12 Surreal Places to Travel in Christmas You Need to Experience

Christmas travel hits different. Last year, I watched the northern lights dance over Finland’s glass igloos while snow silently blanketed the forest around me. Lying there under a blanket, sipping hot chocolate, and watching nature’s light show, I realized some travel moments feel almost too magical to be real. And that’s exactly what Christmas does to places.

From seeing Prague’s Old Town Square sparkle with thousands of lights (while holding the best mulled wine I’ve ever tasted) to watching reindeer wander through snowy streets in Norway’s Tromsø, these are the most beautiful places in December that feel straight out of a fairytale. Let me share my 12 favorite spots that prove why Christmas might just be the most incredible time to explore our world!

Unmissable Places to Visit at Christmas

Visiting Christmas destinations? Wander through the fairy-tale streets of Bruges, Belgium, bask in the warm holiday vibes of Tulum, Mexico, experience the festive charm of Salzburg, Austria, or enjoy the dazzling illuminations in Tokyo, Japan. Whether you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland, a tropical escape, or a cultural holiday, Christmas offers magical experiences around the world!

1. Bruges, Belgium

• 📍 Location: Northwestern Belgium, 1 hour from Brussels by train, 30 minutes from the North Sea coast
• 🏆 Best For: Christmas market enthusiasts 🎄, history lovers 🏰, chocolate connoisseurs 🍫
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the medieval Christmas market, ice skating on Lake Minnewater, canal boat rides illuminated by festive lights
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late November through early January for the full Christmas experience ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Heritage – A luxurious boutique hotel in a restored historic building near the Markt square

Step into your own fairytale in Bruges where medieval architecture and snow-dusted cobblestones create Christmas magic that feels almost unreal. The UNESCO-listed historic center transforms into a winter wonderland that captivated me like nowhere else in Europe.

The Grote Markt hosts a spectacular Christmas market with wooden chalets selling handcrafted ornaments and steaming Belgian hot chocolate. A towering Christmas tree and ice skating rink create a magical atmosphere beneath the 13th-century belfry. The Snow & Ice Sculpture Festival features incredible frozen masterpieces glowing under colorful lights.

Wander narrow lanes decorated with garlands, stopping at chocolatiers for pralines. For an unforgettable experience, take an evening canal cruise to see medieval buildings illuminated with holiday displays reflecting on the water.

2. Tulum, Mexico

• 📍 Location: Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, about 80 miles south of Cancún on Mexico‘s Caribbean coast
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, history enthusiasts 🏛️, wellness seekers 🧘‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean, swimming in cenotes decorated for the holidays, attending beach Christmas parties
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Mid-December through early January for perfect 80°F weather and festive celebrations 🌴
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Azulik Tulum – Eco-friendly luxury treehouses with stunning ocean views

Trade your winter coat for swimwear in Tulum, where ancient Mayan ruins meet turquoise Caribbean waters for the most surreal Christmas you’ll ever experience. Nothing compares to spending December 25th barefoot on white sand while friends back home shovel snow.

The Tulum Archaeological Zone gets a subtle holiday makeover with traditional Mexican decorations. Watching sunset behind the clifftop ruins on Christmas Eve feels almost spiritual. Nearby cenotes host special candlelit swimming events where I floated beneath limestone caverns adorned with twinkling lights.

Local restaurants prepare special Christmas feasts blending traditional Mexican holiday dishes with fresh seafood. Don’t miss the Posadas processions in the downtown area or beachfront parties where DJs spin beneath palm trees wrapped in fairy lights.

3. Salzburg, Austria

• 📍 Location: Northern Austria near the German border, 2.5 hours from Vienna by train, nestled in the Eastern Alps
• 🏆 Best For: Classical music lovers 🎻, Christmas tradition seekers 🎅, “Sound of Music” fans 🎬
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the centuries-old Christkindlmarkt, attending Mozart concerts in historic venues, exploring snow-covered baroque architecture
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late November to December 26th for traditional Advent celebrations ⛄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Sacher Salzburg – Historic luxury hotel overlooking the Salzach River with views of the Old Town

Breathe in the scent of glühwein and feel snowflakes on your face in Salzburg, where Mozart’s birthplace becomes Europe‘s most enchanting Christmas destination. The baroque architecture creates a setting so perfect it seems designed specifically for the holidays.

The Salzburg Christkindlmarkt, dating to the 15th century, transforms Cathedral Square into a glittering village of wooden stalls. A towering Christmas tree and daily choral performances create an atmosphere worthy of a storybook. The candlelit concerts at Mirabell Palace transport you through centuries of musical tradition.

Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the surrounding countryside or visit the Silent Night Chapel where the famous carol premiered. I still dream about joining locals for traditional Krampus runs, watching performers in frightening masks parade through narrow streets in a centuries-old tradition.

4. Tokyo, Japan

• 📍 Location: Eastern coast of Honshu Island, central Japan
• 🏆 Best For: Light display enthusiasts 💡, urban explorers 🏙️, unique cultural experience seekers 🏮
• 📸 Top Experiences: Witnessing the spectacular winter illuminations, visiting themed Christmas markets, enjoying KFC Christmas dinner (a quirky Japanese tradition)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December 1-25 for the most elaborate illuminations and displays 🌟
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Park Hyatt Tokyo – Luxury hotel made famous in “Lost in Translation” with panoramic city views

Enter a futuristic holiday dreamscape in Tokyo where Christmas gets reimagined through a uniquely Japanese lens. The city transforms into perhaps the most dazzling light show on earth with displays that will blow your mind.

Shibuya and Roppongi Hills host illuminations with millions of LEDs creating tunnels and animated displays that make Western decorations look positively quaint. The Tokyo Midtown trees draped in blue lights create the illusion of walking through a galaxy. This Christmas wonderland makes me question reality every time I visit.

Experience the quirky tradition of eating KFC on Christmas Eve or shop for unique gifts at Tokyo Christmas Market in Hibiya Park. For a romantic evening, take the elevator to the top of Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of the illuminated metropolis stretching endlessly.

5. Sydney, Australia

• 📍 Location: Southeastern Australia, capital of New South Wales on the Tasman Sea
• 🏆 Best For: Summer Christmas enthusiasts 🌞, beach lovers 🏄‍♀️, fireworks fanatics 🎆
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching Santa arrive by surfboard at Bondi Beach, enjoying the spectacular light projections on Sydney Opera House, picnicking at festive concerts in the Botanic Gardens
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December 1-31, with temperatures around 75-85°F for a sunny Christmas 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney – Luxury accommodations with harbor views and proximity to holiday events

Feel your brain struggle to compute “Christmas” while sweating in 85-degree sunshine as Sydney delivers the ultimate seasonal contradiction. Santa arrives by surfboard and Christmas dinner happens on the beach in this summer holiday paradise.

The Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge become canvases for spectacular light projections best viewed during an evening harbor cruise. A massive Christmas tree in Martin Place dazzles with over 110,000 LED lights while Pitt Street Mall transforms with suspended decorations.

Join locals at Bondi Beach on December 25th, where thousands gather in Santa hats and swimwear. The Carols in the Domain concert brings families together on picnic blankets in the Royal Botanic Gardens. I still remember the surreal feeling of singing “Let It Snow” while applying sunscreen.

6. New York City, USA

• 📍 Location: Northeastern United States, where the Hudson River meets the Atlantic Ocean
• 🏆 Best For: Holiday movie fans 🎬, window display enthusiasts 🪟, ice skaters ⛸️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, watching the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, ice skating in Central Park
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December 1-31, with tree lighting the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving 🎄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Plaza Hotel – Iconic luxury hotel featured in “Home Alone 2” with views of Central Park

Step into your favorite Christmas movie the moment you arrive in New York City during December. The concrete jungle transforms into the most cinematic holiday experience in America with iconic scenes around every corner.

The towering Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree stands as the epicenter of NYC Christmas, surrounded by illuminated angels and overlooking the famous ice skating rink. The Saks Fifth Avenue light show transforms the entire façade into a dazzling display synchronized to music that stops pedestrians in their tracks.

Wander through the charming holiday market at Bryant Park or catch the high-kicking Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. I’ve never felt more festive than during a horse-drawn carriage ride through snow-dusted Central Park, followed by hot chocolate at Serendipity 3.

7. Prague, Czech Republic

The Old Town Square becomes a hive of activity, hosting Prague’s most famous Christmas market. Wooden huts overflow with handcrafted gifts, traditional Czech Christmas crafts, and mouth-watering treats like trdelník (a kind of sugar-coated pastry). And let’s not forget the massive Christmas tree that’s shipped in from the Czech mountains!

Prague’s Christmas charm extends beyond its markets. The Vltava River reflects the city’s festive lights. It offers an incredible view, especially from the iconic Charles Bridge. For the romantics, a nighttime stroll on this bridge, with the Prague Castle in the backdrop, feels like a scene straight out of a fairy tale.

