Christmas, the most magical time of the year, beckons with the promise of unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you dream of a snowy winter wonderland or a sun-kissed beach escape, the perfect Christmas destination awaits. From charming European towns adorned with twinkling lights to vibrant cities buzzing with holiday cheer, and serene tropical islands offering warm respite, our guide unveils the Best Places To Travel For Christmas this year.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
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For a truly enchanting white Christmas, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, nestled in the majestic Tetons, is a premier destination. This ski paradise transforms into a festive hub during late December’s WinterFest. Imagine ice skating under the crisp mountain air, skiing with Santa himself, and participating in a thrilling holiday scavenger hunt. The Christmas spirit ignites with a grand tree lighting ceremony and culminates in a spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display.
Luxury meets alpine charm at slopeside lodges like Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa and the ski-in/ski-out Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay. Downtown Jackson becomes a winter wonderland with its iconic elk antler arches shimmering with holiday lights, creating a magical atmosphere for gift shopping. For an adventurous twist, venture to Granite Hot Springs Pool, accessible by snowmobile, fat bike, dog sled, or skis, for a unique hot-and-cold experience amidst stunning snowy landscapes. Jackson Hole offers an unparalleled Christmas vacation for families and adventure seekers alike, making it one of the best places for a Christmas trip filled with snowy delights.
New York City, New York
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Experience the unparalleled magic of Christmas in New York City, a city that truly shines during the holiday season. The dazzling city lights are amplified by festive holiday illuminations, creating an atmosphere of pure enchantment. Iconic displays abound, from the towering Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center and the charming tree in Washington Square Park to the mesmerizing LED light show on Saks Fifth Avenue and the captivating animated windows at Macy’s Herald Square.
Indulge in the festive spirit by sipping hot chocolate at German-style Christmas markets while browsing for unique gifts. Embrace tradition with a performance of the Radio City Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular, a quintessential NYC holiday experience. New York City’s vibrant energy makes it a fantastic Christmas destination for singles too. Unlike many other cities, NYC remains lively throughout the holidays, with packed movie theaters, bustling restaurants and bars, and a wealth of cultural events. Catch a Broadway show, be mesmerized by Alvin Ailey modern dance, or enjoy the classic Nutcracker ballet at Lincoln Center. New York City at Christmas is an unforgettable experience, solidifying its place as one of the best Christmas vacation spots in the world.
Bruges, Belgium
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For a fairytale Christmas in Europe, Bruges, Belgium, beckons with its enchanting charm and delightful Christmas markets. Renowned as home to some of Western Europe’s finest Christmas markets, Bruges transforms into a festive wonderland. The main market in Markt Square, the city’s heart, is a captivating spectacle of wooden chalets offering handcrafted ornaments, delectable waffles, and cozy woolly socks. The surrounding colorful storefronts are adorned with charming holiday decorations, adding to the storybook ambiance.
Indulge in rich Belgian hot chocolate from local confectioneries, arguably the best you’ll ever taste. The festive spirit extends to a smaller, equally charming market in Simon Stevinplein Square, offering more holiday treasures to discover. Enhance your Bruges experience with a luxurious stay at the historic Hotel Van Cleef, where suites overlook the picturesque canals, providing an idyllic setting for a Christmas getaway. Bruges offers a quintessential European Christmas experience, making it one of the best places to spend Christmas for those seeking old-world charm and festive markets.
Beaver Creek, Colorado
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Another exceptional ski destination for a Christmas holiday is Beaver Creek, Colorado, a picturesque village near Vail. This charming ski village offers a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere compared to its bustling neighbor, Vail. Beaver Creek comes alive with festive activities for the whole family during Christmas. From the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony to engaging events like holiday movie nights and fun cookie-baking competitions, there’s always something to celebrate.
