lovely city, but winter is no joke!

30 below is nuts, yikes!

Karilyn says

December 6, 2015 at 1:49 pm

I have been to London and New York are pins Christmas but haven’t been to any others. Christmas really does turn places into a super magical place. Thanks for new inspiration for our holidays!! I already have Finland on the list. Got to make it before my son no longer believes!

December 9, 2015 at 8:52 pm

Going to Finland would be just magical with kids!

December 6, 2015 at 11:02 pm

I was in Paris for Christmas a few years ago, and it was pretty spectacular. I loved getting to see Notre Dame all decorated. We went both on Christmas eve and day because it was so beautiful.

December 9, 2015 at 8:55 pm

Paris is always a good idea, I bet its just splendid during the holidays.

December 6, 2015 at 11:27 pm

I will be spending Christmas in my hometown of NYC per usual. But I would love to see some reindeer. That would be amazing.

December 9, 2015 at 8:56 pm

Who wouldn’t love a new reindeer friend?

Janna C says

December 7, 2015 at 3:48 am

Oh my! I love Christmas and it’s my favorite holiday. What a great list. I would definitely head to Finland to see that reindeer! So adorable. And of course nothing beats NYC during the holidays. Holidays in New York reminds me of the movies I used to watch like You’ve got mail. 😀

December 9, 2015 at 8:58 pm

NYC Christmas makes me think of Elf, hands down my favorite Christmas movie!

Gemma Two Scots Abroad says

December 7, 2015 at 3:02 pm

This is really getting me in the mood! We are going to visit the Christmas market in Vancouver and have just been skiing at Whistler so B.C does very well! I like the look of Finland for some festivities! Great post. Merry Christmas to you and your family.

December 9, 2015 at 8:59 pm

Merry Christmas to you two as well!

Christina @ Christina's Cucina says

December 9, 2015 at 7:28 pm

Oh yes, my favorite so far is Cologne, Germany! They have so many Christmas markets, all walking distance in a totally walkable city! It was such a fabulous atmosphere and the food and gluhwein were fantastic! I wouldn’t be against visiting any of these cities on your list, though!

Kelly @ TastingPage says

December 9, 2015 at 7:46 pm

So many lovely places to visit! Living in CA, it never feels quite like XMas with all the sunshine and palm trees, but one of my favorite XMas memories was touring the Christmas markets in France and Germany. Everything is so well decorated with great food and wine. It definitely gets you in the spirit!

December 10, 2015 at 3:31 pm

I am not a huge fan of the holidays, but I do love the Christmas markets in Strasbourg, France – amazing holiday eat treats!

December 19, 2015 at 10:59 am

Truth be told food is my favorite part of the holiday season (and any other season for that matter.

December 12, 2015 at 8:27 pm

I love the excitement and decorations of big cities at Christmas. We were in San Francisco around the holidays a couple of years recently and it was a lot of fun to see Union Square all lit up and the tree, ice rink, etc. I also love Italy at Christmas. The decorations are so beautiful.

December 19, 2015 at 11:02 am

I’d love to see SF done up for the holidays, I’m sure its just beautiful!

December 13, 2015 at 1:34 am

Great list. London and NYC would be near the top of my list for Christmas also, though my favorite is Austin Texas, not only is it the live music capital of the world, during Christmas we also have Trail of lights, The Austin Trail of Lights is consistently included in Top 10 National Light Festivals by USA Today. MY 2nd favorite is Vienna Austria, the christmas market outside the city center si amazing!

December 19, 2015 at 11:04 am

You’ve mentioned two of my favorite cities, I’m sure both are even better during the holidays!

December 13, 2015 at 1:49 am

What a great selection of cities that can make Christmas look great. I’m not surprised I didn’t see Los Angeles, my hometown, among them. Nothing feels like Christmas here. It was in the upper 70s today. I miss a little snow at this time of year.

December 19, 2015 at 11:05 am

Anda, I’m sure a few people have put lights on their palm trees 🙂

Karla | karlaroundtheworld says

December 13, 2015 at 6:37 am

You know, I have never spent Christmas elsewhere but in the Philippines. It’s something I have been meaning to try though. Despite that, I guess, I am happy that I am with family during the holiday season. They’re not a big fan of holiday rush so we spend it all in one place but all celebrating and happy anyway, so that is good too.

December 19, 2015 at 11:07 am

Spending time with family and friends is really what the holidays are about aren’t they?

Andrea Leblang says

December 13, 2015 at 9:38 am

Fabulous post! My husband and I will be in Nice, France for the holidays this year. Hoping it’s a festive spot as well, but reading this made me want to experience Finland! Maybe next year 🙂

December 19, 2015 at 11:09 am

I’m sure Nice will be just lovely! Is there ever a bad time to spend time on the RIviera?

Toni | 2 Aussie Travellers says

December 13, 2015 at 4:22 pm

Some fabulous looking options here but my biggest surprise was Tokyo, Japan. In a country that doesn’t officially celebrate Christmas they have the most amazing Christmas light displays.

December 19, 2015 at 11:10 am

I never would have thought of Japan for Christmas but I’m sure the light displays are spectacular!

December 13, 2015 at 5:06 pm

Very nice collection of cities. I am surprised no cities from Germany made the list. Finnish Lapland sounds like a fun place to visit during the holidays, we just came back from seeing some Reindeer this afternoon. sadley no sleigh rides though.

December 19, 2015 at 11:11 am

I came close as many of the traditions we associate with CHristmas are German in origin.

December 13, 2015 at 5:30 pm

What a great list of cities to choose from. I visited Quebec City for the first time in May this year and can imagine how fabulous it would be at Christmas.

In Europe can I also suggest Munich? Its Christmas market is very unappreciated and there is Dallemeyer for fabulous food treats. Visiting Neuschwanstein in the snow is a magical experience

December 19, 2015 at 11:12 am

Quebec City is gorgeous anytime of year isn’t it?

Murissa says

December 13, 2015 at 6:17 pm

NYC and London are on my Christmas wish list. I would like to add Honolulu or the island of Oahu in general. Will be spending Christmas there this year for the second time. Just love it!

Joe Ankenbauer says

December 13, 2015 at 10:15 pm

You forgot Vienna! Haha! That’s my #1 right now, with NYC a close second. I love the list, it just goes to show you how many beautiful places are out there celebrating the best holiday besides my birthday 😉

December 19, 2015 at 11:13 am

Being that Salzburg ws on the list I made the tough choice not to include Vienna(another city I love).

Sue @NoFixedAbodeForSue says

December 13, 2015 at 10:31 pm

I have visited a few on your list and will be heading to London today to enjoy a few days of festive spirit. I think NY is fun during the holidays and Chicago is always on my go to list. I really need to visit more European cities next year and Prague is towards the top

December 19, 2015 at 11:14 am

Prague is a gorgeous city, I’m sure you’ll love it!

Carolann & Macrae - One Modern Couple says

December 14, 2015 at 1:05 am

Some of these were surprising to us! We’d love to see New Orleans at Christmas – it seems like it would be such an interesting experience!

We were just recently in Rothenburg, Germany and it was a pretty magical experience with their Christmas market at the centre of the walled city and all the shops with christmas displays and decorations.

December 19, 2015 at 11:15 am

New Orleans is always a good idea 🙂

Stephanie says

December 14, 2015 at 7:08 am

I think Salzburg is a gret place to visit at Christmas time. I visited at the end of November and unfortunately missed the markets. The city is so quant and beautiful though. I really want to visit New York at Christmas!

December 19, 2015 at 11:16 am

Salzburg is charming any time of year 🙂

antonette - we12travel says

December 14, 2015 at 5:32 pm

I love to get away for Christmas because it’s my birthday then and I’ve spent it at various places. My pick from your list would be Rovaniemi, so I could finally spot the Aurora and go dogsledding 🙂

December 19, 2015 at 11:18 am

It doesn’t get any better than visiting the home of Santa does it? THe Northern Lights are definitely on my travel wish list.

Elaine J Masters says

November 21, 2016 at 10:05 pm

Nice round up. I’d love to do Christmas in San Miguel, in most villages of Mexico!

December 1, 2016 at 9:40 pm

San Miguel looks magical!

Chloe GOGO Budget Travel says

November 22, 2016 at 8:32 pm

Oh Christmas! All too lovely and the cities have the perfect feel!

Connies Tricklin says

October 1, 2017 at 1:27 am

Every year we celebrate our Christmas in our home. but this time we want to celebrate it in another place. For this reason, we finding which city is best to visit for Christmas. After reading your article I collect much information. I think new york city is the best place to visit for our next Christmas. thanks for sharing your article.

Holly Bird says

November 25, 2018 at 9:52 pm

I love to travel during Christmas! Your list is awesome and I now have a couple of more holiday vacations to take! Thank you so much!

Euro Travel Coach says

December 5, 2018 at 3:21 am

What a fantastic list of great cities to visit at Christmastime. There is something very special about each one. We absolutely love Salzburg and London during the Christmas season. This year we got to also visit Bristol and Bath, UK which both have terrific Christmas markets. Thank you so much for a terrific post. Wonderful pictures and descriptions. You’ve added some more places to my list of cities I’d like to visit during the magical holiday season.

• Privacy Policy

The 6 Best U.S. Destinations to Visit for Christmas

 TripSavvy / Theresa Chiechi

"Home for the Holidays" is a familiar refrain during December but for a growing segment of Americans and international travelers, Christmas time is a popular time to get away. For adventurers eager to ditch the local scene during the holidays, there are many great choices to venture across the USA, from urban wonders, to balmy beaches , and the great outdoors. 

New York City

New York City lands on every best destinations list, but it is especially gorgeous during the holidays with all the lights and the snow, making it a favorite destination for many Christmas travelers.