Families can enjoy puppet shows that retell classic Christmas stories. Couples might find a cozy café to sip on svařák (hot mulled wine) and watch the world go by.

Christmas in Prague feels like a delightful dance between the past and the present. Between sips of svařák and bites of trdelník, you might just find yourself joining a group of carolers or making a snow angel in the shadow of a centuries-old cathedral. Prepare to be amazed by one of the good places to vacation for Christmas!

8. Reykjavik, Iceland

Venturing to the land of fire and ice, Reykjavik offers a Christmas experience that’s as magical as it is unique. As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, this Icelandic capital becomes one of the best places to travel for Christmas, especially for those chasing the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights.

The heart of Reykjavik pulses with festive energy, as colorful houses become canvases for twinkling lights and joyful decorations. A short drive away, the Christmas Village in Hafnarfjörður beckons with its traditional Icelandic crafts, tempting treats, and the playful antics of the thirteen Yule Lads, Iceland’s own brand of Christmas elves.

Beyond the city’s festive charm lies a world of natural wonders waiting to be explored. Picture yourself immersed in the warmth of the geothermal Blue Lagoon, with the cold air kissing your face and snowflakes playing in your hair. Or venture into the vast Icelandic landscapes, where the Aurora Borealis paints the night sky in mesmerizing colors. This experience offers a spectacle that words can hardly capture.

Children will be thrilled with the magic of the Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park. Here, they can meet native Icelandic animals and enjoy festive activities during the holiday season. Meanwhile, couples can find solace in a secluded cabin. They’ll have nothing but a crackling fireplace and the vast expanse of the starlit sky for company.

Reykjavik is all about mixing the chill of winter with the warmth of festive cheer. Prepare to chase the Northern Lights, make friends with Icelandic animals, and maybe have a snowball fight or two. Reykjavik’s got your Christmas adventure sorted.

9. Lapland, Finland

If there’s one place that screams “Christmas,” it’s Lapland. Nestled in the northernmost part of Finland, this winter wonderland is often touted as Santa Claus’s official hometown. And honestly, who are we to argue?

Mornings in Lapland comprise waking up in a cozy log cabin, with snow gently falling outside and the promise of a day filled with festive fun. First stop? Santa Claus Village, of course! Send a postcard from Santa’s official post office, and if you’ve been nice (not naughty), you might just bump into the big man himself.

Lapland offers more than just Santa encounters. Hop on a sled pulled by eager huskies or join a reindeer safari. Yes, Rudolph and his pals are real, and they’re ready to show you around their snowy playground.

Perhaps one of the coolest things to do for Christmas for couples is to spend a night in a glass igloo. Gaze up at the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed and toast to the magic of the season. Families, meanwhile, can dive into snowball fights, build snowmen, and warm up with cups of hot cocoa.

In Lapland, every snowflake feels like a sprinkle of Christmas magic. Ready for a festive adventure in one of the best Christmas vacation destinations? Lapland’s got your ticket to ride – sleigh bells included!

10. Mauritius

Trade in frosty mornings for sun-kissed beaches and let the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean be your Christmas carol. Welcome to Mauritius, where the festive season is wrapped in a warm tropical embrace. This makes it a dreamy (and hot!) place to spend Christmas.

Picture this: Palm trees adorned with twinkling lights, their reflections dancing on the azure waters. Beach resorts offer festive feasts with a Mauritian twist, blending traditional Christmas flavors with the island’s rich culinary heritage. How about some roasted turkey followed by a slice of tropical fruit cake infused with local rum?

The island’s vibrant culture shines even brighter during the festive season. Local markets are a riot of colors, with stalls selling handcrafted gifts, from intricate seashell ornaments to vibrant textiles. As you explore, the air is filled with the melodies of Séga tunes, the island’s traditional music, giving Christmas classics a rhythmic twist.

Adventure seekers can explore the coral reefs. They can dive into an underwater world that seems to sparkle just a bit more during the festive season.Families can embark on catamaran cruises, spotting playful dolphins. Meanwhile, couples might find a secluded beach spot to watch the sunset and enjoy a Christmas-themed cocktail.

Offering sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and the gentle lullaby of the ocean, it’s no wonder Mauritius ranks among the best places to travel for Christmas. Ready to swap snowflakes for seashells? Mauritius awaits with open arms and island magic!

