Escaping to magical places for Xmas is a real festive treat. To help you discover where to go for Christmas, we’ve curated the top 20 Christmas getaways. From enchanting European markets to sun-soaked tropical paradises, each locale offers a unique way to celebrate the season.
Immerse yourself in local traditions, savour delicious seasonal treats, and relish the twinkling lights and joyful festivities. Let this handpicked selection of the best Christmas holiday destinations guide you in finding your very own festive favourite, where unforgettable holiday memories await…
So let’s take a look at the top Christmas holiday destinations in 2025
1. Salzburg, Austria
If you want to spend your Christmas exploring snow-covered streets, dancing to the carols, and shopping at the festive market; then Salzburg is the place for you. This is another amazing city in Austria where you get a lot of popular markets. People from all over the world visit here to shop their hearts out for Christmas.
2. Edinburgh, Scotland
Enchanting Edinburgh is one of the best places for Christmas. Discover a world of warmth under grey winter skies as you immerse yourself in world-class museums, savour hearty cuisine in charming restaurants. Explore the Christmas markets, take a spin on the panoramic big wheel, enjoy a bar crawl under twinkling fairy lights, visit the Scottish National Gallery and use the brisk North Sea winds as the perfect excuse to snuggle up in snug watering holes with soul-warming Scotch.
3. Dominican Republic
Bask in the warm embrace of 29°C and eight hours of daily sunshine in Dominican Republic. And this Caribbean gem offers more than just sun, sea, and sand – indulge in thrilling safari adventures and breathtaking whale watching. Worried about missing the Christmas cheer? Fear not! Dominicans are devoted to the festive season, celebrating from October to January with exquisite feasts, carolling, and mesmerising firework displays. Making it one of the best places to go at Christmas for sunshine and celebrations.
Read Also: Best time to visit Dominican Republic
4. Costa Rica
Embrace a tropical Christmas in Costa Rica. With the dry season from December to April, it’s the perfect time for a sun-soaked holiday. Experience the magic of the festive season as everywhere becomes decked with tropical flowers, nativity scenes, and lush cypress branch wreaths. After the enchanting midnight mass on Christmas Eve, savour the taste of rum punch and let the fiestas and street parties transport you to a tropical paradise of celebration that continues well into January!
Read Also: Costa Rica in December | Best time to visit Costa Rica | Things to do in Costa Rica
5. Thailand
Celebrate the unique charm of Christmas in the land of smiles. As December unfolds, Thailand comes alive with its warm embrace, making it the perfect destination to escape the winter chill. Explore the diverse wonders of this tropical paradise, from the lush jungles of the north to the sun-soaked beaches of the south. In Thailand, vibrant decorations and the spirit of gift-giving grace the streets. And while there may be no turkey and trimmings, there’s delicious Thai cuisine to enjoy.
Read Also: Thailand in December | Best time to visit Thailand | Places to visit in Thailand
6. Cyprus
Celebrate in Cyprus, one of the best places to go at Christmas. With a stunning 340 days of sunshine, December’s 20°C temperatures are delightful. The Christmas spirit lasts for 12 wonderful days, commencing on the 24th as local children spread joy with carols. The grand finale is a sumptuous feast on January 6th. And get ready for a delightful surprise – pomegranates abound! They’re not just for eating but also symbolise joy and good fortune, and adorn everyone’s homes.
7. New York, US
New York delivers the best Christmas holidays. It’s just as magical as the movies and your favourite Big Apple-based TV shows make it seem. There’s a plethora of enchanting activities but some must-sees include the Bergdorf Goodman and Macy’s holiday displays, the tree at Rockefeller Centre, ice-skating in Central Park and heading to Brooklyn to see the sparkling wonderland of the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights as houses compete to see who can create the most epic and enchanting displays!
Read Also: Christmas markets in New York
8. Finnish Lapland
Step into a winter wonderland where dreams come true in one of the best Christmas holiday destinations for families – the home of Father Christmas himself! Here, a white Christmas is guaranteed, as you explore the enchanting resorts of Levi, Yllas, and Saariselka. In Santa’s village, hidden among snow-covered pines, children can decorate gingerbread cookies, craft decorations, attend Elf school, and enjoy a meeting with Santa and his reindeer!
9. Cape Verde
Get ready for Christmas festivities in Cape Verde. Celebrate the holiday season on these sun-soaked African islands, where temperatures hover in the delightful mid-20s. Whether you choose Sal’s eight kilometres of sandy shores or the vast 55-kilometre beach of Boa Vista, the beach parties are a festive highlight. Most hotels host Christmas and New Year feasts, followed by lively beach parties with traditional music. And because it’s still a fairly unknown getaway it’s one of the best uncrowded Christmas destinations.
10. Germany
Experience the joy of Christmas in Germany, where festive celebrations reach their peak at enchanting Christmas markets. Savour the warmth of mulled wine, stroll amid twinkling lights, and revel in the holiday spirit. In lively Berlin, a grand funfair awaits at Alexanderplatz. Embrace the chance of a snowy wonderland – December temperatures often dip below freezing, setting a magical backdrop with an average low of -1°C. Celebrate the season with German cheer and the delightful winter magic that graces the country.