Manhattan is famous for shopping , and the ideal place to find unique gifts as well as find everything on your own wish list. The metropolis boasts many annual traditions, such as the  holiday-themed windows  at New York's famed  department stores  and the giant spruce  Christmas tree  at  Rockefeller Center , 

Live performances abound during the holidays in NYC. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a Broadway-style show put on by the famous, high-kicking Rockettes at the even-more-famous Radio City Music Hall . Each year the New York City Ballet puts on a venerated version of the classic Nutcracker, while for the child in all of us, the man dubbed to be the "real Santa " awaits at Macy's.

The Windy City certainly has the brisk weather conditions to deliver a White Christmas—or at least a very, very cold one. However, tourists go to Chicago for Christmas for its big-city activities: View the millions of lights on the Magnificent Mile or enjoy Chicago's German heritage at the famous Christkindlmarket a German Christmas market filled with holiday crafts, traditional wooden toys, plus food and drink.

Chicago also has a giant Christmas tree, which is set up in Millennium Park and inaugurated each year with much fanfare. To marry science with spirit, check out the Annual Christmas Around the World Exhibit  at the Museum of Science and Industry.

darekm101/ Getty Images

A ski holiday at Christmastime offers snowy slopes and cozy chalets for a fun and relaxing getaway. Many of the most popular places to go for skiing  in the United States are in Colorado, home to several chic resort towns. Celebrate a Victorian Christmas at the Breckenridge ski resort or join the jet set in Aspen, Vail, and Steamboat Springs . 

For families, an urban Christmas in Denver may be the right fit. A great holiday attraction is the Zoo Lights at the Denver Zoo, where the kids can ride the Holiday Carousel, and sip high tea at the Brown Palace. Lastly, Santa trackers will know that Colorado is home to NORAD , the governmental agency that tracks Santa's gift-giving route on Christmas Eve.

Even in December, most of Florida enjoys mild temperatures making the state ideal for a white Christmas comprised of sand and not snow. In addition to beach destinations, travelers can visit Walt Disney World, which is decked out in true, over-the-top Disney style. Take the kids to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party  or to see Epcot's Candlelight Processional.

For holidays with a Latin flavor, head to Christmas in Miami . In the weeks leading up to December 25th, there are boat parades and festive light displays in many cities across the state, such as the Night of Lights in St. Augustine.  

Another great reason to visit Florida is to literally visit Christmas , a little town near Orlando that has become a favorite place for people to mail out gifts with a unique postmark.

Puerto Rico

Why go to Puerto Rico during Christmas ? Besides the fact that it provides a nice break from cold weather,  Puerto Rico is a very special place to spend the holidays  as Puerto Rico has its own set of Christmas traditions, ranging from decorations and storytelling to wonderful food .

While the Christmas season in Puerto Rico can begin as early as November, Nochebuena , or Christmas Eve, is Puerto Rico's most anticipated holiday event. If you want to be part of the world's longest holiday season, which starts in November and ends in February, Puerto Rico is where you need to go.

walkadog / Flickr

For jet-setters really committed to the idea of a cold, white Christmas, Alaska is the place for the holidays. 

There are a number of  Christmas festivals and events in Alaska , including Christmas-themed ice art sculptures. Adventurous types can even try dog sledding. Winter is also the prime time for catching the  Aurora Borealis , or Northern Lights, that streak across the skies over the state. 

For families with small children, Alaska might be the next best thing to visiting the North Pole. Since 1952, thousands of children who have written to Santa with their Christmas wishes have sent their letters to the Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska near Fairbanks . 

The 15 Best Christmas Towns in the US

11 Kid-Friendly Vacations to Take in December

Winter Vacation Destinations in the United States

Great Places to See Santa

December in the United States: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Christmas in New York City: Best Events & Things to See

January in the United States: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Top 12 Places to Visit in the US

Best Romantic Destinations in November and December

Where to Go for the Holidays in 2019

RV Destinations Perfect for Celebrating Christmas

The Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

The Best Holiday Light Displays in NYC

Halloween in the USA

6 Fantastic Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Paris

Where to Ring in the New Year With Kids

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

12 Of The Best Places To Go For Christmas in 2021

Matt Moffitt

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Christmas last year was quite a different affair to celebrations past, so the 2021 festive season is shaping up to be a big one!

If you’re looking for a traditional Christmas experience, we’ve got a number of suggestions in Europe and North America. But if you want to head to warmer climes in Latin America or Asia, we’ve also got you covered.

Here is a list of the top places to celebrate Christmas and the holiday season in 2021. All of these destinations are accessible by fully vaccinated travellers from the U.S.

Salzburg, Austria

Austria’s fourth-largest city in the north of the country is a well-known destination during the festive period. Its famed Christmas Markets will run again this year, from November 18 until December 26, 2021. 

Dating back to the 15th century, this Austrian tradition offers travellers an enchanting experience at the foot of the Hohensalzburg Fortress. The main cathedral is flanked by stalls offering warm Christmas cider and punch, unique ornaments for purchase, and nightly concerts. And if you’re into snow activities, The Alps are just a hop, skip and jump away.

Edinburgh, Scotland

If you’re looking for another Christmas Market option in Europe, you can head to Scotland’s capital. It’s captivating in any season but especially during Christmas, when a six-week winter festival takes place.

After a two-year hiatus, the festival is due to return to its former glory, with thousands of people flocking to Princes Street Gardens, running between November 20 and January 4, 2021. There, you can browse market stalls, hop on a fairground ride, and skate around a custom-made ice rink.

It’s also worth checking out the Castle of Light exhibition at the world-famous Edinburgh Castle, but be sure to buy your tickets in advance.

The Best and Worst Days to Travel for Thanksgiving and Christmas

Madrid, Spain

Spain’s regal capital and largest city is often overlooked in the wintertime, but the streets of the downtown are beautifully decorated with festive lights. Take a walk around Plaza del Sol, the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor. And make sure to grab some churros con chocolate and a hot cocoa drink from the most popular place in town, Chocolatería San Gines.

Hawaii, United States

If you’re looking for a tropical getaway that is easily accessible from the west coast, then the Hawaiian Islands are a great choice. Forgo a chilly Christmas for a chance to experience jaw-dropping beauty, majestic waterfalls, and pristine beaches.

If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, Hawaii (the Big Island) and Kauai tend to be less busy than Oahu and Maui.

With COVID cases decreasing, Hawaii once again started welcoming (fully-vaccinated) tourists to the island from November 1, 2021.

Florida, United States

Another popular winter destination is the most southeastern state in the U.S.—and it’s got it all.

If you want to party, Miami is the place to go. Want the thrill of theme parks? Orlando is an obvious choice.

You could also grab a rental car and head down to the Florida Keys for some rest and relaxation. Or you jump on a cruise through the Caribbean, departing from megaport Fort Lauderdale.

6 Cheapest Places to Fly This Winter

Rocky Mountains, United States

If you’re looking to hit the powder instead of the sand this winter, head to the Rocky Mountains, where you can choose from one of the many ski resorts in the largest mountain range in North America. Jackson Hole in Wyoming offers world-class powder skiing, and Park City in Utah puts on a solid festive show.

Looking for a bunch of ski resorts in one area? Then Colorado is your bet, with Aspen, Vail and Telluride all easily accessible by plane or via Denver.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Looking to get far away for the holidays? Dubai might just have everything you’re looking for.

You can go skiing at the world’s largest indoor ski facility. And if you are looking for all the Christmas trimmings, you’ll find that hotels and restaurants will offer takeaway turkey and sides packages for you to enjoy a festive meal just like at home.

In December, temperatures rarely pass 85°F and it’s dry heat, allowing you to comfortably explore the city. 

Baja California Sur, United States

Cabo San Lucas is a popular year-round destination for North Americans but is an especially welcome reprieve at Christmas time. The water temperature in December is still as warm as it is in June, meaning you can celebrate the festive season…on the beach.

If you have a rental car, it’s worth taking a daytrip an hour north to Todos Santos, one of Mexico’s 121 ‘Magic Towns’, where you can find artisan crafts and textiles at local markets.

The Best Tools for Flexible Date Searches

Québec City, Canada

With the US-Canadian border now open again, why not head to the charming city of Québec? It packs a punch with its stunning architecture, walkability, and beautiful five-star hotel and castle Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

If flying from the U.S., you will probably need to connect in Montréal or Toronto. So why not incorporate a stopover in one (or both) of Canada’s two largest cities, offering some of the best food and entertainment in the world?

Cali or Medellín, Colombia

At the tip of South America lies an underrated tourist destination and one of the top 10 most biodiverse countries in the world. If you’re looking for something unique, you’ll find an array of nature excursions, from the warm Caribbean coast to the windswept Alps.

Visit Cali and its surrounding areas for delicious coffee and salsa dancing, and be sure to spend time in Medellín, one of the most up-and-coming destinations on the backpacker trail.

There’s a reason the Land of Smiles is the most visited country in Southeast Asia. It combines warm hospitality, mouth-watering food, and stunning beaches and mountains.

The country reopened to fully-vaccinated tourists on November 1. Best to get there before tourists swarm its pristine beaches again.

The 6 Best Flight Search Sites

This tropical island sitting just above the equator might not be your first choice to celebrate Christmas. However, thanks to its multiculturalism and British colonial heritage, it celebrates the festive season big.

Gardens By The Bay is Singapore’s top-rated activity on TripAdvisor and puts on a Christmas Wonderland festival from November 29 to December 26, with dazzling lights and family-friendly activities and performances.

Southeast Asia’s most-vaccinated country is once again welcoming tourists. If you are fully vaccinated and travel on one of Singapore Airlines’ nonstop flights from New York, Los Angeles or San Francisco, then you can skip mandatory quarantine upon arrival.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Costa Rica: 9-Nt, Small-Group Tour, Incl....

