The holiday season is a magical time to explore the world’s most enchanting destinations. Foreign Journeyer brings you the best Christmas holiday destinations around the world, ensuring your festive season is filled with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re searching for nice places to spend Christmas with family or the best destinations to spend Christmas, this list has something for everyone. From iconic cities like New York and Paris to charming towns like Bruges and Solvang, these best places to go for Christmas in 2024 offer the perfect blend of holiday cheer and memorable moments.
New York City
New York City is a top destination for a Christmas vacation like no other. The city comes alive with dazzling holiday lights and iconic displays, from the towering tree at Rockefeller Center to the beautifully animated windows at Macy’s Herald Square. You can enjoy ice skating at Rockefeller, shopping along Fifth Avenue, or savoring hot chocolate at German-style Christmas markets. Don’t miss the famous Radio City Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular or the enchanting Nutcracker ballet at Lincoln Center. For a truly magical experience, take a walking tour of Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, where the Christmas lights are a spectacle in their own right. New York offers something for everyone this holiday season, whether you’re traveling with family or exploring solo.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges, often referred to as the “Venice of the North,” transforms into a Christmas wonderland during the holiday season. The main Christmas market in Markt Square is a must-visit, with its charming wooden chalets selling handmade gifts, warm Belgian waffles, and cozy woolen socks. As you wander the cobbled streets, the twinkling lights and festive atmosphere make Bruges feel like a fairy tale. Don’t forget to enjoy a cup of rich Belgian hot chocolate while exploring the smaller market at Simon Stevinplein Square. For an unforgettable stay, book a room at the historic Hotel Van Cleef, which offers stunning canal views. Bruges’ medieval charm and holiday spirit make it one of the best Christmas holiday destinations in Europe.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh shines brightest during the Christmas season, with Edinburgh Castle casting a magical glow over the city. The annual Castle of Light event features stunning projections on the castle walls, creating a festive spectacle. The city’s Christmas markets in East Princes St. Gardens offer a mix of traditional treats, mulled wine, and local crafts, while ice skating at George Street and St Andrew Square adds to the charm. For a truly Scottish experience, warm up with whisky and enjoy a festive afternoon tea at The Dome. If you’re visiting at the turn of the year, don’t miss Hogmanay, Edinburgh’s legendary New Year celebration with concerts, torchlight processions, and fireworks. Edinburgh is undoubtedly one of the best cities to spend Christmas.
London, UK
London transforms into a Christmas wonderland, with sparkling lights, festive markets, and charming ice skating rinks. From Hyde Park to the Queen’s House in Greenwich, the city’s holiday spirit is unmatched. Visit iconic locations like Somerset House, where skating in the neoclassical courtyard offers a magical holiday experience. For a Dickensian touch, explore the decorated Georgian townhouses and cozy pubs. Make your stay extra special by booking a room at Claridge’s, known for its lavish holiday decorations. Whether it’s sipping mulled wine at a pop-up bar or enjoying a traditional afternoon tea, London is one of the best places to go for Christmas in 2024.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, is the ultimate Christmas destination. Located in Finnish Lapland, this winter wonderland is home to Santa Claus Village and SantaPark, where you can meet Santa, feed reindeer, and enjoy magical winter activities. The city’s snowy landscape makes it the perfect setting for a Northern Lights adventure. Stay in cozy glass igloos at Aurora Village, where you can witness the aurora borealis from the comfort of your room. Whether you’re chasing the lights on a private safari or indulging in festive fun, Rovaniemi offers a truly unforgettable Christmas experience.
Solvang, California
For a storybook Christmas without the chill, head to Solvang, California. This charming town in the Santa Ynez Valley, founded by Danish settlers, brings a bit of Denmark’s magic to the holiday season. Solvang’s annual Julefest celebration transforms the village with festive lights, outdoor events, and traditional Danish treats. Explore the cozy boutiques and enjoy the holiday decorations. To fully embrace the Christmas spirit, stay at The Landsby or The Winston, two of Solvang’s most charming boutique hotels, offering a warm and festive atmosphere throughout the season.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with Christmas lights brightening the long nights and the northern lights occasionally gracing the skies. Explore the charming streets, where you’ll encounter the 13 Yule Lads, Iceland’s playful holiday trolls, a unique twist on the Santa Claus tradition. For the full experience, stay at The Reykjavík Edition, a stylish hotel blending modern comforts with Icelandic heritage, featuring lava rock accents and locally-made wool throws. Reykjavik’s blend of festive cheer and natural beauty makes it an unforgettable Christmas destination.
Paris, France
Paris transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays, with dazzling light displays on the Champs-Elysées, festive pop-up markets, and ice skating rinks adding to the magic. For a cozy retreat, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate at the famous Angelina café. Be sure to visit Galeries Lafayette, where the stunning holiday window displays and towering Christmas trees are a must-see. Stay at the luxurious Hôtel Lutetia, where Art Deco elegance meets festive cheer, offering gourmet holiday menus and stunning views of the Eiffel Tower from its balconies.
Inari, Finland
Inari, located in the heart of Finland’s scenic Ivalo region, offers a truly magical winter experience, far beyond the bustling crowds of Rovaniemi. This Arctic village is perfect for those seeking an authentic winter escape with dog sledding, reindeer feeding, and the breathtaking Northern Lights. For a truly unforgettable experience, embark on a private Northern Lights safari, sipping sparkling wine in a heated sleigh while waiting for the aurora to dance above. Stay at Aurora Village, where you can enjoy glass-igloo accommodations with panoramic views of the stunning snowy landscape and reindeer feeding opportunities.
Cologne, Germany
Cologne is a must-visit destination for those looking to immerse themselves in traditional Christmas charm. Known for its Christmas markets, the city draws millions of visitors each year to experience festive stalls filled with handcrafted ornaments, delicious treats, and holiday cheer. For a truly magical view, head to the observation deck of KölnTriangle, where you can admire the bustling markets with the iconic Cologne Cathedral in the background. After a day of exploring, relax at the Cologne Marriott Hotel, just a short walk from the cathedral, offering spacious rooms to recharge for more holiday fun.
To wrap it all up
From the dazzling lights of New York City to the snow-capped beauty of Rovaniemi, these destinations offer unique ways to celebrate the holiday season around the world. Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate in Bruges or chasing the Northern Lights in Inari, each city brings its own magic, creating unforgettable holiday memories.
At Foreign Journeyer, we believe in making every trip a dream come true. Our expert travel guides provide inspiration for both festive getaways and year-round adventures. As you explore these seasonal destinations, let us be your travel companion in uncovering more dreamy travel spots, whether it’s a cozy holiday retreat or a thrilling solo trip.
Explore more about the best destinations for unforgettable travel moments in our previous blog, Best Places to Travel Solo in the United States. From unforgettable landscapes to enriching experiences, Foreign Journeyer brings you the world like never before.
