Anyone can put up a few lights and call it a holiday celebration, but for true Christmas enthusiasts, the experience goes far beyond that.
These travelers seek places where Christmas markets abound, twinkling lights fill the streets, festive feasts tempt the senses, and long-standing Yuletide traditions, such as Advent, are celebrated with great passion.
From Europe to the Philippines, here are 15 destinations around the world that offer the perfect Christmas getaway, brimming with holiday cheer and enchantment:
Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland
Though many associate the North Pole with Santa Claus, the Finnish believe Rovaniemi, located just north of the Arctic Circle, is the true Christmas headquarters. Here, children can bake gingerbread cookies with Mrs. Claus, attend Elf School, or use traditional quills to write their Christmas wish lists. Visitors can also explore the Ranua Wildlife Park to see baby polar bears and moose, or stay in the Arctic SnowHotel, an icy wonderland complete with saunas and hot tubs for warming up.
Bogotá, Colombia
The Colombian capital dazzles with Christmas lights, especially during its “Ruta Navideña” (Christmas Route), where locals stroll the streets to admire the festive displays. The season kicks off with the Día de las Velitas (Little Candles’ Day) on December 7, when families light candles and lanterns. Traditional treats such as natilla (custard) and buñuelos (fried dough balls) are also enjoyed, alongside a bonus: Bogotá enters its dry season, offering ideal weather.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Just a short drive from Philadelphia and New York City, Bethlehem, known as “The Christmas City,” offers a charming holiday experience. Visitors can enjoy the Live Advent Calendar, where a town crier leads crowds to the Goundie House for daily surprises. Bethlehem also offers horse-drawn carriage rides, festive tree displays, and a screening of the Christmas classic Die Hard.
Bath, England
In addition to celebrating the birth of Jesus, Bath also honors its literary legacy with Jane Austen festivities. The Jane Austen Centre and the Theatre Royal showcase the city’s connection to the author. The Bath Christmas Market, nestled between Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, offers traditional British crafts, while Bath on Ice invites visitors to skate in the festive atmosphere.
San Fernando, Philippines
Known as the Christmas capital of Asia, San Fernando is famous for its Giant Lantern Festival, which begins on December 14. The city’s vibrant parols (lanterns) symbolize the Star of Bethlehem and light up the night with stunning designs, drawing crowds from around the world.
Barcelona, Spain
If you extend your holiday into January, Barcelona offers a spectacular Three Kings Day (Epiphany) celebration. On January 5, the Three Kings arrive by ship at the port, where fireworks and parades filled with floats, camels, and dazzling costumes signal the start of the festivities.
Nairobi, Kenya
In Nairobi, Christmas is marked with music in multiple languages and festive meals such as chapati, pilau rice, and nyama choma (grilled meat). Visitors can explore the Karura Forest or take a safari at Nairobi National Park, which offers a unique chance to see wildlife against the backdrop of the city. The Maasai Market is a perfect place for buying authentic African goods.
Nuremberg, Germany
The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe, attracting over 2 million visitors annually. Here, visitors can enjoy traditional Christmas treats like gingerbread and mulled wine, and browse handmade decorations and toys.
Malta
Although December is off-season, Malta offers a festive atmosphere filled with presepju (Nativity scenes) and carolers. The streets of Valletta glow with lights, and fairy-tale-like attractions abound. The Malta Toy Museum showcases nostalgic childhood treasures from the 18th century.
Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City turns into a picturesque winter wonderland, offering Christmas markets, displays of Nativity scenes, and outdoor activities like hiking, snowshoeing, and skiing. For those visiting later, the Quebec Winter Carnival in February is another festive treat.
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
In this UNESCO World Heritage city, Christmas celebrations are steeped in both religious and festive customs. Visitors can witness the tradition of posadas, where locals reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, and enjoy piñatas and ponche (a hot fruit drink) throughout the season.
Salzburg and Oberndorf, Austria
The birthplace of Mozart and the filming location for The Sound of Music, Salzburg is a magical spot for Christmas. Visitors can explore Christmas markets and enjoy a Krampus run, where locals dress up as the terrifying Alpine beast. Just nearby, Oberndorf is home to the original performance of “Silent Night” on Christmas Eve, 1818.
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg, with its blend of French and German cultures, boasts the oldest Christmas market in France. The city is transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland, complete with themed Christmas villages, a towering Christmas tree, and a vibrant alternative fair featuring street art and live music.
Queenstown, New Zealand
In the Southern Hemisphere, Christmas is celebrated during the summer months. Queenstown’s warm temperatures allow for outdoor adventures like jet boating, river surfing, and paragliding on Lake Wakatipu. Alternatively, visitors can enjoy a festive barbecue on the beach with lamb, seafood, and chicken.
New York City
New York’s iconic Christmas traditions are hard to beat. The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes, and the Holiday Market at Columbus Circle are just a few of the must-see events. Window displays at Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, and Bergdorf Goodman are another festive highlight.
Whether you’re looking for traditional Christmas markets, festive traditions, or simply a stunning holiday atmosphere, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences for a truly magical Christmas vacation.
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