Indus Travels

Greenland: Luxe, All-Incl. 11-Nt Exploration Small-Ship...

Swan Hellenic

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Martha's Blog
• Sweepstakes
• Holiday Planning & Ideas

The Most Charming Small Towns to Visit During the Christmas Season

If you ask most Americans to think about the hallmarks of the holiday season , it's usually the twinkling lights, snow-lined streets, and yuletide markets that first come to mind. That's why many agree that small towns across the country are some of the most charming places to visit at Christmastime—they offer all of these things and more. In some towns, residents prepare for their December celebrations all year long: Working together to turn their hometowns into true Christmas villages, these communities are excited to welcome visitors when the holiday season finally arrives.

If you're looking for a family-friendly destination to visit during the Christmas vacation, put one of these 15 towns on your list. Though they're charming throughout the year, they're especially noteworthy during the holiday season. Have you long hoped to treat your family to a white Christmas? You're in luck, as nearly all of these destinations provide it by the bucketful. Even towns in the warmer Southeast—like Andalusia, Alabama, which manufactures a faux snowfall for a festival —get in on the fun. There's more to do than just look at snowdrifts, though. In North Pole, Alaska, located in the suburbs of Fairbanks, the entire community bands together for unique activities, including an ice sculpture festival and visits to Santa's house . In Durango, Colorado, you can take the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to visit Santa in a would-be North Pole, just like the Polar Express.

Some would say that the activities in these towns are really just added bonuses, though. The real charm comes from just how quaint each locale is. Even in towns without a major parade or community-wide event in the days leading up to Christmas, cheer is in the air— local shops and restaurants decorated every inch of their storefronts with holly, lights, and other seasonal décor , and the hubbub on Main Street as people mill around becomes irresistible.

Whether you're looking to get away for a quiet holiday with your family or simply seeking out a day trip with festive cheer, these magical settings are sure to fill you with Christmas spirit .

Dahlonega, Georgia

Tucked away in northern Georgia, about 75 miles away from Atlanta, the town of Dahlonega comes alive at Christmastime—its residents welcome those from near and far to partake in festive events and holiday displays around town. Main Street may look somewhat familiar to you, as it's regularly featured in popular Hallmark movies, including Christmas in Homestead . The day after Thanksgiving, Dahlonega kicks off a month-long celebration called Old-Fashioned Christmas , where Santa makes appearances and twinkling lights decorate the town.

North Pole, Alaska

If you're looking for festive cheer in wide open spaces, there's no where better to visit than Alaska. Given its name, North Pole residents celebrate Christmas all year round, but traveling there in December feels extra special. Visitors can actually visit the Santa Claus house , which collects more than 400,000 pieces of mail per year from children all over the country.

Branson, Missouri

According to the Branson board of tourism, this small city in southern Missouri puts up more than 1 million Christmas lights each year, as well as hundreds of Douglas Fir trees. December schedules in Branson consist of parades, Christmas light shows, and tree lighting ceremonies, but the biggest draw for families is when the Branson Scenic Railway transforms into the Polar Express seemingly overnight. Kids can enjoy cookies and hot chocolate on the hour-long train ride where the iconic Christmas tale is recounted to all.

Durango, Colorado

At the base of the rolling hills of the San Juan National Forest, Durango is often the scene of a winter wonderland, but in December, residents pull out all the stops to create a Christmas scene. Seasonal activities like sleigh rides and ice skating in an open rink in the heart of town are fun things to do in the evenings, but Durango's main attraction is an extended version of the Polar Express aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad . Aboard a snowy locomotive, visitors snake their way in and out of foothills towards the "North Pole" and Santa makes an appearance at the end of the journey.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

People know and love this coastal town as a summer attraction, but it's just as alluring in the winter as it is in the warmer months. During the first weekend in December, permanent Nantucket residents invite visitors to join them once again on this quiet island off the coast of Massachusetts for the town's annual Christmas Stroll . Sip wine, listen to carolers, and check out hundreds of Christmas trees on display throughout the town.

Leavenworth, Washington

If you didn't know you were in the middle of Washington state, you may believe you'd stumbled into a town straight out of the Bavarian countryside in Germany. Leavenworth is as close to a European holiday as you'll get stateside, as it exudes the same alpine charm as many chalet towns in Europe. From Thanksgiving through February, Village of Lights: Christmastown offers activities like meeting Santa and hearing live music while visitors watch Leavenworth light up with more than 500,000 Christmas lights.

Santa Claus, Indiana

Living up to its name, Santa Claus is a must-visit destination for any Christmas fanatic—the town throws the Santa Claus Christmas Celebration during weekends in December, with parades, craft shows, and a host of light shows. Kids will love visiting Santa's Candy Castle or heading to the Santa Claus Museum & Village , where volunteers answer letters in the days leading up to Christmas.

Williamsburg, Virginia

According to U.S. News and World Report , Williamsburg has been informally dubbed as the "Best Christmas Town in America," and it's easy to see why. At the historic Jamestown settlement , tour guides demonstrate how original colonists celebrated the holidays back in the 1700s. In Colonial Williamsburg , there's a lighting ceremony at Market Square, and visitors are treated to the history of the first-ever Christmas tree in America. Don't forget about the amusement park Busch Gardens , which comes aglow by night thanks to 10 million holiday lights, making this the one of the largest displays in America.

Solvang, California

Christmas for wine lovers awaits in Solvang, California, which is centrally located in the Santa Ynez Valley and largely modeled on Danish heritage. In December, this small town—a collection of vineyards and quaint retailers—puts on a jovial festival known as Julefest . There's a holiday candlelight tour that is offered multiple times throughout the month, plus a makers market and Santa's Village in the town center.

McAdenville, North Carolina

The suburbs of Charlotte may seem ordinary enough, but those in the know have established McAdenville as " Christmas Town USA ." Residents here band together to put on a massive holiday display that includes nearly every home in town. Every year, for over 65 years, people travel far and wide to see more than 250 trees decked out in upwards of 500,000 lights, according to the event's organizer, Steve Rankin. There's no charge to roam around and take in the 160 decorated houses in this suburb before heading back to Charlotte later in the day.

Woodstock, Vermont

Nearly all of New England looks like a Christmas card in December, but even Vermont natives travel to Woodstock to experience a Christmas festival like no other. Known as the Wassail Weekend , the annual event features live carolers up and down main street and a public tree lighting. Antiquity is deeply rooted in this town, and historic buildings and old farmhouses open their doors to the public to showcase their beauty. The best way to see everything? By horse and buggy, of course.

Freeport, Maine

There's simply no better place to do your Christmas shopping than in Freeport, Maine, home to the L.L.Bean headquarters. The entire coastal town is filled with both national outlet shops and local retailers, but you'll want to pause your shopping to take in the tree lighting and an event known as Sparkle Celebration in early December. Here, L.L.Bean hosts a Christmas Parade of Lights right on their grounds and hands out free hot cocoa to everyone in attendance. Plus, you can enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride around town for a general tour before you hit the stores.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is not the smallest place on this list—it's actually one of North Carolina's largest cities—but the unparalleled yuletide décor at one of the most famous mansions in the nation earns its spot on this list. The Biltmore , a historic property owned by the Vanderbilt family, is adorned in garlands, twinkling lights, and plenty of crimson ribbons for the occasion. Taking in the grounds and seeing its interiors is a great precursor to shopping in Asheville's River Arts District , home to local craft retailers with truly unique Christmas gifts.

Frankenmuth, Michigan

Another example of Europe's influence on American villages, Frankenmuth looks like a holiday scene all year round. The town hosts a Christkindlmarkt in December, and lively Christmas light displays are peppered among the market's stalls. The true draw, however, is Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, which has been dubbed the "world's largest" Christmas store: You'll find unique décor here that you can't find anywhere else.

Helen, Georgia

You'll be hard-pressed to find a more popular Christmas destination for Southerners than Helen, Georgia. This whimsical village has built itself into a pristine replica of a German Bavarian town. In December, artists complete the transformation by decorating holiday trees that line the town's streets, and those holiday wonders are then auctioned off to the public at the Festival of Trees . There's also a traditional Christkindlmarkt to peruse.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Winter Travel Ideas

16 Best Destinations For A Classic Southern Christmas

Valerie Fraser Luesse has been affiliated with Southern Living and its parent company since 1988. She has written some 30 Southern Journal essays for the magazine and extensively covered the unique cultural pockets of the South, including Acadian Louisiana, the Mississippi Delta, South Florida, and the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She released her fourth Southern novel with Revell in 2021.

The best Christmas vacations can be found right here in the South. Forgo the big presents this year, and plan a family trip instead. The memories made are the gifts that keep on giving. Every year, you'll be able to look back on photos and reminisce on the quality time you spent together. Whether you set your sights on a big city or small town , there's a Southern destination that will love welcoming you for the holidays . From impressive light displays and tree decorating to visits with Santa, festive train rides, and lively all-day parades, the South has more than its fair share of holiday cheer. Celebrate a Southern Christmas somewhere familiar like San Antonio, Orlando, or Washington, D.C., or go a little off-the-beaten-path to smaller destinations like Dahlonega or Leesburg. No matter where you decide to spend the season, you'll get to explore a new place in the glow of holiday lights with heartwarming traditions aplenty.

