Thinking of taking a holiday trip this Christmas? Are you ready to make this Christmas season one to remember? The holiday season is the perfect time to explore new places, create memories, and experience unique celebrations around the world.
Stay connected with the best Travel eSIM
With so many wonderful destinations to choose from, planning the perfect holiday trip is easier than ever. Whether you’re dreaming of snowy landscapes, festive city streets, or tropical getaways, there’s a Christmas vacation spot for everyone.
In this list, you’ll find over 20 christmas vacation ideas to consider for 2024, each offering something special for holiday travelers. So, grab your planner, gather your family or friends, and get ready to explore some of the best places to celebrate this magical season.
Top Christmas Vacation Ideas: Festive Destinations Around the World
Let’s explore festive spots worldwide that come alive during the holiday season. From snowy towns to lively cities, these Christmas vacation ideas promise joy, lights, and warmth for all ages.
New York City, USA
New York City is an ultimate destination for a magical Christmas getaway, brimming with lights and festive fun! The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a must-see, shining brightly and surrounded by the famous ice-skating rink, where you can glide under the lights. Head to Fifth Avenue to admire magical holiday window displays and go to the Bryant Park Winter Village for shopping, treats, and another chance to skate.
The holiday spirit runs deep in NYC, with traditions like caroling in parks and sipping on classic holiday drinks like warm apple cider and hot chocolate from local favorites like Serendipity. At Radio City Music Hall, catch the Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular, a show packed with holiday cheer.
For outdoor fun, take a holiday-themed walking tour to see NYC’s best lights, and if you want a cozy escape, join a gingerbread-making workshop or enjoy a holiday movie at a local theater. New York City during Christmas is all about wonder, warmth, and unforgettable memories!
Lapland, Finland
Lapland, Finland, is a dream spot for Christmas 2024! Known as Santa’s official hometown, it’s packed with all the holiday magic you can imagine. Start with a visit to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi—meet Santa, browse the charming Christmas markets, and soak in the glow of festive lights. From reindeer sleigh rides to lively parades and holiday shows, there’s no shortage of Christmas cheer.
Special events like the grand tree lighting and cozy caroling nights make it extra special. For a real taste of Finnish Christmas, try local treats like joulutorttu (jam-filled pastries) and glögi (spiced wine) at places like Restaurant Nili.
Lapland also has winter adventures galore, from ice skating and skiing to hunting the Northern Lights. It’s the ultimate mix of festive fun and snowy landscapes—perfect for a Christmas you’ll always remember.
Vienna, Austria
If you’re after that classic Christmas feeling with all the sparkle, Vienna is the place to be. The whole city feels like a festive dream, especially with its famous Christmas markets.
Imagine wandering through the market at City Hall, sipping a warm cup of “Glühwein” (that’s spiced mulled wine!) while browsing stalls filled with handmade ornaments and all sorts of tasty treats. It’s like stepping into a Christmas card, especially with the Vienna Boys’ Choir singing carols that fill the air with holiday magic.
While you’re there, don’t miss out on skating on the huge ice rink at Rathausplatz. It’s fun for everyone, and it feels even more magical under the Christmas lights. For a cozy ride, hop on a horse-drawn carriage and explore the city’s beautifully lit streets.
You’ll feel like you’re in a fairytale. Vienna at Christmas is all about warmth, tradition, and a little bit of old-world charm—a perfect escape for anyone who loves the season.
Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City feels like it was made for a snowy, storybook Christmas. When December comes around, Old Town transforms into a true winter wonderland. The cobblestone streets, snow-dusted rooftops, and all the twinkling lights make it feel like a holiday movie scene.
The German Christmas Market is a must-visit, with stalls filled with festive decorations, cozy gifts, and yummy holiday snacks. Grab a hot cider or some mulled wine, and you’re set to enjoy the holiday spirit.
If you’re up for some adventure, try out snowshoeing or even dog sledding—two classic Canadian winter experiences that’ll make your holiday memorable. And for a truly special Christmas experience, consider going to Midnight Mass at Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral.
It’s a beautiful and traditional way to feel the spirit of the season. Quebec City gives you that real, old-fashioned Christmas vibe that’s perfect for anyone looking to celebrate with snow, charm, and plenty of cozy moments.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague looks like it was made just for Christmas. With its grand Gothic buildings and cobblestone streets, this city goes all out during the holidays. The main Christmas market in Old Town Square is one of the best you’ll find, with a massive Christmas tree, twinkling lights, and stalls selling ornaments, crafts, and all kinds of treats.
