The Best Places in the World to Travel For Christmas

Is it grandma's house with stockings and freshly baked cookies? Is it a brick road in a small village with toys and gifts all displayed in the windows of the shops you pass by? Or is it a tropical vacation away from all the snow and cold?

The choices can be overwhelming. After all, you are investing in what is likely to be your primary vacation of the year. You want to make the right choice. Here's help with that.

Christmas is just one of the many holidays that are celebrated in the winter. A time for good tidings and cheer. But sometimes you need to travel a bit to reach that cheer. These are the top global Christmas Destinations of this year.

Picture 1 of The Best Places in the World to Travel For Christmas

Lapland Finland

Did you know that some sources state that the origin of the Santa Clause legend may have gotten its start in one of the Nordic Countries? If you were to ask anyone in Finland where Santa Claus is from they will most likely tell you that he is from Korvatuntari, which potentially makes Lapland Finland his hometown. Check out Lapland to see the man himself, watch the elves work in their workshops, and explore the forests on reindeer-led sleighs. Visiting Lapland is just like being in a classic Christmas film.

New York City USA

There is a reason why so many American Christmas films take place in New York City. The brightly lit city is beautifully made to be accented in the snow. The large tree in the middle of Times Square is practically symbolic of the way many Americans celebrate the holiday. Of course, there are all of the wonderful shops, hotels, and restaurants to check out as well. It's not hard to see why this city is one of the best Christmas destinations in the world.

Are you looking for the date experience of a lifetime? Go here on New Year's Eve for the famous festivities.

Bondi Beach Australia

When most people think of Christmas they tend to think of cold climates and warm fires. But not in Australia! Christmas is celebrated in the middle of summer, therefore all of those bright twinkling lights and good cheer don't compete with the bitter cold and snow. This means that everyone who celebrates the holiday in this country gets to enjoy a beautiful warm day. It also means that for many Australians, Christmas time doesn't mean cozy pajamas and fires. It means flip flops, or as they call them, thongs, sunscreen, and of course a trip to the beach.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

It seems that Santa Claus has a lot of great connections in the Norse region of the world. In Amsterdam, the story of Santa Claus has been passed through the ages. The homes built back in the 16th and 17th centuries are decorated with soft twinkling lights every December. With fireworks, Champagne, goodies, and more, it's easy to enjoy the 12 days of Christmas. Especially when you stay through the New Year.

Munich, Germany

Munich Germany is well known as being a beautiful Christmas Destination, and it very rarely, if ever, disappoints the crowds who visit during the holidays. Check out the 100-foot-tall Christmas Tree in Marienplatz, and stroll through over a dozen winter markets while enjoying a glass of mulled wine and gingerbread. A trip for Christmas to Munich will remind you of the old-fashioned Christmases you might be craving.

Dublin, Ireland

Take some time and visit the capital of Ireland this year. With a 12-day Christmas Market, Tons of Christmas Lights, and of course the overall abundance of holiday cheer. This is a fun-filled place that is sure to be a delightful holiday destination.

Riga, Latvia

Just one look at this beautiful town will make you feel as if you had been transported directly into the illustration of an old holiday fairy tale. The adorable cottages and brick buildings become accented adorably by the winter snow. During Christmas, you can also take part in many holiday traditions which include log dragging, stitch crafts, and of course an abundance of traditional foods to cook and eat.

Tallinn, Estonia

Going to Tallinn is like stepping into a fairy tale. The city is home to a legendary Christmas market. Travel back in time as you shop for sweets, Christmas decorations, or even make handicrafts of your own. Santa is there to meet and greet the children and serve as the market's master of ceremonies. Don't leave without enjoying a plate of sausages and potatoes and a cup of golgi. Be sure to stay in the city center so you are in the middle of the action and fully experience this true winter wonderland.

Marvin Fry

Update 08 December 2023