Read Also: Best German Christmas markets
11. Barbados
Immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas in Barbados, where the golden sun, azure seas, and powdery white sands create an idyllic holiday canvas. Picture yourself with a Santa hat, savouring the warmth of the beach and a unique festive ambiance. Barbados, renowned as the Caribbean’s food capital, offers a sumptuous Christmas lunch with all the trimmings and mulled rum amidst the lush palm trees and vibrant decorations.
Read Also: Best time to visit Barbados
12. Sri Lanka
Experience the magic of Christmas on the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka, where temperatures linger around 30°C. Picture yourself basking in the warm sunshine, with the golden sands at your feet. Savour a slice of traditional Sri Lankan Christmas cake, rich in flavours and heritage. Dive into the sparkling waters for thrilling watersports, from surfing to kayaking. If you’re in the mood for cultural adventures, explore the lush tea plantations and ancient temples that adorn this island paradise.
Read Also: Best time to visit Sri Lanka | Why visit Sri Lanka?
13. Goa, India
Celebrate a truly unique Christmas in Goa. Here, balmy beach temperatures harmonise with traditional yuletide merriment, drawing enthusiastic crowds during the Christmas-New Year period. Festivities kick off in mid-December with carol singing, concerts, vibrant street decorations, and illuminated village nativity scenes. Carol singers, often accompanied by Santa, roam the streets raising funds for the community. Colourful five-pointed paper stars adorn homes and businesses, adding to the festive splendour of this gorgeous Chrstmas get-away.
Read Also: Best time to visit Goa | Best time to visit India
14. Tenerife, Spain
Experience a unique Christmas in Tenerife, where winter sun bathes the island in warmth. Beyond the bustling family-friendly resorts of Costa Adeje and Playa de las Americas lies unspoiled beauty – seaside villages, picturesque coves, colonial towns, a lush rainforest and captivating ravines. All under the watchful gaze of the Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Celebrate the holidays in this unique and enchanting paradise!
Read Also: Best time to visit Spain
15. Iceland
Iceland’s winter wonderland is definitely one of the best Christmas holiday destinations for families. Explore lively Christmas markets, their wooden booths laden with delectable treats, beverages, and dazzling gifts. Nature weaves its magic, draping the landscape with wild lava fields and snow covered mountains, forming breathtaking winter scenes. You have to try out the geothermal embrace of the famous Blue Lagoon’s waters. And be sure to head into the mountains, where you may witness the northern lights painting the night sky!
Read Also: When to travel to Iceland
16. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is indeed one of the most exciting places to visit during the Christmas season. From thrilling activities to savouring their local delicacies, there is a lot one can do while visiting the city. Christmas brings a lot of amazing colours and decorations to the street. If you plan to visit Hungary during the festival then make sure you visit their capital too. The entire city becomes a fairyland during the festival. One that you would regret missing!
Read Also: Visit Budapest Christmas market
17. Vienna, Austria
Let me tell you one thing, Vienna is for everyone! Irrespective of the time you visit here, this Austrian city gives you the best treatment whatsoever. One of the main attractions of the city during the event is the concerts and their traditional pastries. Do not miss out on these two things!
Read Also: Vienna Christmas market guide
18. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico invites people during the Christmas holidays into its festive mood, tropical weather and thrilling atmosphere. You can count this destination as one of the finest during this festival because you can enjoy the beach parties, indulge in vibrant parades and savour their traditional dishes. It’s quite a blast during the event for visitors coming here.
Read Also: Best time to visit Puerto Rico
19. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is no less than a magical destination to visit at Christmas, this place has a lot of things to offer. From the twinkling Christmas lights in the streets to the festive markets; there are extensive things you can enjoy. While you explore the captivating capital city of the Netherlands, make sure to dine in at some cosy cafes or treat yourself to the local festive dishes.
20. New Zealand
Undoubtedly, New Zealand is one of the best travel destinations to avoid the Christmas rush and enjoy the festival at its best at the same time. While enjoying the festive atmosphere you can indulge in thrilling activities that include hiking, trekking, and others. Travellers also love to take vineyard tours or just relax at the beaches. Whatever you love, New Zealand has it for you!
Conclusion
So, now you can escape the winter blues and embrace the festive season with these top Christmas holiday destinations. Each place offers a unique way to celebrate plus you get to leave the cooking (and the washing up) to the pros, and fully immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. Cheers to unforgettable Christmas getaways!
Read Also: Best holiday destinations in December | Best holiday destinations in January
Best christmas markets in europe
FAQs for Best Christmas Holiday Destinations
One of the most Christmassy places in Europe is undoubtedly Strasbourg, France. Known as the ‘Capital of Christmas’ Strasbourg’s enchanting old town transforms into a winter wonderland, with its historic cathedral as the centrepiece. The city’s Christmas markets, dating back to 1570, offer festive delights like mulled wine, gingerbread, and handcrafted ornaments. And the streets glow with millions of twinkling lights and decorations.
You don’t have to break the bank to have an amazing Christmas getaway! Plan ahead and secure budget-friendly accommodation. Be flexible with travel dates and destinations, and use fare comparison websites to find great deals. Consider all-inclusive packages too for added savings.
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