Dahlonega, Georgia

Very few places do a Southern small-town Christmas as well as Dahlonega, Georgia , which is one of the South's favorite holiday towns. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll be hard-pressed to find a more picturesque small town at Christmastime. Dahlonega combines small-town charm with a Christmas spirit and flare that will have you feeling like you're on the inside of a snowglobe. The town in North Georgia is decked out in glittering lights and thronged with rambling horse-drawn carriages as Southerners flock from far and wide to see this sight during the Christmas season. Its Old-Fashioned Christmas festival lasts all month long and includes everything from a Christmas parade to a lovely tree lighting ceremony. Dahlonega also is surrounded by wineries that make the perfect day destination for seasonal sipping. If you aren't looking to leave the quaint downtown, there are also a bevy of tasting rooms scattered around the town square. You can sip and shop at a varied collection of local shops and boutiques that are ideal for finding a unique Christmas gift for everyone on your list!

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio's most famous attraction, the San Antonio River Walk, really shines during the holidays, with hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights hung in the trees. Start your Christmas vacation off right with Ford Holiday Boat Caroling , which takes place from November 30 to December 23. While drifting down the magnificently lit River Walk, floating carolers serenade revelers with holiday favorites. There's no better way spend your Christmas vacation than by roaming the River Walk alongside canopies of colorful Christmas lights. It's a must-see area in a city packed with festivities. In addition to all of this holiday splendor, there is also the San Antonio Botanical Garden's seasonal Lightscape show, which has been reimagined this year and is packed with garland, poinsettias, and ribbons galore. Then there is the Pearl's holiday night market, which is held at a former brewery constructed in 1883. If you want even more Christmas festivities to attend, there is the Ford Fiesta de Las Luminarias , a unique and culturally rich Mexican Christmas event.

Dallas, Texas

Whether you are in search of a fairytale Christmas celebration or you are looking to find a place to defrost from the cold December chill, Dallas is one of the best places to spend the holiday season . The shopping throughout the city is unmatched anywhere in the region, and there are holiday decorations and lights displays to be seen everywhere you turn. Two popular spectacular drive-thru light displays can be found at Prairie Lights and the Dallas Zoo . There are also Christmas light food tours led by Dallas by Chocolate , a German-themed holiday market, and Christmas-themed pop-up shops. With a slew of family-friendly festivals to attend, like the annual Holiday at the Arboretum , Dallas has a lot to offer for anyone ready to get into the holiday spirit.

Atlanta, Georgia

Find holiday festivities in abundance throughout December in Atlanta . In addition to historic Atlanta Christmas events , there are also events and activities which celebrate and honor Hanukkah and Kwanzaa traditions. See the Nutcracker ballet performed live at the Fox Theatre, watch the Polar Express in a special screening concert put on by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra , or visit the Eatonton Missletoe Market , which happens every November, giving you plenty of time to complete crucial Christmas shopping. There's also ice skating at Centennial Olympic Park, where the rink comes with a view of the city skyline. With so many things to do in Atlanta during Christmas and the holidays, the possibilities are boundless.

Richmond, Virginia

During the holidays, things are merry and bright in Richmond , a city with plenty of fun Christmas traditions, events, and appearances from none other than Santa Claus himself. King's Dominion, the local amusement park, celebrates with Winterfest , in which the theme park is transformed into a winter wonderland that includes a 300-foot Christmas tree. One can't-miss location is the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden , which puts on the exciting Dominion Energy Gardenfest of Lights throughout the season. Residential neighborhoods and storefronts also come alive with brilliant lights and holiday displays, and there are a plethora of holiday parties to attend. Even if you don't stay at the iconic Jefferson Hotel , you'll want to stop in during your visit to see their exquisitely decorated lobby and participate in their special Holiday Afternoon Teas .

Thomasville, Georgia

There's small-town Christmas charm aplenty in Thomasville, Georgia , where the cobblestone downtown streets are decorated for the holidays, and the locally owned shops warmly welcome visitors during the season. Journey to the past with Thomasville's annual Victorian Christmas, a two-night event with live reindeer, visits from Santa, carriage rides, and a live nativity scene. Performers, carolers, and musicians will also keep you entertained as you shop, eat, and celebrate the holiday season. Other seasonal activities include seeing a holiday movie at The Ritz Amphitheater, attending the annual tree lighting downtown, watching the Christmas parade, or taking a Victorian Sweets Tour of downtown's restaurants and shops.

Louisville, Kentucky

See the bright lights in Louisville during the holiday season. Twenty-five miles east of city center on U.S. 60, the Lake Forest area lights up with holiday cheer. At least 1,200 homeowners light lawns and houses beginning the first week of December. Go at dusk before the traffic turns snail-paced. If you're lucky, you might encounter a snow flurry or two while driving through the displays. For those who never tire of seeing the sparkling lights, direct your vehicle to Lights Under Louisville , a one-of-a-kind underground lights show that takes you on a 17-mile journey underground at Louisville's Mega Cavern. If it's a European Christmas you're dreaming of, spend time at the Paristown neighborhood's Fête De Noël celebration, which runs for six weeks every holiday season. The festival includes an outdoor ice skating rink, photos with Santa, the Brent Street Holiday Market, train rides, seasonal treats, and special movie nights.

Seaside, Florida

Forgo the skis, and fly south during the winter to celebrate Christmas in an unexpected but no-less-jolly way. For a coastal Christmas, few places are as charming as Seaside, Florida , the picturesque community that gets dressed up for the holidays. For those who don't love the crowds, or the glitz and sparkle, of a big-city Christmas, Seaside is the understated but still festive destination you've been looking for. Long-loved restaurants hung with garlands and lights offer up seafood and good times on 30A. The white sand beaches provide a different kind of white Christmas, but who could complain about spending December somewhere where it's sunny and 70 degrees? Events are sprinkled throughout the seasoning, starting with the Turn on the Town party in Central Square, where the town tree is lit and activities abound for adults and kids. Head back to the Seaside Amphitheater closer to the big day to see a Christmas concert courtesy of Sinfonia Gulf Coast.

Washington, D.C.

For a lively Christmas celebration, Washington, D.C. is unbeatable. The nation's capital always has a big season of holiday festivities, including lights displays, ice skating, the national Christmas tree lighting, menorah lighting, and many more celebrations that mark the highlights of the season. Both the National Christmas Tree and the US Capitol Christmas Tree are magnificent displays of lights and holiday cheer. Find more festivities and sights at the likes of the National Cathedral Christmas Concerts , The District's Holiday Boat Parade , Season's Greenings at the Botanic Gardens , Christmas Carol at Ford's Theatre , and the Downtown Holiday Market where vendors gather to sell arts, crafts, jewelry, specialty items, and more. Consider this an excellent place to find one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones. There really is no better time to be in D.C. than the holidays.

Bardstown, Kentucky

For a small-town Kentucky Christmas , set your sights on Bardstown , which is a charming small town at any time of year, but turns into a magical holiday oasis once the temperatures drop and winter begins. The town is strung with lights and filled with festivities throughout the season. Horse-drawn carriages run throughout town, whisking you through the twinkling, picturesque landscape in holiday style. There are also tree lightings, candlelight tours, and train rides. The entire town celebrates the season with Christmas 'Round Bardstown, which boasts more than 20 different activities and events throughout the holidays, beginning with the Downtown Holiday Preview and culminating with My Old Kentucky Dinner Train's New Year's Eve Excursion.

Orlando, Florida

For a warmer celebration, take a Christmas vacation to the place where dreams come true, yearlong–Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Disney World is filled with holiday cheer during the season and has schedules upon schedules full of festivities, from music and ice skating to fake snow, and caroling along with all of your favorite Disney characters. Beyond Disney, athletic events, festivals, concerts, cultural events, outdoor celebrations, and even virtual experiences can all be found in Orlando. The Christmas Celebration at SeaWorld transforms the theme park into a winter wonderland brimming with holiday cheer, thrills, and more than 3 million shimmering lights. Kids can meet Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer or pay a visit to Santa in the Wild Arctic. And the whole family can enjoy award-winning entertainment such as Winter Wonderland on Ice , a spectacular ice-skating extravaganza. At the Universal Orlando Resort, adults and children alike can have a very Hogwarts Christmas by celebrating at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Hogwarts Castle, the alleys of Hogsmeade, and Diagon Alley are all lit up and come alive with festive decorations. See the Frog Choir put a holiday spin on their performances, and even enjoy a hot butterbeer. It's like living inside the movies for the holidays.

Natchitoches, Louisiana

Natchitoches, Louisiana , puts on a fun holiday celebration complete with horse-drawn carriage rides and community festivities throughout the historic district, which is filled with gift shops, antique stores, and art galleries. Christmas is a big deal in this small Louisiana community. The 40-day Festival of Lights draws tourists from all over the world who come with their families to witness the over 300,000 sparkling lights and seasonal decorations on display. The Christmas Festival, which includes a boat parade, pyrotechnics, and a holiday market, is also a big draw. A road trip to experience this small riverfront town's many Christmas festivities is well worth your time.

Grapevine, Texas

Christmas can't be officially trademarked, but historic Grapevine, Texas , just north of Dallas and Fort Worth , has given it a shot. The state senate issued a proclamation more than a decade ago declaring this town the Christmas Capital of Texas . Over the holiday season, Grapevine hosts 1,400 events in just 40 days, including the biggest Christmas parade in North Texas, that features more than 100 floats. You'll see enough string lights to outshine the runway at DFW Airport. To round out your Christmas getaway, visit the town's many shops and boutiques, as well as bustling bistros and wineries, that are all in on the festive fun.

Leesburg, Virginia

Given its proximity to Washington, D.C., and a busy international airport like Dulles, you'd expect Leesburg to feel like a modern suburb on the verge of sprawl, but just the opposite is true. Locals and travelers enjoy an authentic small-town experience as they stroll cobbled sidewalks of the historic district or jostle down dirt roads to an area vineyard. And at Christmastime, the whole town gets into the holiday spirit. Shop at stores decked out for the season like 27 South Interiors , Ketterman's Jewelers , and The Old Lucketts Store . You can also take part in a Holiday Tree Lighting, Holiday Fine Arts and Crafts Show, and the Christmas and Holiday Parade.