Warm up with a traditional Czech snack as you wander around, or try vánočka, a sweet braided bread that’s a holiday favorite here. One of the coolest things to do is go ice skating at Letná Park, where you get to glide around with views of the whole city.
And don’t miss out on seeing Prague Castle in winter—it’s got a magical feel, especially under a blanket of snow. If you’re in the mood for a cozy, old-world Christmas with a mix of history and charm, Prague is the perfect spot to make your holiday dreams come true.
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is dazzling during Christmas, and the city really goes all out with holiday lights. You’ll find amazing illuminations at Tokyo Midtown, Roppongi Hills, and Shibuya’s Blue Cave, where the whole area glows in festive colors. Shinjuku, Ginza, and Odaiba also light up beautifully, and the view from Rainbow Bridge is fantastic.
If you’re into Christmas markets, check out Hibiya Park or Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse for stalls selling mulled wine, German sausages, and handmade ornaments that bring a bit of Europe to Tokyo.
A fun Japanese tradition? Many people here celebrate Christmas with a KFC dinner and strawberry-topped Christmas cakes! For winter activities, you can try ice skating at Tokyo Midtown or Tokyo Dome City, and visit Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, where the decorations and parades are all holiday-themed.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh during the holidays is radiating with festive charm. The Christmas market at Princes Street Gardens is filled with holiday gifts, crafts, and delicious treats, and George Street hosts the Scottish Market, where you’ll find local foods and artisan goods.
If you’re here for New Year’s, Edinburgh’s famous Hogmanay celebration is a must—it’s all about street parties, live music, and spectacular fireworks. Check out the light trails at the Royal Botanic Garden and the “Street of Light” on the Royal Mile for a festive glow. Ice skating at St. Andrew Square is a popular holiday activity, and if you need to warm up, take a whisky-tasting tour to try some of Scotland’s best Scotch.
For traditional Scottish flavors, try dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties, and grab a mince pie or a festive whisky cocktail for a holiday treat. Edinburgh in December has a magical feel that captures the spirit of the season.
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg, known as the “Capital of Christmas,” is simply enchanting this time of year. It’s home to Europe’s oldest Christmas market, the Christkindelsmärik, with over 300 stalls filled with handmade ornaments, holiday crafts, and Alsatian decorations that bring a unique charm.
Place Kléber’s giant Christmas tree is a sight to see, surrounded by festive lights and traditional wooden market huts. Walk through the Petite France district, which is decorated beautifully for the season, and visit Notre Dame Cathedral for its Christmas concerts.
For winter activities, you can go ice skating at Place Dauphine or take a boat tour on the River Ill to see Strasbourg’s landmarks illuminated for the holidays. Don’t leave without trying some Alsatian treats—tarte flambée (a savory flatbread), vin chaud (mulled wine), and bredele (Christmas cookies) are local favorites. Strasbourg is full of holiday magic and festive traditions, making it a fantastic place to celebrate.
Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg is celebrated for its Christmas Market, one of the oldest in the world. You’ll find beautiful handcrafted items such as traditional nutcrackers and adorable prune figurines known as “Nuremberg Plum People.”
The Gothic churches of St. Sebald and St. Lorenz light up beautifully in the holiday evenings. For families, the Toy Museum is a delight with its vast collection of toys, perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit.
The city offers a feast for the taste buds with specialties like freshly baked gingerbread, savory bratwurst, and hot mulled wine that are sure to keep you warm. Don’t miss the majestic view from the Imperial Castle, and make sure to visit the city’s historic churches, St. Sebald and St. Lorenz, which are spectacularly lit up during the holiday season.
Zurich, Switzerland
During Christmas, Zurich transforms into a picturesque holiday scene, complete with one of the largest indoor Christmas markets in Europe located at the central train station. The Wienachtsdorf market is a bustling spot where you can find Swiss crafts and enjoy live music.
Make sure to see the Lucy Christmas Lights on Bahnhofstrasse, which beautifully illuminate the city’s shopping avenue. For a panoramic view of the snowy city, a trip to Felsenegg or Uetliberg Mountain is highly recommended.