11. Strasbourg, France

In the heart of Alsace, France, Strasbourg dons its festive best come December, earning its title as the “Christmas Capital of Europe.” With its half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and the scent of mulled wine wafting through the air, Strasbourg feels like a page right out of a Christmas storybook.

The city’s Christmas market, Christkindelsmärik, is one of the oldest and most famous in Europe. Established in 1570, it sprawls across the city center, with stalls offering everything from handcrafted ornaments to Alsatian delicacies. As you wander, be sure to try the bredele, traditional Christmas biscuits that come in a myriad of flavors.

The towering Strasbourg Cathedral becomes even more enchanting during the festive season. Illuminated in festive colors, the cathedral hosts an incredible nativity scene, drawing visitors from near and far.

For a touch of romance, couples can take a boat ride along the Ill River, the city lights reflecting on the water creating a magical ambiance. Families, meanwhile, will delight in the Christmas tales and legends shared by local storytellers. This activity makes the festive lore come alive.

Strasbourg is where age-old traditions meet festive merriment. Without a doubt, it’s one of the places to go for Christmas in Europe if you’re seeking that authentic Yuletide charm. Pull on your coziest scarf, grab a cup of vin chaud, and let Strasbourg’s Christmas magic envelop you. It’s a must-see in Alsace for Christmas lovers, hands down.

12. Vienna, Austria

As our festive journey around the world comes to a close, we’ve saved the most enchanting for last. Welcome to Vienna, where Christmas isn’t just a season. It’s a grand celebration that fills every corner of the city with unparalleled magic and joy.

The Austrian capital transforms into a winter wonderland. Streets are lined with stalls that make up the renowned Viennese Christmas markets. The Rathausplatz market, set against the backdrop of the city’s grand Town Hall, is a sight to behold. Here, you can indulge in roasted chestnuts, sip on spicy glühwein, and shop for unique handcrafted gifts.

What truly sets Vienna apart is its rich musical heritage. Christmas concerts are held throughout the city, from grand opera houses to intimate churches, filling the air with melodies from Mozart, Strauss, and other legendary composers.

Families can marvel at the intricate window displays of the city’s historic department stores, each telling a different festive tale. If you’re looking for things to do in Vienna as a couple, a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow-covered streets feels like a journey back in time. It’s complete with the jingle of bells and the soft glow of lanterns.

Vienna is the epitome of Christmas elegance and tradition. This makes it the crown jewel of our list and one of the best Christmas vacation destinations. We’ve journeyed near and far, but in Vienna, we find the heart and soul of the festive season. Here’s to ending our list with a bang. This is in a city where every snowflake whispers tales of Christmases past and present. It’s no wonder that this city is among the top places to travel during Christmas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Places to Travel for Christmas

Are you looking for more content about the best places to visit for Christmas? Here are some frequently asked questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Christmassy vacation spots.

Where is the best place to go for Christmas vacation?

The best place for a Christmas vacation truly depends on what you’re seeking. For a traditional winter wonderland experience, destinations like Lapland in Finland or Strasbourg in France offer snowy landscapes, festive markets, and age-old traditions. However, if you’re looking to escape the cold and bask in the sun, places like Mauritius or Sydney in Australia provide a unique Christmas experience with beachside celebrations and warm temperatures.

Where is the most beautiful place at Christmas?

Many travelers find Vienna, Austria, to be exceptionally enchanting during Christmas. The city’s baroque architecture, grand palaces, and historic streets are adorned with twinkling lights. The renowned Viennese Christmas markets add to its charm. The blend of music, history, and festive spirit makes Vienna a top contender for the most beautiful place at Christmas.

Where is hot and cheap at Christmas?

Seeking warmth without breaking the bank? Southeast Asian destinations like Bali, Indonesia, or Phuket, Thailand, are excellent choices for a Christmas vacation. These places offer tropical temperatures, beautiful beaches, and a range of affordable accommodations. Plus, the unique blend of local traditions with festive celebrations offers a fresh take on Christmas. 

Where is the most Christmassy place in the world?

Strasbourg, France, often claims this title as the “Christmas Capital of Europe.” Its historic Christmas market, Christkindelsmärik, dates back to 1570, and the entire city is draped in festive decor. The blend of tradition, festive foods, and the spirit of joy that fills the air makes Strasbourg a top contender for the most Christmassy place in the world.

What is the #1 best Christmas town?