For luxurious slopeside accommodations, The Osprey provides easy access to the chairlift and boasts a heated outdoor pool, perfect for après-ski relaxation. Alternatively, The Pines Lodge offers a cozy and exclusive retreat with only 60 rooms and ski-in/ski-out convenience. Beaver Creek provides a perfect blend of skiing adventure and Christmas festivities, making it one of the best places to travel for Christmas for ski enthusiasts and families wanting a memorable mountain holiday.
Saint Lucia
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If a white Christmas to you means soft, white sand, then Saint Lucia, a stunning Caribbean island, is your ideal festive escape. Trade snow boots for sandals and immerse yourself in the warmth of the Caribbean sun. The luxurious Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort, typically hosts a delightful array of holiday activities, including Santa visits, traditional Christmas meals, and a lively New Year’s Eve beach party.
Saint Lucia is not only a family-friendly destination but also one of the best Christmas vacations for couples. For an adults-only romantic retreat, Jade Mountain offers breathtaking views of the iconic Gros Piton and Petit Piton volcanoes from every room. Spend your days basking on pristine beaches nestled between these majestic peaks, swimming in crystal-clear waters, snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs, and kayaking along the scenic coastline. Saint Lucia provides a perfect tropical Christmas experience, making it one of the best warm places to travel for Christmas.
Highlands, North Carolina
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For a charming, small-town Christmas that feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie, Highlands, North Carolina, is a picture-perfect destination. Nestled in the southern Appalachian Mountains within the Nantahala National Forest, this quaint town exudes holiday spirit. Throughout December, Main Street and its surroundings are adorned with festive wintry displays, competing for the title of best storefront decoration.
Meet Santa himself at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on Saturdays leading up to Christmas Day, adding to the town’s festive cheer. For cozy and decorated accommodations, consider Old Edwards Inn and Spa or Half-Mile Farm, both favorite hotels among Travel + Leisure readers. Highlands offers a heartwarming and intimate Christmas experience, making it one of the best places for Christmas travel for those seeking small-town charm and holiday traditions.
Salzburg, Austria
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit in Salzburg, Austria, a city steeped in history and Christmas magic. Salzburg effortlessly embodies the Christmas spirit with its enchanting Christmas markets, the aroma of warm glühwein (mulled wine) filling the air, medieval castles standing majestically, and even a museum dedicated entirely to Christmas. As the birthplace of Mozart and the filming location for “The Sound of Music,” Salzburg offers a unique cultural backdrop to your Christmas celebrations.
Ice skate around the Mozart statue at Mozartplatz, soaking in the festive atmosphere. For breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped Alps, visit the south-facing terrace of the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Indulge in luxury at Hotel Goldener Hirsch, located in the heart of Old Town. Salzburg is a quintessential European Christmas destination, making it one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe, blending culture, history, and festive cheer.
Solvang, California
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Experience a touch of Denmark in sunny California this Christmas in Solvang, a charming Danish-inspired town in the Santa Ynez Valley. If a European Christmas market experience is on your wishlist but a transatlantic flight isn’t, Solvang offers a delightful alternative with warmer weather. Founded by Danes in the early 1900s, Solvang retains its Danish heritage through its architecture and businesses.
Solvang hosts Julefest, a month-long Christmas village celebration featuring outdoor gatherings and festive decorations throughout the town. Enhance your stay by choosing from cozy boutique hotels like The Landsby or The Winston, adding to the Danish Christmas ambiance. Solvang provides a unique European-style holiday getaway in California, making it one of the best places to travel for Christmas for a blend of culture and sunshine.
Stowe, Vermont
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Stowe, Vermont, a beloved ski destination in the East Coast, is a picture-perfect Christmas getaway within driving distance of major Northeastern cities. Popular among East Coasters for its accessible ski slopes and quintessential New England charm, Stowe is ideal for a snowy Christmas. The ski season typically begins in November, ensuring a white, powder-filled Christmas experience.