Zurich is also home to unique experiences like the Singing Christmas Tree and the Fondue Tram, which offers a deliciously warm Swiss meal on the go.
Bethlehem, West Bank
Bethlehem at Christmas offers a unique experience. Start in Manger Square, where you’ll find holiday lights, music, and vendors. Visit the Church of the Nativity, where it’s believed Jesus was born. On Christmas Eve, many gather here for the Midnight Mass, a popular event, so come early or watch it from the square on large screens.
Explore the Old City’s narrow streets, which come alive with decorations, local crafts, and tasty Middle Eastern food. Nearby, Shepherds’ Field is another important site where angels announced Jesus’ birth to shepherds. For those looking to connect with the origins of Christmas, Bethlehem offers a meaningful and festive experience.
The Vatican, Italy
Christmas at the Vatican is truly unforgettable! Start with St. Peter’s Basilica, decorated with an enormous Christmas tree and nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square.
Try to attend the Christmas Eve Mass led by the Pope—just remember to reserve tickets early. Walk around the square at night as the lights add to the festive feel. Outside the Vatican, explore Rome’s Christmas spots: Piazza Navona hosts a market with crafts and treats, and the Colosseum looks amazing in winter’s soft light.
Warm up with a slice of panettone or a hot chocolate at a nearby café. Christmas in the Vatican and Rome combines spiritual depth with a warm holiday atmosphere.
Bondi Beach, Australia
For a sunny Christmas, Bondi Beach is the perfect destination. Instead of snow, celebrate on the sand with beach barbecues, live music, and a friendly crowd. On Christmas Day, people gather for a day filled with food, sun, and fun.
Try the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk for beautiful ocean views. Nearby, Icebergs Pool offers a cool place to swim and has a great view of the beach.
Shops and restaurants are open with holiday specials, so enjoy fresh seafood and Australian-style treats. Bondi Beach is a great pick if you want a relaxed, warm Christmas with a beachy twist.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam at Christmas is just charming. Don’t miss the Amsterdam Light Festival; the best way to see it is by boat along the canals. Museumplein becomes a winter hub, complete with an ice rink, holiday stalls, and Dutch treats like oliebollen (fried dough balls).
Winterparadijs at RAI Amsterdam is packed with holiday shows, indoor skiing, and food. Dam Square has a huge Christmas tree and street vendors with unique gifts.
For art lovers, stop by the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum. Amsterdam’s mix of holiday lights, local food, and art makes it a great place to enjoy a relaxed Christmas.
Munich, Germany
Munich brings a traditional holiday spirit with its famous markets. Marienplatz is home to one of Germany’s top Christmas markets, with wooden stalls selling ornaments, gingerbread, and warm mulled wine.
The Residenz Christmas Village is also popular, filled with decorations and holiday food stands. For beautiful scenery, visit Nymphenburg Palace and its winter gardens.
If you’re up for some winter sports, the Alps are a short drive away, offering skiing and snowboarding. Munich’s festive atmosphere and local traditions make it a top choice for those who want a classic European Christmas.
Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is lively and welcoming at Christmas. Start on Grafton Street, where shops and pubs are decorated for the season and street performers play holiday tunes.
Dublin Castle hosts a Christmas market with crafts, treats, and live music. For carols, visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where the grand setting makes for a memorable experience.
Join locals in a pub for Irish music, good food, and a pint. Phoenix Park and St. Stephen’s Green are nice spots for a winter walk. With its friendly people, decorated streets, and holiday music, Dublin offers a fun, cheerful Christmas experience.
Valkenburg, Netherlands
Valkenburg has a Christmas market like no other—inside caves! The Velvet Cave and Gemeentegrot turn into holiday markets with stalls, lights, and decorations. The whole town celebrates with Santa’s Village and a Christmas Parade.
Walk around to see the festive lights, and stop by Valkenburg Castle, which is lit up for the season. The mix of markets underground and the holiday events above makes Valkenburg an excellent spot for a different kind of Christmas with a lot of character.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a cozy spot for Christmas. Visit Tivoli Gardens, which turns into a holiday wonderland with lights, rides, and stalls selling Danish treats like æbleskiver (small pancake balls) and gløgg (mulled wine).
