World Of Wanderlust

Twinkling lights, tall Christmas trees, and a joyful atmosphere are what we love about Christmas. It’s the festive time that marks the end of the year with happy holidays. Are you thinking about traveling for Christmas this year? If so, we’ve got a list of the 12 best Christmas destinations around the world for you. Whether you’re into charming Christmas markets or prefer celebrating on a sunny beach, these places promise an unforgettable holiday experience.

Best Christmas Destinations Worldwide
1. Germany
2. Austria
3. Copenhagen, Denmark
4. Lapland, Finland
5. Prague, Czech Republic
6. Reykjavik, Iceland
7. London, the UK
8. New York City, USA
9. Solvang, California, USA
10. Bogota, Colombia
11. Sydney, Australia
12. Tokyo, Japan

Germany
Germany is simply spectacular during Christmas. Famous for its Christmas markets that have been around for centuries, the country truly knows how to celebrate. The markets, filled with twinkling lights and joyful crowds, offer a festive atmosphere and delicious mulled wine. Major cities like Cologne, Munich, and Dresden host some of the best markets. Cologne’s market, set against the backdrop of the beautiful Cologne Cathedral, is a sight to behold. Munich features a stunning Christmas tree adorned with thousands of lights and delicious Bavarian cuisine. Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is the biggest in Germany, with fairy-tale-like stalls and a gigantic Christmas tree. Germany is undoubtedly one of the best places to experience Christmas.

Austria
Austria offers a traditional Christmas with a twist. The country is known for its glimmering markets, cheerful carols, and sweet treats. However, Austria also has unique traditions like Krampus, a nightmarish creature that makes an appearance on December 5th and 6th, turning the celebration into a spooky festivity. Each city in Austria has its own special way of celebrating. Vienna is famous for its gorgeous markets and winter treats like toffee apples and roasted potatoes. Tirol is known for its Krampus parades and nativity scenes, while Salzburg enchants with its romantic winter scene and unique folk shows. Austria is truly a magical place to spend Christmas.

Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. The city lights up with fairy lights, Christmas trees, and seasonal food stalls, creating a cozy atmosphere. Snow covers the storybook buildings and the canals glow with warm lights, offering festive boat rides. You can’t miss ice skating in Frederiksberg Gardens or strolling around Tivoli Gardens, which becomes a Christmas paradise with its festive markets, merry-go-rounds, and classic gløgg.

Lapland, Finland
Lapland is a winter wonderland, especially during Christmas. With endless snowy terrains, pine forests, and Northern Lights, it’s a magical destination. Rovaniemi, known as Santa Claus’s hometown, offers an incredible mix of outdoor activities and classic Christmas celebrations. The festive atmosphere in Santa Claus Village includes heartwarming winter dishes, Christmas trees, and adorable gifts. You can also enjoy dog sledding, skiing, snowmobiling, and, of course, the stunning Northern Lights.

Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, becomes even more enchanting during Christmas. The city’s Baroque buildings, Gothic church towers, and the Danube River glowing under warm lights create a magical atmosphere. The Christmas markets are filled with adorable souvenirs and Czech winter specialties like spicy gingerbread and smoked sausages. Don’t miss the medovina, a honey wine, or the Christmas carols in Prague’s Old Town. Visiting Prague Castle adds to the winter charm of this beautiful city.

Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik stands out as an exceptional Christmas destination with its festive, quirky, and spectacular atmosphere. The city’s tale of the 13 Yuletide Lads, Santa-like trolls that gift presents to children, brings a unique element to Christmas. The Yule Town Christmas Market features gifts for kids in exchange for their shoes, delightful treats like leafbread and pepper cookies, and the classic malt og appelsin soda. And of course, the magical Northern Lights are a must-see.

London, the UK
London becomes a magical wonderland during Christmas. The city is known for its gigantic Christmas trees, sprawling fairgrounds, and stunning decorations. Highlights include Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, where you can enjoy light shows, ice skating, thrilling rides, and delicious British winter treats. Trafalgar Square hosts the iconic Christmas tree, adding to the city’s festive spirit.

New York City, USA
New York City offers an immaculate Christmas experience that is often showcased in Hollywood movies. The city’s festive vibe includes the famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center and the lively stalls at Bryant Park Winter Village. Enjoy holiday-themed coffee and sweets, watch a Christmas special on Broadway, explore Chelsea Market, or visit Central Park for a snowy adventure. As night falls, marvel at the breathtaking lights of Rockefeller Center and Dyker Heights.

Solvang, California, USA
Solvang, a charming village in California that brings a piece of Denmark to the US, becomes even more enchanting during Christmas. The village’s Danish-style architecture, timber houses, and windmills create a picturesque setting. Solvang’s Julefest includes parades, a tree-lighting ceremony, and a visit from Santa Claus. Sample Danish delicacies like aebleskiver pancakes and pastries. This hidden gem is one of the best places for a laidback yet festive Christmas celebration.

Bogota, Colombia
If a warm Christmas is what you’re after, Bogota is the place to be. The capital of Colombia shines with elaborate Christmas lights and decorations. December is filled with festivals and celebrations, offering a unique Latin American twist to Christmas. The Ruta Navideña, or Christmas Route, features light shows and parades, while holiday markets offer Colombian Christmas treats like natilla custard flan and bunuelos dough balls. Bogota’s festive spirit makes it one of the top Christmas destinations.

Sydney, Australia
Sydney offers a sun-soaked Christmas with its stunning beaches and festive markets. Christmas in Sydney features berry cocktails, sparkling wine, and golden sands instead of snow. The Christmas markets, with their elaborate decorations and themed stalls, offer plenty of shopping and tasty treats like pavlova and trifle. You can even enjoy a Christmas barbecue, making Sydney’s beachside Christmas celebrations an exciting alternative.

These destinations all offer unique and unforgettable Christmas experiences, making them perfect for your holiday travel plans.