Top Christmas destinations: Europe and beyond

Dec 03 2024 MFR travel team

Christmas is a magical period of the year and local cities and suburbs become carvings of winter wonderlands, lighted up with lights, decorated with stalls and covered with snow. Whether you prefer the traditional and old world Christmas in Europe or you are looking to celebrate the holidays in a new location, there is no lack of destinations to choose from during the holiday season. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to visit around Christmas, in Europe and beyond.

Top Christmas destinations in Europe

1. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is one among the best tourist destination and is famous for its beautiful Christmas Markets. The other specialties of the Viennese Dream Christmas Market at the City Hall are the roasted chestnuts, the mulled wine and the gingerbread. Other factors that make the city festive are the baroque architecture and the classical music concerts as well as the ice skating rinks.

2. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg has also earned its title as the “Capital of Christmas” as it is also host to one of the oldest and most exquisite Christmas markets in Europe which started as early as 1570. Walk around the cobblestoned streets with houses having wooden interior and exterior which are decorated with lights and get amazed to see the world’s biggest Christmas tree in Place Kléber.

3. Lapland, Finland

To experience the most unforgettable Christmas holiday, visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland. Get to meet Santa and his reindeers and have a pull through a snowy forest and see the marvelous northern lights. Lapland is a perfect destination for a family holiday or an adrenaline junkie who wants to celebrate new year in style.

4. Prague, Czech Republic

It is like being in a fairy tale when you visit Prague during Christmas time. The old town square also has a Christmas market where one can buy ornaments and toys made from wood as well as other local products such as the trdelnik which is a sweet pastry made from spun dough. The light up of Prague Castle offers a beautiful view of the city.

5. London, United Kingdom

London comes alive during Christmas with dazzling decorations and festive events. Stroll along Oxford Street, marvel at the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square, and visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, where you’ll find markets, an ice rink, and thrilling rides.

6. Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is one of the cities that is closely associated with Christmas markets in Germany and its Christkindlesmarkt is considered to be one of the best. Relax by drinking some of the German favorite,  the glühwein or mulled wine, and shop for crafts made by hand and taste some  of the Nuremberg bratwurst. The medieval atmosphere creates an extraordinary atmosphere.

Christmas around the world 

1. New York City, USA

New York at Christmas Time is something that one can only dream of. In Rockefeller Center you can  enjoy the sight of the world’s biggest Christmas tree as well as go ice skating. Another activities that  you can do include; walking along Fifth Avenue to have a view of the beautiful window displays, the  Christmas markets at Bryant Park and Union Square and a Broadway show during the Christmas season.

2. Tokyo, Japan

Christmas in Tokyo is a feast for the eyes as the whole city is light  up with beautiful decorations during the Yuletide season. Christmas is not a part of Japanese culture but  the country celebrates the occasion with sweet treats, romantic dinners and the rather unorthodox tradition of eating  KFC during the holiday season.

3. Sydney, Australia

Switch the snow and spend  Christmas on the beach in Sydney. Bondi Beach is a favorite place for the new year celebrations.  It’s a tradition to have barbecues, and there is nothing better than attending the carol  sings at the Sydney Opera House or enjoying the light show at St. Mary’s Cathedral during the Christmas  season.

4. Dubai, UAE

Dubai presents the Christmas season in a different and lavish  way with decorations and celebrations all around the city. Among the other events that are worth visiting there is  the Dubai Winter Festival that includes many markets, Santa’s Grotto and the world’s biggest Christmas  tree. Although it does not snow, there are many activities that are perfect for the winter such as  at Ski Dubai which is an indoor ski resort.

 5. Quebec City, Canada

 Quebec  City becomes a charming Christmas town with its snow covered roads and European style architecture. The Old Town’s  German Christmas Market and beautifully lit up decorations make it feel like you are in a fairy tale.

 6. Reykjavik, Iceland

 Reykjavik is an interesting place during the  Christmas time with the mixture of mythology and Christmas atmosphere. In the Yule Town Christmas Market, you  should also look for the 13 Yule Lads, the Icelandic version of Santa Claus. It  is also possible to catch the Northern Lights if you are lucky.

Tips for a memorable Christmas trip

• Book early: There are many places with their Christmas seasons and hence the accommodation and other  activities may be booked in advance.
• Embrace local traditions: Eat the traditional Christmas foods, attend the holiday events and get to know the particular customs of the country you are visiting.
• Pack accordingly: Whether you are going to a cold winter destination of a European city or a  warm beach destination, make sure to pack for the weather to enjoy your trip.
• Consider smaller towns: There are numerous quiet towns and villages such as Bruges in Belgium or Hallstatt in  Austria and these can be as beautiful and inspiring as the popular ones but with less people.

No matter where you plan your Christmas trip, keep in mind that unexpected flight irregularities, such as delays or cancellations, can disrupt your plans. If that happens, MYFLYRIGHT is here to assist you in claiming your flight compensation. Our team of experts will handle all the legal aspects, so you can relax and continue enjoying your journey. Let us help you assert your rights and ensure your holiday remains as unforgettable as it should be!