Best Ways to Celebrate Christmas Around the World
Christmas is a time for creating unforgettable memories, and what better way to celebrate the season than by immersing yourself in the holiday magic of a unique destination? Whether you're looking for dazzling lights, traditional Christmas markets, or something completely off the beaten path, these places promise unforgettable experiences and magical memories.
Lapland, Finland
The ultimate winter wonderland, Lapland is known as the home of Santa Claus. Beyond the Arctic Circle, you can experience magical snow-covered forests, reindeer sleigh rides, and the Northern Lights.
Santa Claus Village: Meet the real Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, and enjoy a cozy stay in glass igloos under the stars.
Northern Lights: Go on a Northern Lights safari to witness this natural wonder in the pristine wilderness.
Bruges, Belgium
Known for its medieval charm, Bruges is like stepping into a Christmas fairy tale, with cobblestone streets, canals, and festive lights.
Bruges Christmas Market: Set in the Market Square, this market has cozy wooden stalls selling artisanal gifts, chocolates, and hot mulled wine.
Ice Skating on the Market Square: Glide through the beautifully lit square with a view of the Belfry Tower.
Tip: Take a canal cruise in the winter to see the city from a peaceful perspective, especially when the city lights reflect on the water.
Prague, Czech Republic
With its fairy-tale architecture, Prague's Old Town is a perfect backdrop for Christmas celebrations, featuring traditional Czech customs.
Old Town Square Christmas Market: Wander through this iconic market, sipping hot Czech mulled wine and trying a trdelník (sweet pastry).
Christmas nativity: Don’t miss the Christmas nativity scenes, displayed in various locations around the city, showcasing intricately crafted Czech craftsmanship.
Colmar, France
Colmar transforms into a Christmas village straight out of a storybook with its half-timbered houses, stunning Christmas lights and decoration.
Colmar Christmas Markets: Visit the six different Christmas markets spread across the town, each with its own charm and focus, from crafts to gourmet treats.
Christmas Lights Tour: The town is adorned with beautiful lights, and a walking tour will give you the best views of its festive displays.
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo celebrates Christmas with a blend of traditional Western festivities and Japanese flair. For something uniquely Japanese, try a Christmas cake, a light, sponge cake topped with strawberries and whipped cream, a holiday tradition in Japan.
Illumination Displays: Tokyo’s Christmas illuminations are some of the most spectacular in the world, with places like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Roppongi Hills showcasing dazzling light displays.
Christmas Eve Dinner: In Japan, Christmas Eve is often celebrated with a romantic dinner, and many restaurants serve festive meals like fried chicken, a quirky tradition you will come across only in Japan.
Australia
Christmas in the Southern Hemisphere means warm weather, beaches, and outdoor celebrations, offering a different take on the season. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the chilly temperatures!
Bondi Beach Christmas: Spend Christmas Day on Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach, where you can surf, sunbathe, and enjoy a laid-back BBQ.
Carols by Candlelight in Melbourne: This popular outdoor concert features Christmas carols under the stars with thousands of people lighting candles in unison.
If you're visiting the land down under anytime soon, be sure to check out our personal guide to Australia!
New York City
New York City’s holiday spirit is unmatched, with spectacular decorations, world-class shopping, and iconic events.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: See the iconic tree and ice skaters below it in one of NYC’s most famous holiday spots.
Holiday Windows and Lights: Stroll along Fifth Avenue to see elaborate department store windows, like those at Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue, which are transformed into beautiful holiday displays.
If you're heading to New York, make sure you read our article on 10 best ways to experience New York City.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s charming canals and beautiful architecture come alive with holiday lights and markets, making it a cozy destination for Christmas.
Amsterdam Light Festival: A winter art event featuring stunning light installations along the canals.
Ice Skating at Museumplein: Skate in front of the Rijksmuseum, a classic holiday experience with festive lights and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Tip: Explore the The Nine Streets for boutique Christmas shopping, where you’ll find unique, handcrafted gifts and cozy cafes
Tallinn, Estonia
With its medieval Old Town, Tallinn is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, and the Christmas market is a hidden gem.
Tallinn Christmas Market: The town square transforms into a magical market, complete with a giant Christmas tree and traditional Estonian crafts and foods.
Old Town Lantern Walk: Take a walking tour through Tallinn’s cobbled streets lit by lanterns, an atmospheric and romantic way to experience the holiday charm.
Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas Market) is one of the oldest and most famous in the world, offering a truly traditional German holiday experience.
Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt: Shop for handmade ornaments, wooden toys, and gingerbread, and listen to traditional German carols.
Historical Candlelit Walks: Join a walking tour through the medieval streets, illuminated by candlelight, for a taste of the past.
Tip: Try Nuremberg's famous bratwurst and gingerbread from the market’s vendors, perfect for a cozy holiday snack.
Each of these destinations offers a unique take on Christmas, from snowy landscapes in Lapland to the warm beaches of Australia. Give the gift of travel this Christmas with our exclusive gift cards – the perfect present for your loved ones to explore the world’s most enchanting holiday destinations.