McAdenville, North Carolina

Many places worldwide claim to have the best Christmas celebrations, but no holiday location is quite like McAdenville, North Carolina . Brought to the public's attention in 1980, the Charles Kuralt Morning Show featured McAdenville and the town continues to be a popular place for visitors around the holidays. Dubbed Christmastown U.S.A., the town is famous for its glittering light displays, Yule Log Parade, and tree lighting ceremony. This area of the High Country is known as the Christmas Tree Capital of the U.S., so if you live within driving distance, McAdenville is a great place to pick a prize-winning fir to make the star of your seasonal decor.

Helen, Georgia

If you've dreamt of visiting a Bavarian winter wonderland, this North Georgia town will give you a taste. Helen packs a lot of Christmas charm into its tiny two square miles: Think everything from a traditional Christkindlmarkt (a German holiday market) to the annual downtown parade. Because you can't miss Santa on his Bavarian sleigh, now can you? Nothing puts you in a cozy December mood like an alpine village and every inch of this North Georgia town delivers those cheerful European vibes. You can shop until you drop at The Christmas Shoppe , then let your tired feet rest with a horse-drawn carriage ride through downtown.

Related Articles

50 Best Places to Travel in December

T his post started innocently enough. I was looking for recommendations for where to travel with family in December. We wanted to book holiday travel, and I thought I could ask fellow travel writers for their advice. Everyone has a favorite place to travel in December, so here are all their recommendations. These choices for the best places to travel in December will have you planning a trip in no time!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Where to Go with Kids in December

We love traveling at Christmas, but it’s always a struggle to find the “perfect destination”. There are plenty of outstanding places to go for Christmas in the US with kids, but sometimes you want a unique experience. We think you will be pleasantly surprised by all of these options. Check out these amazing holiday destinations!

Best Places to Visit in December in the US

Everyone knows how incredible Alaska can be during the summer. Amazingly, it’s even more magical during winter!

While Alaska winters can be quite cold, joining in adventures like sled tubing, skiing, and ice skating is worth visiting.

Plus, there’s no shortage of fun winter festivals to partake in, making Alaska one of the best places to take kids in December.

Winter in Alaska is the ideal time to experience the aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. The short days leave enough time to pet and feed reindeer, while the long nights call for stargazing or aurora chasing!

Just imagine how peaceful lounging in a cozy rental cabin by the fireplace can be after spending time bundled up outdoors. For added serenity, try soaking in the warm waters of Chena Hot Springs near Fairbanks. Visiting Alaska during the winter season will be an experience you’ll treasure! – (Natasha of Om Shanti Adventure )

Interested in seeing the Northern Lights? Don’t miss this article about the Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland , or this one about Seeing the Aurora Borealis in Finland .

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

The best place to visit in December with family is Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, also known as Christmas City, U.S.A.

Located in eastern Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley about an hour north of Philadelphia, Bethlehem has celebrated the holiday season since it was founded on Christmas Eve in 1741 by a sect of Christians known as Moravians!

Today, visitors can experience not just one, but 2 Christmas markets. One is centered in the downtown area, which is also decorated for the holiday season, while the other is located at the community’s once-abandoned steel mill.

Other highlights of visiting Bethlehem, PA, at Christmastime include holiday light displays, historic city tours, and charming local shops. – (Jim of Uncovering PA )

If you want to warm up a bit with a tropical winter getaway, look no further than Hawaii. Hawaii in December is usually in the low 80s and has wonderful breezes. Airfare and hotel rates are pretty reasonable if you go before the holidays. Remember that it’s one of the most popular holiday destinations, so plan on making those reservations early.

Winter is also the best time in Hawaii for whale watching. But the real fun has to do with Christmas in Hawaii! I mean, where else can you make snowmen out of sand? Or see hula dancers and ukulele ornaments? Then, you can turn on the radio to hear Hawaiian-style Christmas carols!

You’ll also find fun holiday-themed events, like Santa arriving by outrigger canoe! Each island has its own holiday events and festivities, and they’re all worth it! Mele Kalikimaka! – (Marcie of Hawaii Travel with Kids )

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is one of the best destinations to visit in December for various reasons. The crowds are smaller, so the streets don’t feel as congested as they do during the busier summer months. There are also so many things to do in Las Vegas , it’s impossible to be bored!

The weather is so much nicer in December. In July or August, the desert heat can quickly become unbearable, but in the winter, the average temperature ranges between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Vegas hotels are all decked out in adorable Christmas decorations throughout December, so it’s easy to get into the festive spirit.

Since each hotel in Vegas is like a complete theme park, it can take a full day just to explore each one, and they all offer some sort of free entertainment for the holidays.

There are over a hundred free activities in Vegas , making it one of our favorite recommendations for where to take a trip in December! – (Jillian of Adventure Dragon )

Marathon Key, Florida

The pristine beaches of Marathon Key, Florida , are enough to draw tourists from around the globe in any month. However, during the month of December, when the rest of the Northern Hemisphere is under the cold of winter, Marathon is a haven.

The warm ocean waters keep Marathon Key a warm 85 degrees throughout the year. Swim, snorkel, dive, or motorboat around the key either on the Gulf or Atlantic side.

Sombrero Beach is the perfect place to start a vacation. White sand, beautiful palm trees, and an ocean breeze will make this tropical vacation a lasting memory.

Need a day off from the beach? Head to the Aquarium or the Turtle Hospital, both have days worth of activities to enjoy. Don’t miss out on the amazing seafood restaurants and live music while you’re in Marathon Key, Florida.

And not far down the infamous 7 Mile Bridge is Bahia Honda State Park, a beautiful location for more outdoor activities. – (Pam of Family Fun Joy )

Headed to Marathon? Don’t miss these things to do in Key West with kids , which is only an hour away.

New York City, New York

New York City may be one of the best places to travel in December! The Big Apple is dressed up in its holiday finest with fantastical window displays, amazing light shows, and holiday cheer around every corner.

With over 50,000 lights and Swarovski crystals, the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center is beautiful both day and night.

Stroll along Fifth Avenue to marvel at the whimsical window displays at department stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue. And don’t miss the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall!

One of my favorite spots in New York during the holidays is the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, a European-style holiday market with over 150 artisans and vendors. – (Brianna of The Casual Travelist )

San Diego, California

Not only is San Diego one of the most beautiful places to visit, but there are so many amazing things to do in December! It is one of our favorite travel destinations in December, as it is warm yet still full of holiday spirit and plenty of Christmas traditions.

One of the best holiday traditions is the annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, which has been happening for just over 50 years. Boat owners deck out their boats in brilliant displays and parade through the bay in a free show that draws over 100,000 people every year!

Another excellent event is Hotel del Coronado ’s Skating by the Sea, where you can ice skate with phenomenal ocean views.

December in San Diego usually still has some nice weather, which means you can continue to enjoy year-round activities, including hiking.

So whether you’re looking for the best places to go during Christmas or where to go on vacation in December with kids, San Diego is the place to go! – (Abi of Happy Go Abi )

Washington, DC

DC is a popular tourist destination for much of the year, and December is no exception. The US capital puts on a vibrant show of holiday festivity, and much of it is free! For fewer crowds, try to visit early in the month.

The US Botanic Garden is one of our favorite stops in December in DC. Each year, a huge train display weaves through leaves and flowers. Plus, you can see plant-based models of all the Monuments! Go first thing or late in the day, as lines get quite long. The Zoolights are also beautiful and great with little ones.

Other excellent December activities are participating in the wreath-laying at Arlington Cemetery, the National Christmas tree/Hannukah Menorah lighting, ice skating, the Nutcracker, and so much more. It’s wonderful for adults and kids alike! Traveling with teens? Don’t miss these fun things to do in DC with teens . – (Preethi of Local Passport Family )

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park in December is one of the most famous national parks and the ultimate winter wonderland.

The crowds have diminished from the summer, and a blanket of snow dresses up the already lovely landscape. Wildlife, including wolves, elk, and bison, have moved to the valley floors and are easier to spot.

We like to soak in the Boiling River Hot Springs, cross-country ski on the many groomed trails, and snowshoe in peace and warm up at the hotel dining rooms. You can take a snow coach to the interior of the park – Old Faithful area and Canyon – or drive to Mammoth Hot Springs and through the Northern Range. – (Mel of Yellowstone Trips )

Mexico in December

Mexico city, mexico.

Looking for sunshine and culture this December? Look no further than Mexico City. This hot spot is our favorite – just a 3.5-hour direct flight from LA (or 5 hours from New York).

Topping our list of things to do in December includes visiting the ancient pyramids at Teotihuacan. Just 30 miles northeast of Mexico City, you’ll feel like a real-life Indiana Jones here!

Another must-visit is Frida Kahlo’s “Blue House .” This museum houses rare artwork and tells the story of Kahlo’s birthplace, childhood residence, and where she passed.

Finally, no trip to Mexico City would be complete without checking out its delicious food scene. Get your fill of churros – 24 hours a day – at the famed El Moro. And don’t forget to make reservations at Pujol, named the best restaurant in Mexico City by Wall Street Journal and a top dining spot by Restaurant Magazine. – (Phil of Gourmet Globetrotter )

Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

December is a great time to visit the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, with tranquil, warm weather. And of course, the calm seas make for great snorkeling, diving, and fishing!

Temperatures are a bit lower at around 82°F, even dipping as low as 75°, so the days are warm, and the nights are comfortable.

The area is well known for all its well-preserved Mayan temples, such as Chichen Itza . Dry weather and mild temperatures make for perfect conditions to explore these archaeological ruins.