One town that frequently tops lists for its Christmas charm and festivities is Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Germany.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a medieval town that seems to have sprung straight out of a fairy tale. During the Christmas season, the town transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, snow-covered rooftops, and the famous Reiterlesmarkt (Christmas market). The market dates back to the 15th century and offers traditional German crafts, foods, and drinks. The town’s Christmas Museum is also a popular attraction, showcasing Christmas traditions from around the world. The cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and festive decorations make Rothenburg ob der Tauber a top destination for those seeking an authentic and enchanting Christmas experience.

What are some unique Christmas traditions around the world?

Christmas is celebrated in different ways across the globe. In Sweden, there’s the Festival of Saint Lucia, where young girls don crowns of candles. In Japan, it’s become a quirky modern tradition to eat KFC on Christmas Eve. Meanwhile, in Iceland, the Yule Lads, 13 mischievous trolls, bring gifts to children in the 13 days leading up to Christmas.

Where can families find the most kid-friendly Christmas celebrations?

Lapland, Finland, is a dream come true for kids. Often considered Santa Claus’s official hometown, children can meet Santa, play with reindeer, and even attend elf school. Other destinations like Orlando, Florida, with its theme parks, offer grand Christmas parades, festive shows, and a plethora of holiday-themed activities.

Where is the prettiest place to go for Christmas?

Choosing the prettiest place for Christmas is subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, here are some destinations around the world renowned for their festive charm and beauty during the holiday season:

1. Strasbourg, France: Often referred to as the “Capital of Christmas.” Strasbourg hosts one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. The city is adorned with lights, and its half-timbered houses add to the fairy-tale ambiance.
2. Vienna, Austria: The city’s historic buildings and squares are illuminated with festive lights, and its Christmas markets. I especially love the one in front of the City Hall (Rathaus).
3. Nuremberg, Germany: The Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg is one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world. The city’s medieval architecture truly provides a perfect backdrop.
4. Lapland, Finland: Often considered the home of Santa Claus. This Arctic wonderland offers snowy landscapes, reindeer rides, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
5. Quebec City, Canada: The cobblestone streets of Old Quebec are transformed into a winter wonderland, with the city’s French heritage adding a unique charm to the festive celebrations.
6. Prague, Czech Republic: The city’s Gothic and Baroque architecture, combined with its Christmas markets, especially in the Old Town Square, create a magical atmosphere.
7. Reykjavik, Iceland: With its snowy landscapes, geothermal pools, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, Reykjavik offers a unique Christmas experience.

Which destinations are best for couples seeking a romantic Christmas getaway?

For couples, a romantic escape to Bruges, Belgium, or Prague, Czech Republic, offers intimate moments amidst cobbled streets, historic architecture, and serene canal rides. Both cities are illuminated beautifully during the festive season, providing a perfect backdrop for romantic strolls, cozy dinners, and memorable moments.

What is the most popular travel destination for Christmas?

The most popular travel destination for Christmas varies based on regional preferences, travel trends, and individual tastes. However, some destinations consistently rank high on the list of favorite spots for Christmas holidays due to their festive atmospheres, unique traditions, or winter attractions. Here are some of the most popular travel destinations for Christmas:

1. New York City, USA: The city becomes a festive wonderland with the iconic Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue, and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes.
2. Lapland, Finland: Often considered the “home of Santa Claus.” It offers a magical Arctic experience with reindeer rides, snow-covered landscapes, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights.
3. Strasbourg, France: Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg hosts one of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets.
4. Vienna, Austria: The city’s historic squares are transformed into enchanting Christmas markets. The festive lights and decorations add to the holiday spirit.
5. Prague, Czech Republic: The Christmas markets, especially in the Old Town Square, combined with the city’s historic architecture, create a fairy-tale-like atmosphere.
6. Nuremberg, Germany: The Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg is a world-famous Christmas market. It attracts visitors with its festive ambiance and traditional German holiday treats.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Travel for Christmas

From the snowy streets of Europe to the sunny beaches of the Southern Hemisphere, the world is brimming with Christmas vacation spots that bring the magic of Christmas to life. Whether you’re seeking a traditional Yuletide experience, a tropical twist on the festive season, or simply a new adventure, there’s a corner of the world waiting to share its unique Christmas spirit with you.

As we’ve journeyed through these best places to travel for Christmas, one thing becomes clear: the essence of the holiday season is universal. It’s found in the laughter of children, the melodies of carols echoing through the streets, the warmth of shared meals, and the joy of giving.

Wherever you choose to hang your stockings or set up your Christmas tree, remember that the true magic of Christmas lies in the moments we share, the memories we create, and the love we spread. Here’s to festive adventures, new discoveries, and a world filled with holiday cheer!