Stay at The Lodge at Spruce Peak for breathtaking mountain views and convenient ski-in/ski-out access. Stowe embodies the classic snowy Christmas spirit, making it one of the best places to go for Christmas for skiing and winter wonderland experiences on the East Coast.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh, Scotland, glows with festive cheer during the Christmas season, offering a unique blend of history and holiday magic. Edinburgh Castle, the city’s iconic landmark, becomes the centerpiece of celebrations with the annual Castle of Light event. Spectacular projections illuminate the castle walls, featuring themes that change yearly, from fire-breathing dragons to vibrant floral displays.
Indulge in a festive afternoon tea at The Dome, a stately Georgian tea room adorned with exquisite seasonal decorations. Explore Christmas markets while sipping mulled wine and enjoy ice skating on George Street for a complete Edinburgh Christmas experience. If your visit extends to New Year’s Eve, partake in Hogmanay, Scotland’s renowned end-of-year celebration, featuring torchlight processions, concerts, and lively parties. Edinburgh offers a culturally rich and festive Christmas experience, making it one of the best places for Christmas travel for those seeking history, celebrations, and Scottish charm.
Washington, D.C.
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Experience a festive and budget-friendly Christmas in Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital, brimming with holiday happenings. Washington, D.C., offers a wealth of holiday activities, many of which are free, making it an accessible Christmas destination. See the National Christmas Tree, ice skate at Washington Harbour, and enjoy a choral concert at the National Cathedral.
Escape the winter chill by exploring renowned Smithsonian museums, admire festive lights at the National Zoo, or stroll along the National Mall with a warm cup of cocoa. For luxurious accommodation, Riggs, a top-rated hotel, awaits. Washington, D.C., combines festive spirit with cultural attractions, making it one of the best places for Christmas vacations that are both enriching and affordable.
Florida Keys
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Escape to the warm and sunny Florida Keys for a delightful beach Christmas in the USA. With pleasant December weather, the Florida Keys offer a perfect escape for those seeking a warm Christmas in a US beach destination. Kick off your holiday with a scenic road trip through the Keys, exploring various islands en route to Key West.
For a secluded and luxurious stay away from the holiday crowds, consider Sunset Key Cottages, a private island resort accessible by ferry and one of the best hotels in Key West. This serene hideaway provides a tranquil Christmas retreat while remaining close to Key West’s attractions. The Florida Keys offer a relaxed and sunny Christmas experience, making it one of the best warm places to travel for Christmas within the United States.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
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Santa Fe, New Mexico, a city celebrated for its culture, cuisine, and stunning landscapes, offers a unique Southwestern Christmas experience. Santa Fe is a captivating destination year-round, but it truly shines during Christmas with numerous holiday events throughout December. Annual highlights include the Santa Fe Botanical Garden’s La Luz de Las Noches light display and Christmas concert series at the Loretto Chapel.
For winter sports enthusiasts, Ski Santa Fe is just a short drive away. Enhance your stay at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, offering festive meals and nightly s’mores, or stay at La Fonda on the historic Santa Fe Plaza, beautifully lit for the holidays. Santa Fe provides a culturally rich and diverse Christmas experience, making it one of the best places to travel for Christmas for a blend of art, culture, and Southwestern charm.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Experience a summer Christmas in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where holiday celebrations take on a vibrant, outdoor flair. In the Southern Hemisphere, Christmas falls in summer, and Buenos Aires celebrates with outdoor asado feasts and dazzling fireworks displays. December temperatures are warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying cocktails and picnics in Plaza Intendente Alvear.
While in Buenos Aires during the holidays, sample pan dulce (sweet bread), admire the elaborate decorations in Galerías Pacífico shopping center, or escape the city to nearby beaches. Buenos Aires offers a unique and warm Christmas experience, making it one of the best places to travel for Christmas for a sunny and celebratory holiday.
London, England
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London at Christmastime is truly magical, offering a captivating blend of glittering lights, festive markets, and holiday cheer. London comes alive during the Christmas season with sparkling lights illuminating streets, cider-slinging holiday markets, themed pop-up bars, and ice skating rinks across the city, from Hyde Park to Greenwich.