Don’t miss diving with bull sharks, an exhilarating adventure! Another favorite in this area is the Cenotes, limestone caves with crystal clear water. Yucatan cenotes are perfect for swimming and exploring during this time of year. If you visit the Yucatan Peninsula in December, here’s what to pack for Mexico .– (Campbell of Stingy Nomads )

Ready to book a Mexico vacation in December? Don’t miss our favorite all-inclusive resorts in Mexico for families , our favorite Cabo all inclusive family resorts , and what to do in Puerto Vallarta , Cabo , and Cancun with kids .

Where to Go in the Caribbean in December

December might be the best month to visit Aruba, with its warm white sand beaches and holiday decorations.

The average temperature on the island is always between 77 and 84° Fahrenheit, and there’s always a strong breeze off the water. It never feels too hot or too cold, but just right.

Families will love the holidays in Aruba as most of the resorts are decked out in Christmas lights and decor. Some restaurants and stores will have Aruban fruitcakes, pumpkin soup, and ponche crema (similar to eggnog), so be sure to try these traditional dishes.

There are plenty of things to do in Aruba with teens and kids of all ages, from playing on the beach to snorkeling and exploring Arikok National Park. For fun in the sun during the holidays, Aruba is the place to be!

Puerto Rico

Another one of our favorite Caribbean islands to visit in December is Puerto Rico . Daily temperatures hover around 80°F and there is constant sunshine.

The holiday season here is in full force from Thanksgiving until mid-January when the San Sebastián Street festival closes out the island’s celebrations.

There are festivities around the island throughout December. A couple that shouldn’t be missed are the Feria de Artesanías which features over 200 local vendors selling their products (perfect for holiday shopping) and the Festival de las Máscaras in Hatillo where everyone dons colorful costumes and masks and parades through the town.

Families will decorate their homes right after Thanksgiving (if not before) and leave up the lights until mid-January (and beyond).

Some Puerto Rican dishes you won’t want to miss are coquito (Puerto Rican eggnog), pasteles (similar to tamales, but wrapped in plantain leaves), and arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas).

Of course, you will want to spend time on the Puerto Rican beaches , explore El Yunque rainforest , and shop and eat your way through Old San Juan .

December in Central America

Costa Rica is wonderful to visit any time of year, but December marks the start of Costa Rica’s dry season. This makes it perfect for holiday celebrations, trips to the beach, and exploring the towns and cities decked out in festive decor!

If you plan to visit Costa Rica in December , be sure to book your hotels early . Many North American families take vacations to Costa Rica during the holiday season to enjoy the weather, outdoor adventures, and beautiful beaches.

While you’re there, don’t miss the Festival de la Luz in San José, a light parade where locals and tourists alike enjoy street performers, floats, and musicians.

Guatemala is one of the best places to travel in December. Due to its location, the weather in this Central American country is warm year-round. This provides anyone with a great getaway, especially if you are from the Great White North like me!

I spent two weeks around Guatemala and quickly fell in love with Lake Atitlan, a beautiful region with breathtaking volcano views and colorful Mayan villages.

There are eleven Mayan villages around the lake, providing ample opportunity for you to understand Guate’s culture and tradition. Each village has something unique to enchant and captivate.

From paddle boarding to yoga retreats and volcano hikes to coffee tasting, there is much to do and more to see! – (Daisy of Beyond my Border )

December in South America

Argentina is a perfect place to visit in December, especially if you wish to escape a cold, snowy Northern Hemisphere winter! December is the start of summer, so days are long and warm. It’s ideal for seeing the incredibly diverse sights of Argentina!

Marvel at the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls and the jaw-dropping Moreno Glacier. Explore the wild landscapes of the Valdes Peninsula and catch the end of whale watching season.

Visit the hatching penguin chicks at the enormous penguin colony in Punta Tombo, or head to Patagonia to enjoy incredible hikes in Los Glaciares National Park.

We loved the varied, accessible hikes starting from the friendly, pretty town of El Chalten, which is nestled within the park and dominated by the surrounding Fitz Roy Massif. – (Sinead of Map Made Memories )

December is a wonderful time to visit Colombia as the weather is great and it’s just before the high season, so it’s not overcrowded yet. (Don’t go in January as all the Colombians themselves are traveling and it gets really busy!)

Colombia is a popular Christmas destination as every casa Colombiana gets decorated with a million lights. Especially if you’re from a country that typically has freezing weather in December, it’s a mind-blowing sight to see all those decorations with tropical temperatures.

We fell in love with Colombia as it is one of the most diverse countries we’ve ever visited. We’ve encountered tropical beaches, ancient cultures & archeology, stunning nature, and colonial towns. Don’t hesitate to make it your next destination, it won’t disappoint! – (Babs at Mums on Flipflops )

Home to egg-blue glaciers and the rugged Andes Mountains, Patagonia is a region shared by Argentina and Chile. It’s one of the world’s finest adventure travel destinations .

Although weather conditions are distinctly variable at any time of the year, December is an excellent time to visit. This is when there’s a higher chance of sunny days and dry weather, which is all-important if you want envy-inducing photographs from the trip!

The beginning of December is the very start of the high season, meaning places have fewer tourists and trails are quieter. Make the most of this by trekking the W in Torres del Paine National Park , Patagonia’s most famous hike.

This trek will take you through glorious mountain landscapes of glaciers and ancient forest to reach three picturesque, pronged granite towers!

Or hike to Laguna de Los Tres, in Los Glaciares National Park, with its spectacular views of Mont Fitz Roy. – (Steph at Worldly Adventurer )

Canada in December

Visiting Whistler in December does not disappoint. It’s truly one of the most magical times of the year, when Whistler Village sparkles like a fairyland with holiday lights!

There’s an uplifting atmosphere in the air as you wander around the village and ride the Peak2Peak Gondola to the top of the mountain. December is our favorite month if you’re visiting Whistler with kids, since the family Après ski activities are in full swing.

The average snowfall in Whistler in December is 170 cm (almost 5.5 feet), making it a fantastic time of year to have fun in the snow. If you love skiing or snowboarding, you’ll want to hit the slopes and terrain parks.

But even if you’re not, there are plenty of other things to do in Whistler, both outdoors and indoors. You can bundle up and go on a fun dog sled ride or learn to be a musher and drive your own team.

Other fun outdoor activities in Whistler in December are snowshoeing, ice skating, tubing, and sleigh rides. You can also take part in the Dress Like Santa Ski Day, where everyone dresses up in a Santa or Mrs. Claus costume!

The Whistler Film Festival happens each December (this year’s dates are November 29 through December 3), and it’s a fantastic time to visit if you love film. – (Christina at Travel2Next )

December Travel in Europe

Amsterdam, netherlands.

Amsterdam is well known for its exciting nightlife and gorgeous canals. This thriving city is easily accessible by airplane, train, or by car.

In Amsterdam, you’ll be able to visit one of many Christmas markets, as well as visit the Christmas tree at Dam Square. With over 40.000 LED lights, the tree lights up the Royal Palace. 

Don’t miss the Amsterdam Light Festival. Here you can admire over 30 light sculptures by boat or street. Odds are you’ll find yourself ice skating over one of many canals in the heart of this gorgeous city, so be prepared!

Athens, Greece

Though Greece is typically considered a summer destination, I would argue that winter makes a wonderful time to visit Athens. Not only do the temperatures drop enough that it’s actually comfortable to explore the ancient town, but it also stays much warmer with more sunshine than is found in other parts of Europe.

While all the main attractions stay open during the off-peak season, they are much less crowded than in the height of summer. You’ll be able to explore the Parthenon and other famous sights in relative peace and quiet, which is a bonus in my book!

If you visit Greece at Christmas time , the city comes alive with sparkling lights and festive decorations. And if you’re lucky enough to be in Athens on New Year’s Eve , you’ll enjoy some fantastic parties or fireworks displays with the Parthenon making the most incredible backdrop. – (Anna at Would Be Traveller )

Barcelona, Spain

We loved visiting Barcelona, Spain, in winter ! The temperatures are much milder than in most of Europe, but the holiday magic is alive and well. All of the streets and alleys are decked with creative lighting displays as the city competes with other rivals around the country for the best holiday lights.

There’s a convivial atmosphere as Spaniards stroll the streets enjoying their time off work, but the throngs of tourists don’t arrive until spring break a few months later, so it’s a great time of year to get a more local feel. – (Melissa of The Family Voyage )

Berlin, Germany

I adore visiting Berlin in December! You can experience the beautiful Christmas markets that come to life all over the city. These are some of my favorite places to shop for unique traditional Berlin souvenirs .

My favorite Berlin Christmas market is the Gendarmenmarkt, but I also love Spandau and Charlottenburg Palace markets.

If you do visit the palace, make sure to set aside time to go on a tour inside. The sumptuous interiors are absolutely stunning, and in December, you won’t have to fight through the throngs of other tourists during your visit!

Berlin is also a great place to visit in winter because German cuisine is so hearty and delicious in the cold weather. You’ll be happy to come in from the frigid air and warm up with currywurst or sauerkraut! And, of course, a nice cold glass of German beer! – (Stephanie of History Fan Girl )

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels, Belgium, is one of the most overlooked European cities. It has centuries of fascinating history, great food, and lots of things to do to keep you entertained for a long weekend or more.

From its beautiful, UNESCO-listed Grand Place (the city’s central square) to the dozens of street art murals that make up its Comic Book Route, Brussels is a mix of historic and modern.

When you add in the excellent Belgian chocolate, craft beer, and unforgettable waffles, you get a destination full of scenic beauty, educational experiences, and fun with a touch of gluttony.

In the winter, you can’t miss the Brussels Christmas Market , stretching over a mile, turning the historic city center into a giant festival of lights, decorations, and shopping! – (Laura of Travel Addicts )

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest in December is an unexpected surprise with its combination of family-friendly attractions, historic sites, and traditional Christmas markets.