The Nyhavn area is great for photos, with its colorful buildings and canal reflections. Strøget, a popular pedestrian street, is lined with holiday lights and shops.
Locals focus on “hygge”—comfort and warmth—which you can feel in the city’s cafés. Christmas in Copenhagen feels like a fairy tale, perfect for a peaceful holiday with a touch of magic.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin has endless options for Christmas fun. The Gendarmenmarkt is a popular Christmas market with traditional crafts and food, while Charlottenburg Palace is stunning as it lights up for the holidays.
Near Alexanderplatz, the Berliner Weihnachtszeit market has an ice rink and Ferris wheel, making it great for families. Take a walk down Unter den Linden for holiday lights, or stop by the Berlin Cathedral for Christmas concerts. Berlin’s mix of markets, holiday events, and city sights makes it a fun place to explore during Christmas.
Riga, Latvia
Riga is full of Christmas charm, with the main market in Doma Square. Known as the birthplace of the Christmas tree, Riga’s wooden stalls sell crafts, mulled wine, and gingerbread.
The Old Town, with its medieval feel, is especially beautiful during the holidays. For a great view of the city, head to the St. Peter’s Church tower. Riga’s historic vibe and friendly market atmosphere make it a good choice for a relaxed holiday.
London, England
London’s Christmas season is overflowing with fun things to do. Start at Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland with rides, stalls, and an ice rink. Oxford Street’s Christmas lights are famous, and Somerset House has a scenic skating area.
Don’t miss the window displays at Harrods and Fortnum & Mason, which are perfect for holiday shopping. London’s Christmas markets along the South Bank are great for gifts and treats. With its famous sights and holiday cheer, London is a perfect spot for a classic Christmas.
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn’s Old Town feels like a storybook at Christmas. The main market in Town Hall Square is small but charming, with a huge Christmas tree and stalls selling Estonian crafts, warm drinks, and sausages.
Choirs and folk dancers add to the festive feel. To view the old city walls, walk through the Viru Gates. Tallinn’s small-town feel and historic streets make it a lovely place for a quiet, magical Christmas.
Montréal, Canada
Montréal mixes French and English traditions for a fun holiday season. The Christmas Village has lights, crafts, and tasty maple treats.
The Old Port offers ice skating with views of the city, and the Luminothérapie lights show in Quartier des Spectacles is a highlight. The Old Montréal area, with its cobblestone streets and decorations, feels especially festive. With winter beauty and lively events, Montréal is a great Christmas destination with a bit of snow.
Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong celebrates Christmas with bright lights and big displays. Victoria Harbour has elaborate decorations, and Harbour City is known for its creative holiday setups.
Check out Hong Kong Disneyland or Ocean Park for Christmas-themed activities. Shopping malls across the city are decorated for the holidays and offer plenty of seasonal food. With impressive lights, events, and lots to see, Hong Kong is perfect for a modern, vibrant Christmas.
Here’s a handy table with all the must-see and must-do highlights::
| Destination | Must-See & Do |
| New York City, USA | Rockefeller Center Tree, Fifth Ave holiday displays, Bryant Park Winter Village, Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular, holiday walking tours. |
| Lapland, Finland | Santa Claus Village, reindeer sleigh rides, Northern Lights, local treats like joulutorttu, Christmas shows, ice skating, and skiing. |
| Vienna, Austria | City Hall Christmas Market, Rathausplatz ice rink, Vienna Boys’ Choir, horse-drawn carriage rides. |
| Quebec City, Canada | German Christmas Market, snowshoeing, dog sledding, Midnight Mass at Notre-Dame de Québec. |
| Prague, Czech Republic | Old Town Square Christmas Market, Prague Castle, ice skating at Letná Park, traditional Czech holiday treats like vánočka. |
| Tokyo, Japan | Tokyo Midtown, Roppongi Hills, Shibuya’s Blue Cave, KFC dinner tradition, Christmas cakes, Tokyo Disneyland, holiday ice skating. |
| Edinburgh, Scotland | Princes Street Gardens market, Hogmanay celebration, Royal Botanic Garden light trails, whisky-tasting tour. |
| Strasbourg, France | Christkindelsmärik Market, Place Kléber’s Christmas tree, Petite France district, Notre Dame Cathedral, Alsatian treats like tarte flambée and vin chaud. |