London boasts numerous festive hotels, but The Lanesborough stands out with its extravagant holiday decorations and the option to have your room fully decked out through their Christmas in Residence program. London delivers a classic and enchanting Christmas experience, making it one of the best places for Christmas travel for those seeking vibrant city festivities and traditional holiday charm.
Rovaniemi, Finland
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For the ultimate Christmas experience, journey to Rovaniemi, Finland, the official hometown of Santa Claus and the most Christmassy place on Earth. Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is home to Santa Claus Village and SantaPark, where you can meet Santa and his reindeer. During winter, the Arctic landscape is blanketed in snow, creating a breathtaking winter wonderland.
This region is also prime for spotting the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Several hotels offer igloo accommodations, providing stunning 360-degree views of the aurora borealis from the warmth of your room. Rovaniemi offers an unparalleled and immersive Christmas experience, making it undeniably one of the best places to travel for Christmas for a truly magical and unforgettable holiday.
The Maldives
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Escape to the tropical paradise of the Maldives for a Christmas filled with sun, sand, and relaxation. If you prefer sandals over snowshoes, the Maldives is the perfect Christmas destination. Winter is the dry season here, with warm daily temperatures, ideal for a beach holiday getaway. The Maldives, with its 27 atolls, is a true tropical paradise and one of the best all-inclusive Christmas vacation destinations.
Top resorts include Meeru Maldives, Constance Moofushi, and Lily Beach, offering luxurious accommodations and unparalleled service. The Maldives provides an idyllic warm Christmas escape, making it one of the best places to travel for Christmas for ultimate relaxation and tropical beauty.
Bavaria, Germany
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Experience a traditional German Christmas in Bavaria, a picturesque state in southern Germany, rich in festive traditions. Begin your Bavarian Christmas adventure in Munich, strolling through genuine German Christkindlmarkts while enjoying mulled wine. Venture beyond the city to explore charming medieval towns like Rothenburg or hit the slopes in the Alps for a snowy Christmas experience.
Be aware of the Krampus, a spooky Christmas folklore figure, adding a unique and slightly eerie element to the Bavarian Christmas traditions. Bavaria offers an authentic German Christmas experience, making it one of the best places to travel for Christmas in Europe for those seeking tradition, markets, and festive spirit.
Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City, Canada, offers a uniquely European Christmas experience just outside of Europe, blending French and German traditions. Quebec City, with its European charm, is easily accessible from the Northeastern US and offers an affordable Christmas getaway due to favorable exchange rates. The French-speaking Québécois celebrate Christmas with Franco-German-style markets, ice skating at Place D’Youville, and shopping in Old Quebec, which transforms into a winter wonderland.
For a quintessential Canadian experience, try the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide (Au 1884), one of Quebec City’s oldest attractions, located near the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hotel. Quebec City provides a charming and accessible European-style Christmas experience, making it one of the best places to travel for Christmas near the US, offering a blend of culture, history, and festive activities.
The Bahamas
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The Bahamas, a short flight from the East Coast, are a popular and easily accessible choice for a warm and sunny Christmas getaway. Just a short flight south for East Coasters, or a ferry ride from Ft. Lauderdale, the Bahamas offer an ideal escape for sun and sand during the holidays. Mid-December marks the start of the high season, thanks to the welcoming warm temperatures in contrast to the chilly US winter.
From large resort complexes like Baha Mar to intimate private island resorts like Kamalame Cay, the Bahamas offer a wide range of accommodation options for a perfect Christmas vacation. The Bahamas provide an easily accessible tropical Christmas escape, making them one of the best places to travel for Christmas for sun-seekers looking for convenience and relaxation.
This diverse list of destinations provides a starting point for planning your perfect Christmas getaway. Whether you crave snow-covered landscapes, festive cityscapes, or tropical beaches, the best place to travel for Christmas is out there, waiting to create lasting holiday memories.