Two major markets are located at Vorosmarty Square and the other in front of the Basilica tower. Don’t miss the light display projected onto the Basilica and the mulled wine to keep the frigid temps away!

Looking for more winter fun? Be sure to soak in the thermal baths and cruise in the evening along the Danube River to see the historic buildings lit up. We also suggest heading to the Buda side of Budapest to explore Fisherman’s Bastion. Traveling with older kids? There are plenty of fun things to do in Budapest with teens .

Don’t forget to explore Central Market Hall to purchase freshly ground paprika and peruse the crafts and foods in this two-story market. – (Chelsea of Pack More into Life )

Colmar, France

Colmar is such a magical place to visit in December! The town itself looks as if it’s from a fairytale, with all of its brightly colored half-timbered buildings. In December, Colmar goes all out with decorations for the holidays. It is one of our all-time favorite European Christmas markets to visit with kids .

There are multiple Christmas markets throughout the city, including one for children. The city’s canals (dubbed “Little Venice”) make for a gorgeous stroll through Colmar and offer plenty of photo opportunities.

The city is only a 2.5-hour train ride from Paris, making it the perfect overnight or weekend getaway during the holiday season. A word of advice, though: Colmar is quite popular in the month of December, so make sure to book accommodations early! – (Ashley of Daley Family Travels )

Cologne, Germany

The best time to visit Cologne, Germany, has to be in the wintertime, during their annual Christmas market. The Köln Weihnachtsmarkt is one of the best Christmas markets we’ve been to in Europe. Seven themed markets are spread throughout the city, and you can visit them all on the Christmas Tram.

One of the reasons to visit a Christmas market in Germany is the food, and Cologne has some of the best foods we’ve tasted. The highlight was definitely the salmon roasting on an open fire and the Reibekuchen (potato pancakes). Let’s not forget the Gluhwein to keep you warm during the cold winter days.

Cologne’s Christmas market is also the perfect place to purchase that one-of-a-kind souvenir. With so many handmade, locally made products on sale, it won’t be hard to find a unique gift item for that special someone. – (Skylar at Skylar Arias Adventures )

Dublin, Ireland

One of the best destinations to visit in December in Dublin , Ireland. The average Dublin high temperature in December is 47 F, with a low of 37. All things considered, that’s pretty mild. Also, it gets wintery and festive, with very little chance of snow. Which is a plus for me.

Three reasons to visit Dublin in December: 1) to avoid the crowds, 2) there are tons of things indoors, and 3) the Christmas decorations are in full effect.

Since December is off-season, the crowds are thinner, but all of the attractions remain open. 

There are A LOT of indoor attractions, in case it’s cold or rainy. Some of the popular indoor sites are Kilmainham Gaol, the Guinness Storehouse, the Old Jameson Distillery, Dublin Castle, Christ Church Cathedral, and Trinity College Dublin.  

Three-Quarters of the population of Ireland is Catholic, which means that there are a lot of people celebrating Christmas. Not only are the streets festively decorated in Christmas cheer, but so are the shops and pubs around town. 

Grab a pint and take in the atmosphere! – (Catherine of Traveling with the Littles )

Milan, Italy

If you’ve never considered Italy in winter , it’s definitely worth a visit. Milan is possibly Italy’s most cosmopolitan city, and it fully embraces the holiday season.

In the plaza surrounding its famous Duomo you’ll encounter a giant decorated Christmas tree and an outdoor holiday market from the start of December. The nearby Galleria boasts equally elaborate decorations along with some of Milan’s most high-end shopping.

And the holiday spirit is not limited to the historical center. Throughout the month of December in Milan , indoor and outdoor holiday markets abound across the city.

Even away from the markets, you’ll come across the distinct aroma of roasted chestnuts as you stroll from vendors that seem to be on every corner. Grab yours with a mulled wine or thick and gooey hot chocolate, and you’ll understand how the Milanesi have endless energy to stroll the city streets and take in the holiday atmosphere.

There are even some holiday-themed trams if you’re lucky enough to spot one! – (Lana of Travel Savvy Gal )

There is something magical about Norway in winter ! It really comes alive when you have the chance to bundle up in a thick winter jacket, cap with a fur top, and lined gloves to go exploring in the snow and ice.

I love to go sightseeing with my camera for hours, then tuck into a café with a fireplace and have a cup of hot chocolate.

And although you may think it’s freezing outside, don’t believe everything you hear. Due to the Gulf Stream, the west coast of Norway rarely drops below zero.

Plus, I love to go Christmas shopping, and Norway has some of the best Christmas-related shopping experiences. That is why it’s my pick for the best place to travel in December! – (Cacinda of Points and Travel )

Paris, France

Looking for a country to visit in December? Well, if you still haven’t visited Paris in winter , then you should definitely go at this time of year! I’m not going to lie, winter in Paris is generally cold, but it is the most magical moment to visit the capital of France.

It’s the only time of the year you can enjoy visiting the city without bumping into people or having people ruin your photos. Paris is always crowded, except in December, so there is no better time to visit!

​December is also the only time of the year you can see illuminations lighting up the main attractions, which creates a magical Christmas atmosphere you should experience at least once in your life. – (Nesrine of Kevmrc Travel )

Portimão, Portugal

If you’re planning a trip to Portugal , Portimão is a beautiful port city to visit. It’s located in the Algarve region of Portugal, the southernmost part of the country. This beautiful city has a very busy port for boats, particularly tour boats heading along the Algarve coasts’ famous caves.

Though much quieter in the winter, Portimao still has boat service and so many beautiful things to see. While not ideal for swimming in December, the beautiful beaches in Portimao still provide access to the Atlantic and the beauty of the rugged and infamous Algarve cliffs.

Portimao has some of the best seafood dishes in Europe, and its location also makes it a great base to do day trips to Lagos, Lisbon, and many other cities along the Algarve. Portimao’s authentic Portuguese feel makes this a great December destination. – (Diana of The Elusive Family )

Prague, Czechia

Prague is the ultimate destination for a December vacation with kids. If you’re looking for culture, history, great food, and magical wintertime charm, this amazing city has it all!

Several great Christmas markets are set up all over town. But the best places to go for all the feels are the Old Square, Wenceslas Square, and Prague Castle, where you can shop, eat, and sightsee to your heart’s content!

Don’t miss a walk over the ancient and iconic Charles bridge to catch a view of this stunning city. Be sure to try the tasty Trdelnik (chimney cakes) that Prague is so famous for, along with some amazing smoked cheese and jam. – (Vanessa of Wanderlust Crew )

And if you only have a weekend in the city, don’t miss this 3-day Prague itinerary !

Sweet villages, spectacular mountains, and fairy-tale castles make Romania one of the best places to go for Christmas. When I visited Romania last winter, I found out the magnificent landscapes I’d seen in photos look much more impressive under a blanket of snow!

Bucharest , Romania’s capital city, is brimming with interesting architecture and cozy cafes. In central Romania’s Transylvania region, fortified cities – Sighisoara and Sibiu among them – offer a mix of fascinating history and nature.

Skiing and snow sports are popular winter activities, and you can find great fields around Brasov. Since Romania is a predominantly Orthodox nation, there are plenty of holiday festivities to join in, including Christmas markets in most of the bigger cities.

December is the off-season in Romania. If you’re traveling by train through Transylvania (which I highly recommend), you don’t have to stress about tickets selling out. Almost all museums and restaurants remain open throughout winter, although you may have to contend with a few closures here and there. – (Emily of Wander-Lush )

Rovaniemi, Finland

What better place to visit in December than the home of Santa Claus?! It’s easy to travel from Helsinki to Rovaniemi via car, train, or plane, and visitors will be rewarded with a winter wonderland and a white Christmas!

Visits to Santa Claus Village and Snowman World are sure to put a smile on everyone’s faces. There is snow tubing, ice skating, and even a visit with Santa Claus himself! If you’re lucky, you’ll also be able to see the Northern Lights during your trip to Rovaniemi . It’s a definite bucket list trip for families.

Salzburg, Austria

Picture yourself with a mulled wine in your hand, walking the narrow, snow-covered streets of Salzburg. This is one of the most picturesque cities in Austria , and winter is Austria magical.

December is a great time to visit the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. You can go to the house where he grew up and have a famous Sachertorte or Salzburger Nockerl before you enjoy one of the three Christmas markets here.

You can choose between the oldest Christmas market, which is situated in front of the Salzburg Cathedral. Or you can attend the Christmas market at the fortress Hohensalzburg with an amazing view over the city. One of my favorite Christmas markets in Salzburg is at Castle Hellbrunn. 

And if you want to see the most beautiful Christmas tree in Salzburg, be sure to go to the Stiftskeller, the oldest restaurant in the old town. – (Christina of The Female Travelpreneur )

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a fantastic destination to visit in December or any other winter month. It hosts one of the coziest Christmas markets in Europe.

Open from November to January each year, this Christmas market showcases some of the best local handcrafted products and a variety of traditional Christmas delicacies and drinks.

Being a UNESCO World Heritage city, the Old Town of Tallinn looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. You can enjoy countless historic buildings and sightseeing opportunities!

Not only will you be able to avoid the summer crowds, but visiting Tallinn in the winter has another remarkable advantage: the opportunity to try traditional local food.

Seasonal dishes such as hearty stews and delicious beverages will be popular in the winter, and most restaurants have a relaxing and cozy ambiance. Here are some of the best restaurants in Tallinn for you to enjoy! – (Thassia of Family Off Duty )

Vienna, Austria

Visiting Vienna in winter could only be described as magical. The entire city wears a festive atmosphere that’s undeniably enchanting. From the Christmas markets and the beautifully decorated streets to the snow falling down, it is a winter wonderland you don’t want to miss!

