Christmas Travel: Where To Go For Holiday Cheer

what is a good place to travel to at chrismas

There are many great places to travel to at Christmas, whether you're looking for a winter wonderland or a sunny beach.

If you're looking for a classic Christmas vacation, filled with holiday traditions, you could visit Prague, Czechia, where you'll find twinkling lights, medieval architecture, and Christmas markets. Salzburg, Austria, is another great option, with Christmas markets, warm glühwein, and medieval castles. If you're looking for a more unique experience, you could try Tromsø, Norway, where you can visit the Christmas tree in Stortorget square, learn about the Sami culture on a reindeer sledding tour, and see the sparkling Christmas lights.

For those seeking warmer weather, the Maldives is a great option, with tropical fish, white sand beaches, and overwater bungalows. You could also try Oahu, Hawaii, which has Christmas activities, warm weather, and terrific whale-watching opportunities. If you're looking for a beach vacation closer to home, San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a great option, with festive decorations, folk music, and coquito, a coconut-based drink.

If you're looking for a ski vacation, there are many great options in the US, including Aspen, Colorado, and Beaver Creek, Colorado. For a more low-key experience, you could try Highlands, North Carolina, a charming small town in the southern Appalachian Mountains.

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Christmas Markets

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is home to one of Europe's oldest Christmas markets, with the first edition taking place in 1570. The market boasts over 300 stalls across 10 locations, selling traditional gifts, decorations, and local delicacies. Visitors can also enjoy illuminations and a giant 30-metre Christmas tree in the city centre.

Vienna, Austria

The Viennese Christmas Market in front of Vienna City Hall offers a picturesque setting with over 100 stalls, an ice rink, reindeer rides, and a classic nativity scene. Visitors can indulge in delicious Viennese delicacies, including sweet pancakes, mulled wine, and fried pastries.

Toronto, Canada

The Toronto Christmas Market in the city's historic Distillery District features a Santa's Grotto, fairground rides, beer gardens, and over 65 local stalls. Visitors can enjoy live music, appearances by Santa, and festive food and drinks such as crepes, raclette, churros, and hot chestnuts.

Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, Denmark

Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, transforms into a magical Christmas market during the festive season. The park is filled with glittering decorations, including over 1,000 glowing Christmas trees and 70,000 baubles. Visitors can enjoy Danish holiday treats, such as gingerbread hearts and æbleskiver pancakes, and browse the many gift stalls.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague's Christmas markets in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square offer a variety of Czech treats, including klobása (Czech sausage) and Pilsner Urquell beer. Visitors can also enjoy the beautifully lit main Christmas tree in Old Town Square and explore the wooden huts selling handmade gifts.

New York City, USA

The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park in New York City offers a European-style open-air market with over 100 custom-designed kiosks. Visitors can enjoy ice skating on the 17,000-square-foot rink, indulge in comfort food and cocktails, and browse the kiosks for specialty food and eco-friendly artwork.

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Lapland

Christmas Activities and Attractions

  • Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi: Rovaniemi, known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, is a tourist hotspot during the Christmas season. Santa Claus Village features Santa Claus's Post Office, a husky park, boutiques, and opportunities to meet Santa Claus and his elves.
  • SantaPark: SantaPark in Rovaniemi offers a range of festive activities, including meeting Santa, attending Elf School, and making gingerbread cookies.
  • Reindeer Farms and Sleigh Rides: Visitors can experience reindeer sleigh rides and visit reindeer farms in various locations across Lapland, such as Salla and Rovaniemi.
  • Northern Lights Viewing: Lapland provides opportunities to witness the spectacular natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights. To maximise your chances, consider staying in a glass igloo or venturing to remote locations away from light pollution.
  • Snow Sports and Activities: Lapland offers a variety of snow sports and activities, including skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, snowshoeing, and tobogganing.
  • Unique Accommodations: Lapland boasts unique accommodations such as ice hotels, glass igloos, and treehouses, providing a one-of-a-kind experience.

Best Time to Visit

The Christmas season in Lapland typically runs from November to December, with November being a great time to visit as the Christmas season is officially declared open in Rovaniemi, and there is usually plenty of snow. Booking in advance is essential, as this is a peak tourist season.

Recommended Duration of Stay

A three- to four-night stay is recommended as a minimum to experience the Christmas magic and participate in a range of activities. However, if you want to venture deeper into Lapland and explore quieter resorts or villages, a longer stay of five days to a week is ideal.

Popular Destinations within Lapland

  • Rovaniemi, Finland: As the capital of Lapland, Rovaniemi is a convenient choice with direct flights from the UK. It offers easy access to Santa Claus Village and a range of festive activities.
  • Inari, Finland: Inari is a village located within reach of the Arctic Ocean, known for its picturesque setting and cosy accommodations.
  • Pyhä-Luosto, Finland: Pyhä-Luosto is a snug, low-key resort offering skiing, log cabins, aurora gazing, and a chance to immerse yourself in the frozen forests and deep snow.
  • Swedish Lapland: Arctic Sweden is an enticing alternative to Finland, offering similar heart-stealing landscapes and Santa-centric activities.

Tour Operators and Packages

To make the most of your trip to Lapland, consider booking with reputable tour operators that offer packages tailored to your interests and preferences. Here are some recommended operators and their highlights:

  • Authentic Scandinavia: Offers a three-night package in Rovaniemi, including a visit to Santa Claus Village and reindeer-driven sleigh rides.
  • Discover the World: Provides three- to four-night Santa breaks in locations like Inari and Muotka, featuring private family meetings with Santa, husky and snowmobile safaris, and northern lights viewing.
  • Inghams: Offers a seven-night adventure in Muotka, Finland, with activities like gingerbread baking, tree decorating, and a Santa visit on Christmas Eve.
  • Canterbury Travel: Offers a four-night package based in Pyhä-Luosto, including log cabin or hotel accommodation, meals, activities such as elf parties, and a search for Santa on Christmas Day.
  • Responsible Travel: Focuses on sustainable and culturally immersive experiences, with a seven-night trip to Menesjarvi, featuring activities like a wilderness skills workshop, reindeer herding, and aurora viewing in a traditional kota hut.
  • Off the Map Travel: Provides a luxurious four-night experience in Swedish Lapland, including stays in the Icehotel and Treehotel, husky sledging, and the chance to view the Northern Lights from an Aurora Hideaway.
  • Aurora Zone: Specialises in Northern Lights holidays, offering a four-night trip to Inari with activities like snowmobile safaris, dog sledding, and searching for the aurora borealis.
  • Santa Claus Trips: Features a two-night holiday in the ski town of Saariselkä, Finland, including a private meeting with Santa, reindeer sleigh rides, and other festive highlights.
  • Intrepid Travel: For off-grid explorers, they offer an eight-day journey through Finnish Lapland, including dog sledging, reindeer herding, and a ride on the "Santa Claus Express" overnight train.
  • Untold Story Travel: Tailors private tours of Finnish Lapland and the Arctic Circle, with options for wilderness cabins and Arctic treehouses, reindeer sleigh rides, snowmobiling, and a night in a private glass igloo.

Whether you're seeking festive cheer, winter sports, or a chance to witness the Northern Lights, Lapland has something for everyone this Christmas season.

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Christmas in Film

The festive season is a time when many of us like to curl up on the sofa and watch a good film. If you're looking for some cinematic inspiration, here are some ideas for films set at Christmas to get you in the holiday spirit.

For a classic Christmas movie, you can't go wrong with "It's a Wonderful Life". This heartwarming tale follows George Bailey, who is contemplating ending his life on Christmas Eve until his guardian angel shows him how different his community would be without him. Another classic is "Miracle on 34th Street", which tells the story of a man who claims to be the real Santa Claus and the impact he has on a sceptical little girl and her mother.

If you're looking for something more modern, "Love Actually" is a popular choice. This star-studded film follows the intertwining stories of eight couples in London in the lead-up to Christmas. For a festive musical, "Elf" is a fun choice, starring Will Ferrell as a human who was raised by elves and his journey to New York City to find his biological father.

If you're after something a little different, "Die Hard" is set at a Christmas party, but be prepared for plenty of action and explosions! "The Holiday" offers a fun take on a Christmas romance as two women struggling with relationship issues swap homes for the holidays and find love in the process.

So, grab the popcorn and snuggle up – it's time to enjoy some Christmas movies!

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Christmas in the Sun

If you're dreaming of a Christmas getaway, but aren't keen on the cold, there are plenty of sun-soaked destinations to choose from. From tropical islands to vibrant cities, here are some of the best places to celebrate Christmas with a healthy dose of vitamin D.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney offers a unique Christmas experience with all the festive trimmings, from dazzling lights and trees to ice skating, but with a warm twist. Instead of a white Christmas, you can enjoy balmy temperatures and a beachside barbecue. Explore the vibrant markets, admire the lights and trees, and soak up the sun on the beach for a memorable Aussie Christmas.

Phuket, Thailand

Phuket, Thailand, provides the perfect opportunity to embrace a different kind of festive season. As a largely Buddhist country, Thailand doesn't celebrate Christmas extensively, so you can choose to join in on the carol concerts and festive dinners or simply relax by the beach or go clubbing as if it were any other day. It's an ideal destination to create your own version of a sunny Christmas escape.

Cape Town, South Africa

For a summery Christmas, head to Cape Town, where the burgeoning South African summer sets the beaches and vineyards aglow. Enjoy the vibrant crowds, explore the stunning natural surroundings, and indulge in the world-class food and wine that the region has to offer. It's the perfect place to trade in the snow for sun and create lasting memories.

Maldives

The Maldives is a dream destination for those seeking an exotic island escape. With immaculate resorts, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters, it's hard to beat. The Maldives is at its best during the northern hemisphere's winter, offering the perfect blend of sun, sea, and sand for a unique and luxurious Christmas celebration.

Dubai, UAE

Dubai is an excellent choice for a sunny Christmas getaway. With its man-made beaches, impressive architecture, and world-class shopping, Dubai does Christmas with a touch of opulence. Enjoy the festive decorations, indulge in the Christmas markets, and don't miss the tree lightings across the city. It's a great option for those seeking a modern and glamorous twist on traditional Christmas celebrations.

Barbados, Caribbean

Barbados is a Caribbean gem that offers more than just picture-perfect beaches. Beyond the white sandy shores, you'll find a vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and exciting activities. From horseback riding along the coast to snorkelling with green turtles, Barbados has something for everyone. It's the perfect place to unwind and embrace the local charm, making it an ideal Christmas getaway.

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Christmas Lights

United States

Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, New York

Dyker Heights residents go all out with their Christmas lights, wrapping their windows in fairy lights, twining colourful bulbs around trees, and erecting wireframe displays on their roofs. You can expect to see plenty of Santa Claus, nutcracker, snowman, and elf figurines. The best displays are usually found between 11th and 13th avenues and 83rd to 86th streets.

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Maine

The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are beautiful at any time of year, but their annual "Gardens Aglow" event is truly special. Over 750,000 lights adorn a mile-long path in various shapes, including Christmas trees, round baubles, and mushrooms. The event usually runs from mid-November to the end of December.

Honolulu City Lights, Hawaii

Honolulu City Lights is a beloved Oahu tradition, now in its 40th year. The downtown area is aglow with dazzling lights and location-appropriate displays, such as Santa and Mrs Claus chilling in the Hawaiian sun. The Electric Light Parade and the tree-lighting ceremony in front of Honolulu Hale are held on opening night. The event runs throughout December.

Zoo Lights, Washington, D.C.

Zoo Lights at the Smithsonian's National Zoo is one of the premier events in Washington, D.C. The zoo is decorated with 1 million colourful LED lights and glowing animal lanterns. Visitors can also enjoy live music performances and tasty snacks. The event usually runs from late November to early January.

Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Nevada

Glittering Lights at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway features over 5 million lights and 600 animated displays. It's a 2.5-mile drive-through course, but you can also opt for a ride on the open-air Santa Tram. The event usually runs from early November to early January.

Silver Dollar City, Branson, Missouri

Branson, Missouri, is known for its entertainment industry, and Silver Dollar City is the crown jewel. The 1880s-themed park attracts visitors year-round, but it's especially popular during the holidays when it transforms into a bright Christmas wonderland. The park features over 6.5 million lights, a special effects Christmas tree, and a nightly parade starring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Denver Botanic Gardens, Colorado

The Blossoms of Light holiday event at the Denver Botanic Gardens uses only LED lights and features larger-than-life displays and 3D experiences. The event usually runs from mid-November to early January.

Atlanta Botanical Garden, Georgia

The Atlanta Botanical Garden's Garden Lights, Holiday Nights exhibition illuminates the gardens after dark, providing a long and winding walkway with holiday-themed topiary sculptures and light tunnels. Popular areas include the hanging string lights in Storza Woods and the views of the Atlanta skyline from the Skylights Lounge. The event usually runs from mid-November to mid-January.

International

Somerset House, London, UK

Somerset House is London's ultimate winter destination, featuring ice skating, contemporary music, festive shopping, and gourmet food and drink. The neoclassical courtyard is transformed into a wintry haven with a stunning 40-foot Christmas tree. The ice rink is open until mid-January.

Winter Illuminations, Tokyo, Japan

Every winter, Tokyo becomes a sparkling wonderland as districts compete to present the most incredible light displays. The illuminations are typically up from November to February, with some running from October to Valentine's Day or spring.

Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, Denmark

At Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, beautiful decorations and light displays shine amidst market stalls and illuminated parades. The festivities extend into the new year, with a spectacular fireworks display on New Year's Eve.

Champs-Élysées, Paris, France

During the winter months, the 200 trees lining the iconic Champs-Élysées are lit with hundreds of LED lights. There is also a popular market in the Tuileries Gardens in front of the Louvre that attracts around 15 million visitors each year.

Rockefeller Center, New York, USA

The massive Rockefeller Center Christmas tree has become a worldwide symbol of the holidays in New York City. Over 45,000 lights are usually up from late November to the first week of January.

Puerta del Sol, Madrid, Spain

From late November to early January, the streets, buildings, and squares of Madrid twinkle with colourful lights, trees, and nativity scenes. The lighting installations are designed by renowned Spanish designers, architects, and graphic designers.

Frequently asked questions

Aspen, Colorado is a great option for a white Christmas. It is a haven for skiers with hundreds of runs and a highly regarded après-ski scene.

If you're looking for a beach Christmas, head to the Caribbean. Places like Cancun, the Riviera Maya in Mexico, or Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic are great options.

Prague in the Czech Republic has some of the best Christmas markets in the world. The main markets are in Old Town and Wenceslas Squares, surrounded by Gothic architecture.

Edinburgh, Scotland is a great option for a budget-friendly Christmas. The city comes alive with a sprawling holiday market, ice skating, and skiing.

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