| Nuremberg, Germany | Christkindlesmarkt, Imperial Castle, St. Sebald and St. Lorenz churches, Toy Museum, gingerbread and bratwurst treats. |
| Zurich, Switzerland | Indoor Christmas market, Lucy Christmas Lights, Felsenegg or Uetliberg Mountain views, Singing Christmas Tree, Fondue Tram. |
| Bethlehem, West Bank | Manger Square, Church of the Nativity, Midnight Mass, Old City, Shepherds’ Field. |
| The Vatican, Italy | St. Peter’s Basilica, Christmas Eve Mass, Piazza Navona market, Colosseum, panettone treats. |
| Bondi Beach, Australia | Beach barbecues, Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk, Icebergs Pool, local seafood. |
| Amsterdam, Netherlands | Amsterdam Light Festival, Museumplein ice rink, Winterparadijs at RAI, Dam Square tree, Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum. |
| Munich, Germany | Marienplatz market, Residenz Christmas Village, Nymphenburg Palace, day trips to the Alps. |
| Dublin, Ireland | Grafton Street lights, Dublin Castle market, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, pub visits, Phoenix Park, St. Stephen’s Green. |
| Valkenburg, Netherlands | Velvet Cave and Gemeentegrot markets, Santa’s Village, Valkenburg Castle, Christmas Parade. |
| Copenhagen, Denmark | Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, Strøget pedestrian street, Danish treats like æbleskiver and gløgg. |
| Berlin, Germany | Gendarmenmarkt, Charlottenburg Palace, Berliner Weihnachtszeit, Unter den Linden, Berlin Cathedral concerts. |
| Riga, Latvia | Doma Square market, Old Town, St. Peter’s Church tower for city views. |
| London, England | Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Oxford Street lights, Somerset House ice skating, Harrods, Fortnum & Mason, South Bank markets. |
| Tallinn, Estonia | Town Hall Square market, Viru Gates, Estonian crafts, folk performances. |
| Montréal, Canada | Christmas Village, Old Port ice skating, Luminothérapie light show, Old Montréal’s decorated cobblestone streets. |
| Hong Kong, China | Victoria Harbour decorations, Harbour City displays, Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park, decorated malls, festive seasonal foods. |
Stay Connected During Your Holidays with MayaMobile
Traveling during Christmas often means dealing with dropped calls and inconsistent internet service as you move from country to country. This can make it tough to coordinate travel plans and stay connected with loved ones.
Using Maya Mobile’s eSIM eliminates these problems. It provides seamless internet access across many countries without the hassle of physical SIM cards. With a reliable connection from Maya Mobile, you can easily keep in touch with family and manage your holiday travels directly from your phone.
FAQs on Christmas Vacation Ideas
Where is the best place to travel during Christmas?
New York City, USA, shines during Christmas with its iconic tree at Rockefeller Center and festive holiday markets.
Where is the best place to have a Christmas vacation?
Vienna, Austria, offers a magical Christmas experience with its beautiful markets and concerts.
Where should I go for a Christmas holiday?
Lapland, Finland, is perfect for a winter wonderland holiday with opportunities to see the Northern Lights and visit Santa Claus Village.
Where can I enjoy Christmas in India?
Kolkata is renowned for its vibrant Christmas celebrations, particularly on Park Street, which is festively decorated and bustling with activities.
Which city has the best Christmas?
Nuremberg, Germany, is famous for its traditional Christkindlesmarkt, a historic Christmas market that attracts visitors from all over the world.
What is the cheapest place to visit during Christmas?
Prague, Czech Republic, offers a budget-friendly Christmas experience with affordable markets and picturesque winter scenery.
Which country is best for a Christmas vacation?
Germany is celebrated for its delightful Christmas markets, especially in cities like Berlin, Munich, and Dresden.
Which country is best to visit in December?
Australia is great for a warm December getaway, offering beach holidays and numerous outdoor activities during its summer season.
Which city is most Christmassy?
Strasbourg, France, known as the “Capital of Christmas,” is famous for its old and enchanting Christmas markets.
Where is Christmas the most popular?
The Philippines, where Christmas celebrations begin in September and continue until January, boasts the world’s longest Christmas season.
Is National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation a good movie?
Yes, it’s a classic holiday comedy loved for its humorous take on family Christmas gatherings, making it a holiday staple for a fun and light-hearted movie night.