Vienna is the queen of historical landmarks, palaces, museums, and coffeehouses, but there are a few activities you can only experience in winter. While the Hofburg Palace hosts the New Year’s Eve Ball, Vienna’s City Hall square hosts the biggest Christmas market in the city. Plus, some of it turns into a huge ice-skating rink for everyone to enjoy. – (Or of My Path in the World )

York, England

If you’re interested in traveling internationally with your family this Christmas Season, you can’t beat York, England. This charming and historically rich city has all the ingredients for your best vacation ever.

Grand medieval gate towers and imposing stone walls surround cobbled streets with cramped and winding alleys, all dressed in festive Christmas lights and decorations.

The prominent and impressive nearly 1,400-year-old York Minster stands tall among the quaint surrounding late-medieval architecture. Old and new are knit seamlessly together as modern grocery stores, and restaurants are nestled within ancient shops and homes.

Along with the architectural treasures that abound, York hosts two of the most captivating and impressive attractions you will likely ever see: the vast, stately Castle Howard and the outstanding National Railway Museum. York has it all and will leave you with a memorable, world-class experience during the most wonderful time of the year.( JD of American Family Road Trip )

Zakopane, Poland

Many travelers head to Warsaw in winter , but few places are quite as magical as Zakopane. During December, the Polish village that sits at the base of the Tatra Mountains turns into a Christmas wonderland.

Christmas markets and stalls pop up throughout town, along with the year-round marketplace perfect for unique Christmas gift shopping. The celebrations around Zakopane are in full swing, too, with festive events and New Year fun.

Plus, you can enjoy the winter activities of Zakopane with skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing. Mount Gubawoka is a great spot for beginner ski lessons and is right near the center of town.

Make sure you take a trip up Kasprowy Wierch while you’re visiting Zakopane. You can ride the cable car up the top for incredible mountain views and snowscapes. – (Holly of Four Around the World )

December in Oceania

Canberra, australia.

Canberra in Australia is for sure one of the best places to travel in December! The warmer weather makes it ideal to go on nature walks to get some panoramic picturesque views of Canberra. Top walks are the Mount Ainslie Summit Trail, Black Mountain Summit Walk, One Tree Hill Lookout Walk, and Mount Taylor Nature Trail.

December is a fantastic time to go for a swim at Pine Island, Cotter Bend, Casuarina Sands, or Kambah Pool. You can cool off by eating delicious ice cream at Frugii Dessert Laboratory or frozen custard from Goodberry’s Creamery.

If you prefer to stay indoors or shop, the Handmade Markets are the best place to find unique artisan Australian-made products. There is something for everyone in Canberra in December. – (Clara at Petite Capsule )​

Dunsborough, Australia

A trip to the town of Dunsborough in the South West of Australia is the ultimate December getaway. While countries in the northern hemisphere are starting to really feel the cold of winter, summer in Dunsborough is just heating up!

Although some people may enjoy a snowy holiday near Christmas, we would much rather lie at the beach, swimming in amazing blue water, and drinking the local wines. The South West of Australia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and the summer weather here is the perfect time to enjoy them.

After soaking up some sun, you can explore some of the 150 wineries in the area, a handful of craft breweries, and delicious artisan food producers of the Margaret River region.

Spectacular coastlines, local beer and wine, amazing food, and friendly people are only a few of the best things to do in Dunsborough. It’s truly a brilliant place to visit in December. – (Roxanne of The Coastal Campaign )

The Gold Coast, Australia

December is the best time of year to visit The Gold Coast, Australia ! It’s the height of our summer, so what better time of year to visit some of the most beautiful Australian beaches?

It’s all about the outdoors and the beach bum lifestyle, so there’s plenty of opportunity to learn to surf, paddleboard, kayak, go fishing, or even just laze around and soak up the sun.

If you’re not much of a beach person, there’s still plenty on offer! You can explore the hinterlands and farmers’ markets with some great local produce or find a beautiful waterfall for relaxing. – (Sophie Marie of Lifestyle Queensland )

December in Asia

With its swaying palms, fringing sun-drenched beaches, and temperatures hovering around a perfect 86 degrees, Goa is a wonderful winter sun destination. In fact, Goa might be one of the best places for kids to travel any time of year.

But it’s December when this region really comes to life. The Portuguese influence is strong, and everyone is in the Christmas spirit! Villages and churches are decorated with twinkling lights and shining stars, and there is a real buzz in the air.

Visiting Goa is all about finding the right beach for you. There is quite an eclectic mix catering to the raver, the yogi, the package sun-seeker, and everything in between.

If you are planning a family trip to Goa and looking for something a bit more chilled, make sure you check out our post, the best beaches in Goa for kids . – (Jenny of TraveLynn Family )

Koh Samui, Thailand

If you miss sunny, warm weather and tropical vibes in December, you might want to consider traveling to Thailand . Here, you’ll find Koh Samui: an island that offers something for everyone!

It is really an all-year-round holiday spot, but the dry season starts in December, making Koh Samui a perfect winter destination.

There are so many cool activities to choose from: Chill out at the stunning beaches, hike to amazing viewpoints or explore the Buddhist temples. Go see waterfalls, sail to beautiful islands, get a cheap massage, relax with a yoga class or try the national sport of Thai boxing.

Oh, and don’t forget to eat lots of delicious Thai food! Sample street food and snacks at one of the many night markets or learn new recipes by taking a Thai cooking class.

The possibilities for having fun are endless, and it is almost guaranteed that you will have an awesome vacation in Koh Samui . – (Victoria & Alex from Northabroad )

From Bora Bora to the Caribbean, our family has spent a few Christmases on the beach. Last December, we visited the Maldives, where we spent a few days watching the sun rise and listening to the ocean from our overwater villas. It was the most magical time of all!

Anytime is a good time to visit the Maldives since the temperatures hover over a balmy 80F. But the best time to visit the Maldives is said to be from November to April.

Taj Exotica Resort and Spa is located on Emboodhu Finolhu Island, which used to be called ‘Three Coconut Island.’ We flew from Chennai to Male through Colombo on Sri Lankan Airlines. Taj Exotica is located not too far from the Malé airport and is just a 20-minute boat ride away, no need for any seaplanes.

The water is crystal clear, the food and service are amazing, and abundant marine life and water activities keep the kids busy while parents find hammocks or the ocean swing to relax! – (Priya of Outside Suburbia )

Nagoya, Japan

Nagoya, the 4th largest city in Japan, is a great place to visit in December. Not only is the winter food delicious, but there are some activities you simply have to enjoy in winter.

First, let’s talk about the great food in Nagoya. I highly recommend you try steaming hot Miso Nikomi Udon, which is Udon noodles in a dark Miso soup that’s still boiling hot in an earthenware pot. Exactly the right food for those cold winter days! You might also want to try Kishimen noodles , flat and broad noodles served in a hot broth.

When it comes to winter activities in Nagoya, there is nothing better than a visit to Nabana no Sato, a flower garden with the most beautiful winter illumination in all of Japan. The theme changes every year, and the millions of lights are spectacular. Nothing is more romantic than strolling through the park at night with your loved one. – (Lena of Nagoya Foodie )

Other places to travel with kids in Japan include Tokyo , Osaka and these Tokyo day trips . And don’t miss our tips for traveling to Japan !

December in the Middle East

Dubai in December is the perfect sunny escape. Sitting on the Arabian Gulf, December brings with it pleasant daytime temperatures of around 75F, ideal for enjoying the city’s miles of sandy beaches, sailing from the beautiful marina, or taking a deeper exploration into the desert and nearby Hatta Mountains.

Those who worry they may not be in the Christmas spirit, rest assured although it’s not a public holiday in this majority Muslim country, you cannot get away from the Christmas decorations and festivities in all the mega-shopping malls and resort hotels. You may even be lucky enough to catch Santa arriving on his camel!

It is also one of the most popular times for tourists, so book your favorite Dubai attractions and hotels in advance at this time of year. For families, we love the Palm Jumeirah resort area or any of the great family hotels along JBR , and The Beach . ( Keri of Little City Trips )

December in Africa

Cape town, south africa.

With its combination of sunshine and adventure, South Africa is another one of the best places to visit in December. Cape Town is extra special in this time of year, when locals embrace the festive season and travelers arrive from across the globe to enjoy the mix of beach and city.

And for those planning a family escape, visiting Cape Town with a baby or kids is a great choice.

The beautiful coastline along the Garden Route is spectacular in the winter months. The Cape Winelands are a magnet for visitors exploring the wineries and indulging in wine tastings and picnics on the lawn.

December is also a great month for safari. The South African summer coincides with the wet season. Despite the tall grasses, the Big 5 make frequent appearances! A December safari rewarded us with a sighting of the elusive wild dogs, a moment we’ll never forget! – (Elaine and Dave of Show Them the Globe )

December is a great time to take a safari vacation ! If you’re looking for someone to plan a custom itinerary, we highly recommend Alluring Africa !

Zanzibar is a perfect destination to visit in December. During this month, and until February, it’s hot and dry – ideal conditions for enjoying the beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands.

There are plenty of things to do in Zanzibar , from diving to enjoying Stone Town’s markets to seeing the unique wildlife in The Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park.

For something special, book lunch at the Rock restaurant – which is exactly as it sounds – an incredible restaurant located on a rock in the ocean.

From Stone Town, you might also take a day trip over to Prison Island to see the old prison and admire the local residents, which are huge tortoises! – (Hayley of A Lovely Planet )

Looking for other kid-friendly places to travel to during December? How about these best small towns for Christmas , and where to celebrate Christmas around the world .

The post 50 Best Places to Travel in December appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .